Earning My Minutes: From Signing to Playing Time
“Every minute is a chance to prove you belong.”
From Trialist to Teammate
Signing with SU Sintrense U19 was a huge moment in my journey. But the truth is, that’s only the first step. Being handed the kit doesn’t mean guaranteed minutes. It means the chance to fight for them.
Now it’s pre-season. We’re playing friendlies, testing lineups, and preparing for the season ahead. And for me, it’s about showing up every training session, working hard, and making the most of the minutes I get.
Pre-Season Reality
Some matches, I’ve played a full 90 minutes. Other times, I’ve come on for 30. It doesn’t matter how much time I get—I treat every second as an opportunity. A good first touch, smart positioning, winning a tackle, linking up with teammates—small details can leave a big impression on coaches.
Pre-season is where you prove not just your talent, but your mentality. Coaches watch how you train, how you react to setbacks, and whether you can stay consistent.
Training Like Every Session Counts
Every day at training, the competition is intense. We’re all fighting for spots. For me, it’s about working as hard off the ball as I do on it, being vocal, and showing that I can add value to the squad.
Not every day feels perfect—sometimes your touch is off or things don’t go your way—but you learn quickly that effort and attitude matter as much as skill. Coaches notice who keeps showing up with the right mindset.
What Other Players (and Parents) Should Know
Signing for a club is a massive achievement—but it doesn’t mean automatic playing time. At this level, nothing is guaranteed. You have to earn it, every day.
For players: it’s not about how many minutes you get, it’s about what you do with them. Show energy, show commitment, and play for the team. Coaches value consistency and mentality as much as highlight moments.
For parents: the process can be hard to watch. Your kid may sit for stretches, or only get 20–30 minutes at a time. But this is part of the journey. Every minute is a chance to prove themselves, and patience is key.
Looking Ahead
I know my minutes in pre-season don’t guarantee anything once the league starts. But if I can make a positive impact every time I step on the pitch—whether it’s 90 minutes or 30—I’ll be building trust and earning my place.
It’s about patience, persistence, and proving yourself all over again. Signing was one step. Now it’s about showing I can contribute to the team every single week.
Final Thought
“Minutes aren’t given—they’re earned. And no matter how many I get, I’ll make them count.”
Follow my 2025/26 season with SU Sintrense U19 as I work to turn minutes into momentum.