Trialist to Teammate: Signing with S.U. Sintrense U19

Five Weeks of Uncertainty

The signing didn’t happen overnight—it came after five of the toughest weeks of my life. Two of those weeks were double sessions every single day. Train in the morning, recover, and then back again in the afternoon. It wasn’t just physically exhausting—it was mentally draining too.

And the hardest part? As a trialist, you don’t get the team training kit. You stand out right away. Everyone knows you’re fighting for a spot. Every pass, every touch, every mistake feels magnified because you’re exposed alongside the other trialists. It takes more than talent to survive that pressure—it takes a ridiculous amount of belief in yourself.

Trial by Fire

Exhibition matches came and went, but feedback was almost non-existent. Coaches here don’t tell you much during trials. You walk off the pitch replaying every moment, not knowing if you’re closer to making it or being done.

Meanwhile, new players came in constantly. Some lasted a week, others just a few days, and then they were gone. Watching players disappear was a constant reminder: if you don’t prove you belong, you won’t last either.

Instead of letting that break me, I used it as motivation. I kept telling myself: Stay positive. Keep working. Believe in yourself before anyone else does.

The Moment That Changed Everything

After five weeks, the grind finally paid off. Instead of another trial session, I was pulled aside. They handed me the paperwork for my registration, told me FIFA had cleared my transfer, and then gave me the kit.

That jersey meant everything. I wasn’t exposed anymore. I wasn’t just a trialist—I was officially part of the squad. Holding the badge of SU Sintrense in my hands felt like validation for all the sacrifice and belief it took to get here.

What Signing Really Means

Signing isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of an even harder challenge. Now the pressure is about proving myself every single day, fighting for minutes, and earning my place in the team.

But the difference is clear: I belong. I have a locker, a number, teammates beside me, and a badge on my chest. Coming from Vancouver to Portugal wasn’t easy, but this moment made every step worth it.

Looking Ahead

Those five weeks taught me more than just football. They taught me how to handle pressure, how to stay positive when you feel invisible, and how to believe in yourself when nobody else gives you reassurance.

Now I’m proud to officially join SU Sintrense U19 for the 2025/26 season. I’m ready to wear the badge, fight for my spot, and take the next step in my football journey.

Final Thought

"As a trialist, you’re exposed. But signing gives you the kit, the badge, and the right to belong. That’s when the real work begins."

Follow my 2025/26 journey with SU Sintrense as I take on this next chapter—signed, committed, and ready for the fight ahead.