Turning Pro

To be a professional, you need to be an exceptional footballer. There are plenty of "pretty good" players out there, but you can't afford to be one of them. The bottom line is, if you're great, you'll make it.

Be the master of your domain
Before moving up the soccer ladder, you need to be the top performer on the level you are currently playing at. And you need to prove it in games. Practice skills individually, work on fitness and do whatever you have to develop your technical ability. Work on being consistent and prove that you're not a fluke.

Expand your scope gradually
Everybody is looking for a shortcut to getting signed by a professional club. In practice, you won't go far unless you have a good resume. Start from your local amateur league and make yourself known.
I have met many youngsters who have never even played on the men's level claiming that they are ready to compete with professionals. How do you know that you are so good, if you have only played at the youth level? Work your way up as far as you can starting with youth clubs to scholastic and collegiate teams to eventually the amateur and semi-professional level.
Most importantly, be patient. You won't be signed by Man United overnight.

Be active in your local scene
Seek important tryouts in your area and attend them. Don't be discouraged if you fail and make contact with other people like yourself.

-the usa pro soccer scene
-eskandarian on becoming pro