CPL looking for a few good men

Want to play in the Canadian Premier League (CPL)? Here’s your chance.

The fledgling Canadian pro soccer league is holding open tryouts for men 16 and over in seven Canadian cities, starting Sept. 20 in Halifax. Registration is $200 for the two-day trials, although you will have to survive the cut to get to Day 2.

It’s a start to populating the rosters of HFX Wanderers FC, York 9 FC, Forge FC, Valour FC, Cavalry FC, FC Edmonton and Pacific FC ahead of the league’s kickoff next spring.

Former Canadian international forward Alex Bunbury will lead the trials, with coaches and/or technical staff from each of the seven CPL teams in attendance. Hamilton’s Forge FC has yet to announce its coach.

“There’s a lot of good players (in Canada) that very often have not been given the opportunity,” said James Easton, vice-president of CPL soccer operations.

Players who make an impression at the tryouts will earn a training camp invitation, with their local team likely getting first dibs. His advice is come prepared and be in shape.

“Sometimes you’re only given one opportunity and it’s up to you to make the most of that opportunity,” said Easton. Bunbury says be yourself. “First impressions in all walks of life are very important. And I think when you come into these open trials ... you have to not come in wanting to fit in. You want to come there to stand out.

“You have to demonstrate confidence within yourself. Try not to be (Lionel) Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo. Just be yourself . ...

But don’t come passive.”