A Hundred Players, One Standard: Inside the 2026 Evaluation
More than 100 Houston players stepped into the same evaluation. The turnout revealed both the city’s talent and the standard required to represent NHFC.
More than 100 players arrived at a North Houston venue for North Houston FC’s 2026 open evaluation. The night was not a search for one type of résumé; it was a test of who could make good decisions, compete consistently, and respond to coaching.
More Than 100 Players Attended the Open Evaluation
The session opened at 6:30 PM under the lights at a North Houston venue in northwest Houston. Players arrived from Cypress, Spring, Katy, Aldine, Tomball, and inside the Loop — former college players, recent high school graduates, and adults still chasing a serious competitive level. Registration closed with more than 100 names on the sheet, the largest turnout in club history.
How the Coaching Staff Evaluated Players
Head Coach Kevin Parada and Coach Jose Daniel Sanchez Nieto ran the session in three blocks: a technical warm-up and passing circuit, position-specific work, and extended small-sided and full-field games. Staff graded players on first touch under pressure, decision speed, defensive work rate, and how they communicated when the game got uncomfortable — not just on highlight moments.
First Team and Development Team Squads
Two squads came out of the evaluation. The First Team is built for competitive league play and demands full commitment to the training week. The Development Team is a genuine second pathway for players who need minutes, physical development, and structured coaching before stepping up — including players who are new to organized adult soccer.
What the 2026 Season Looks Like
North Houston FC will compete in the UPSL and the Volt League, and will enter U.S. Open Cup qualifying. That calendar gives selected players meaningful, scouted competition rather than casual weekend football, plus filmed matches that can be shared with clubs and agents.
Next Steps for Selected Players
Selected players receive their invitation by email with training times, kit information, and the club's expectations for attendance, conduct, and fitness standards laid out in the NHFC Player Handbook. Training continues at the club's northwest Houston base through preseason.
Missed Tryouts? Here Is How to Get Seen
The club continues to accept registrations year-round. Players who missed the July date can submit a registration form with highlight video and will be contacted for the next evaluation window or invited into a Development Team training session.
The Story in Pictures
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the 2026 North Houston FC tryouts?
Open tryouts were held Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at 6:30 PM at a North Houston venue.
How many players attended?
More than 100 players attended the open evaluation, the largest turnout in club history.
Can I still try out for North Houston FC?
Yes. The club accepts registrations year-round and contacts players for the next evaluation window or a Development Team training session.
What competitions will NHFC play in for 2026?
North Houston FC will compete in the UPSL, the Volt League, and U.S. Open Cup qualifying.
Choose your place in what comes next
Players can request an evaluation, businesses can explore a partnership, and supporters can connect directly with the club.
