THE STARTING 11: Surprises for Toronto FC trialists

Much like the corn sprouts in the summer, January means Farmer Mo is out harvesting his crop of trialists for TFC training camp. The supporters get excited over the possibilities like Jorge Andrade and Ibrahim Said even if past crops such as Kiki Musampa withered in the Florida sun. The anticipation is on both sides however, the trialists themselves usually come to Toronto with little knowledge of the city or the club. The trialist may be surprised by some of their experiences...

11. Have to wake up at 5AM to fluff Julian De Guzman's hair

10. Predrag "Preki" Radosavljevic spelling bee at the end of each day

9. Must try to steal Trillium Cup from Columbus in 1980's comedy film fashion

8. Must bring the Timbits to practice

7. Trialists must share drive to Florida in an MLSE-rented 1976 Oldsmobile

6. Get to stay in luxury basement apartment in beautiful downtown Oshawa

5. Met at airport by Rohan Ricketts - not an official team rep, just working as a cabbie

4. Free Laurent Robert jersey with every trial!

3. If late for lunch, Ali Gerba shrugs mysteriously at your empty plate

2. Have to read "The Little Engine That Could" to Chad Barrett every bedtime

1. Have to carry Mo Johnston around in bejewelled medieval carriage