Trying out for a team, at any level, can be a nerve-wracking experience. Many young athletes find the physical demands of tryouts exhausting, but the mental challenges can be just as daunting and important. You might wonder if you’re working hard enough, worry about messing up a drill, or question whether you’re getting noticed. These thoughts are common for every player, from the star aiming for a breakout season to the newcomer hoping to make the final cut. Regardless of your level, coaches look for qualities in players that go beyond just skill. Here are some tips to help you navigate your tryout experience.
- The Intangibles Matter: Many players believe they are evaluated solely based on their athletic abilities and skills on the court. While this is important, coaches also look for contributions that might seem overlooked or don’t show up on the stat sheet. These include:
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- Diving for a loose ball
- Boxing out at every opportunity
- Passing up a good shot for yourself to create a great shot for a teammate
- Constantly communicating on both ends of the floor
- Continuous movement off the ball
These actions may not boost your stats, but they are crucial for your team’s success. Doing these things will undoubtedly catch the coaches’ attention and give you an advantage in the selection process.
- Ask Questions When You Need Clarification: It might seem like asking questions will make you look bad to other players or coaches, as if you should already know everything about basketball. You might think you HAVE to know every drill, every term, and figure everything out on your own. These assumptions are wrong and need to be discarded. Just like players, coaches have different methods and terminology. Instead of risking mistakes by trying to figure things out on your own, ask for clarification. A good coach will be happy to explain things again, knowing it can benefit you and others who might also be unsure but hesitant to ask. This shows the coaching staff that you are willing to seek clarification to get things right, which is crucial when learning plays and game plans as a team.
- Play Each Day As If It Is Your Last: Whether you are a returning player or trying out for the first time, treat each day as if it’s your only chance. Returning players sometimes believe their spot on the team is secure, leading them to slack off. This complacency can result in being cut for not giving full effort. Conversely, new players might think that no matter how hard they try, others are already guaranteed a spot. Discard these mindsets. Instead, give everything you’ve got each day of tryouts. If you are invited back for another day, repeat the process. Once you make the team, continue this effort. Consistent hard work is key to success.
These three tips will help you get recognized by the coaching staff and earn respect from your fellow players. While they don’t guarantee a spot on the team, they will increase your visibility and ensure you leave tryouts knowing you gave your all. Not everyone can be Michael Jordan, LeBron James, or Stephen Curry, but you can still make a strong impression and perform well at any level.
