Preparing for Tryouts – A Guide for Coaches
Click here to access our blog post: Navigating Tryout Season: A Guide for Players & Parents
If tryouts are tough on players and parents, it certainly isn’t any easier planning and hosting that event. For coaches and organization leadership, the challenge is creating and executing a process that works for everyone involved—crafting a tryout choreography that is transparent in methodology, constructive and fair for all participants, and ultimately self-evident for coaches and administrators. For better or worse, the tryout process reflects the values of the organization itself. This requires advance preparation, refined tools, and clear communication.
Take a Top-Down Approach
Before tryouts begin, organization leaders & coaches should clearly define:
- The long-term player development plan for the organization
- The type of teams that fit that model (skill-focused, hard-working, disciplined, etc.).
- The style of play for that unique squad/age/tier.
- The key attributes required: what is valued within your culture and the aforementioned?
Communicate Expectations in Advance
Transparency is key. Before tryouts, coaches should provide:
- A detailed tryout schedule so families know what to expect.
- Selection criteria to help players understand what matters most.
- An overview of the organization’s culture and values to ensure families align with the program’s mission.
- Information on how playing time is earned, commitment levels, and travel requirements so families can make informed decisions.
Running an Effective Tryout
Establish a Clear Evaluation Process
A structured tryout process helps eliminate uncertainty and bias. Best practices include:
- Using multiple evaluators to gain different perspectives.
- Focusing on character (effort, coachability, attitude, etc.) in addition to skill.
- Running game-like scenarios to assess decision-making and hockey IQ.
- Collecting evaluation data using a standardized evaluation system for consistency.
Create a Positive Atmosphere
Tryouts can be nerve-wracking for players. Coaches can help by:
- Encouraging players to relax and have fun.
- Providing quick, constructive feedback when appropriate.
- Watching for signs of anxiety and ensuring all players feel included.
Communicating with Families and Players
Setting the Right Tone Before Tryouts
Coaches should:
- Hold a pre-tryout meeting (or send a detailed email) to discuss expectations, the selection process, and team goals.
- Encourage parents to focus on effort and development rather than just making the team.
- Make sure families understand the commitment required if selected.
Providing Feedback and Handling Cuts Professionally
For players who don’t make the team or are placed on a lower tier than desired, thoughtful and constructive feedback can turn disappointment into a learning opportunity.
Best Practices for Delivering Feedback
- Be honest but encouraging – Players need to hear the truth about where they fell short, but also what they can improve on and how.
- Highlight strengths – Start with what the player did well.
- Provide specific areas for improvement – Instead of vague statements like “You didn’t make the cut,” give actionable feedback: “Your skating needs more explosiveness. Working on edge control and acceleration will help you next season.”
- Be available for follow-ups – Offer to discuss a player’s progress with them in the future or suggest training programs to help them improve.
Promoting Team Culture and Expectations
Defining and Reinforcing Culture
For the players you do select, this tryout is their first imprint and impression on the season ahead. From the very first interaction, coaches should emphasize:
- The team’s core values (work ethic, accountability, respect, etc.).
- Expectations for attitude and behavior both on and off the ice.
- The importance of being a great teammate.
- How the program supports player development throughout the season.
Making Tryouts a Positive Experience for All
Regardless of whether a player makes the team, they should walk away feeling valued and motivated. Coaches can:
- Encourage all players to keep working hard – Even if they don’t make the team, their hockey journey isn’t over.
- Provide resources – Offer guidance on other teams, skill development programs, or off-season training.
- Thank players for their effort – A personal thank-you can go a long way in maintaining a positive relationship.
Go-Time
Tryouts are a crucial time for both players and coaches. A well-planned tryout process, clear communication, and thoughtful feedback can ensure that all players—whether they make the team or not—leave feeling respected and motivated. By focusing on culture, player development, and professionalism, coaches can create an environment that supports long-term growth and a love for the game.
