Navigating Tryout Season: A Guide for Players and Parents

Tryout season can be one of the most stressful times of the year in youth hockey. (And, is it just me, or does it seem like the tryout season gets longer each year?!) Players want to perform their best, parents want to ensure they’re making the right choices, and emotions can run high. The key to navigating tryouts successfully is preparation, focus, and perspective. In this week’s blog post, we’re breaking down what players should focus on before, during, and after tryouts, as well as how parents can best support their athletes through the process.

Advice for Players

Before Tryouts

1. Prepare Physically and Mentally – Stay in shape, get good sleep, and approach tryouts with confidence. Visualization and positive self-talk can help set the right mindset.
2. Sharpen Your Strengths – Identify what you do well and make sure those skills shine in tryouts. Whether it’s skating, passing, or hockey IQ, focus on playing to your strengths.
3. Work on Conditioning – Coaches want players who can compete at a high level for the entire tryout. Make sure you’re in peak shape.
4. Understand the Culture and Style of Play – Different organizations have different philosophies. Try to learn about the coach’s playing style and the club’s culture so you can showcase how you’d fit in. (This does NOT mean changing who you are as a player; your best YOU should always be the focus.)

During Tryouts

1. Control What You Can Control – Effort, attitude, and coachability matter as much as skill. Work hard every shift, listen to feedback, and stay engaged.
2. Be a Great Teammate – Encourage others, communicate on the ice, and demonstrate a positive attitude. Coaches notice players who elevate those around them.
3. Compete in Every Drill – Go into every battle, race to every puck, and never take a shift off. Coaches love players who bring consistent intensity.
4. Stay Focused on the Present – Don’t dwell on a bad shift or mistake. Shake it off and focus on your next opportunity to make an impact.

After Tryouts

1. Reflect on Your Performance – What went well? What can you improve? Use the experience as a learning opportunity regardless of the outcome.
2. Stay Classy, No Matter the Result – If you make the team, be humble. If you don’t, handle it with maturity. Coaches remember how players respond to adversity.
3. Seek Constructive Feedback – If possible, ask coaches what you can work on. This helps you grow as a player and prepares you for future tryouts.
4. Keep Developing – Whether you made the team or not, hockey is a long journey. Keep training, improving, and loving the game.

Advice for Parents

Choosing the Right Tryouts

1. Be Realistic About Your Child’s Level – While aiming high is great, placing your player in a competitive but suitable environment is key for development and confidence.
2. Consider Development Opportunities, Not Just the Team Name – A strong development program is often better than chasing a higher-level team where your player might struggle for ice time.
3. Factor in Logistics and Cost – Travel time, financial commitment, and family schedule all play a role in making the best decision.
4. Listen to Your Player – Understand their goals and what they want out of hockey. Tryouts should align with theirpassion and aspirations.

Supporting Your Player Through Tryouts

1. Help Manage Expectations – Encourage your player to focus on effort and improvement rather than a specific team outcome.
2. Be a Calm Presence – Tryouts can be nerve-wracking, so be a source of support rather than pressure. Keep conversations positive and constructive.
3. Avoid Politics and Drama – Gossip and speculation don’t help anyone. Focus on what your player can control and avoid getting caught up in outside noise.
4. Let Coaches Do Their Job – Resist the urge to intervene or question decisions. Instead, help your player handle success or disappointment with maturity.

After Tryouts

1. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Results – Acknowledge the hard work your player put in, regardless of the outcome.
2. Reassess and Make the Best of the Situation – If your player didn’t make the team they wanted, explore other options, whether it’s a different level or additional development opportunities.
3. Encourage Long-Term Growth – Hockey is a marathon, not a sprint. Every experience—good or bad—is part of the journey.

Final Thoughts

Tryouts are a stressful but important part of youth hockey. Players should focus on effort, attitude, and preparation, while parents can best provide support by maintaining perspective and helping their athlete navigate the process. No matter the outcome, hockey is about development, enjoyment, and long-term progress. Approach tryouts with confidence, learn from the experience, and keep pushing forward to achieve your goals!