Part III - Surviving Hockey Tryouts: Guide to help Players navigate the challenges
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Getting ready for hockey tryouts is about more than just physical fitness. It's about being mentally prepared, showing off your skills, and having the right attitude. Growing up, I was used to fall tryouts, but now many regions and age groups hold them in the spring. This change can be especially tough for girls in the OWHA or boys competing for an OHF Championship. Picture this: not even 48 hours after finishing championships with your teammates, you're now competing against them for spots on next year's team. Spring tryouts have their advantages - players are usually in game-ready shape, and from an admin and coaching angle this is much easier. But it's crucial for payers to start preparing early to ensure they're at their healthiest and strongest. Let's break down the essential points to help you ace those tryouts.
Coachability and Attitude
Demonstrating a positive attitude, coachability, and willingness to learn during tryouts is crucial. Players must show respect for coaches, teammates, and the tryout process. Simple acts like paying attention during drills, taking a knee in-between drills, and supporting teammates can make all the difference. Recently, during tryout evaluations, I observed players who struggled to keep up clearly not making the cut. I appreciated those who showed patience and camaraderie, even offering a stick tap on the shin pads to struggling teammates. Building this camaraderie and support is vital, even amidst the intensity of tryouts.
Physical Conditioning
Leading up to tryouts, it's essential to stay fit with regular training, including cardio, strength, agility exercises, and stretching. One advantage of spring tryouts is that players often transition straight from their season and are already in good shape. However, it's crucial to strike a balance and ensure proper rest and recovery as the season peaks. And remember, hydration is key, so don't forget to drink plenty of water (I know that reminder is familiar to many of my players over the years who hear that all often).
Skill Refinement & Enhancement:
As you prepare for tryouts, I encourage you to reflect on your strengths and consider how they can contribute to the team's success in the future that you are trying out for. It's always important to focus on refining fundamental hockey skills like skating, shooting, passing, and puck handling to showcase your abilities during tryouts. Take a moment to identify areas where you excel and those where you see opportunities for growth. For example, as someone who has coached many players before, I've witnessed the impact of emphasizing strengths during tryouts. If skating is one of your strengths, be sure to emphasize this skill during relevant drills.
Mental Preparation:
Equally important as physical readiness, it's crucial to cultivate mental toughness and resilience. Visualize success and maintain unwavering confidence in your abilities. Just as we've discussed the importance of belief with coaches and parents, it's equally vital to believe in your own success and silence any negative thoughts. Remember, your mindset can make all the difference - if you think you can, you can. Conversely, if you approach tryouts with doubts or excuses, you're already setting yourself up for failure - if you think you won't you won't.
It's natural to feel intimidated, but don't let that deter you from giving it your all. I often share a story about PK Subban, whose unwavering confidence sometimes led to misconceptions of arrogance. In an interview, he explained that he needed to affirm his belief in himself to maintain a positive mindset, especially when facing formidable opponents and would always tell himself he's the best recognizing that others in the NHL won’t be so kind with those types of motivating words. By adopting this mentality, he not only believed he was capable but also mentally prepared for any challenge.
Game Awareness and Hockey IQ:
It's crucial to understand the flow of the game and gameplay situations, encompassing positioning, teamwork, and decision-making. This feedback is often challenging to convey to players, as it requires dedication and time rather than just physical training. Over the past six months, the PWHL has provided young girls with a unique opportunity to witness players like themselves in action, inspiring them to embrace the game and develop their skills. As someone who has coached players through this process, I've seen firsthand the transformative impact of understanding their vision for the game.
Cultivating hockey IQ is a process that demands commitment and patience, but it's essential for elevating your game to the next level. As Wayne Gretzky famously said, "I skate to where the puck is going to be, not to where it has been." Embrace this wisdom to anticipate the game's evolution and excel on the ice.
Couple more really quick and easy tips for a successful
Double check your equipment bag, this isn't the time to forget an elbow pad.
Drink water when the coach gives you a break (or just pretend), telling me you're not thirsty likely means you're not working hard enough.
Don't tuck in your jerseys - remember, the evaluators in the stands only know you as blue 32 and won't recognize you any other way while on the ice.
Don't go to the back of the line, be confident in going first.
Pay attention to the coach and instructors on the ice not your parents flagging you in the stands.
If you fall down get up, if you miss a shot try again, if you let in a goal stop the next one.
Start as soon as the coaches named for the following season. Don't let it consume you, but just be aware someone is likely watching or listening.
As you embark on your journey through hockey tryouts, remember that success is not just about making the team but also about personal growth and resilience. Whether you're a returning player or new to the game, each tryout presents an opportunity to learn, improve, and showcase your abilities. Embrace the process, stay focused, and give it your all. And regardless of the outcome, take pride in the effort you've put forth. Remember that the true victory lies in the journey itself. So go out there, play your heart out, and let your passion for the game shine through. Good luck, and may your slap shots hit the top shelf.
