How to Mentally Prepare For Tryouts
Summary: Athletes preparing for middle school or high school tryouts should focus on confidence, composure, and mental readiness. Coaches value potential and how players handle challenges, not just flawless performance. Let go of expectations, stay focused on each play, and respond positively to mistakes or feedback.
Many athletes always ask me:
“How do I prepare for tryouts?”
With middle school and high school tryouts right around the corner, you want to be mentally ready to compete your best and not panic…
Tryouts can be a stressful time for many athletes. You can feel anxious, nervous, and just plain “scared.”
You want to have a focused and confident mindset instead of scared so you can perform well.
You Might Experience a Feeling of Being “on a Stage” during Tryouts or a Showcase
You have a day or two to show the coach your skills, and you often think you have to stand out or perform perfectly.
That’s actually not true and can hurt your performance because you might over think it and tighten up…
Yes, you only have a day or two, but you absolutely don’t have to stand out or be perfect.
Coaches see talent, but they also see “potential” in athletes in middle and high school.
Also, many coaches want to see you when you are having a bad day. They want to see how you respond or handle challenges.
You want to have the look of composure and grind it out when having a bad day or look like you are still trying.
Coaches know when an athlete can play or when they have the potential to play, even on a bad day.
So, during your tryouts, use the skills you have that day, no matter how good you feel about your game, and trust what you have.
Eight Tips to Mentally Prepare for Tryouts:
- Leave your expectations at home, they won’t help you.
- Focus on one play, routine, performance, etc. at a time. Avoid thinking about outcomes or cuts.
- Let go of mistakes and focus on the next play, round, performance, etc.
- “Look” confident: keep your head up, shoulders back, and talk confidently.
- Communicate with your teammates. Coaches want to see you communicate and show leadership.
- Be teachable – try to make changes given from a coach.
- Look forward to showing your skills at the tryout.
- HAVE FUN!
Related Sports Psychology Articles:
- Learn From The Pros For a Stronger Mental Game
- How to Visualize Your Upcoming Performance
- How to Perform in Clutch Game-Time Moments
Boost Your Self-Confidence With Expert Mental Game Coaching!
Expert mental game coach Dr. Patrick Cohn can help you overcome your mental game issues in sports with personal coaching. We do mental training with athletes of all levels and ages–about 12 years and up. And mental training is not just for elite or professional athletes.
You can work with us in Orlando, Florida or via Skype, FaceTime, or telephone from anywhere in the world. Call us toll free at 888-742-7225 or contact us for more information about the different coaching programs we offer
If you are interested in mental coaching, try our free 15-minute introductory session. Contact Peak Performance Sports today with your name, sport, and what mental game challenges you are having.
You can learn more about our mental coaching programs for athletes here.
FAQ: Preparing for Tryouts
Q: How should athletes approach tryouts mentally?
A: Focus on confidence, composure, and using the skills you have that day. Don’t dwell on being perfect or standing out.
Q: Do coaches only notice flawless performance?
A: No, coaches also look for potential and how athletes respond to challenges or mistakes.
Q: How can athletes stay focused during tryouts?
A: Concentrate on one play, routine, or performance at a time. Let go of mistakes and focus on the next opportunity.
Q: Why is communication important during tryouts?
A: Coaches observe leadership and teamwork. Talking confidently and supporting teammates makes a positive impression.
Q: What mindset helps athletes perform their best?
A: Be teachable, enjoy the process, and maintain confidence and composure. Approaching tryouts with fun and focus improves performance.
Dr. Patrick Cohn is an expert mental performance coach who has helped athletes for over 30 years enhance their performance. Dr. Cohn earned a master’s degree in sports psychology from CSUF and a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia, specializing in Applied Sports Psychology.