Now is the Time to Think
About Hockey Tryouts
By Searrah Herendeen
Hockey tryouts start in just a couple of days for the Upper Peninsula. Athletes of different ages and divisions will be participating and trying their best. Families new to this lifestyle may be overwhelmed and unsure of what to expect at tryouts. Here are a few ways to impress the coaches and ensure athletes will be prepared. Talking and listening to coaches helps the coaching staff notice engaged athletes. Mentally preparing and having a positive attitude will help athletes combat nerves. Make sure you know what you will need for tryouts. Lastly, remember to register for tryouts in your district.
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Introduce yourself
Before tryouts begin, introduce yourself to all the coaching staff. Talking to them allows you to meet with them briefly and make a connection. It shows a lot about your character to say hello and tell them who you are. It may give you the edge you need to be picked by the coaches over another player.
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Mentally Prepare
Treat tryouts seriously but do not dwell on what the results will be. This one tryout does not define you or your abilities. Worrying will only hinder your performance and your mood. Instead, think of all the ways that you perform well. Focus on your strengths and not your weaknesses. Prepare yourself for the mental challenge of pushing your body and making quick decisions on the ice.
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Pay Attention
Listen to the coaching staff and their directions. Show them that you are capable of listening and following orders. Sometimes it isn't always about how well an athlete performs but how well they pay attention. If you don't hear a direction, ask them to repeat it or speak louder. Paying attention is also important in a game, so you don't injure yourself or others.
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Positive Attitude
Cheer on the other athletes at tryouts. After all, you will most likely end up on the same team. A positive mindset can spread to even the most negative person. Coaches look for optimistic players. They want players who will show up to practice with a smile and can leave problems off the ice. If you fall, get back up and keep going. Do not quit. It indicates to the coaches that if you get knocked down in a game, that it won’t stop you.
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Be Prepared
Come with the necessary equipment and uniform you will need for the tryout. Requirements can vary depending on where tryouts are and the available equipment.
Dwayne Blais, the Professional Skill Coach with the Detroit Red Wings, recommends removing all branding. This means removing stickers and wearing a generic jersey without association with other teams. Ensure your attire fits appropriately and is not too snug or loose.
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Register for tryouts
Remember the point of this checklist. It reminds hockey players that tryouts are coming up and they must prepare. Most importantly, they have to register for tryouts. If they don't register, they cannot play in the Meijer State Games of Michigan Summer Games. Registration is open for athletes. There are multiple divisions, so everyone has an opportunity to play. Divisions are 11U, 13U, 15U, 18U, Girls 7th - 9th grade, and Girls 10th - 12th grade.
The Meijer State Games of Michigan is a multi-sport, Olympic-style event(s) that welcome athletes regardless of age or ability level. The Games embody the values of participation, sportsmanship and healthy living.