Parents

  • Prior to the tryout: shoot plenty of lay-ups, jump shots, free-throws things you can do on your own. (Get in the gym as much as possible)
  • Do dribble drills, get comfortable with the basketball, run sprints to get in shape. Consider even running long distance for 30-40 minutes without a basketball for your breathing.   (as much as a few miles)
  • Hydrate and have a proper diet before tryouts. (Diet can make a difference)
  • Wear proper attire and turn in necessary forms on time. (Show responsibility)
  • Eat and sleep regularly for the weeks leading up to tryouts. (Rest)
  • Feel confident in your game. (Positive Mental Approach)

 Once the Tryout rolls around:

  • Show up 15-20 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the tryouts to display your eagerness to participate.
  • Introduce yourself to the coach if you get the opportunity prior to the beginning of the first session.
  • Make eye contact and speak directly to the coach.
  • Display a your knowledge of the game to both your teammates and your coach.
  • Exhibit good sportsmanship, hustle, competitiveness and willingness to listen to the coach.
  • Put emphasis on things you can control: aggressiveness, dive on the floor for loose balls, block-out when a shot goes up, help teammates get open (set screens).
  • Don’t try to do too much – stay within your game and do your best even if shots aren’t falling or your team isn’t performing well during scrimmages.
  • Make lasting impressions: be the first in line for drills, tuck in your shirt/jersey, encourage teammates.
  • After practice help put the basketballs up, pick up empty water bottles, thank the coach for today and let them know you are excited about tomorrow, ask if there is anything that you can do to help him/her prior to leaving the gym.

 

Remember:

  • Try your best. Figure out your role/position on the team and maximize that opportunity – even if the position doesn’t have you where you’d ideally like being.
  • Keep a good/positive attitude.
  • Coaches notice when players are seriously warming up and others are just goofing off with their friends prior to the “start” of the tryout.
  • Shoot free-throws, act like you want to be there, listen when the coaches talk.
  • If you don’t make the team, ask the coach when you can meet and talk specifically about what you need to work on to improve.

 

Remember also:

  1. Do not risk personal injury to impress people during your try out.
  2. Do not make statements about how good you are or other players are and comment about their status on making the team. (he doesn’t even have to be here, he’ll make it; her dad is so and so, she’s already on the team; his big brother is ______, he’ll definitely make it.)
  3. Do not show a bad attitude or a big ego.