Tryout Tips!

As a coach that spans the range of coaching high school freshman to varsity, many age level of club volleyball to NJCAA and NCAA DII and even all the way up to the US Men's Deaf National Team, I see no difference when it comes to putting your best forward when it comes to tryouts. Everyone is nervous and everyone is uncomfortable with the feeling of not knowing the unknown. Still there are simple tryout tips you may find helpful as you strive to make that first great impression on the court.

"Being on time or early speaks volumes to the coach as she/he knows already you are starting off the right way."

1. Be Early

Being on time or early speaks volumes to the coach as she/he knows already you are starting off the right way. Coming early and getting your shoes and kneepads on and starting to do a little bit of your own warm up can reflect a good picture to the coach. This also helps you get yourself into the right mindset to perform your best. Rushing in at the last minute and seeming all frantic and hectic is not always the best look. If you arrive 10-15 minutes late, you just gave other players 10-15 minutes to make a strong impression.

2. Hustle Everywhere

There is nothing more pleasant than seeing a player who hustles in when the whistle is blown or when it is time to shag balls. Us coaches see everything and it sticks out like a sore thumb when other players are hustling and some are not. It just looks like players are running circles around other players who are not taking advantage of small things like shagging balls. Again, if you are not hustling, I'm pretty sure there are a good number of players who are.

3. You Play Every Position

When a coach asks for volunteers, you immediately step up and raise your hands. Don't stand in the back and just wait for your position to be called. IF they ask for a setter, jump to the task if no one else is stepping up. You can even say something like, " I normally do not play this position but I can try!" This kind of attitude speaks loudly and lets the coach know you are a team player and will do whatever is asked for the needs of the team.

4. Say, Thank you!

Finally, say Thank you to the coaches. Let them know you appreciate them and the opportunity to tryout. We know tryouts are very stressful for everyone so saying thank you to the coaches really helps to set yourself apart from others. Many players will tryout but not many will say thank you. Even if you felt you did not do your best, still say thank you. And if you are injured or just did not do well, talk with the coach(es) afterwards as there could be a second make up date possibly. Saying thank you will go a long way!!!