The basketball season is right around the corner. For most it comes with excitement surrounding tryouts and a fresh start to the basketball year. To ease the stress, we've listed a few things that every player can do to help prepare for a successful season!
Every year, we work with several youth and high school programs on developing their tryout process and help players prepare for tryouts. Most kids don't understand what a coach values and will set them apart from a group.
Talent is a great way to stand out, but often talent alone is not enough.
Positive effort, attitude and energy are three things that will stand out to coaches. None of these involve basketball talent. Yet, every coach wants kids on their team with these attributes.
As a player, if you enter tryouts in Cadillac cruise control, it will have a negative effect long term. You may make a team and behave this way, but eventually may get benched or have a lesser role on the team.
On or off the court, respect is incredibly important. Be patient and understanding of players who may not be at the same level of talent as you. Introduce yourself to the coaches/evaluators when you get there, shake hands and let them know you're excited to be at tryouts and appreciate their help. Our trainers love when kids do this, it's a quick way to remember them. In the end it may pay off more than you think.
You'll probably find yourself restless the night before tryouts, your mind was racing with all the things you want to show the coaches. This is normal, but don't psych yourself out and overthink. Compartmentalize each aspect of tryouts in your mind. This will allow you to be confident and focused, so when the time comes to shine you'll be rested and ready because you're focused only on the task at hand.
Naturally, hydration is also key to stay in tip top form. The last thing you want is to end your tryout early because you're cramping up or hurt. Stay hydrated the days leading up and eat a healthy carb-full meal the night before.
We hope you have wonderful tryout this season! Remember to be confident yet respectful! Bring energy and prepare in the days leading up by fueling your body and mind.
Get more basketball tips from Dr. Dish!