HEALTH

Ugh, it’s already the middle of July—can you believe it?—and sporty girls across the country are anxiously gearing up for high school tryouts next month.

The start of the new school year alone year can be a little daunting, but with the added pressure of tryouts, we know you may be feeling overwhelmed.

But have no fear: From two-a-days to timed miles, we’ve got you covered on everything you need to know to make the team…

The basics. Don’t be scared. We know tryouts can be nerve-wracking, but the coaches only want to see you do well. That being said, make sure you come fully prepared with all of the essentials: a large water bottle (with extra water just in case!), sneakers, cleats, the school paperwork (often the most forgotten but definitely the most important), your ball/stick/racquet/pompoms/etc. and light snacks for during the breaks.

Form relationships with the coaches and players. Start contacting the coaches NOW and let them know you’ll be at tryouts in August. Don’t be afraid to call them and ask them any questions you have. That way, they will recognize your name at tryouts and know you have been working hard all summer. It’s also smart to befriend older girls who are already on the team. They can answer the questions you’re too scared to ask the coaches, hit the gym with you when you need a workout buddy and stick with you at tryouts if you don’t know anyone else there.

Always have a positive attitude. Regardless of your athletic performance, Coach will remember you if you show enthusiasm and zeal. Be sure to approach every drill with positivity and always try to have a smile on your face. And if you see a teammate struggling to stay positive? Yelling a simple “you got it!” or “keep going!” can go a long way.

Be prepared to challenge yourself and work hard. If a run is starting to get too hard, rather than stopping and making an excuse, just slow down your pace. Take field hockey, for example: a field hockey coach will be much more impressed with a girl who may not have the best stick skills but finishes the run than a girl who is amazing at field hockey but doesn’t finish the mile run. The bottom line is, work hard on and off the field and always finish the assigned workout.

Ultimately, tryouts are basically about mind over matter. Your athletic skills are important, but what will impress coaches most of all if your preference and desire to be on the team. Just be friendly, stay positive, and challenge yourself and you are sure to make the team. Good luck!

by Jordan Stern | 2/1/2016