Field Hockey Tip

Preparing for Field Hockey Tryouts

Regardless of your experience or skill level, it can be both exciting and nerve-racking when trying out for a new team. What’s important to know is that most coaches are looking at each player’s skill, fitness, and game performance.

To make sure you stand out at tryouts and increase your chances of making the team, check out these seven field hockey tryout tips recommended by Nike Field Hockey Camps.

1. Research

It is important to understand and have a clear idea of what team you are trying out for. Talk to other players and get a sense of the level of commitment, skill level, and the practices. Make sure the field hockey team is right for you and your personal goals.

2. Get Fit

Expect to run. Coaches will look for endurance and speed during drills and live scrimmages. To help build endurance, practice long distance running while alternating with short distance sprints. Building a strong fitness foundation will help you stand out on the field. The more in shape you are, the more you can focus on working hard and competing against other players!

3. Visualize

Mental preparation is just as important as physical fitness. Prepare yourself mentally beforehand. Imagine live game play and game-like situations prior to the tryout. Visualize what you are going to do before the play happens. Imagine completing each move in your head successfully. When you get onto the field, you will feel more prepared for any drills or competition.

4. Practice

Start preparing for your tryouts at least a month in advance. Focus on fundamental drills and live game scenarios. Coaches will look at your ability to handle hard passes, lifts, hits, slaps, dribble, and how well you pass. Focus on having strong fundamentals and always give it your all.

5. Come Prepared

Make sure you are dressed to play. Be prepared with comfortable attire and remember your equipment; mouth guard, cleats, shin guards, your stick and ball, and water. Wear something that will make you stick out! A bright t-shirt or head band will make it easier for coaches to spot you on the field.

6. Maintain a Positive and Elite Mentality/Attitude

This is the most important quality a player could have in field hockey. Coaches do not want a player with a bad attitude. Display your passion for the game and excitement to be on the field. Field Hockey coaches look for players who hustle, volunteer to go first, and our a leader on the turf. If you mess up, do not display frustration and hang your head. Give 100% effort, 100% of the time. Leave the small talk and gossip with your teammates for after the tryouts. Remember, coaches are watching you on and off the field.

7. Be Confident

Recognize your mistakes and use them as a learning experience. Be vocal during scrimmages, make eye contact with teammates and coaches, and make every touch on the ball have purpose.

Use this guide to help prepare you for your next big tryout.

Read more helpful field hockey tips and find a Nike Field Hockey Camp near you this summer.