Tryouts are around the corner, but FIRST, take time to reflect on how this season has gone for you. Reflection is a key skill to refine not only athletic skill, but even more important, character and leadership development. This is an important step as you dive into preparation for your upcoming tryouts.

There is a lot to celebrate about and be proud of as seasons come to an end. I believe that a successful season is not necessarily about earning the top place in the standing. If there has been learning, progress, individual and team development, and an increased joy of the game, it has been a successful season. How you end the season is more definitive than how you began season, so FINISH STRONG in all aspects of your game!

There are also likely areas of your skill set, tactical understanding, and leadership development that need improving. There is always room for improvement, and the most talented players are always looking to get to their next level. This is important to realize as you begin to prepare, improve, and gain confidence as you move into a new season.

You have taken the time to reflect, now what??

Well, normally, tryouts begin immediately following the end of a season, or, after a break from playing with the team. With that said:

Tip #1: Reflect on your season. What were some of your personal highlights? How did you best contribute to the team? What are areas that you can improve in?

Tip #2: Do not go into tryouts rusty. Go into tryouts feeling confident and strong! If your season ends at the end of November and tryouts are in January. You need to continue to work at your sport through December. Likely this will be difficult to do in a team environment, but you will have a lot more time to work individually with a private trainer or in small groups with teammates.

Tip #3: Find a coach or mentor to help you train effectively with the goal of sharpening your strengths and improving your weaknesses. This will keep momentum in your development moving forward and you will develop greater confidence as you move into tryouts.

Tryout week has arrived! You have prepared and you are ready!

Tip #4: Focus on the controllables. You have put in all the work, now is the time to display your skillset.

Key controllable 1 is your WORK ETHIC. Work hard. Period.

Key controllable 2 is your leadership. Listen well. Communicate well.

Key controllable 3 is play your game. Do what you do well, stay true to your game.

Tip #5: Demonstrate GRIT. Display passion and perseverance. Be your best, yet when you make a mistake, keep your head up and make the most of the situation. A key formula on how to move past a mistake or bad play is PLAY SIMPLE. Get back into your groove by playing a simple pass which will help your regain confidence and rhythm.

Tip #6: HAVE FUN!