Hockey tryouts are approaching, so we thought it would be helpful to provide some information about how to properly prepare, so that each player gives themselves the best opportunity to attain their goals.

Preparation for Hockey Tryouts:

1.  Take a break.

It’s natural to want to get back on the ice immediately following the end of the season; however, most players need a break from hockey in order for their bodies and minds to fully recover from the long season.  Take a couple of weeks off before getting back after it.

2.  Set your goals.

After the season is over take some time to think about what you want to do for the upcoming season.  Whether it’s making a AAA team or improving the explosiveness of your first step, working towards a goal is easier after you’ve clearly defined it.

3.  Formulate a plan to accomplish your goals.

Once you’ve identified your goals, formulate a plan that will allow you to accomplish them.  Of all of the steps, this is by far the most important.  Without a proper plan in place, all of your hard work could go to waste.

All hockey players must focus on skill development year round, not just prior to tryouts.  If you can’t find the time to get on the ice, then shoot pucks in your driveway or stick handle a golf ball in the garage for twenty minutes.  It’s never too late to improve your hockey skills and there’s not a satisfactory level of skill whereby players should stop working to improve their skills.  Many of today’s superstars work tirelessly to hone their skills, even after they’ve reached the most elite status.

Part of formulating the right plan is assessing where your strengths and weaknesses lie as a hockey player.  If you’re a strong skater, but have trouble handling the puck, then consider placing more emphasis on stick handling and puck control for your skill development sessions in the days and weeks leading up to tryouts.

Quest Hockey offers a number of hockey training options that will help you fine tune your skills and prepare for tryouts.  Feel free to email us at info@questhockey.com if you need help constructing your pre-tryout plan.

4.  Execute your plan with relentless work ethic.

After you have formulated your plan, stick to it.  In the end, if you’ve properly identified your plan to accomplish your goals and worked tirelessly to execute your plan, then you’ve prepared yourself for tryouts to the best of your ability!

Best of luck from Quest Hockey!  Get After It.

Additional Helpful Information:

Here’s How Coaches, Parents and Youth Players Can Help Make Sure that Tryouts Aren’t Such a Trying Experience, John L. Pitts

Hockey Tryouts: What You Need to Know, ETeamz

How Should Parents Prepare for Hockey Tryouts, Pro Ambitions Hockey

Nine Tips for Travel Hockey Tryouts, Rich Taylor

Your Mental Game and Hockey Tryouts, Patrick Cohn