It’s That Time Of Year Again – Hockey Tryouts
What a time to be alive, it’s the Junior Hockey tryout/showcase season and we are here to give guidance from a players’ and coaches’ perspective. In our second episode of “The Junior Hockey Podcast,” we discuss this topic thoroughly and try to explain both my and coaches’ experience through our careers and what we have learned throughout the process. Hockey, in general, is a political sport, it’s only natural, so we discuss what we believe a young player should do in order to have the success he wants in his hockey career.
If you are looking for a Junior Hockey Organization to play for or just looking for tryout information. Check out our exclusive junior hockey tryout page. Detailing all junior hockey teams in the United States and their respective pre-draft, camp, and tryout dates.
Some of the main points that we discussed have to do with the player’s mindset, also we talk about where players should try out and what a coach looks for in a player in a tryout or showcase situation. We dove into the mind of a Junior Hockey Head Coach and he shares his viewpoint on what a “good” tryout player is and what it takes to get noticed by scouts.
We really go into depth about the way a player should go about a tryout experience, other than a coach’s viewpoint on the situation I also tune in on my experiences and what I have learned through my 5 year Junior Hockey career. I have played for various teams in different parts of the states (East Coast, Midwest). I learned a lot about how the junior hockey world operates.
Hockey Tryouts – Tips & Tricks
The biggest takeaway’s from our podcast would have to be to do your homework and make a plan for the offseason. Attend some showcases, see who you talk to and then go from there. Don’t pass up on a tier 3 junior hockey opportunity, it is some great hockey and they really focus on development. Especially within the Eastern Hockey league. If you work hard you will get to tier 2 and tier 1. Listen to coaches/scouts they know what they are talking about. Never burn bridges with a coach, they are always helpful and focus on guiding players to the right situation. Trust your instincts.
If any players have questions on a particular organization or need some guidance on what you should be doing this postseason, Send us an EMAIL: thejuniorhockeypodcast@gmail.com
How To Stand Out During Hockey Tryouts
These games are similarly judged by evaluators in the stands. The skills session gave them an idea of your on-ice abilities, but the games will truly reveal how everyone performs at hockey – not just isolated parts of the game.
For example, players who lack fine skating details can still be quite successful players who drive the net and play hard. A devoted work ethic can similarly shine through during a game in ways that it can’t during a skill showcase.
And these are important details to keep in mind. Work ethic and smart plays are among the most important factors in a hockey tryout.
Play your position and maintain your responsibilities.
You may be tempted to overplay your duties since you want to impress the evaluators. But this is the wrong mindset.
Let the game come to you and make it clear that you know your role. If the puck doesn’t come to you, make sure you backcheck hard and cover your opponent in the defensive zone.
Make yourself a passing option. Finish your checks if it’s a contact game.
These minor details go a long way at a hockey tryout. Mix them in with good plays with the puck – and maybe a few goals, or strong defensive plays – and you’re on your way to a successful tryout.
Of course, you will also stand out with flashy plays and highlight-reel goals. But they aren’t always the wisest plays, especially if they aren’t your strong suit, to begin with.
A deke on a one-on-one play is more than acceptable, but don’t test out a brand new toe-drag move when you’re the last man back with the puck at the tryout. The safe play – such as a strong pass or getting the puck deep – will score you just as many points from an evaluator.
To impress at hockey tryouts, you should try to stay within yourself and play your position. Proper form, technique, and smart plays are what you should focus on. The tryout may seem like an opportunity to try to show off and be flashy, but recognize the right time for that type of play. Skill and speed earn points in themselves, but determination, work ethic, and composure work toward the completion of an impressive hockey tryout.
