4 Things Coaches Really Look for at Tryouts

As parents, we want our daughters to walk into tryouts confident and prepared. But sometimes the unknowns—what coaches are looking for, how athletes are evaluated—cause unnecessary stress.

Here’s the inside scoop:

1. Hustle Athletes who move with urgency stand out immediately. Coaches want players who give 100% effort—even in warm-ups and water breaks. Are you hustling to shag balls? Are you hustling to the next line?

2. Attitude Tryouts are stressful, and athletes will make mistakes. Coaches notice who keeps smiling, who cheers for teammates, and who stays positive under pressure. 

3. Coachability Coaches often give feedback mid-drill to see how athletes respond. Do they listen, try again, and improve? That willingness to learn is gold. When the coach is talking to the group, are your eyes on the coach and listening or are you staring off in the distance or talking to the player next to you? While in line waiting your turn, are you paying attention to the drill or are you talking about something else to the player next to you?

4. Fundamentals Over FlashFancy swings or trick plays won’t secure a roster spot. Solid passing, controlled serving, and good movement are far more valuable. 

Final Thought: Encourage your daughter to focus less on being “perfect” and more on showing effort, positivity, and a love for the game. Coaches are building teams—not highlight reels.