10 Things to Remind Her Before Tryouts

Tryouts come with a certain weight—for both the athlete and the parent. Whether she’s walking into her first high school tryout, a fall club evaluation, or a college ID camp, everything feels like it’s riding on a few short hours.

And for girls, it can be even more layered. The pressure to perform is real—but so is the pressure to be liked, to not be “too much,” to stand out without standing apart. These expectations live quietly in the background, shaping how she walks into the room—and how she walks out.

As parents, what we say before she heads in can make all the difference. We can’t control who gets picked. But we can help shape how she feels about herself when it’s over.

Here are 10 things to remind her before tryouts:

1. You’re not auditioning to be someone else.

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s to be you. That’s more than enough.

2. Confidence > Comparison

Taking up space with your full self is a strength, not something to shrink.

3. Being nervous means you care.

It’s not a weakness—it’s your body’s way of saying this matters to you.

4. It’s already brave to show up.

Putting yourself out there is a win, no matter the outcome.

5. There’s no failure—only feedback.

Whatever happens, you’ll walk away with new clarity and growth.

6. One tryout doesn’t define your worth.

Whether you make it or not, you are not up for evaluation.

7. You’ve prepared for this.

Trust your training, your instincts, and everything you’ve done to get here.

8. Tryouts are a two-way street.

You’re not just being assessed—you’re also deciding if this is the right fit for you.

9. I love to watch you play.

That doesn’t change based on how today goes.

10. I’m proud of you—period.

Not because of results. Because of who you are.

These may seem like small reminders—but in a moment that feels huge, they carry weight. Say them. Text them. Write them on a Post-it in her bag. Let her carry your voice with her—not the pressure to be picked, but the belief that she’s already enough.