Youth Inc. Recommends: Resources to Help Your Child Feel Confident and Prepared for Tryouts

Tryouts can be a lot. Whether it’s for a club team, school team, or even just moving up a level, they often bring a mix of nerves, excitement, and uncertainty—for both kids and parents. You’re trying to figure out what coaches are looking for, how your child stacks up, and how to support them without adding more pressure. It’s easy to feel like everything rides on just a few drills or scrimmages. But the truth is, tryouts are just one moment in a much bigger journey. 

Here are a few resources to help you approach tryouts with a little more perspective—and a lot less stress: 

11 Small Habits That Help Athletes Stand Out at Tryouts 

What it is: A smart, easy-to-follow list of habits that can help any athlete get noticed for the right reasons—things like making eye contact, communicating confidently, and always giving max effort. It was originally written for basketball players, but every tip translates to any tryout in any sport. 

Why we like it: This article is a great reminder that coaches aren’t just watching skills—they’re watching body language, attitude, and how kids respond to feedback. These are small but powerful ways athletes can take control of what they can control, even in high-pressure tryout situations.

9 Ways to Help Athletes Cope with Tryout Anxiety 

What it is: A super helpful guide for managing the nerves and pressure that often show up around tryouts. It offers specific tips for both athletes and the adults supporting them—like how to reframe nerves, focus on effort, and keep perspective. 

Why we like it: Tryouts are stressful, and this article gets it. It normalizes anxiety and gives families real tools to help kids feel more confident and in control. Perfect for parents who want to support without adding pressure. 

How to Support Your Child Before, During and After Tryouts 

What it is: A parent-to-parent guide that walks you through what to say (and not say) before the car ride, how to act on the sidelines, and how to help your child process whatever happens after tryouts—whether they make the team or not. 

Why we like it: This piece nails the emotional side of tryouts from a parent’s perspective. It’s not about controlling the outcome—it’s about helping your kid feel steady, confident, and supported through a moment that can feel huge to them. If you’ve ever wondered when to step in or step back, this one’s for you. 

Mind Over Matter: Helping Your Athlete Feel Ready for Tryouts 

What it is: A helpful read packed with mindset tools to help athletes feel calm and focused when the pressure of tryouts kicks in. It walks through things like deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk—simple strategies that make a big difference. 

Why we like it: Tryouts aren’t just physical—they’re mental. This article gives parents and athletes practical ways to manage nerves and show up with confidence. It's perfect for families looking to prep without piling on extra stress. 

How to Handle the Pressure of Tryouts

What it is: A well-rounded guide originally written for soccer players, but packed with tryout advice that works for any sport. It covers everything from getting enough rest and fueling properly to showing up prepared, managing emotions, and staying focused throughout the process. 

Why we like it: This one doesn’t just focus on nerves or confidence—it takes a 360° view of tryout prep. From sleep and nutrition to breath work and body language, it helps athletes manage the pressure in a healthy, practical way. A great all-in-one resource for families heading into tryout week.