What should I say to my child before tryouts?

Focus on effort, not selection, and remind them that it's okay to make mistakes.

How can I take pressure off my child before tryouts?

Avoid saying "you have to make this team" and emphasize that you're proud of them regardless of the outcome.

What if my child doesn't make the team?

Acknowledge their feelings, remind them that it's okay to be disappointed, and offer support.

How can I help my child improve their skills?

Consider enrolling them in a course to help them develop a growth mindset and improve their performance.

What to Say to Your Child Before Tryouts

What to say before tryouts is just as important as what you say after a game. You want to take pressure off your child, focus on effort not selection. Saying "go out there and give it your all" is a good start.

Pre-Tryout Pressure

You're driving your kid to tryouts, and the car is filled with tension. Your child is nervous, and you want to help them relax. Avoid saying "you have to make this team" as it adds unnecessary pressure. Instead, focus on the process, not the outcome. Remind them that tryouts are an opportunity to learn and improve.

Taking Pressure Off

To take pressure off, remind your child that it's okay to make mistakes. Emphasize that you're proud of them regardless of the outcome. You can say something like "I know you're nervous, but I'm proud of you for trying out. Remember, it's okay to make mistakes, and we'll learn from them together." This helps shift the focus from selection to effort.

The Pre-Tryout Script

Here's a step-by-step script to help you prepare your child for tryouts:

Start with a positive affirmation: "You've worked hard for this, and I'm proud of you."
Focus on effort, not outcome: "Remember, it's not about making the team, it's about giving it your all and having fun."
Remind them to breathe and relax: "Take a deep breath, and let's get excited for this opportunity to learn and improve."
End with a reassuring statement: "No matter what happens, I'll be here to support you, and we'll work together to improve for next time."

For more tips on how to support your child in sports, check out our sports parents playbook.

What to Say if They Don't Make It

If your child doesn't make the team, it's essential to be supportive and encouraging. Avoid saying "it's not a big deal" or "you'll get them next time" as it can come across as dismissive. Instead, acknowledge their feelings and remind them that it's okay to be disappointed. You can say something like "I know you're upset, and it's okay to feel that way. We'll work together to find another opportunity for you to play and improve." For more guidance on how to handle these situations, consider reading "Nurturing Self-Worth" by Giannis Notaras.

After Tryouts

After tryouts, your child will likely be emotional, regardless of the outcome. Be prepared to offer support and guidance. For tips on what to say after a game, check out our article what to say after a game.

Next Steps

If your child is serious about improving their skills, consider enrolling them in our course to help them develop a growth mindset and improve their performance.