Tryouts don’t have to be overwhelming or nerve-wracking. Whether you're months out or walking in tomorrow, having a plan makes all the difference. In this episode, we break down exactly how to get ready, both physically and mentally, so you can show up confident, calm, and ready to shine.

Here’s what we cover:

✅ The real purpose of tryouts (and why that should ease the pressure).
✅ How to lay the groundwork weeks, or months, in advance.
✅ Why visualization actually works (and how to do it right).
✅ What to prep the night before and morning of tryouts.
✅ Simple ways to stand out without needing to be “the best”.
✅ What to do after tryouts so you don’t spiral.
✅ How to handle disappointment with confidence and clarity.

🎧 Press play and get your step-by-step plan to show up strong. You’ve got this!

Episode Highlights: 

[00:00:00] Tryouts Are Just Another Chance to Play. We kick off with a mindset reset: tryouts aren’t about becoming someone else; they’re about showing what you already know how to do.

[00:01:34] Control the Controllables. Shoutout to Ava shows how effort and mindset matter more than results. You're in charge of your attitude, body language, and how you respond.

[00:02:37] Lay the Foundation Early. If you’ve got weeks or months to prepare, focus on skill work and daily progress. Build confidence through small, steady steps.

[00:03:55] Let Go of the Pressure. Tryouts don’t need to feel heavy. They’re simply another opportunity to play the sport you love.

[00:05:01] Create a Game Plan (Months Before). Now’s the time to get serious about training. Work on your weaknesses, but know and strengthen your top skills so you can showcase them later.

[00:05:45] Start Training Your Mind (Weeks Before). In the weeks leading up to tryouts, lean into visualization and choose a mantra. Practicing mental reps is just as important as physical ones.

[00:07:10] Prep the Night Before. From gear to meals to choosing a standout shirt, set yourself up to feel steady and ready in the morning.

[00:07:54] Own the Morning. Use music, breathwork, and your mantra to walk in calm and confident. Arrive early, introduce yourself, and make a strong first impression.

[00:11:22] During Tryouts: Lean Into Strengths. This isn’t the time to fix weaknesses; it's time to showcase what you're great at. Go big, take risks, and bounce back fast.

[00:13:13] Be the Athlete Coaches Remember. Coaches notice effort, leadership, coachability, and energy. You don’t have to be the best, just someone they can trust on their team.

[00:14:06] Reflect, Don’t Ruminate. After tryouts, thank the coaches. Do a quick check-in with yourself: 3 things that went well, 1 or 2 to work on and then let it go.

[00:15:00] Your Team Doesn’t Define You. Whether you made the team or didn’t, it doesn’t say anything about your worth. There’s always opportunity in the outcome, so make sure to look for it.

[00:16:08] Your Final Step: Stick to the Plan. Create your plan, visualize your success, and go play your game. No matter what happens, you’ve already won by showing up prepared.

Next Steps:

• Join our FREE Training for Sports Moms - How to Strengthen Your Athlete Daughter's Mental Game so She Believes in Herself as Much as You Do
• Visit our podcast website for more great episodes