Try out prep

The Ultimate Tryout Guide for Goalies

How to Stay Focused, Confident, and Perform Your Best Under Pressure

Introduction

Tryouts can be stressful, but preparation, confidence, and the right mindset will help you perform at your best. This guide includes checklists, affirmations, focus points, and self-reflection questions to ensure you stay locked in and confident during tryouts.

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Chapter 1: Preparation – Control What You Can Control

Pre-Tryout Checklist

✔ Gear Check: Is all your equipment comfortable and in good condition?

✔ Hydration & Nutrition: Have you fueled your body with the right foods and enough water?

✔ Rest & Recovery: Did you get at least 8 hours of sleep?

✔ Visualization: Have you taken time to mentally picture yourself making saves?

✔ Plan Your Arrival: Do you know when and where to be for your tryout?

Pre-Tryout Self-Reflection Questions

1. What are my three biggest strengths as a goalie?

2. How do I want to feel during my tryout?

3. What is my plan if I start feeling nervous or overwhelmed?

Affirmations for Pre-Tryout Confidence

I am prepared, focused, and ready to dominate.

I trust my training and my instincts.

I am calm, confident, and in control.

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Chapter 2: Warm-Up & Activation

Off-Ice Warm-Up Checklist

✔ Dynamic Stretching: Have I properly warmed up my body?

✔ Hand-Eye Coordination: Did I do reaction drills to activate my tracking?

✔ Breathing Exercises: Have I taken deep, controlled breaths to relax my mind?

On-Ice Warm-Up Focus Questions

1. Am I tracking the puck all the way into my gloves and pads?

2. Am I staying balanced and moving efficiently?

3. How is my communication with my teammates?

Affirmations for Staying Calm and Focused

I start strong, stay sharp, and finish strong.

I move with purpose and efficiency.

I see every puck clearly and track with precision.

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Chapter 3: Mindset & Mental Strategies

How to Stay Focused & Calm Under Pressure

✔ Breathe Between Plays: Am I resetting my mind after every whistle?

✔ Stay Present: Am I focusing on this shot, this moment, right now?

✔ Positive Self-Talk: What’s my go-to phrase if I start feeling pressure?

Mid-Tryout Mindset Questions

1. How well am I managing my emotions?

2. Am I controlling what I can control and letting go of the rest?

3. What’s one thing I can do to stay more locked in?

Affirmations for Handling Pressure

I perform my best when I stay in the moment.

Every shot is a new opportunity to shine.

I play with confidence, composure, and clarity.

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Chapter 4: Key Focus Points During Tryouts

Positioning & Movement Checklist

✔ Am I staying square before I drop?

✔ Am I maintaining strong edges instead of sliding too early?

✔ Am I staying patient on dekes and breakaways?

Tracking & Puck Focus Questions

1. Am I following every puck with my eyes and body?

2. How well am I reading the shooter’s release?

3. Am I anticipating rebounds and second-chance plays?

Affirmations for Quick, Confident Movements

I move with precision and power.

I stay in control and trust my instincts.

I react quickly and stay ahead of the play.

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Chapter 5: How to Stand Out in Tryouts

Coachability & Work Ethic Checklist

✔ Am I showing great body language, even after a goal against?

✔ Am I competing for every puck and making second-effort saves?

✔ Am I listening to feedback and adjusting my game when needed?

Standout Questions

1. How well am I controlling my rebounds?

2. Am I communicating effectively and being a leader?

3. What am I doing to separate myself from other goalies?

Affirmations for Making a Strong Impression

I am confident, focused, and ready for anything.

I lead by example with my effort and attitude.

I play my game and trust my abilities.

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Chapter 6: Post-Tryout Reflection

Post-Tryout Self-Reflection Questions

1. What were my three best saves or moments from today?

2. What can I improve for next time?

3. How well did I stick to my game plan and mental focus?

Letting Go & Moving Forward

✔ Did I give my best effort today? (Yes → Be proud of yourself!)

✔ Did I learn something that will make me a better goalie? (Yes → Keep growing!)

Affirmations for Post-Tryout Confidence

I did my best, and that’s enough.

I am constantly improving and growing.

I trust that my performance will speak for itself.

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Final Thoughts: Trust Your Training, Trust Yourself

You’ve put in the work. You’re prepared. Now, let your skills shine. Stay present, play with confidence, and enjoy the process.

Your final thought before stepping on the ice:

I belong here. I am ready. Let’s go.