Rochester Lightning

Top 10 Tips for Players at Tryouts.

1. Dress like a ball player.  Wear softball pants; not shorts.  Wear a shirt with your last name on it; not a nickname.  If you don't have a shirt with your name, where something bright and/or as unique as possible.  Wear cleats; not tennis shoes.

2. Smile.  Act like there's no place in the world you would rather be.

3. Talk.  Talk with the coaches, other players, on the field and encourage those around you.  Look everybody you talk with in the eyes and be a good listener as well.

4. Hustle.  Whether running onto the field, getting ready to hit or going through drills, hustle and give 100% (with a smile and while talking).

5. Leader.  Be up front and center.  Don't stand in the back or be the last player in the group to go through your drills/stations.

6. Take risks.  Tryouts are not a place to play it safe.  Dive, layout for balls, make off-balanced and hurried throws if you must, swing hard; no wimpy swings.  Go big or go home!

7. Be self-sufficient.  Have everything you might need in your bag.  Stay away from your parents.  Don't talk with or even look at your parents during tryouts.  They're being evaluated too and coaches do not want helicopter parents or parent coaches.

8. Look good failing.  When you make an error, strikeout or mental mistake, forget about it immediately.  Do not have a pity party.  Build a bridge and get over it.  Laugh it off if you must.  And no matter what, do not have a pity party. 

9. Ask Questions.  If there is something you are unsure of or need clarification on, ask.  Do not be quiet and/or shy.

10. Have fun!  Let there be no doubt to all those watching that you're having fun playing a game you love, regardless of the outcome!  Breathe, relax and be confident.  Know that you're giving it your best effort.