How to Pass a Tryout for a Travel Team

Travel teams are often the focus of younger athletes through 18 years of age. Travel teams play baseball, softball, basketball and other sports against teams from other areas. The demands -- both financial and time-wise -- on a travel player and his family are usually greater than when he plays in a local recreational league . Tryouts held for travel teams are used as an evaluation tool to determine the skill level of a player.

Things You'll Need

  • Athletic clothing and shoes
  • Safety equipment
  • Athletic gear
  • Forms
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain any necessary paper work ahead of time such as registration, physical, insurance and waiver forms. Fill all forms out completely before arriving for the tryout. Read all information handouts and understand the requirements for participating on a travel team. Learn as much as you can about the team you want to join, and what kind of players they're looking for.

    • 2

      Prepare for the tryout ahead of time by drinking plenty of water the day before, getting plenty of rest and eating the proper foods. Avoid eating sugars and heavy starches. Eat fruit, such as bananas for example, as a means to help stave off cramps.

    • 3

      Prepare for the tryout by practicing shots, throws and other skills you need to improve. Spend time breaking down the specifics of a skill and work on weak points. Exercise to build strength to help perform specific athletic movements.

    • 4

      Wear proper athletic clothing and shoes or other footwear for your sport. Wear, for example, soccer shorts, a t-shirt, knee socks, shin guards and cleats when trying out for a soccer travel team or bring your own skates when trying out for a hockey team. Wear any necessary protective equipment such as a chest protector when playing. Furnish your own equipment such as a catcher's mitt, glove or bat when trying out for a baseball or softball travel team, for example.

    • 5

      Pay attention and follow the directions to the best of your ability. Listen to how drills should be performed. Ask questions only when appropriate and when it has not been already explained.

    • 6

      Stay positive and encourage other players. Be polite and courteous to other players, staff, coaches and parents. Maintain a high level of enthusiasm and energy throughout the tryout process. Do not become easily discouraged when you make a mistake. Demonstrate a willingness to move to other positions including those with which you are not necessarily comfortable.