How to Mentally Prepare for Hockey Tryouts (And What Players Should Know)

Every player dreams of having a standout hockey tryout, but the truth is, performance starts long before you hit the ice. How you prepare mentally can make the biggest difference between being nervous and playing with confidence. At SDR Academy, we believe in helping you feel ready, focused, and in control of your mindset.

Understanding the Pressure

It’s normal to feel pressure before tryouts. You want to make a good impression, showcase your hockey skills, and earn your spot. The key is not to ignore the nerves, but to learn how to work with them. Anxiety is often a sign that you care, and that’s a good thing.

Focus on What You Can Control

Instead of worrying about who’s watching or how others are playing, shift your focus to what’s in your control. That means your effort, your attitude, and your preparation. Show up with energy, listen to the coaches, and be a great teammate. These qualities are just as valuable as any flashy goal.

Visualise Success

Mental rehearsal is one of the best tools for hockey players. Before your tryout, take a few minutes to close your eyes and visualise yourself making a strong pass, hustling on the forecheck, or making a clean breakout. Visualisation helps reduce anxiety and prepares your mind to perform.

Let Mistakes Go

Everyone makes mistakes in hockey. What matters is how you respond. If you mess up a drill or miss a shot, take a deep breath, reset, and move on. Coaches notice your body language as much as your skills. Show resilience and confidence in how you bounce back.

Tryout Day Mindset

When the day arrives, eat a good pre-game meal, hydrate, and get to the rink early so you’re not rushed. During the skate, stay engaged even when you're off the puck. Make smart decisions and stay vocal. Tryouts are about more than talent—they're about presence, coachability, and character.

You only get one chance to make a first impression—but with the right mindset, you’ll be ready to bring your best to the ice. Hockey tryouts aren’t about being perfect—they’re about showing who you are as a player and a teammate. At SDR Academy, we integrate mental preparation into our training programs, helping players across Canada's youth hockey feel confident, focused, and ready for every challenge.