Kid shooting on 16ft SportScreen from driveway with shooting pad and chairs setup to catch pucks

Spring Hockey Tryouts: How to Prepare, Stand Out & Make the Team in 2025

April 14, 2025

Spring is here—and that means it’s officially hockey tryout season! Whether you're a seasoned player or gearing up for your first-ever spring hockey tryouts, knowing how to prepare (and how to stand out) is key to making the team. From off-ice training with The SportScreen to pre-tryout tips and must-know drills, we’ve got you covered.

Spring Hockey Tryouts: How to Prepare

Wondering how to prepare for hockey tryouts? Or googling "spring hockey tryouts how to prepare near me"? Preparation goes beyond just showing up with sharpened skates. Here's your go-to game plan:

1. Start With Your Conditioning

Hockey is fast. Coaches look for players who can keep up with high-paced drills. Start now by improving your agility, endurance and core strength.

2. Stickhandling & Shooting at Home

A huge part of making a great impression is puck control and accuracy. This is where The SportScreen comes in. Set it up in your driveway or garage and get daily reps in—without worrying about damaging your garage. It's perfect for improving shot accuracy, practicing quick releases and building confidence under pressure.

3. Stay Engaged & Focused Before the Big Day.

It’s easy to feel nervous or distracted before tryouts. Here’s how to stay focused:

Visualize success: Picture yourself scoring, making crisp passes, and executing drills.
Eat clean: Fuel your body with good food and stay hydrated.
Rest well: Sleep is essential to your performance.

How To Stand Out at Spring Hockey Tryouts

Making the team isn’t just about skill—it’s also about attitude and effort.

Be coachable: Listen, apply feedback, and show you're eager to learn.
Hustle hard: Go full speed in every drill. Coaches notice effort.
Be a team player: Encourage others. Show leadership on and off the ice.

Wondering what coaches are actually looking for? Check out a sample hockey tryout evaluation sheet or download a hockey tryout drills PDF so you can practice the exact types of drills you’ll face.

Pre-Tryout Advice That Gives You the Edge

Here are some final pre-tryout tips, especially for youth hockey players:

Break in new gear early (blisters are no joke!)
Arrive early to get comfortable with the rink and the atmosphere
Double-check your schedule for "hockey tryouts near me" and be sure to attend all sessions
Review the USA Hockey Forms & Rulebook —this gives insight into how coaches assess players across skating, puck skills, competitiveness, and hockey sense.

Make Spring Hockey Tryouts 2025 Your Best Yet

The road to the roster starts now. Whether you're aiming for house league, AA, or AAA, preparation is the secret weapon. The SportScreen helps you stay sharp off the ice so you can shine on it.

So grab your gear, bring the hustle, and show them what you’re made of this spring.

Looking for hockey tryouts near you? Check with your local rink or hockey association for updated schedules. And if you're looking to level up your off-ice training, check out The SportScreen—trusted by hockey families across North America.