What to Expect at Tryouts - Girls Club Lacrosse

Whether it's your daughter's first tryout or she's a seasoned player switching clubs, preparing well can help her walk onto the field with confidence. Here's what to expect—and how to set her up for success.

📋 Before the Tryout: What to Prep

✅ Check Registration & Forms

Make sure you've:

• Completed the club's online registration form
• Submitted any waivers or health forms
• Entered emergency contact and insurance info

💡 Pro Tip: Most clubs will send a confirmation email—double-check it for important details.

🛡️ Have a Valid USA Lacrosse Membership

Many club tryouts require a current USA Lacrosse membership for insurance purposes. You'll usually be asked to enter or show your membership number when registering. If you don't already have the membership, check if that is required to even tryout.

👉 Renew or look up your number here.

🎒 Get Equipment Ready (and Comfortable)

Tryouts are not the time to break in new gear! Make sure:

• Goggles fit properly and don't slide
• Cleats and turf shoes are broken in (but not falling apart)
• The stick is game-ready—no cracked heads or fraying strings
• Mouthguard fits snugly and comfortably
• Uniform has a dedicated location in her closet, including cold weather layers (if needed.)

💡 Bonus: Pack extra hair ties, water, a towel, and a backup mouthguard just in case.

• 🎯 Brush Up on Core Skills
Your player doesn't need to be perfect—but sharpening the basics makes a difference:
• Ground balls
• Passing and catching (both hands)
• Dodging and defensive footwork
• Shooting with control and quick release

A few backyard reps or a local skills clinic can go a long way.

🧠 Get in the Right Mindset

All coaches have different priorities but these are a few that your daughter can control:

• Hustle
• Positive energy
• Coachability

Mistakes happen. Focus on being a player who can recover, listen, and support teammates.

🗣️ Try saying: "Play hard, be loud, and lift others up."

😅 During the Tryout: What to Expect

Every team is different but if this is a first club tryout, some of this might feel new and intimidating! Find some sample drills on YouTube to get a sense of what tryouts might look like!

• Dynamic warm-ups and timed drills
• Stations focusing on skills like 1v1s, shooting, and ground balls
• Scrimmage play to observe decision-making and communication
• Coach observation and notes—often on tablets or clipboards

💡 Encourage your daughter to call for the ball, stay vocal, and encourage others. It stands out.

📬 After the Tryout: What Happens Next

• Some clubs post results the same day; others follow up via email
• Your daughter may be placed on a specific team based on skill level and age
• If there's no placement, thank the club and any contacts for the opportunity to tryout and ask if future clinics or development opportunities are available (if you're still interested in the club)

🎉 Final Tips for Parents

• Pack a small chair and stay upbeat—but avoid coaching from the sideline. Some clubs are closed tryouts
• Give your player space to process after the tryout
• Remind her that tryouts are just one moment in a bigger journey