Thoughts and tips on upcoming High School tryouts ...
- Coach Kevin
- Nov 27, 2023
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 23
High School Hockey Tryouts: What Coaches Look For
High school hockey tryouts are a comprehensive evaluation—not just a test of skating, shooting, or puck skills. Coaches look at many factors to determine which players will best contribute to the team. Understanding these factors helps players approach tryouts with the right mindset.
In short, coaches are looking for smart, engaged players who hustle, compete, and battle for loose pucks every shift. They want athletes who move the puck, play within a team framework, and show just as much effort and awareness in the defensive zone as they do in the offensive zone when trying to score.
The Role of Returning Players
The number of returning varsity players heavily influences roster decisions. When many upperclassmen return, fewer spots are available and competition is tougher. Younger players should not feel discouraged if they don’t make varsity in a veteran-heavy year. This isn’t a reflection of talent—it’s often just timing.
Even if a younger player earns a spot on a veteran roster, they may get limited ice time. Coaches often place strong younger players on JV so they can:
play regular shifts
get top-line minutes
be used on special teams
gain confidence through meaningful game situations
This sets them up to make varsity and contribute more effectively in future seasons.
Filling Specific Needs in the Lineup
Coaches don't simply pick the “best” players—they pick the players the team needs. A team may prioritize size, physicality, defensive responsibility, faceoff strength, or special-teams ability depending on the roster.
Sometimes your individual skill set doesn’t match the specific gaps the coaches need to fill. This can create a situation where a highly skilled player is passed over—not because others are more talented, but because the team requires certain roles to be filled first.
In other words, roster decisions aren’t always about who is the most skilled overall. They’re about building the right mix of players. If you don’t make the team, don’t assume it’s because other players outperformed you—often it simply comes down to team needs and positional fit.
Age, Maturity, and Development
Freshmen and sophomores are often competing against older, more physically developed players.
Handling varsity-level size, strength, and pace is the biggest challenge for younger athletes.
JV gives younger players time to:
adjust to the speed and physicality
build strength in the weight room
gain experience without being overwhelmed
This developmental runway typically leads to better long-term results.
Playing Time and Strategic Placement
Coaches want players placed where they will grow the most.
For many bubble players, limited varsity minutes provide fewer development opportunities than heavy JV minutes. JV often means:
more ice time
more touches
more game situations
more confidence-building reps
This isn’t a demotion—it’s a development strategy.
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What Varsity Coaches Look for Beyond Skill
Work Ethic & Effort
Coaches notice players who go hard in every drill—always engaged, always moving.
Keep your feet moving at all times. Standing still or gliding looks lazy and disengaged. Your effort level is one of the biggest factors you can control.
Relentless Compete Level
If two players have similar skill, the harder-working, more competitive player wins the spot.
Coaches want players who:
battle along the walls
fight through traffic
play through contact
deliver clean, well-timed hits when appropriate
These behaviors show readiness for varsity-level competition.
HockeyIQ & Team Play
Smart hockey stands out immediately.
Coaches want players who:
make good decisions
support teammates
play responsibly in all three zones
avoid unnecessary turnovers
understand positioning
If a play isn’t there, put the puck in a safe area. Smart, simple plays help the team.
Move the puck quickly and head-man it when you can. DO NOT try to skate through the entire team.
At the high school level:
It rarely works.
It looks selfish and shows poor HockeyIQ.
Individual plays are fine—when the situation calls for it. Be selective and smart.
Attitude & Body Language
Body language is one of the first things coaches notice.
Slumped shoulders, frustration, or looking disengaged sends the wrong message.
Positive body language shows:
confidence
composure
resilience
awareness
Coaches watch how players react to mistakes and pressure. Staying composed makes a strong impression.
Conclusion
Not making varsity is not a measure of future potential. Coaches evaluate physical readiness, team needs, and long-term development. Many varsity contributors start on JV and earn their roles through growth and persistence. So no matter which way things fall keep working to improve your game!
Quick Do’s & Don’ts for Tryouts
DO:
✔️ Pay attention during drills - Messing up drills shows you weren’t focused or listening.
✔️ Always be moving - High energy, active feet show engagement and competitiveness.
✔️ Play physical - Win battles, fight through traffic, and embrace contact.
✔️ Share the puck - Move it quickly, find open teammates, and play team hockey.
✔️ Play hard all zones - Don’t just work when you have puck—defend everywhere.
DON’T:
❌ Don’t hog the puck - Trying to beat the entire team alone is ineffective and shows poor hockey IQ.
❌ Don’t sulk or slam your stick - Recover from mistakes with composure—immature reactions hurt your chances.
❌ Don’t stand around - Especially in scrimmages. Coaches want players who move their feet and stay involved.
Good luck to all the players in tryouts!
Best,
Coach Kevin
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