Atom AE Tryouts.
Atom AE tryouts are less than a week away. We encourage everyone who is interested in trying out to be ready to go on May 23rd.
Below is a sample of what we will be looking at in our prospective players.
What will the coaches be looking for from the players trying out for the Atom AE team?
The coaches will be evaluating players based on the criteria below;
· Effort/Drive – We are looking for the player who will give that extra push even after the 10th lap. The player that will stride across the line as opposed to the kid who pulls up 15 feet early and glides in. The player that, even though he/she falls down during the drill, gets back up in stride and attacks it with the same effort.
· Skating with and without the puck, forward and backward – General skating ability. Are they under control when they skate with the puck? Do they slow down when they have the puck? One identity we would like to have with this team is that of a very strong skating team. This will be a very strong focus as the year progresses. Many of our practices will have a power skating focus to them.
· Team work and Leadership – That kid that recognizes one of the others may be struggling and offers to help before the coach comes and talks to them. That kid that is always tapping his stick and cheering on others, or giving another player or a goalie a tap after a strong effort or a good save.
· Teachable/Listening skills – Does the player listen intently when the coaches are explaining the drills. Do they read and react to the coaches input well. Do they ask questions when they are not sure or do they go out and “wing it”?
· Individual positioning and overall hockey sense – Does the player have a natural feel for the game? Are they a puck watcher, or chaser, or do the generally know where to be during the play? Do they naturally find open ice, read and react to the play, do they support the puck naturally etc.…
I hope this helps to give everyone an idea of what we will be looking at. Remember, this a game and it is supposed to be fun. So please come on out, do your best, and have fun!
Thanks everyone, and best of luck in your tryout.
Coach Anthony