Stand Out at Volleyball Tryouts with These Key Tips for Success

Amber Rauh

Aug 10

3 min read

Walking into a volleyball tryout can feel overwhelming. You might see players who seem more skilled, hitting harder, or moving faster. It’s easy to think, “Everyone here is better than me.” But coaches are not just watching who has the strongest serve or the biggest hit. They want to see how you learn, how you respond to feedback, and how you handle the pressure of trying out. This post will guide you through practical ways to stand out during middle school or high school volleyball tryouts by showing your coach you are ready to grow and contribute to the team.

Pay Attention Before the Drill Starts

Before you even touch the ball, your coach is watching. When a drill is explained, get close enough to hear clearly. Watch the demonstration carefully. This shows you are focused and ready to learn. If you start talking or look confused when the drill begins, it sends the wrong message. Instead, prepare yourself mentally by:

Standing where you can see and hear the coach well
Watching the demonstration without distractions
Asking questions if something is unclear, but only when appropriate

This small habit helps you avoid mistakes caused by misunderstanding and shows you take the tryout seriously.

Show That You Can Learn and Adjust Quickly

Mistakes happen, especially in middle school tryouts where coaches expect players to still be learning. What matters most is how you respond to those mistakes. Imagine you miss two passes in a row. On the third try, you adjust your position or technique, and the pass improves. That change shows your coach you can think and adapt on the spot.

When a coach gives feedback, listen carefully. If they say, “Move your feet earlier,” respond with “Got it, Coach,” and then try it. Coaches notice when you take their advice seriously. Rolling your eyes, crossing your arms, or making excuses sends a negative signal. Coaches want players who are open to learning, not perfect players who resist correction.

Stay Positive and Keep Working Through Challenges

Tryouts can be frustrating. You might feel like you’re not good enough or that you keep messing up. Instead of saying, “I suck at this,” try thinking, “I don’t have this yet.” This mindset helps you stay motivated and focused on improving.

Coaches watch how you behave when things don’t go well. Do you give up or get upset? Or do you keep trying and encourage your teammates? Players who stay positive and work hard even when they struggle stand out. They show coaches they can handle the ups and downs of a full season.

Be Independent but Also a Team Player

In middle school, coaches expect more guidance. In high school, they want players to be more independent. This means you should:

Know where to go during drills without needing constant help
Pay attention to what’s happening around you
Help teammates when you can

Showing independence means you are ready to take responsibility for your own learning. But don’t forget volleyball is a team sport. Coaches also want to see that you communicate well and support others. If you notice a teammate struggling, offer encouragement or a quick tip if you can. This shows leadership and teamwork.

Small Habits That Make a Big Difference

Some habits can help you stand out before, during, and after drills:

Before drills: Get close to hear instructions, watch the demo, and focus.
During drills: Stay engaged, focus on the ball, and move quickly.
After drills: Listen to feedback, thank the coach, and practice what you learned.

These habits show you are serious about improving and respectful of the coach’s time.

Final Thoughts

Tryouts are about more than just showing your current skills. Coaches want to see how you learn, how you respond to feedback, and how you handle challenges. By paying attention before drills, showing you can adjust quickly, staying positive, and demonstrating independence and teamwork, you will stand out as a player who is ready to grow and contribute.

Next time you step onto the court for tryouts, remember these tips. Focus on learning, keep a positive attitude, and show your coach you are ready to work hard all season long. That attitude will leave a lasting impression and increase your chances of making the team.