5 Ways To STAND OUT At A Showcase/Tryout
For players with aspirations of playing college baseball, showcases and tryouts are part of the deal. These can be massive, with hundreds of participants at a single event. For this reason, it’s important to find ways to separate yourself from the pack
1. Be Early!
Showing up late (or right on time) is a great way to show scouts that you're unreliable and unprepared.
Seasons are long, so it's important to develop a routine that allows for consistent results. This routine establishes a state of mental AND physical preparedness before going into battle.
Players who give themselves time to go through a routine make a statement that says: I have a plan, and I’m here to execute.
Additionally, timeliness shows respect for those hosting the event. Nothing will displease scouts and coaches more than a player who feels that they're bigger than the game or their team. Tardiness shows a lack of accountability - a vital trait for members of a team.
2. Hustle
The age-old adage “hustle requires no talent" holds true. Before a coach cares about your physical ability, they want to know what type of person you are.
Willingness (or refusal) to hustle reveals a lot about an athlete's competitive makeup. Are you the type to rely on your physical skills? Are you willing to go the extra mile? Are you SATISFIED?
College programs want dedicated athletes. Commitment says that you’re capable of buying in to something bigger than yourself; that your teammates and coaches can trust you when called upon. The decision to hustle sheds light on your level of commitment.
NO ONE IS TOO GOOD TO HUSTLE.
As a coach, hustle tells me two thing about an athlete: 1) they’re excited to be here and 2) they’re willing to work.
Be the player that sprints everywhere. Not to be first, but to approach that drill/rep/inning with 100% effort.
Not only does this show what type of player you are, you visually differ from those who are simply “coasting”.
3. Look the Part
Like artists, athletes have their own style. That style can be bold and flashy, or subtle and reserved. You can be with gritty with a lunch pail attitude, or refined and locked in.
Your style includes your prep work, pregame routines, accessories, and overall approach. Some people have lengthy, detailed routines, while others are flexible. Find the combination of things that prepare YOU for competition.
I truly believe in the importance of knowing what type of player you are, as well as the ability to express it within the game. Knowing who you are and how you learn allows you - the athlete - to take control of your process.
With that said, you don’t need the most expensive cleats or highest-quality gear. That A2000 that just hit the market isn’t a NECESSITY.
True ballplayers rock what they have. If your cleats are old and beat up, give them a good scrub before heading to the park. Keep your uniform clean and tucked in, again highlighting your preparedness. Find out who you are, and PLAY YOUR GAME.
[ Special Tip ]: Stand out with a bright shirt. Wear one with your last name on the back to make sure those coaches can't forget your name.
4. Know Your Strengths
If you have a specific strength, find a way to incorporate it.
Are you a switch hitter? Get swings from both sides.
Are you a speed guy? Let that be seen as you shag for hitters. Get there early and run extra sprints to show your stuff. Know your strengths and highlight them. It may require extra thought, but if you can't identify your strengths, will a coach be able to?
For athletes who don't rank highly in measurables, stand out with energy. Make it known that you are on a mission. When warming up, do so like you're preparing for a State Championship.
Use competition as the outlet to show that you will not be out-willed.
5. Communicate
On every level, communication is key for a successful team. Coaches need to see that you're capable of receiving and delivering messages from teachers, coaches, and teammates.
On a basic level, communicate on the field. When calling for a ball, be loud and make your presence known. Decisiveness shows confidence.
Follow up with coaches and scouts. If a school you was in attendance, follow up with them. Email (or even take it a step further and CALL) coaches/recruiters to show your sincere interest. Message the event's host and thank them for holding the event.
A well-written email or personal phone call implies much more than what is actually said.
At the end of the event, your goal is to be noticed - so make sure it's for the right reasons! Define your process and be on time; commit to your performance with relentless hustle; express your style in a positive light; highlight your strengths; COMMUNICATE with everyone involved!
Questions about how to approach a coach or school, or how to write a proper email? Shoot us a call or text (3305506627)!