"If you strengthen your weaknesses, all you end up with is a lot of strong weaknesses." - Dan Sullivan

The best advice to players preparing for tryouts, is to know their "Wedge" skill - their biggest strength, that they already do well, and something coaches rely on them for.

The one that is going to get their foot in the door:

1) On the team - so they have a chance to compete at their next level

2) On the court - so they have a chance for more playing time where they will develop their other skill sets

3) On the rise - demonstrate their increasing capability, and move up the roster, or even from bench to starting role! 

The most common example of a "wedge" skill is rebounding - simply because it is underrated by players, and always valued by coaches.

For a player of any size that is not very skilled on offense, doubling down on becoming THE rebounder in their position for their team, means your player will be more likely to make the team, and probably score 6-8 points just because of rebound and put back opportunities - opening the door for more.

Now the part we need to bring home to your player is this:

They may be a fantastic spot up shooter, but if they are not certain that they will be THE player strongest in that area (some teams have 6 shooting guards), that is not likely what the coach needs from them to help the team win. 

Players don't always know what that "wedge" is, and as a parent you may be unsure, or your player may not take your advice. 

So this preseason, encourage your player to find their "wedge". Get their foot in the door, know what they will be known for, and make sure they have are "strengthening their strengths" for a chance to continue progressing at their next level of competition.

If you want help finding your player's "wedge" before tryout time, sign up and schedule your free evaluation at https://www.playpracticebasketball.com/confidenceindex

​
​