Start out strong and keep the momentum going
Danielle.r, 12, Basketball
What it Was Like:
Trying Out for Basketball
When we showed up, we each got a number to pin
to our shirts. Then the coaches divided us into groups of ten players
on each halfcourt. We worked as a group the whole time, stretching,
then jogging around the gym. Then the coach set us up to do drills.
We did full court weaves and passing drills. We did dribbling drills
around the cones and across the court. We did defensive drills and
one-on-one drills. Then we showed our shooting hoops skills and did
a few practice scrimmages.
Then the coaches had a huddle. They mixed up the
scrimmage teams and we got to play four ten minute games, changing
the positions of players every game. They took notes the whole time.
The next day, they posted the numbers of the kids
who made the team and the alternates. I didn't make it this year.
But I am going to try-out for volleyball because I'm in good shape
and they need more players. Maybe I'll make basketball next year.
Jessica.b, 13, Indiana
What it Was Like:
Trying Out for Football
When trying out for sports, especially football,
girls need to stay calm and not get intimidated. Even though football
is not thought of as a "Girl's Sport", a girl can do even better than
a guy can. If the coaches try to discourage girls from trying out,
do not give up, even if girls need to get their parents involved.
Also, always do your very best. As unfair as it may sound, what may
be an average football tryout for a guy might seem mediocre to a doubtful
coach if a girl gave such a performance.
Also, girls shouldn't take any disrespect from
the guys trying out or that are already on the team. As always, two
wrongs don't make a right, but no girl should have to stand for rude,
sexist comments. Just remember to keep your head on straight and have
confidence in yourself.
Ashley.W8, 13, Maryland
Quotes and Tips
Want to succeed at tennis? Practice. Do the drills.
Train hard every day or three times a week. Listen to your coach.
Set high goals for yourself, but don't forget to have fun. - Melissa.c
Cross country really let me get my feelings out.
If I was stressed, I could just run away and still do something positive.
I recommend the sport to everyone. - Adrianna,m
Want to win at Volleyball? Practice your power
serve. A good serve can often make the difference between winning
and losing that game. - Stephanie.m
For tennis you need to practice, learn how to
be very, very precise and work hard on your skills. But it's a great
sport to play. It encourages you to do and be your best. -Zonia.s
Field Hockey teaches you team work and how to
keep your cool under pressure. Winning is also really, really cool
because then comes the pizza party! --Jamie.g
I don't want to brag, but being team captain of
our hockey team was soooo cool. Really helping to shore up defense
and help newer players makes me feel good inside. There's lots of
room for improvement, but next year we'll do even better. - Rosa.m
When you're doing really well in soccer, don't
let it go to your head. That can hurt how you play. -Nikki.e
Don't forget about warming up, stretching, drink
lots of water before, during and after you play. If you get tired
or hurt, stop. Learn to take good care of your body. Then your body
will do its best for you.-Shareeka.l
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