In Wisconsin, our second season just finished up with tryouts. Below are 5 things I think coaches/directors need to know before going into tryouts each season!

1. What we thought we knew is not what we now know. Do not let preconceived thoughts, perceptions,  or opinions dictate decisions you make.  Kids change so much as skaters that you owe it to skaters to take what you see at face value and then ask questions.
2. Simple is better. There is no need to complicate the processes of tryouts by running the skaters through complex drills that require a high degree of understanding. We need skaters to be relaxed and confident in order to showcase their abilities. Ever been to a tryout where the coach has to stop the drill and explain it over? That's b/c the coach is showcasing his talents as an instructor and not the skaters.  
3. Understand "like" ability skaters without separating "like" ability skaters. Never split kids up at tryouts by talent level. It's great to create evenly matched teams that pit "like ability" skaters against each other but not at the expense of alienating a group of skaters who may not be at the level of your future team. Kids are incredibly aware (as are parents) that when we create a top and bottom group of skaters on the ice that cuts are being made and no skater should have to endure that. 
4. Never post/announce a team during school hours. Technology     has many benefits for tryouts but this is not one of them. Kids have access to the internet and email during the school day and if a skater doesn't make a team who is there to support that skater? 
5. Over communicate before tryouts to parents. Skaters are nervous for tryouts and so are parents. We can alievate some of the parental nerves if simple questions can be answered. Here are a few...

• What is check in like?
• When/how will we be notified who makes the team?
• Who are the coaches? 
• When the tryouts are? May seem ridiculous but always good to hear again
• Tentative cost of team
• Tentative practices & games

These obviously aren't all of my recommendations for coaches on tryouts but a few of the big ones. If you have any questions or things to add let us know!