Whether your child is trying out for a football team that has “cuts” or just being evaluated for placement on a team, here are three hints for you to share with them, and two suggestions for parents.

1. Proper technique says a lot

With minimal chances to run, pass or kick, coaches always look for proper technique. To most coaches, a dropped ball using proper technique — using hands only — is more impressive than one caught like a loaf of bread. A ball thrown with a spiral a short distance impresses more than one wobbling farther through the air.

2. Dress properly

I’ve seen it all through the years while conducting evaluations, including a baseball player showing up without a glove. Be sure to find out what your player is expected, or in some cases required, to bring to tryouts. This might include a mouth guard, cleats, flag belt and other typical football equipment. Don’t forget to factor the weather. If it’s raining, most likely evaluations will take place indoors, where your child will need sneakers instead of cleats.

3. Market yourself

If you have a shirt or jersey that has your name emblazoned on the back of it, wear it. If not, wear something that will stick out because of its color or a unique logo. Coaches are more likely to remember that, and then will go out of their way to find out your name.

4. Parents should be seen, but not heard

Most coaches assume if you are loud and belligerent at tryouts, you’ll be even worse during the season. Don’t be the reason your child gets cut from the team.

5. Don’t add to the stress

Tryouts can be stressful for the child and the parents. I find it helps not to talk about the tryout during the days leading up to it. Instead, I offer to have a catch or find other ways to help my sons prepare without them even realizing it. On the car ride to the tryouts, talk about something completely unrelated.

Good luck!

Jon Buzby has been involved in and writing about youth sports for the past 30 years, originally as a coach and board member with his now-adult son and most recently "just as a dad" with his 8- and 10-year-old sons. Jon is an award-winning writer and his latest book, “Coaching Kids Made Easier,” is available on Amazon. Send comments or future blog topics you'd like to see to JonBuzby@hotmail.com and follow him @YouthSportsBuzz on Twitter