1. Knowledge of the team

How professional is the new team? Do the players focus on the social side more than honing their skills? Are you likely learn and progress given the DNA of the new team. Are they far too advanced for your skills or vice versa.

2. Maximize your fitness levels

You will want to put on a good show. That means being as fit or fitter than the other players. To achieve this you should go on long runs in the gym or outside most days. Mix the runs with sprinting sessions to prepare you for the burley of the game. Try muscle growth techniques such as fit ups and weights which will help with stamina and strength to see out games.

3. Technique readiness

You will want to employ certain skills in certain situations to impress the coach and and show you’re ready. Prep up on 3 D skills, like the jink steal. Try a tomahawk and one handed dribble from time to time. Go over the rules again before turning up if you are inexperienced so you’re not constantly making silly mistakes.

4. Practice

Practice makes perfect they say. Go over all your techniques several weeks before. Make sure you practice as many skills as possible but don’t neglect the basics. Buy a net for your garden or for practice in an open space and go over each shot, so you’re ready for game day.

5. Preparation of kit

Don’t forget your hockey stick on game day if you can help it. You’ll want to be comfortable. Remember shin guards, mouth guard, eye guard (if you’re in The States). If you have all the kit you’ll look more serious in the eyes of the coach. Bottled mineral water and a slice of melon will give you energy at half time. If you have a spare stick take it. You never know what could spring up and you’ll look more serious to the new coach. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear (shoes with studs/cleats if required) Make sure you know which surface you’ll be playing on before hand.

6. Remember to be polite and get on with your peers

Be prepared to make an effort to be positive and get along with the other players. Be helpful and understanding. Perhaps bring halftime refreshments (A sliced melon would go down well – see my article why they’re better than half time oranges) and always try to be upbeat and portray an upbeat attitude even if you miss the target and play poorly. The staff will see your demeanor and judge whether you’ll be an asset on a nd off the pitch.

7.  Be knowledgeable and confident

Show to the others you are knowledgeable of gear and performances. Be confident without emitting  an over confident air. If you are the best then confidence is fine but not if you’re the worst. If you’re having a bad day your team mates will be happy if you keep it simple and retain possession and play simple passes.

I hope these tips help you progress and enjoy you’re new challenge with your new team.