What is considered not to be a tryout for prospective student-athletes?

Participation in open events on campus is not considered a tryout for prospective student-athletes because these events are typically structured to allow student-athletes to showcase their skills without the competitive stakes or formal evaluations that characterize tryouts. Open events often welcome a broader audience, allowing many individuals to participate and display their abilities, which distinguishes them from controlled tryouts designed to assess talent.

In contrast, private events, national competitions, and informal gatherings generally are more related to evaluations or selections, making them more akin to actual tryouts. Private events usually involve a smaller group assessed for specific teams or programs, and national competitions often involve high-stakes performances that directly impact recruitment. Informal gatherings can facilitate connections but can sometimes be interpreted as evaluations, further differentiating them from open campus events.