Prepare for Peak Soccer Performance

Failing to prepare is preparing to fail…. This old saying stresses the importance of preparation.

As in any sport, preparation is key to be on top of your game. Of course soccer players know they need to prepare but to what degree?

In our Mental Game of Soccer Survey, one soccer player raised that very question about preparation:

“What can I do to prepare myself for a game, so that I can perform at my best?”

Not being prepared creates worry or a lack of confidence. Imagine if you blindly allow someone else to pack your soccer bag for you and they decided to give you your bag an hour before the game.

You would be a nervous wreck wondering if they would show up on time or if they pack your uniform, cleats, water bottle, shin guards, etc?

Now think back to a game when you were nervous before the start of the game… possibly you missed practice two days before the game.

You only received a brief synopsis of the game plan and the strengths of the team you were about to play. You were a little nervous at the start of the game not exactly knowing what to expect.

You were caught out of position a couple of times and received some harsh criticism from the coach and players on the field. You became fearful of making more mistakes because you don’t want to be the potential reason your team loses.

As you can see, a lack of preparation affects your decision-making, confidence and performance.

Preparation is not a complicated matter and has both physical and mental components. Let’s look at preparation from three angles:

1. What is the best way to prepare for a game?

2. How comprehensive should your preparation be?

3. How does preparation affect your play on the field?

What is the best way to prepare for a game?

The best way to prepare is to have a consistent preparation routine. You should never be haphazard in your preparation for a game.

Physical preparation routines can include: the way you pack your equipment bag, pre-game meal, stretching, warm-up exercises, team drills, discussing strategy with teammates and coaches, etc.

USWNT veteran Carli Lloyd stresses that preparation, rather than luck paves the way to success.

LLOYD: “I’m not a superstitious person. Your preparation is what prepares you, what instills confidence.”

How comprehensive should your preparation be?

Most soccer players prepare physically and tactically for games, but a small portion include mental preparation. The game is more than physical. If you include mental preparation, you will have a greater advantage over other players on the field.

Mental preparation can include: visualization, breathing exercises, focusing drills, relaxation techniques, positive affirmations, coping with challenges, etc.

How Does Preparation Affect Your Play

Comprehensive preparation instills high confidence. When you feel
confident, your mind and body are free to play intuitively and creatively on the field.

With greater preparation and strong confidence, you are mentally ready for peak performance.

Create a pregame preparation routine. Make sure you pay attention to your physical, tactical, and mental preparation. Don’t forget to anticipate challenges that might distract or frustrate you, such as an opponent making a hard tackle.

By sticking to your pre-game routine prior to each game, you will be prepared to be your best mentally and physically throughout the game.

Boost Confidence in Soccer

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