Advice for Soccer Players Competing in Soccer Tournaments
A dynamic expert in injury prevention, rehabilitation, sports medicine and athletic conditioning, John Gallucci Jr. is the Medical Coordinator for Major League Soccer (MLS), overseeing the medical care of 600 professional soccer players. Gallucci is the former Head Trainer of the New York Red Bulls MLS team and is a Sports Medicine consultant for professional athletes in the NHL, NFL, NBA, MLB, and USA Wrestling. Gallucci, Jr. is also President of JAG Physical Therapy & JAG Pediatric Therapy.
News and Advice for Soccer Players: What is the best way to prepare to deal with pressure on the soccer field? How can you make sure you are at your best when competing in a soccer tournament? It is important to remember the basics!
With the Holiday season upon us, soccer players will be traveling and participating in tournaments and showcases across the country. It can be overwhelming, especially if you are on a team with something to prove – but here is great advice to help!
Even professional soccer players use advice to help be successful
1. Start your day off with a well-balanced meal.
Tournament days can be long days. Fuel your body with the appropriate nutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, good fats) so it can sustain the stressors placed upon it throughout the day.
2. Complete a proper warm-up and cool-down.
Be sure to run through a proper warm-up and cool-down of dynamic and static stretches, as well as plyometrics, before and after playing each game. These routines can help prevent injuries during the game and will prepare the body for the next game.
3. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate.
Our bodies crave water! This becomes especially true during periods of high intensity activity or extended heat exposure. In order for our bodies to function at high levels for extended periods of time, we need to start the day off well hydrated and continue to replenish fluids throughout the day as we lose them.
4. Be prepared.
Check the weather report and pack extra layers, umbrellas or a change or clothes. Pack extra snacks for a quick bite on- the- go. Check the tournament schedule and plan accordingly. Of course there are always unforeseen events that can take place, but being prepared for the day ahead leaves a smaller chance for mishaps and added stressors.
5. HAVE FUN!
The most important thing to remember is that sports are supposed to be fun and winning the game, or scoring the most goals, shouldn’t be the only goal. Lacing up those cleats, getting some exercise and building team camaraderie should be considered a win in anybody’s book.
Soccer is the most popular sport in the world – enjoy!
