Prepare for the Run-in

  • March 15th, 2018
  • Camilla Chapman

We're now heading towards the business end of a long season, where your players would have worked hard towards your objective, whether that's landing some silverware or staying in the same league. Whatever your aim for this season, it's time for you and your team to give one final push and end the campaign on a high. Here are some top tips to help you achieve success and prepare for the fixture run-in!

Keep up the hard work


It may have been a long season but your players still need to give 100% in your training. Make sure that they are fully focused and prepared to give their all in training, so they are ready for their upcoming matches, ensuring that everyone is on the same wavelength. When you're getting towards the end of your training sessions for a few weeks, then look at including some fun activities, such as team competitions.

Give plenty of encouragement


Keep encouraging your players to remain focused and work hard, particularly during matches. Be able to give them constructive feedback, both positive and negative, and also listen to any thoughts that your players have themselves. It's important that you all work together and want to progress towards the same objective so make sure that you all have good communication.

Reap the rewards


If you become successful with your objectives at the end of the season, then be sure to reward your players! It's important to keep team morale high during the off-season and get them all raring to go again next season. Organise an end of season awards evening or a team outing to celebrate the end of the season and any success that you have gained, such as some silverware.

Be prepared for the big games


If you have made it to a big final then you'll need to get your players ready to handle the big occasion. Make sure you are fully prepared with your tactics and that your players have worked hard in training for the big game. Encourage them to eat well, sleep well and remain fully focused up until matchday. Be ready to win some silverware and end your season on a high!

Deal with the fixture pile up


It's that time of year - particularly in the UK - where games will be postponed and rescheduled due to bad weather and you could end up playing twice a week in a bid to catch up. Make sure that you adapt accordingly with your players, such as shortening down training (but still using the same intensity) and encouraging your players to rest sufficiently. Help them to prevent injuries too, such as stretching properly pre and post match, and not allowing for any shortcuts from your players.