How To Prepare Your Team for an Out-of-Town Sports Games

The game coming up is not on the home front. It’s on the other team’s turf, and with that change in atmosphere, you need to make sure your team feels completely confident in themselves and their ability to win. It’s going to require a lot of practice and planning, but that’s okay. Here’s how to prepare your team for an out-of-town sports game.

Change Up the Scenery

The next game may not be at home, but the setup will likely stay the same. The only difference is the fans in the stand, but it won’t feel like your players’ home because it isn’t. For this reason alone, it’s a good idea to change up the practice location occasionally.

Moving your team to a new location helps team members get into the mindset that the next game is not at home. They will need to adapt to the change but maintain their skills and focus. The change of scenery will be good for them and prepare them for the new atmosphere.

Plan Bonding Activities

Practice is not the only bonding time your team should have. There need to be moments when they can unwind together and form genuine connections. This will help them stay in sync come game day. Plan for a couple of bonding activities on off days and practice days.

You might even encourage the team captain to plan an activity so team members have a chance to bond without the coach around. That friendship will strengthen their connection when they play together. Some activities can be during practice too; one idea is a little coach vs. player competition.

Arrange Transportation

Everyone will need to travel on game day, so consider how you’ll travel. Instead of the traditional school bus, consider renting a couple of vans for game day. These vans are more comfortable than school buses, and they make bonding time more enjoyable for the team.

There is plenty of room inside, so the players have room for themselves and any necessary equipment. Additionally, vans make for better wind-down moments when it’s time to come home from the game.

Stick With the Motto

A motto is like a catchphrase, and all the greats have one. Come up with a motto that reflects the values and morals of you and your team. You’ll want to remind them of this before, during, and after the game, no matter the outcome.

It will make them feel at home and confident in their abilities. Even if you don’t come up with an amazing inspirational speech, saying the motto in that locker room will be all the motivation your players need.

Your team’s next out-of-town sports game will be their next victory, especially if you follow these steps to prepare.