Finals Time – Finals Fresh!

It’s that time of year again – finals time. At this stage of the season the top teams are preparing themselves for the high pressure of finals games. So as a player or coach, here are some tips to make sure this time of the year is successful:

1. Freshness vs Fitness

It is very hard to get fitter at this time of the season. The focus should be to look after your players ensuring they are fresh and as injury free as possible. Mindless running should be kept to a minimum and sessions should be shorter but still intense with quality.

2. Recovery

After game recovery is essential to allow your players to prepare as well as possible for the next game! Preparation for the next game begins at the final whistle. Cold water baths (10-12 degrees for 10mins), a carbohydrate and protein mix with an hour of the game and gentle stretching may all be helpful.

3. Be vigilant with injuries

Planning your week is important to your teams success. The focus is “game day” so it may be necessary for players to miss the first session on the field and do gym work or pool work instead to aid recovery and manage physical loading. If you are injured or have “niggles” seeking specialised advice is important to assist in keeping you on the park. 

4. Manage your stress

There is a reason why often the most experienced team defeats the youngest team – performing under pressure. As a younger athlete it is important to get your mental game in order to help you achieve your goals. Managing your stress, pressure and anxiety is as important as doing your warm up before the game! 

5. Nutrition

The last factor is getting your food right. If your body is feeling a bit flat then getting your fuelling right is vital to give you any advantage you can. Eating well all week will give you a massive boost at this time of the season and healthy eating shouldn’t just be left to the night before.

 

 Matt Whalan

Football Physiotherapist

www.figtreephysio.com.au