Away games bring a different level of challenge compared to playing at home. From travel logistics to mental preparation, ensuring that everything is planned ahead of time can make the difference between a smooth trip and unnecessary distractions. Whether you're managing a youth team or a professional squad, preparing for an away game the right way sets the stage for success.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your team is fully prepared and focused when playing on the road.
1. Plan the Trip in Advance
Travel arrangements can be one of the biggest stressors for away games. Coaches and team managers should create a detailed itinerary that includes:
Departure times and locations
Travel method (bus, plane, or carpool)
Hotel details (if applicable)
Meal schedules
Game venue details
Warm-up and preparation times
Use GameTime for Itinerary Planning
Keeping everything organized is essential. GameTime’s scheduling feature makes it easy to plan every part of the trip, from meeting times to venue locations. Teams can access the full itinerary in one place, reducing confusion and last-minute scrambling.
2. Pack the Essentials
A well-packed bag can prevent unnecessary stress. Every player should have:
Game-day uniform and extra gear (jerseys, socks, cleats, shin guards, etc.)
Hydration and snacks (water bottles, protein bars, sports drinks)
First-aid essentials (tape, ice packs, pain relievers)
Important documents (ID, insurance cards, medical history if needed)
Tip for Coaches & Managers:
Pack extra team equipment (balls, cones, bibs, etc.), because relying on the away venue to have everything can be risky.
3. Mentally Prepare the Team
Traveling can take a toll on players, both physically and mentally. Coaches should incorporate mental preparation techniques to keep the team focused and confident.
Pre-game visualization: Encourage players to mentally rehearse key plays and game scenarios.
Pre-game routines: Let players listen to music or engage in personal rituals that help them get in the zone.
Team meetings: Discuss strategy and remind players of their strengths to boost confidence before hitting the field.
4. Adapt to a New Environment
One of the biggest challenges of an away game is playing in an unfamiliar setting. To help players adjust quickly, consider the following:
Arrive early to inspect the field/court and warm up properly.
Practice in similar conditions if possible (weather, surface type, altitude).
Encourage adaptability—remind players that staying focused is more important than the distractions of a new environment.
Pro Tip:
If you’re playing in a different climate (hot, cold, or humid), adjust hydration and warm-ups accordingly.
5. Maintain Team Communication
Travel can create confusion and delays, especially when coordinating arrival times, meal breaks, and warm-up schedules.
Use GameTime’s Team Chat Feature
With GameTime’s built-in chat, coaches can send real-time updates, and itinerary changes instantly to the whole team. This keeps everyone on the same page without endless group texts or confusion.
6. Get Proper Rest & Nutrition
Traveling can disrupt sleep schedules and nutritional habits, which may impact performance. Teams should:
Prioritize rest: Make sure athletes get enough sleep the night before.
Eat well: Stick to healthy meals that provide sustained energy. Avoid heavy, greasy foods before the game.
Hydrate properly: Travel can cause dehydration. Encourage players to drink water consistently, not just before the game.
Pro Tip:
If staying overnight, set a lights-out policy to ensure everyone gets the rest they need.
7. Have a Post-Game Plan
Regardless of the result, team reflection is important. After the game:
Hold a team debrief to discuss strengths and areas to improve.
Encourage recovery routines—cool downs, stretching, and rehydration.
Celebrate effort, no matter the outcome. Morale is key for long-term success.
Final Thoughts: Preparation Equals Performance
The more organized and prepared a team is before an away game, the better they can focus on the game itself. From itinerary planning to team communication, every detail matters when playing on the road.
With GameTime’s scheduling and team management tools, coaches and managers can eliminate last-minute confusion and keep their teams focused on what truly matters—winning on game day.
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