Get the Gear and Pack Smart
Game day can be hectic, so it’s essential to be prepared which starts with having the right gear in your player’s bag. A busy travel schedule and varying field conditions means investing in the right equipment is essential for your child’s performance and safety. Here’s what you’ll need to avoid last-minute scrambles and ensure nothing is left behind:
- Footwear: Make sure your son or daughter has outdoor cleats that suit their play and fit your budget. Find a pair that fits their position, size, and style. If you are overwhelmed by choices and options, visit your local soccer specialty retailer – their team members will be able to help your player select the right soccer cleats. You may also want to invest in a pair of slides that they can wear before and after practices and games.
- Shin Guards: Required for every player, shin guards are a must for safety and protection. They are available in various styles and types to fit your players’ preference. Shin guards are inexpensive and keeping a spare pair in your bag is a good idea.
- Soccer Ball: Always have a well-inflated soccer ball in your bag. This allows your son or daughter to practice on the go and stay sharp in between games. Most travel coaches require players to bring their own ball to every practice and game.
- Uniform: Your uniform kit will likely include home and away jerseys, as well as shorts, socks, and practice jerseys. After washing and drying, put your home, away, and practice gear in separate Ziplock bags and store in your players soccer bag. This helps to keep your gear organized and avoids any potential water bottle spills.
- Socks: Keeping your feet cool and dry is a good move for hygiene and helps avoid blisters! Buying two to three spare pairs of soccer socks means that you aren’t constantly doing laundry and also makes it easy to change socks in between games during a tournament.
- Soccer Bag: Choose between a backpack or duffel bag based on your player’s preference and the amount of gear they need to carry. Most travel teams give an option to purchase a soccer bag that can be customized with your players name and/or number. Regardless of the bag you choose, keep it well organized to make it easy to find everything.
- Water Bottle: Keep your player hydrated with one or two water bottles. Make sure that these are washed and refilled so players can grab them from the refrigerator on their way to games and practice.
Planning Transportation for Practices and Games
- Consider a Carpool: Travel soccer doesn’t just mean travelling to games – it also includes frequent practices. To make this more manageable, consider setting up a carpool with other families. Carpooling not only saves time and reduces stress, but also fosters camaraderie among teammates. Sharing driving duties can be a lifesaver, especially if you have other commitments.
- Arrival Time for Games: Your season schedule will note the locations and start times of each game. Most travel soccer coaches require that you arrive either 30 or 60 minutes early to warm up and prepare for the game. If you haven’t been to the club’s fields before – plan to arrive a few minutes early. Most facilities have several soccer fields and navigating to the exact field and finding parking can sometimes add-on a few minutes. Leaving a little early will help avoid stress for you and your player!
Remember to Focus on Fun
While travel soccer is more competitive, it’s important to remember that it’s still a game, and the main goal is for your child to have fun. Encourage a positive attitude, emphasize teamwork, and help your child enjoy the experience – win or lose. Balancing competitiveness with enjoyment is key to making the season rewarding for you and your child. This all starts with being prepared. Rest assured, if you have the gear, a well packed soccer bag, and transportation arranged – you are set up for a great travel season!