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THE off-season for soccer players is a time to rest and recharge, but you don’t want to lose any conditioning during the break. You need a good balance between rest and training to be ready when the next season of soccer comes around. It is always enjoyable to take a break after a long struggle and concentration. Sporting activities are classified under high time consuming and consequently this will always be the case with our sports family as we are aware that league is on hold for about seven weeks. This comes with two consequences; decline or incline in performance when games resume.
I kindly suggest the following activities be considered:
ADVICE TO SOCCER PLAYERS Prevent Injuries
It is critical to use the time between seasons to participate in an injury prevention programme. A specialised exercise regime can help in preventing devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Focus on balance, jump-landing mechanics, flexibility exercises, agility, and strength training in an injury prevention programme. Since so many ACL injuries are preventable, devoting time during the off-season is well worth it and could help you avoid a season or career-ending injury.
Take a mental rest
Playing the same sport all the time can lead to burnout, or loss of interest in that sport. Taking the off-season to find new ways to exercise and condition can help your mental soccer game as well as your physical game. Taking a break from the game gives you the opportunity to relax after the stress of competition and vigorous schedule of practices and games. Combine some yoga and meditation several times a week for an extra edge. When you rest from soccer and return to it the next season, you re-emerge relaxed with a newly-found mental clarity and focus.
Creating family bond
This is very crucial as we know that sports steal family time, hence reimbursement can be a good idea. Be visible at home; see to it that fencing is still intact; yard is tidy; and many other home activities. Be handy and make your presence felt.
Social work
These activities help to interact with communities. Hang around with rural colleagues. This may include tournaments, donations and attending funerals.
The community respects you now and you are a role model, so please be exemplary and motivate others with your clean life.
Spiritual life
Sports also steal all your time to attend church services, so it is time to attend all services and events faithfully. This shall enable spiritual growth. We need time with God so let’s attend local churches and be part of their activities. God is good and His blessings are forever.
Physical training
Please don’t stop having training programmes to avoid reduction in performance. Contact your physical trainer for out of competition programme and be mindful of your diets and habits. It’s easy to gain weight but very difficult to lose it.
On another note, let’s wish our national pride Sihlangu Semnikati the best of luck in the COSAFA tournament, which is already underway in South Africa.
We have faith in the bench led by Domenic Kunene. We trust our team and wish them an injury-free tournament.
On the referees’ side, the country’s best in Thulani Sibandze and Leticia Viana are also representing us in COSAFA and Women African Cup of Nations, respectively. We also wish them the best of luck God bless you all.