Attention Poway Athletes: How to Prepare for Playoffs

It’s that time of season again: playoffs. This is what most athletes live for, a shot at being number one and going as far as they can in the playoffs. Often times we hear coaches say, “Leave it all on the field because this is it. If we lose, we go home.”

It’s important to remember a few things as you or your team prepare for tournament playoffs.

• Take control over the things you have control over. Specifically, your diet, hydration, sleep, time management, and most importantly, your attitude.
• Don’t fix something that is not broken. Often times coaches and athletes will suddenly feel the need to change the lineup, modify techniques, or start over-training. This is usually a result of the pressure associated with playoffs. If you are good enough to get to the playoffs, then you’re good enough to stay there. Strategic changes are to be expected, but don’t overdo it.
• Plan and practice changes in climate, surroundings, and atmosphere. For example, if your league games started at 3:30 p.m. and now the playoff games are at 7:00 p.m., move your practice times to 7:00 p.m. to help your mind and body prepare for the time change.
• Maintain a goal oriented focus and attitude. Anything can happen during playoffs, so be sure to set very specific and quantifiable goals for yourself or your team to keep you on track. If your goal is simply to win, then you are building your house on sand. When the tide comes in you are going to crumble quickly. Of course you should desire and work to win, but build a strong foundation first.

The No. 1 question I get as a sport psychology consultant is, "How can I or my team perform better under pressure?" In sport psychology, there are many techniques and strategies to help athletes develop performance under pressure. However, my first response to that question is always, practice better and more efficiently. That is the first step in truly becoming a good performer under pressure. This directly ties into identifying what you have control over and making sure you make the best choices for your well-being. Don’t leave a playoff game to chance by ignoring your physical, emotional and mental needs.

To all the athletes, coaches, and parents heading into playoffs ... good luck, play hard and enjoy the moment!