Tournament is a time where we create everlasting memories within our sporting journeys. By doing it right, will make those experiences most rewarding. Our Mainland NetballSmart led, Kiana Gallon has provided a few beneifcal tips to best prepare our netballers for performance and injury prevention. 

Player Wellbeing 

Along with the physical demands of tournament, players may experience an increased stress on their mental well-being. This could be due to the increased mental pressure of performing multiple games in one day, changes to normal routines, internal or external stresses, or personal issues outside of the team environment. It is important to be aware of how players are feeling both physically and mentally. A simple way is to personally check on each player as they arrive at the tournament. Take a few moments to talk to them and ask how they are feeling, how they slept and if they are ready for the day ahead.

Player Refueling and Nutrition 

Eating right on game day is a player’s secret weapon. Healthy food is the priority during any tournament. Doing simple nutrition well will provide the best results. However, a sudden change from a player’s everyday diet may not help them during a tournament.

Timing is everything! When players eat is just as important as what they eat. Players should eat their main meal 2 to 3 hours before the first game. Small snacks can be eaten 30 to 60 minutes in advance. Don't forget that hydrating your body with water (H2O) is essential for performance. Post-game eating within 20 to 30 minutes is optimal for energy restoration and muscle recovery. 

Recovery 

As tournaments have multiple games on the same day, and time vary between each game. It is important to understand the purpose of what an appropriate recovery does for the body. 

The benefits of recovery:
• Aids the removal of waste products
• Returns the body to near resting levels
• Sets the body up for the next round of exercise
• Allows the player to continue to perform at high levels
• May help reduce the injury rate
• May help reduce muscle soreness

Injury Management 

Injuries at tournaments are tough for players, but no matter how important the game is, it is never bigger than the welfare of an individual.

Doing the simple things well will make a differnce to any injury:
• P.R.I.C.E.D will help with the early management of any acute injury. It is a simple process which assists in the
early care and to minimise excessive swelling and the secondary effects of injury. If the team does not have a physio, ensuring that initial first aid is administered is key, then source appropriate treatment e.g. a local physio or doctor. Help the player understand that playing with an injury is counter-productive and can prolong or worsen an injury.

We hope these tips encourage positive player wellbeing throughout the representative campaign, and we look forward to seeing everyone down at the courts! Good luck and enjoy the experience.  

Article added: Wednesday 03 July 2024