Physically Preparing For Camp
Eurotech® Soccer Academy programs Camps are physically and mentally demanding. Depending on your chosen program, each day includes 3-4 exciting field sessions consisting of 6-7 hours of on-field soccer training and competitive tournament style matches in the evening. Interactive camp meetings and lectures are also part of the daily curriculum. A fit camper will undoubtedly benefit more from the training than the camper who arrives out of shape.
 
All high school aged campers should be involved with some kind of cardiovascular and flexibility program at least six weeks prior to attending camp. Flexibility work will aid in the prevention of injuries resulting from sudden stops and starts, changes of speed and direction, as well as the daily demands of dribbling, shooting and various exercises. It is essential for all campers to arrive mentally and physically prepared to achieve success, increase technical skills, develop tactical awareness and have an overall enjoyable camp experience!
   
Campers attending other camps, soccer tournaments or other sports related events prior to arriving at camp should make sure that the camper arrives with proper nutrition, well rested, hydrated and ready to play on the first day of camp.
   
Field Player Preparation

Field players should arrive to camp fit and be on a running and overall fitness program at least 30-60 days prior to the start of camp to achieve optimal results. The first session of each day consists of one hour of soccer specific SAQ (Speed, Agility & Quickness) conditioning sessions and require short and intense periods of pure focus with circuit stations featuring agility, speed, core and quickness training in a small group environment. In addition, daily shooting and finishing sessions, passing, technical sessions, etc. will quickly take it’s toll on the unfit camper as well. Implementing a stretching and general flexibility program prior to arrival at camp will reduce the amount of stress placed on joints and muscles during the week of camp. It will also aid in the prevention of injuries and provide as a "stepping stone" for progress by the end of the week.
   
Goalkeeper Preparation

Goalkeepers should also start an intensive training program preferably 30-60 days prior to the start of camp to achieve optimal results. The unusual demands of this position are always amplified in a camp setting due to the intricacies of training players for this unique position. Due to the technical nature of training goalkeepers, the repetition of diving, ball handling, footwork, handling crosses, tipping, deflecting, etc. will take its toll and effect camp performance if the body is not prepared for it. As with Field Players, it is highly recommended that Goalkeepers implement a consistent stretching and general flexibility program prior to arrival at camp to reduce the amount of stress placed on joints and muscles during the week of camp. It will also aid in the prevention of injuries and provide as a "stepping stone" for progress by the end of the week.
   
For additional benefit, Eurotech® has prepared a brief "Soccer Camp Fitness Preparation Guide" for your review including valuable information about soccer fitness, anaerobic training, aerobic training, nutrition, speed training, strenth training, flexibility and more! You can read it now by clicking the link below or you can find it on our website at a later time under "Physical Preparation"!