As we come to the end of one sports season and the start of another, teams are getting ready to get their organized for the upcoming season.
If your child is on a travel team, you know that can mean a weekend or two away for games or it can mean many weekends away depending on how far your team travels.
In order to keep everyone happy, overnight trips require lots of organization! There is plenty to keep in mind when planning these trips
Top 5 Travel Tips for Travel Sports Teams
COMMUNICATION
It is imperative that the team or group establish the type of hotel (Price, Brand, Amenities, Location, Laundry, etc.) that best fits the overall team or group. This is done through team parent meetings directed by the coach or team manager. It can be done by a vote or a more direct approach by the Coach or Team Manager making the decision on behalf of his/her team.
TEAM MANAGER/MOM
There must be a point person appointed by the coach to handle and direct the travel component of a traveling sports team. Too many cooks in the kitchen will result in a disaster. This process, from a travel logistics standpoint, has to be streamlined and taken care of by one person Hotels booked, directions to playing venues, tournament schedules all need to be organized.
THE NON PLAYING SIBLINGS
Oh yes, did you forget about them? This is very important as these kids are an important part of the family as well. Make sure you are well stocked with things for them to do or snack on while their brother/sister is playing in their games. It can become hard to watch your child playing in the game and also watch your other children. The better you plan the more you can watch your child who is actually playing in the game with no worries of the other kids who get dragged along.
NUTRITION
Make sure you are prepared for snacks and proper hydration for your playing athletes. Many times in tournaments you may play multiple games in a day and rest and recovery are important to your child’s performance on the field or court. Try and have a plan and eat properly… as much the kids love cheeseburgers, a trip to 5 Guys Burger and Fries before a game may not be the best thing.
SWIMMING
This is a mini vacation, right Mom & Dad? Tell that to the coach…LOL most travel teams that book a hotel with a pool. It is a must for that downtime, and it’s a great reward for victory. Make sure you moderate this activity as to not tire out your child, where it may affect his/her performance on the field or court. This is supposed to be fun and there is something about a pool at a hotel that kids love.
