As a soccer parent, you’re likely familiar with the long breaks between games during a tournament. One common question that pops up frequently is whether it’s okay for the team to go out to eat or whether the players should rest and recover on their own. While this might seem like a minor issue, it plays a big part in how players perform in their second game of the day. To help answer this and provide you with expert guidance, we’ve gathered insights from over 60 soccer parents and coaches.
Here, we’ll explore the top considerations for soccer team meals between games, discuss the best practices for balancing rest and bonding time, and provide some strategies for making the most of those long gaps between matches.
1. Why Meal Breaks Between Games Are Essential
A full day of soccer can take its toll, especially when there’s a long gap between games. Players need to fuel up to ensure they have the energy required to perform at their best. According to multiple parents and coaches, taking the time for a meal in between games is important for maintaining energy levels, hydration, and mental focus.
As one parent pointed out, “The kids are going to be starving and have no energy if you don’t feed them.” A nutritious meal will help replenish glycogen stores, while hydration ensures that players stay at their best.
2. Time to Rest: How Much Downtime Is Enough?
While meal breaks are necessary, rest is just as important. Players who don’t have enough time to relax can become fatigued, affecting their focus and stamina in the second game. The consensus among parents is that there is enough time for both eating and resting.
One parent explained, “With an 8-hour gap, it is easy to do both. You could offer a team lunch option and still have time to rest.” Having a balanced approach—eating together as a team and then allowing some downtime—is a solid strategy.
3. Balancing Team Bonding and Rest
Another benefit of eating together is fostering team camaraderie. For many kids, the most memorable part of a tournament isn’t the final score but the time spent with their teammates between games. Shared meals can create lasting memories and strengthen relationships among players and families.
However, it’s important not to overdo it. “It’s good team bonding, but consider the weather, intensity, and your players’ physical and mental condition when deciding whether a team lunch or personal rest time is best,” one parent shared. The key is moderation—ensure the kids enjoy each other’s company, but also allow time to unwind.
4. Nutritional Guidelines: What to Serve for Lunch
What should you serve to keep the players energized without overloading them with sugar or junk food? According to experts, a balanced meal with a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats is essential.
“Team meals are fun, but consider the weather, intensity of the games, and your players’ nutritional needs,” advised one parent. Offering sandwiches, fruit, pasta, or salads are all great options. Avoid foods like fried items or ice cream, which can lead to a sugar crash before the second game.
5. The Restorative Power of Downtime
While eating is important, it’s also critical to give the kids time to rest, especially after a high-energy first game. Most parents agree that letting the kids hang out and relax is an effective way to recharge.
“Don’t expect them to rest the whole afternoon, but try to give them some quiet time,” shared one parent. Simple activities like watching a movie, reading, or playing low-key games can help them unwind. For parents staying at a hotel, it’s a great time to retreat to the rooms, eat, and have some downtime before gearing up for the next game.
6. The Importance of Hydration
In addition to meals, hydration is crucial during long tournament days. Many parents emphasized the importance of encouraging players to drink plenty of water throughout the day. One parent said, “Parents would need to hydrate between matches, especially if it’s a hot day.” Keeping the kids hydrated ensures they won’t suffer from fatigue or muscle cramps during their second game.
7. Practical Tips for Organizing Team Meals
If you’re organizing the team meal, here are some tips for making it a success:
- Plan ahead: Choose a local restaurant or caterer that’s convenient and offers nutritious options.
- Get input from parents: Make sure dietary restrictions or preferences are considered.
- Share the responsibility: Consider organizing a potluck or group meal, where families can pitch in and contribute food.
For example, one parent shared, “Our team brings a tent and does a food sign-up for potluck. We bring enough food for players and families to eat!”
8. What to Avoid: Over-scheduling and Over-exertion
While team meals are important, it’s equally important to avoid over-scheduling activities that will drain the kids’ energy. Avoid events like swimming, running around, or playing intense games that can tire out the players before their next match. As one parent wisely put it, “No swimming… save the energy for the game.”
9. Parent Perspective: Let the Kids Be Kids
A number of parents expressed the importance of letting the kids have fun during these breaks. As one parent said, “Let them be kids and have fun! The best part of a tournament is never the soccer games—it’s everything they do in between.”
When the stakes are lower, allowing the players to relax, bond, and enjoy each other’s company can help them stay motivated and ready to play.
10. Final Thoughts: Fuel, Rest, and Fun
To sum it up, the key to managing tournament breaks between games is balancing team bonding, proper nutrition, hydration, and downtime. Let the kids eat together, enjoy the break, and rest up for the next match. With the right approach, you’ll ensure they’re physically and mentally prepared to perform their best in the second game.
Summary: What You Need to Know
- Meals are essential: Ensure the players eat something nutritious to refuel between games.
- Allow downtime: While socializing is important, players also need time to relax and unwind.
- Hydration matters: Keep the kids hydrated throughout the day to avoid fatigue.
- Let them be kids: Remember that tournaments are about fun, team bonding, and creating memories, not just the final score.
By following these tips, you can help your child and their teammates perform at their best while making the most of the tournament experience.
