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Anyone who has played organized soccer knows that sometimes you have to get set for a big match. This could be in high school, college, a travel league, or a big tournament. To prepare for the game, for the most part you want to follow your regular routine. But if possible you should take extra time to prepare and make sure you're ready for a tough battle. Here are a few tips to get set for the big game.

STUDY THE OTHER TEAM. This isn't always a possibility, but when it is, do your homework. Watch the other team play, whether in person or on tape. Find out their strengths and weaknesses. Do they have a certain player with outstanding skills? Is there a certain defender with a noticeable weakness? Does the goalie favor his left side? Any little edge might be the difference between a win and a loss.

KNOW YOUR GAME PLAN. Hopefully you've been able to study your opponent a bit. But either way, you need to have a game plan of your own. This game plan should consist of general strategies, specific tactics, and what to do on set plays. The key is to know the plan inside and out. It should be second nature. When something happens on the field, the entire team should know how to react. Plus, if everyone is on the same page, sometimes you can capitalize on the other team's confusion.

STRETCH. Stretching your muscles is key to prepare your body for any physical activity. Make sure you take adequate time to stretch and get limber. In soccer, your legs are most important. Also make sure to stretch your back, neck, arms, and midsection. You should be feeling nice and warm when the game begins.

WARM UP WITH SOME QUICK DRILLS. Before the game starts, the team should run some simple drills and take some shots on goal. This is mostly to keep everyone loose and relaxed.

GET IN THE RIGHT MINDSET. Right before the match starts, focus your mind. Cut out all the distractions and white noise. Go over the strategies one more time. Make sure you're comfortable with the game plan. Some people like to visualize the game. In your mind's eye, picture exactly what you're going to do when the whistle blows. Whatever you have to do, make sure your head is in the game.

A big match can be a really exciting event. Hopefully there's a good crowd out to see the game. The key is to stay calm, focused, and stick to your game plan. Good luck.

Learn more about this author, Sean Curtis.
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