The Evolution of Pre-Season Training

Gone are the days when football players ran up and down sand dunes in the 1970s. Today, pre-season training has evolved into a sophisticated blend of sports science, strategic planning, and international camps. Teams now jet off to exotic locations, combining rigorous workouts with team bonding to ensure peak performance.

Manager's Perspective: The Balancing Act

Livingston manager David Martindale sheds light on the modern approach to pre-season. "It's changed now," he says. Players are given tailored fitness programs to maintain their condition during the off-season. "They'll be given 5Ks, 10Ks, mobility exercises, and light gym work," Martindale explains. However, not all players adhere to these programs. "I've had everything," he admits, recalling a player who returned from an all-inclusive holiday in Mexico with doubled body fat. "He was playing catch-up and went out on loan two weeks later."

The Logistics: Behind the Scenes

Planning a pre-season trip is no small feat. Karen Castello, Kilmarnock's club secretary, details the meticulous process. "Once the board and the manager determine the location, we organize flights, hotels, and ensure all passports are valid," she says. The logistics extend to laundry, meals, and even arranging golf rounds for players. "It's never-ending," Castello adds, emphasizing the social benefits of these trips. "It's the only time you get to know the boys on a daily basis."

Player's Experience: The Hard Graft

For players, pre-season is where the hard work begins. Motherwell midfielder Andy Halliday recalls his first full-time pre-season at Livingston. "We're very lucky to do what we do, but everyone dreads that first day back," he says. Despite the challenges, Halliday acknowledges the benefits. "After it's done, you always feel better off for it." However, not all trips go smoothly. Halliday remembers a pre-season friendly in Spain that ended in a 22-man brawl. "There were about 12 sending-offs, and the game got cancelled after 30 minutes," he recalls.

Conclusion: The Road to Success

Pre-season training is a critical phase in a football team's journey. It’s a time for players to regain their fitness, for managers to strategize, and for teams to bond. As Martindale puts it, "It's about getting the boys ready for the rigours of the season." Whether it's through intense workouts, strategic planning, or team bonding, pre-season sets the stage for success.