Alcohol

Alcohol does not contribute to good physical fitness or good health. It dehydrates the body when consumed prior to a match, and impairs the physical performance during the match. When consumed after the match, it retards recovery which adversely effects the capacity to train well during the following week.

Better results will be achieved if alcohol is not consumed.

Tobacco Smoking

Tobacco smoking is a proven health hazard. It has been identified as a major cause of heart disease and various forms of cancer. Smoking has been the cause of millions of deaths.

The dangers of smoking are well documented and publicised.

From an umpiring perspective, smoking reduces the fitness potential of the athlete. Irrespective of the level of fitness, an athlete who does not smoke would achieve a better result for the same amount of training than the athlete who did smoke.

The coach needs to be aware of the general principles to ensure effective training. Awareness makes it possible for coaches to formulate training programs and sessions which have a positive impact on both the team and the individual. In becoming aware of the principles of effective training, coaches are able to design their training with appropriate consideration to the standard of the team.

The final two hours leading up to a match is a critical planning and management time for the coach. This time is important for team bonding and reinforcing the team plan and giving individual players specific instructions.