Planning strategy before a match

Athletes often approach their matches without a game plan. But going for a match without a game plan is like watching a movie without a script. Anything unexplained and absurd can happen in such a movie. In a match, that means leaving more outcomes on luck and chance. So, why and how do we make a game plan and points to remember before making a match strategy? Let us find out……

When I used to go for my exams in engineering, my elder sister always said to me, “Attempt the easy questions and heavy marks questions first. They will ensure you are outside the danger zone and scoring average marks. After those, you can go to the difficult questions.”

This was an ideal example of a simple yet extremely effective strategy. Having a strong game plan before our match induces confidence in us, irrespective of the opponent. Especially when about to face higher or lower ranked players, athletes (mostly club players and junior athletes) consider making a game plan as a totally futile exercise. But in both cases, not having a game plan can be a big mistake. Say for example when facing lower ranked players, sometimes the tendency is to bring our level and pace of the match to that of the opponent. This can prove very risky. Also in case of facing a higher ranked player, we may lose the match well before the first shot played. Whereas in both cases, a solid game plan will help us stay alert and give our best shot. Having a game plan written on paper, not only gives confidence but also reinforces the preparation which the athlete has made for the tournament. It gives him clarity which reduces chances of panic and unnecessary energy drainage. 

 How to make a match strategy?

Match strategy can be based on technical skill, tactical and mental skills. Sometimes, the venue being known the game plan can be prepared much in advance as we now know about the match conditions, weather conditions, crowd support and other factors. Training can be modified weeks in advance as per these conditions which will prevail during the tournament. But before making a game plan, the athletes must clearly know about one’s own strengths and weaknesses. Take a moment to write down what are your current strengths and weaknesses. Now we need to assess our opponent’s game. The general rule of thumb is- if playing a lower ranked player, exploit his weaknesses and play to your strengths if playing a higher seeded opponent. I always advice my students and friends, that when playing better opponents they have to be ready to dig deep. They have to be patient and try to create chances. The advantage of having that strategy is you will not only give yourself a better shot but even if you loose, you will understand how competitive you are at that level. There are few ways of getting to know your next opponent-

1)  Watch his recent match recordings- a good idea would be to watch at least one match each where he won and the one where he lost. After making pointers on how he got and lost most of his points, a roadmap can be prepared.

2)   For junior athletes/ club players- video recordings may not be available. In that case, ask someone trustworthy who knows his game or has played him before. The stress here is on the word, ‘trustworthy’

3)   Schedule to watch live- this is a must for all athletes if the situation permits. It gives real time data on the current form, temperament and body language of your opponent. So keep a careful eye on the draws and see whom you may be facing next and their match schedule. 

Important tips on making a game plan

1)  Always write them down. Make game plans even during practice matches.

2)        Keep it simple and realistic.

3)        Keep plan B ready (should be simpler than plan A).

4)     Be flexible as some important cues like opponents body language, how he practices before the game, his reaction to a referee’s decision etc. may need you to alter your game plan from what was originally planned.

5)     Have your friend or coach by your side throughout the match. Discuss openly in between games/ sets with him (if rules permit).

6)        Don’t get rattled if the plan is not working.

Final words

Having a strong game plan is like having a script before the match. You plan your match as much as you can and also leave a lot less on luck and other uncontrollable factors. But does that mean that the script will always be successful? Sometimes, it could happen that despite making a game plan, you still land up loosing the match. At this time all the efforts put in making the game plan seem futile and it is very natural to feel like that. Sometimes, it could be that the opponent was just better than you on that particular day. There was really nothing wrong with the way you played. So instead of loosing heart, careful analysis of how well the plan was executed, would be the right approach.

Comments, questions and experiences are welcome.

For watching videos on such interesting topics my on how to train your mind for sports, watch my you-tube channel, 'Your Athletic Mind' 👇

The blog above discusses planning match strategy for open skill, individual sports. The same principles though can be applied to open skill team sports as well.

Amit Gajria

Certified Squash Coach

Mumbai, India.