Junior Gold Prep Blog 1

(The first in a short series of posts aimed at Junior Gold bowlers and parents, regarding the unique experience that is National Junior Gold Championships)

Today’s message is about preparation… but we’re not talking practicing spares (that’s a given), we’re talking about logistics and supplies.

In Cleveland, there’s going to be a LOT of distractions and things to do Friday through Sunday to keep you running all over town.  Then it’s going to be very different Monday through Thursday — each day has much more “down time” than the weekend, but you’ll still be off your routine.  Friday and Saturday is a return to the hectic pace for those still competing, though there are events for those missing the cuts.

Do you know what you are doing… and where you have to be (and when)… each day?  I’ve found it’s best to take a notebook and write down a loose schedule for each day of your trip.  Start with the essentials (registration time & squad times/locations), build in travel times (overestimate), and don’t forget to set aside time for meals.

Meals “on the go” get expensive and usually are not very nourishing for an athlete.  If you have the ability to cook meals at your hotel or rental house, create a meal plan and stick to it.  If you can work proteins into each meal, that will pay off with more sustained energy and less fatigue.  Try to avoid excess sugar.  Buying a 24-pack of Gatorade at the grocery store will cost the same as about 6 individual bottles they sell at the bowling center.  (Better yet, get the big powder canister and refill a couple bottles all the time)

Rest often!  Everyone is going to experience some form of travel fatigue, and it can be compounded by a swim out in the sun at the hotel.  I’m not saying “don’t swim”; rather, be mindful of your body and be cautious when filling up your schedule with day trips.  Sure, Niagara Falls is a memorable experience, but a 4-5 hour drive each way isn’t a good idea before an 8:30pm squad.  Sitting around playing video games or lounging on a couch all day isn’t exactly good for you either.  Find a healthy balance.

Parents… your job is to support your athlete in this experience.  Again, having a healthy snack available and offering a reassuring word of support will go a long way.  Here are a few more things for the parents to consider having on hand during the tournament:

• Cushions to sit on.  The bleachers will be cramped uncomfortable.
• Small notebook with a pen.  You will meet many parents and likely start new friendships (or perhaps ask questions about what they did to prepare, or develop a “seat saving buddy” for each game)
• Small portable cooler with ice packs.  Again, snacks!  If it looks like a purse or camera bag you might be able to sneak it in the alley; otherwise, purchase 1 drink then refill it from supplies in the car.
• 2 battery operated hand-held fans… one for your bowler and one for you.
• Have a full change of clothes for your bowler in the car each day.  Not to embarrass anyone, but I know of someone who ripped his pants during warmups of a tournament and had to quickly change in the car.  Been there.

Next time… we’ll talk about the mental game of bowling.