Players Only: Rachel McCrae

For most athletes, preparing for a match not only involves getting yourself physically fit to play, but also a lot of mental preparation to ensure that you’re in the correct frame of mind to play at your best. This is especially important if you play in a tournament in which you have to play and win multiple matches in order to reach the finals of the competition.
Playing sports in a university setting in which you have to train for set lengths of time each day, means that your physical capacity and form is usually good before a match, but having to balance a busy academic and social life with your sporting commitments can be tricky for many student-athletes.
Part of the physical preparation for tennis involves reducing your training during competition season to make sure your body is in its prime, and this might involve physical therapy before and after play to prevent injuries.
Part of my preparation is making sure I’ve warmed up well before playing and doing a cooldown afterward. This includes stretching, rolling and occasionally taking an ice bath. Ensuring that you’re mentally focused for the duration of your match is very energy-consuming, so I always try to make sure I’m as relaxed as possible before so I have the energy needed to play my best.
Each individual has different methods for helping them relax, but personally, I like to listen to music before my tennis matches to help me temporarily forget about any problems going on in my life at that moment and to focus on the tactics I will implement during my match, and I take this time to go over the strategies I will follow.
Another important aspect that many consider before competing is their spiritual preparation for their sport. Examples of this could include saying a prayer or displaying Christian values on the court, such as showing etiquette toward your opposition and being a good role model. I believe that a combination of all of the above aspects are important for preparing for a match and I use these as a guide to help me plan for the next time I walk on court.