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Get ready for your next volleyball tournament! Packing tips, nutrition advice, rest, and mindset strategies from Mach 3 Events. 

The countdown is on - tournament weekend is almost here! Whether it’s your first big event or your fiftieth, being prepared makes all the difference. From what’s in your bag to how you fuel and rest, a little planning helps you play your best when it matters most.

Here’s your ultimate guide to crushing a Mach 3 Events weekend: on and off the court.

🎒 1. Pack Like a Pro

Tournament days are long, and gym bags fill up fast. Here’s a checklist to make sure you’ve got all the essentials covered:

✅ Volleyball Essentials:

• Full uniform - all jersey(s) and spandex

• Kneepads and court shoes

• An extra pair of socks 

• Hair ties, headbands, and tape

• Warm-up gear or hoodie for downtime
  
  

✅ Game-Day Must-Haves:

• Water bottle (hydration is key!)

• Healthy snacks (fruit, granola bars, trail mix)

• Hand sanitizer and wipes

• A towel and change of clothes

• Portable phone charger
  
  

✅ Optional but Awesome:

• Blanket or team pillow for rest breaks

• Flip flops or slides for between matches

• Decorated clothespins to clip people during breaks

• Small first aid kit (blister pads, Band-Aids, Advil)

💡 Pro tip: Keep a gallon-size ziplock bag for small items — it keeps your bag organized and easy to grab on the go.

🥗 2. Fuel Smart

Tournament weekends aren’t the time to experiment with new foods. Stick to what your body knows, and focus on clean energy:

Pre-match:

• Oatmeal, eggs, fruit, or yogurt

• Hydrate early — start drinking water the night before
  
  

Between matches:

• Light snacks: peanut butter crackers, fruit, or smoothies

• Avoid heavy, greasy meals that slow you down
  
  

Post-match:

• Replenish with protein and carbs (chicken, rice, pasta, or sandwiches)

• Electrolyte drinks help replace what you’ve sweated out

🍊 Mach 3 Events Tip: Parents — Keep a small cooler in the car with reusable ice packs to keep snacks fresh throughout the day.

😴 3. Rest & Recovery Matter

It’s easy to underestimate rest when the excitement kicks in, but recovery is just as important as training.

Before the tournament:

• Aim for 8–9 hours of sleep each night leading up to the event

• Stretch or do light mobility work the day before, but don’t overtrain
  
  

During the weekend:

• Bring a blanket or hoodie for downtime between games

• Don’t forget to eat, stretch, and breathe
  
  

After the tournament:

• Gentle movement (a walk or light stretching) helps prevent soreness

• Prioritize seep the night after — your body will thank you!
  
  

🧠 4. Get in the Right Mindset

Volleyball is as much mental as it is physical. Keep your focus sharp and your energy positive.

Try this mental checklist:
✅ Visualize your best plays
✅ Set small goals for each match (serve consistency, communication, etc.)
✅ Stay calm. Mistakes happen, but effort and attitude matter most
✅ Support your teammates! Great energy is contagious

🎯 Remember: Control what you can: your effort, your focus, and your attitude.

💙 Final Tip: Enjoy the Moment

Tournament weekends are some of the best times of the season, filled with laughter, teamwork, and memories you’ll talk about for years.

Take pictures. Cheer for your teammates. Thank your coaches and parents.
And most of all — have fun out there.

Because at Mach 3 Events, it’s not just about the score… it’s about the experience.

See you on the court!
Tag your tournament adventures with #Mach3Events for a chance to be featured on our social pages.