Coaches Corner is where you can learn from Pitt's Head Coaches about their sport. Today, we have some advice from Men's Soccer Coach Joe Luxbacher.





Q: What should I eat before a big game?
    A: Carbohydrates (starches, pasta, bread, vegetables) should be the primary foods, go light on protein and fats as they are harder to digest and not the primary energy sources. Pre game meal should be eaten 3-4 hours prior to game.

Q: How long do I need to sleep the night before a big game?
    A: Varies from one person to the next, but you should be rested.

Q: How do you get your team pumped up for a game?
    A: Good players are self motivated - coach can support that desire, but he or she cannot instill in an athlete. As a team players must collectively channel their efforts towards a common goal.

Q: What do you say to your team after a loss?
    A: Depends - if we have played hard and competed to our best, then you can derive positives from the match, even if you did not get the result you wanted. On the other hand, if the team was not prepared to play, or was not focused, then the review would be different.

Q: Who makes sure that your team is doing well in the classroom during the season?
    A: We keep abreast of player performance in the classroom, but ultimately it is an individual's responsibility to do his or her best in terms of classes and class work. Our support personnel can offer assistance, but players must take the initiative.



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