Tips & Best Practices

Practical tips from experienced coaches to help you get the most out of MatchOps.

Pre-Game Preparation

Day Before

1. Update your roster - Add any new players, mark absent players
2. Check opponent info - Note any known details
3. Plan substitution strategy - Think about rotation patterns
4. Charge your device - Full battery for game day

Pre-Match Setup

During Games

Keep It Simple

Don't try to track everything. Focus on what matters:

• Goals - always record
• Fair Play Cards - when you notice good behavior
• Key notes - during stoppages

Device Placement

Position your device so you can:

• Glance at it without breaking focus
• Reach it quickly for updates
• Protect it from weather and impact

Tip: A tablet offers better visibility. A phone works well in a lanyard.

Timing Substitutions

Tips for managing player rotation:

1. Use the interval reminder - Set substitution reminders in the Timer Overlay
2. Balance throughout - Don't save all subs for the end
3. Know your rules - Substitution rules vary by age group and league

Weather Considerations

Outdoor coaching means dealing with the elements:

• Cold weather: Keep device in pocket between uses - cold drains battery fast
• Rain: Use a protective case or plastic bag
• Sun: Avoid direct sunlight on screen - reduces visibility

Post-Game Habits

Immediate Actions

Right after the final whistle:

1. Verify score - Confirm goals are recorded correctly
2. Quick notes - Jot down observations while fresh
3. End game - Finalize in the app

Same-Day Review

Within a few hours:

• Note standout performances
• Record any observations about players
• Add context to events

Weekly Routine

Establish a regular routine:

• Sunday: Review week's games
• Monday: Export data if needed
• Mid-week: Plan for upcoming games
• Regularly: Backup your data

Roster Management

Keep It Current

• Remove players who've left
• Add new players immediately
• Update jersey numbers as needed
• Mark players who miss games

Use Player Assessments

The assessment feature helps:

• Track development over time
• Remember player strengths and areas for improvement
• Make informed lineup decisions

Player Notes

Use notes for:

• Preferred positions
• Playing time commitments (other activities, travel)
• Personal development goals
• Health information and limitations

Fair Play Cards

Fair Play Cards are an important educational tool in youth soccer.

When to Award

Give a card when a player:

• Helps an opponent up after a fall
• Honestly admits their own foul
• Encourages a teammate in a difficult moment
• Shows exceptional sportsmanship

Tracking in the App

• Record cards during the game as events
• Player statistics show total card count
• At season end, see who earned the most cards

Seasons and Organization

Create Seasons Early

Start your season in the app before the first game:

• Games automatically link to season
• Statistics accumulate properly
• Organization stays clean

Use Clear Names

Teams: Keep names simple (e.g., "PePo Lila", "KuPS Hirvet")

Competitions: Use descriptive names without the club season period (e.g., "Spring League", "Helsinki Cup")

Bad example: "Games 2025" - too vague

Archive Completed Seasons

After a season:

1. Export final statistics
2. Archive the season
3. Keep the interface clean

Data Safety

Backup Rules

• Weekly: Minimum backup frequency
• After important games: Extra protection
• Before updates: Always backup first
• Multiple copies: Don't rely on one location

Sharing Data

When sharing statistics:

• Only include necessary information
• Use secure channels
• Delete shared files after sending

Advanced Tips

Substitution Patterns

Track patterns over time:

• Which players work well together?
• Which subs work best in which situations?
• What's the optimal rotation rhythm?

Tactical Notes

Use the Tactical Board for:

• Pre-game formation setup
• Halftime adjustments
• Set piece practice
• Post-game analysis

Long-Term Analysis

Look at trends across games:

• Scoring patterns and methods
• Defensive challenges
• Individual player development arcs
• Formation effectiveness

Common Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls:

1. Not backing up - Data loss is preventable
2. Overcomplicating tracking - Simple systems last
3. Waiting to set up - Prepare in advance
4. Skipping post-game notes - Record while memory is fresh