Preseason is the preparation period a football team goes through before the official start of the competition. It usually lasts between four and six weeks, and during that time, intense work is done in three key areas: physical fitness, tactical structure, and team cohesion. It’s the moment to get the body ready, understand the coach’s game model, and build the team’s mentality. At SIA Academy, this process is lived with a professional and personalized approach, offering each player an experience similar to that of a top-level club.
Table of contents
Physical preparation: the foundation everything is built on
One of the fundamental pillars of any preseason is physical preparation. At SIA Academy, this aspect is worked on progressively and adapted to each player’s level. During the first weeks, special emphasis is placed on endurance exercises, general strength, and coordination, with the goal of preventing injuries and boosting performance.
“At SIA it’s not just about running for the sake of running,” says Rafa Navarro, the academy’s sporting director. “We design personalized programs that respect training loads and allow players to reach their best form by the start of the competition.”
In addition to field work, the academy features a modern gym where functional strength and injury-prevention training sessions are held—both keys to enhancing performance and reducing the risk of muscle and joint injuries.
Tactical work: understanding the game before playing it
Once players reach optimal physical condition, the preseason focus shifts to the tactical aspect. At SIA Academy, coaches dedicate daily sessions to different game systems, defensive and offensive patterns, ball progression, transitions, and pressing.
Game understanding is a priority in SIA’s development process. The academy embraces a playing style based on possession, high pressing, and smart decision-making. To support this, they use tools such as video analysis and theory sessions so that players not only execute but also understand the reasoning behind each move.
“Our goal is not just to develop good players, but intelligent footballers as well,” says Navarro. “Preseason is when we have the most time to fine-tune tactical details that are much harder to focus on during competition.”
Team cohesion: building a team on and off the pitch
Beyond the physical and tactical levels, preseason is also essential for building team spirit. At SIA Academy, various activities are organized to encourage bonding, communication, and trust among players—especially since many come from different countries and cultures.
Living together in the sports residence, sharing daily routines, and participating in group dynamics strengthens the ties among teammates. The result is a more united locker room, better communication on the pitch, and an environment that fosters both personal and athletic growth.
Friendly matches: the ultimate test
A solid preseason wouldn’t be complete without friendly matches, which serve to assess what’s been worked on in training and to detect areas that need improvement before the official season begins. SIA Academy organizes matches against professional and semi-professional clubs from the Valencia region and beyond, offering players a unique opportunity to compete in a real, high-level environment.
These games allow coaches to evaluate individual and team performances, adjust tactical setups, and make decisions about the final squad. For players, it’s an excellent showcase to be seen by scouts and agents.
Technology as an ally
Another standout feature of preseason at SIA Academy is the use of sports technology. The academy incorporates tools like GPS tracking to monitor performance, video analysis to study movements, and advanced statistics to help optimize both training and game performance.
This innovative approach allows for more objective, data-driven decisions, and also fosters a culture of self-evaluation among the players. Thanks to these tools, athletes can track their progress tangibly and work more efficiently on their weaknesses.
A preseason that goes beyond football
Ultimately, preseason at SIA Academy isn’t just about getting players physically ready. It’s an all-encompassing process that blends physical training, tactical learning, personal growth, and international coexistence. All of it takes place within a professional structure led by coaches with high-level football experience.
“Our goal is for players to not only be ready but to truly believe they can compete in a demanding environment,” concludes Rafa Navarro. “Preseason sets the tone, and at SIA we’re very clear: that path must always lead toward constant improvement.”
