Selecting a training camp - how to find the right location

Choosing the right training camp is a decisive factor for sporting and organizational success. Accommodation, training grounds, location and general conditions must match the goals, budget and team.

This guide shows what is important when choosing a training camp and how clubs can make informed decisions - based on SOCCATOURS' practical experience from numerous organized football training camps.

What does the selection of a training camp mean?

Choosing a training camp involves deciding on a specific destination, accommodation and training infrastructure that meet the team's sporting and organizational requirements.

It's not just about the location itself, but about the overall package of training conditions, accessibility, accommodation and surroundings.

Which criteria are particularly important when selecting a training camp?

The most important criteria when selecting a training camp are the quality of the training pitches, short distances between accommodation and the sports facility, suitable general conditions and a coherent price-performance ratio.

Key selection criteria:

  • Quality and availability of the training pitches
  • Distance between hotel and sports facility
  • Accommodation standard and catering
  • Accessibility and travel time
  • Training and regeneration options
  • Surroundings and tranquillity factor

Practical experience shows that short distances and reliable training conditions are often more important than the destination itself.

What role do the training camp goals play in the selection process?

The goals of a training camp are the most important yardstick when choosing a destination and accommodation.

Examples:

  • Conditioning focus → Regeneration opportunities
  • Tactical content → high-quality training pitches
  • Team building → Quiet location and shared environment

➡️ The selection should always be based on the previously defined training camp goals.

How do domestic and international training camps differ in terms of selection?

Domestic and international training camps differ primarily in terms of climate, travel, costs and organizational complexity.

Typical differences:

  • Domestic: Shorter journey, less organizational effort
  • Abroad: Often better climatic conditions, greater depth of planning required

Whether a training camp at home or abroad makes sense depends on the goals, budget and time frame.

What role does the time of year play when choosing a training camp?

The time of year has a significant influence on which destinations and locations are suitable for a training camp.

  • Winter & early spring: often foreign destinations with a mild climate
  • Summer & fall: domestic or nearby foreign destinations

Experience has shown that the combination of the time of the season and the training destination is decisive for a suitable selection.

How important is the team structure in the selection process?

The selection of a training camp should always be adapted to the age, performance level and group size of the team.

Examples from practice:

  • Youth teams: short distances, manageable facilities
  • Amateur teams: Good value for money, flexible training times
  • Performance-oriented teams: High-quality pitches, professional infrastructure

What mistakes are often made when choosing a training camp?

Common mistakes when selecting training camps are focusing too much on the price or the destination and paying too little attention to the training conditions.

Typical selection errors:

  • Long distances between accommodation and training ground
  • Insufficient pitch quality
  • Lack of regeneration opportunities
  • Selection without a clear definition of goals

Many of these mistakes can be avoided with experience and a structured pre-selection.

Who helps with the selection of a training camp?

The selection of a training camp is usually made by coaches or club managers. Specialized training camp experts can also help to narrow down suitable options and realistically evaluate the advantages and disadvantages.

External support is particularly useful for more complex requirements or multiple teams.

How does SOCCATOURS help with training camp selection?

SOCCATOURS supports clubs in the selection of suitable training camps by jointly coordinating requirements, objectives and budget. Suitable destinations are checked and suggested based on practical experience.

➡️ Once the destination has been selected and a suitable offer has been signed, the training camp is prepared.

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