As September approaches, student-athlete and teacher-coaches are returning school and a new basketball season is upon us. Here are some little changes that coaches can make in order to develop players into responsible people. Coach the entire student-athlete so that they can make the most of their high school experience. It is unfair to expect teenagers to devote all their free time to a sport or one particular interest. Sports offer physical fitness, social interactions and fun and are a healthy part of the school experience, although levels of commitment will vary. Build Personal Connections with Players Get to know …
Make the Most of Gym Class
To maximize the benefits a period or workout, teachers and students (or coaches and athletes) have responsibilities to keep the class (or team) focused and engaged. Teachers must design meaningful activities that develop athletic abilities and simulate game situations. Students should perform the drills as best as they can, in order to improve their personal fitness and prepare for competitions. Part of this focus comes from understanding the purpose behind the exercise. Ideally, a teacher would clearly explain their reasoning beforehand but sometimes students must think critically and figure things out for themselves. Teachers and coaches rarely fill classes or workouts …
School Artwork
Visiting diverse schools over the years, I have had a chance to see some of the different messages posted in gyms and classrooms to instill values and build a culture. Coaches and teachers should be authentic (but why are so many “No Dunking” signs posted by the court?).
Three Ways to Reach Goals (at School and on the Court)
Canada Basketball’s new approach to the Senior Men’s National Team follows three successful approaches from the recent 2012 Olympics (Spain/Argentina, the United States and Russia). High school teacher-coaches can create a family environment, an elite organization and a resilient work ethic to help student-athletes buy in and reach their goals.
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Engaging Players in Practice
Successful teams practice as they play. For the youth coach, engaging student-athletes leads to success on and off the court, building confidence, improving fitness and instructing life skills.
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Attention to Detail
Successful teams, ones that win consistently and improve significantly over the course of the season, are comprised of players and coaches who go the extra mile.
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