These Basketball Shooting Tips are a great way for players, parents & coaches to learn and understand the proper mechanics and techniques needed to be a great shooter.
Every basketball player loves to shoot the ball! The most practiced skill in the game is shooting. Coaches spend a good deal of their practice time on shooting drills to improve their players' skill level. After all, if you can't shoot - you can't score!
Whether a player is shooting a jump shot, lay-up, or free throw - there are certain techniques they must use to be successful. The basketball shooting tips below will give players, parents and coaches a better understanding of what these techniques are!
1. Players should always use proper shooting techniques. Remembering BEEF - (Balance, Eye, Elbow, Follow-Through) will help when shooting the basketball. Players must get into the habit of always using these proper shooting techniques - whether in practices or a game. If proper techniques are not used, bad habits are formed that are often difficult to correct. If players don't have a shooting technique - they need to develop one!
2. Players should always be relaxed and concentrate on the basket. Players should focus on the part of the rim that is closest to them as they shoot the basketball. When shooting lay-ups and bank shots, players should focus on the part of the backboard where they will bank the ball.
3. Players must know when they have a good shot - and then take it. Players must find the right balance between shooting too often and not shooting enough. As players develop confidence in their shot, they will also develop the ability to know when they have a good shot to take.
4. Players should be in proper balance when shooting the basketball. Proper balance (front to back and side to side) is critical on all shots.
5. Players should follow through on every shot they take. They should also hold their follow through as this is one thing that will show them why they made or missed the shot.
6. When shooting the jump shot, players should jump naturally. They should avoid forcing their jump - it should be nice and easy. Players should jump straight up and release the shot at the top of their jump. "Up, Hang, Shoot" is an easy way to remember this.
7. Players should have an arc on every shot they take. The height of the arc will vary from player to player. Some players shoot with a high arc, while others have more of a flat shot. As long as the player is using proper shooting techniques and the shots are going in, then the arc is fine.
8. When shooting free-throws, players should be relaxed, concentrate on the basket, and have their knees bent slightly.
9. When shooting free-throws, players should keep their routine simple. This helps them concentrate more on their shot and not their routine. They should avoid excessive and unnecessary movement. They should only use the motion needed to take and make the shot.
10. Players should practice all of their shots. They should learn to shoot from any location on the court, within their range. By doing this, they become more of an all-around shooter. Players should strive for the following shooting goals: 99+% lay-ups, 70+% free-throws, 50+% field goals, 33+% 3-pointers. These goals can be modified for younger players.
Looking for more basketball shooting tips and advice? Visit us at http://www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com!
About The Author
Joe runs http://www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com, a site dedicated to offering players, parents and coaches the best information, reviews and advice about the game of basketball.
To stay current with the latest youth basketball tips and advice, drills, product reviews, and other new basketball resources - sign up for the FREE Youth Hoops newsletter at http://www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com/basketball-newsletter.html.
I give full permission for you to use this article in your newsletter or on your site as long as you include my resource box with my website links included.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Pro-Style Basketball Goals: How to Select the Right System
There are many reasons for wanting to find a pro-style system when preparing to purchase a basketball goal. These reasons are important to consider when checking out the various options and features offered by each manufacturer.
The Minimum Requirements for a Professional Basketball System
One of the primary reasons that people are interested in the pro-style basketball systems is because they, or their children, aspire to become professionals in the game. Of course, it only makes sense that a proper professional basketball goal is used in practice or training. For this reason, having a pro-style goal serves a greater purpose than just providing a sense of authenticity when shooting basketball hoops. While shopping around for the right system, be sure to check that the basketball goals being considered fulfill at least the minimum criteria to be considered 'professional'. The standard features of a pro-style basketball goal should include:
Shatterproof tempered glass or acrylic backboard;
Flexible, breakaway basketball hoop;
Weather-resistant structure, including a specialized rustproof coating and nylon bushings where metal meets metal;
Height adjustment mechanism to set the precise level of the basketball hoop;
Thick, sturdy padding around the post of the basketball goal;
Must meet American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards for safety in basketball goal design.
The Bells and Whistles of a Basketball Hoop
The various basketball goal manufacturers offer numerous additional features that can make their system an even more desirable choice. Often, consumers find they prefer basketball hoops with special conveniences or key advantages when undertaking such a considerable investment. Some of these extra special features can include:
Motorized height adjustment;
Portability;
Nighttime basketball hoop lights
Easy do-it-yourself installation;
Guarantee of durability
Portability is a concept that many people generally do not associate with basketball goals. Most people assume that once they install their goal, it will at best add to the resale value of their home when they move because it will have to stay there. This is not always the case because some basketball goal manufacturers have designed the system to allow for portability. With many of these systems, the goal post footings are simply unbolted from the anchor installed within the concrete supporting the basketball hoop. Thereafter, the whole system, minus the old concrete and anchor, can be reinstalled at a new location. It is nothing more than a matter of pouring new concrete and laying in a new anchor for reinstallation.
Professional Basketball Hoops are not just for the Wealthy Pros
For many people looking to purchase a basketball goal, cost is often a consideration. The special features of pro basketball goals are obviously going to make them more costly than a basic portable or simplified residential system. The pro basketball hoops tend to range anywhere from around $700 to as much as $2,000 or more, with the higher-end goals including such options as motorized height adjustment and hoop lights. However, because many of them are designed for portability, an investment into a professional basketball system can be considered long-term, and worthwhile for individuals serious about their training.
About The Author
Always an avid sports enthusiast, Bill Gibson had become especially interested in basketball to the point he got involved in the industry. He can now be found either writing articles about his passion or enabling others to participate in his interest. His website can be found at www.basketballgoalstore.com.
The Minimum Requirements for a Professional Basketball System
One of the primary reasons that people are interested in the pro-style basketball systems is because they, or their children, aspire to become professionals in the game. Of course, it only makes sense that a proper professional basketball goal is used in practice or training. For this reason, having a pro-style goal serves a greater purpose than just providing a sense of authenticity when shooting basketball hoops. While shopping around for the right system, be sure to check that the basketball goals being considered fulfill at least the minimum criteria to be considered 'professional'. The standard features of a pro-style basketball goal should include:
Shatterproof tempered glass or acrylic backboard;
Flexible, breakaway basketball hoop;
Weather-resistant structure, including a specialized rustproof coating and nylon bushings where metal meets metal;
Height adjustment mechanism to set the precise level of the basketball hoop;
Thick, sturdy padding around the post of the basketball goal;
Must meet American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards for safety in basketball goal design.
The Bells and Whistles of a Basketball Hoop
The various basketball goal manufacturers offer numerous additional features that can make their system an even more desirable choice. Often, consumers find they prefer basketball hoops with special conveniences or key advantages when undertaking such a considerable investment. Some of these extra special features can include:
Motorized height adjustment;
Portability;
Nighttime basketball hoop lights
Easy do-it-yourself installation;
Guarantee of durability
Portability is a concept that many people generally do not associate with basketball goals. Most people assume that once they install their goal, it will at best add to the resale value of their home when they move because it will have to stay there. This is not always the case because some basketball goal manufacturers have designed the system to allow for portability. With many of these systems, the goal post footings are simply unbolted from the anchor installed within the concrete supporting the basketball hoop. Thereafter, the whole system, minus the old concrete and anchor, can be reinstalled at a new location. It is nothing more than a matter of pouring new concrete and laying in a new anchor for reinstallation.
Professional Basketball Hoops are not just for the Wealthy Pros
For many people looking to purchase a basketball goal, cost is often a consideration. The special features of pro basketball goals are obviously going to make them more costly than a basic portable or simplified residential system. The pro basketball hoops tend to range anywhere from around $700 to as much as $2,000 or more, with the higher-end goals including such options as motorized height adjustment and hoop lights. However, because many of them are designed for portability, an investment into a professional basketball system can be considered long-term, and worthwhile for individuals serious about their training.
About The Author
Always an avid sports enthusiast, Bill Gibson had become especially interested in basketball to the point he got involved in the industry. He can now be found either writing articles about his passion or enabling others to participate in his interest. His website can be found at www.basketballgoalstore.com.
Basketball Offense: 10 Bad Habits To Avoid!
In order for basketball players to be successful on the offensive end of the court they must develop good habits. At the same time, they should avoid or eliminate bad habits. As simple as this sounds, players have a tendency to continually repeat their bad habits on the basketball court.
Bad habits are developed the same way good habits are - through repetition. The key then, for coaches, players, and even parents, is to practice the good habits and eliminate the bad habits. This occurs during in-season and out-of-season practices and work-outs.
By avoiding the ten bad habits listed below, players and teams will be much more successful on the offensive end of the court.
1. Focusing too much on the one-on-one aspect of offense, rather than the team aspect. Players that are more concerned with their individual game hurt the overall success of their team.
2. Standing around and watching the action, rather than being a part of the action. Players should not be spectators of the game. They must always be involved and moving, even when they don't have the basketball.
3. Looking to shoot before looking to pass. Players must always be aware of their teammates and the defensive players on the court. If a teammate is open and has a better scoring opportunity, then the pass must be made to them.
4. Looking for only one option on a set play. This makes the defenders' job much easier. Players must always look for various scoring options on their set plays. If the first option that opens up leads to a good scoring opportunity, then the pass should be made. Otherwise, the players should look for other options.
5. Telegraphing their pass to a teammate. These passes are easier for the defensive players to read and possibly steal. Players should use eye, head and ball fakes before passing the basketball.
6. Committing a cheap and foolish foul after making a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes in basketball. When it happens on the offensive end of the court, players should hustle back and play good, strong defense to make up for it. They should avoid committing fouls out of frustration.
7. Using fakes and moves that their teammates are not ready for or familiar with. Players must play within themselves on the court. New moves and fakes can be worked on during practice - not the game.
8. Being unaware of how much time is left on the game clock or shot clock. Players must always know how much time is left on the shot clock during each possession. They must also be aware of how much time remains at the end of each quarter, the half, and the game. This is every player’s responsibility, not just the point guard's and coach's.
9. Losing their concentration during an offensive possession. Players MUST ALWAYS stay focused and concentrate when their team has the basketball. They should know what their responsibility is at all times and also follow the action of their teammates.
10. Not playing at game speed. Players should always cut and move at game speed - which is also how they should practice their offensive plays. Failing to do this disrupts the timing of their teammates and the overall flow of the offense.
Looking for more basketball offensive tips and advice? Visit www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com/youth-basketball-tips.html!
About The Author
Joe runs www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com, a site dedicated to offering players, parents and coaches the best information, reviews and advice about the game of basketball.
To stay current with the latest youth basketball tips and advice, drills, product reviews, and other new basketball resources - sign up for the FREE Youth Hoops newsletter at www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com/basketball-newsletter.html
I give full permission for you to use this article in your newsletter or on your site as long as you include my resource box with my website links included.
Bad habits are developed the same way good habits are - through repetition. The key then, for coaches, players, and even parents, is to practice the good habits and eliminate the bad habits. This occurs during in-season and out-of-season practices and work-outs.
By avoiding the ten bad habits listed below, players and teams will be much more successful on the offensive end of the court.
1. Focusing too much on the one-on-one aspect of offense, rather than the team aspect. Players that are more concerned with their individual game hurt the overall success of their team.
2. Standing around and watching the action, rather than being a part of the action. Players should not be spectators of the game. They must always be involved and moving, even when they don't have the basketball.
3. Looking to shoot before looking to pass. Players must always be aware of their teammates and the defensive players on the court. If a teammate is open and has a better scoring opportunity, then the pass must be made to them.
4. Looking for only one option on a set play. This makes the defenders' job much easier. Players must always look for various scoring options on their set plays. If the first option that opens up leads to a good scoring opportunity, then the pass should be made. Otherwise, the players should look for other options.
5. Telegraphing their pass to a teammate. These passes are easier for the defensive players to read and possibly steal. Players should use eye, head and ball fakes before passing the basketball.
6. Committing a cheap and foolish foul after making a mistake. Everyone makes mistakes in basketball. When it happens on the offensive end of the court, players should hustle back and play good, strong defense to make up for it. They should avoid committing fouls out of frustration.
7. Using fakes and moves that their teammates are not ready for or familiar with. Players must play within themselves on the court. New moves and fakes can be worked on during practice - not the game.
8. Being unaware of how much time is left on the game clock or shot clock. Players must always know how much time is left on the shot clock during each possession. They must also be aware of how much time remains at the end of each quarter, the half, and the game. This is every player’s responsibility, not just the point guard's and coach's.
9. Losing their concentration during an offensive possession. Players MUST ALWAYS stay focused and concentrate when their team has the basketball. They should know what their responsibility is at all times and also follow the action of their teammates.
10. Not playing at game speed. Players should always cut and move at game speed - which is also how they should practice their offensive plays. Failing to do this disrupts the timing of their teammates and the overall flow of the offense.
Looking for more basketball offensive tips and advice? Visit www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com/youth-basketball-tips.html!
About The Author
Joe runs www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com, a site dedicated to offering players, parents and coaches the best information, reviews and advice about the game of basketball.
To stay current with the latest youth basketball tips and advice, drills, product reviews, and other new basketball resources - sign up for the FREE Youth Hoops newsletter at www.ultimate-youth-basketball-guide.com/basketball-newsletter.html
I give full permission for you to use this article in your newsletter or on your site as long as you include my resource box with my website links included.
National Basketball History
The history of what today is called the National Basketball Association (NBA) began in 1946. In 1946, it was called the Basketball Association of America (BAA). The league was mostly started by people who owned sports arenas in the United States, most importantly the Madison Square Garden in New York City. Earlier attempts had been made to start a league. There had been leagues like the American Basketball League and the National Basketball League. What made the BAA different from these leagues was they were going to play in large arenas in major cities. The early years were not good for BAA as the quality of play was not much better than competing leagues or the leading independent leagues like the Harlem Globetrotters. The Baltimore actually moved from the ABL and won the BAA title. The Minneapolis Lakers switched from the NBL to the BAA and won the BAA championship.
After the 1949 season, the BAA merged with the NBL and renamed the National Basketball Association. The new NBA had 17 franchises in large and small cities. The teams played in large arenas, small gymnasiums and armories. The team in the small cities eventually moved to larger cities such as the Pistons going from Fort Wayne to Detroit.
The NBA did not become integrated until 1950. African-Americans like Chuck Cooper, Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton and Earl Lloyd joined the NBA. In 2006, the NBA is mad up of people from many different races and countries. 80 percent of NBA players are now African-American.
In 1967, the league faced strong competition when the American Basketball Association was formed. The leagues competed fiercely over talent. The NBA beat the America Basketball Association in getting Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the most important college star of the era. Kareem helped the Milwaukee Bucks win the NBA championship in his second season and he later played for the Los Angeles Lakers on five championship teams. The NBA did lost their losing scorer, Rick Barry, as well as four veteran referees to ABA. The ABA also got other major stars such as Julius Erving because this league allowed its team to sign college graduates. The ABA lost to the NBA since the NBA took most of the major cities and adopted innovations from the ABA such as the three-point field goal.
Starting with the 1980s and beyond, the league became well known globally. The best players in the league like Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan and Larry Bird being part of Olympics certainly helped spreading the word about this league to the world. Michael Jordan became a well known name in America and other countries.
About The Author
Jena Luthowski writes about http://www.teamlogoandgear.com, http://www.teamlogoandgear.com/Coupons/NHL.com.html and http://www.teamlogoandgear.com/Coupons/Mitchell%20&%20Ness.htmlcodes.
After the 1949 season, the BAA merged with the NBL and renamed the National Basketball Association. The new NBA had 17 franchises in large and small cities. The teams played in large arenas, small gymnasiums and armories. The team in the small cities eventually moved to larger cities such as the Pistons going from Fort Wayne to Detroit.
The NBA did not become integrated until 1950. African-Americans like Chuck Cooper, Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton and Earl Lloyd joined the NBA. In 2006, the NBA is mad up of people from many different races and countries. 80 percent of NBA players are now African-American.
In 1967, the league faced strong competition when the American Basketball Association was formed. The leagues competed fiercely over talent. The NBA beat the America Basketball Association in getting Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the most important college star of the era. Kareem helped the Milwaukee Bucks win the NBA championship in his second season and he later played for the Los Angeles Lakers on five championship teams. The NBA did lost their losing scorer, Rick Barry, as well as four veteran referees to ABA. The ABA also got other major stars such as Julius Erving because this league allowed its team to sign college graduates. The ABA lost to the NBA since the NBA took most of the major cities and adopted innovations from the ABA such as the three-point field goal.
Starting with the 1980s and beyond, the league became well known globally. The best players in the league like Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan and Larry Bird being part of Olympics certainly helped spreading the word about this league to the world. Michael Jordan became a well known name in America and other countries.
About The Author
Jena Luthowski writes about http://www.teamlogoandgear.com, http://www.teamlogoandgear.com/Coupons/NHL.com.html and http://www.teamlogoandgear.com/Coupons/Mitchell%20&%20Ness.htmlcodes.
A Winning Basketball System
A solid basketball system is a prayer answered for the players. If you have a system, you are in the top ten. Basketball systems help the players feel confident that they really have something more to show the audience, and that they have a strategy to help them win the game. Even if the basketball system is a horrible invention of a sick brain, it is something good. You can at least rely on your team, and team working is something really important for the future success. So, basketball systems are something inevitable. Let’s check how they work in practice!
One strategy is called the pro shot dominator. It has everything to make an awesome game. I don’t understand anything about angles and shots, but the players seem to adore it. They often practice at their new system. They have even made some improvements on the game.
It depends on the person whether he will fit in the new basketball system, or resist it. It all varies, because some systems require additional skills as well as muscle mass. There are a lot of basketball systems used by novices. If you are one of them, you should first try to exercise on your shooting. The play 21 is perfect for this, because all you do is shoot the centre and get your ball in the basket. It helps you develop your hidden talent, if you have any!
Basketball system is a proper thing to work on, if you are deeply concerned about your team. If all the players exercise on the same strategy, it develops their synchrony and helps them when they are playing with other team. That’s why it is extremely important to develop your own strategy, and work hard on it.
Basketball systems needn’t be professional. Some systems require professional skills, of course, but they are more complicated. If you only want to make team working, you may choose simpler basketball systems to follow and exercise on. The important thing is that they develop your shots and your coordination among the team players.
About The Author
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning leisure and recreation. Get more information at http://www.leisureandrecreationinfo.com/leisure--recreation/recreation-information/a-winning-basketball-system.html.
One strategy is called the pro shot dominator. It has everything to make an awesome game. I don’t understand anything about angles and shots, but the players seem to adore it. They often practice at their new system. They have even made some improvements on the game.
It depends on the person whether he will fit in the new basketball system, or resist it. It all varies, because some systems require additional skills as well as muscle mass. There are a lot of basketball systems used by novices. If you are one of them, you should first try to exercise on your shooting. The play 21 is perfect for this, because all you do is shoot the centre and get your ball in the basket. It helps you develop your hidden talent, if you have any!
Basketball system is a proper thing to work on, if you are deeply concerned about your team. If all the players exercise on the same strategy, it develops their synchrony and helps them when they are playing with other team. That’s why it is extremely important to develop your own strategy, and work hard on it.
Basketball systems needn’t be professional. Some systems require professional skills, of course, but they are more complicated. If you only want to make team working, you may choose simpler basketball systems to follow and exercise on. The important thing is that they develop your shots and your coordination among the team players.
About The Author
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning leisure and recreation. Get more information at http://www.leisureandrecreationinfo.com/leisure--recreation/recreation-information/a-winning-basketball-system.html.
Coaching Your First Youth Basketball Team - Three Secrets to Success
Success Secret #1: Get the Rule Book
Success Secret #2: Get the league practice and game schedules
Success Secret #3: Have a Parent Meeting
Get the Rule Book: Even if you're a fan of the game and believe you know and understand it, get the rule book from the league when you accept a coaching position. Youth sports often have different rules than High School, College, or Pro leagues. The rules will change by age group and division. Knowing how long the game periods last, how many timeouts you have, and any mandatory playing time rules before the season begins will allow you to plan properly for your games.
*** Bonus Tip: Set your player rotation before you go to the game. Setting it up ahead of time allows you to plan your lineup, making sure that you meet all mandatory playing time rules. It also allows you to focus more on the game instead of wondering if Johnny or Susie has all of their time in.
Get the league practice and game schedules: You may have some latitude in scheduling practices but there will be scheduled times when you are scheduled to practice at the gym. You often have to ask for the practice schedule. It is up to you, your team, and the parents if you want to have practices over and above the practices scheduled by the league. If you do, you're usually on your own to find an open facility.
Have a Parent/Player Meeting before the season starts: Parent meetings are the most important step you can take to have a successful season. Establishing the rules and behavior expectations prior to the first practice of the season is essential. This is the time when you review team rules, pass our practice and game schedules, solicit volunteers, and ask the parent if there is anything special you need to know about their kids - Attention Deficit Disorder; Asthma; Needs Glasses; Known Allergies; etc. Trust me, you'll save yourself and your players a lot of grief if you find out the special circumstances ahead of time.
Other things to discuss:
Recruit Volunteers for the following positions:
1. Team Mom or Dad - the person who coordinates collections on fundraisers, concession stand and game day snack assignments, picture day, and other miscellaneous administrative type duties
2. Score/Stats Keepers - people who may not want to help coach but who come to the games can keep score and maintain stats for you in the stands
3. Coaching Assistants - you generally need at least one assistant, but if you can get a couple, I'd recommend it. Having extra coaches means help with running great practices and games
Discuss your objectives for the season. For example:
1. Develop the skills required to play the game
2. Have fun
3. Develop teamwork and sportsmanship
4. Give positive reinforcement based on effort rather than results
Describe your expectations of the parents. For example:
1. Be on time for practices and games
2. Volunteer when your schedule allows
3. Get involved and help your child work on their skills at home
4. Encourage good sportsmanship. Be an example by showing positive support for all players, coaches, and officials at every game and practice. Please cheer for your child during games, but try to keep from yelling instructions to them. Much of the fun is lost if their Mom or Dad is always yelling instructions.
5. Let the coach know if you or your child has any issues or concerns as soon as they arise. Problems can usually be fixed very easily if I know about them.
*** Bonus Tip: Hold your Parent/Player Meeting prior to the first practice, and away from the Gym. I like to use my local public library, which has meeting rooms that are free or very inexpensive to use. Having the meeting in this type of setting will allow you to hold your parent and player attention easier than competing with bouncing balls, goals, and whatever else may be going on in the gym.
Implementing the secrets listed above will almost certainly assure you a successful season.
Good Luck!
About The Author
Ric Reeder is the co-author of First Time Coach – Basketball, First Time Coach – Soccer, and First Time Coach – Baseball. He has coached basketball at three different levels: youth, AAU, and middle school; coached baseball in the local Little League; coached youth soccer for eight years at the recreation and competitive levels, and is a former Director of Coaching for Madison United Soccer Association in Richmond, KY.
Please visit http://firsttimecoach.com for more information on successfully coaching youth sports for the first time.
Success Secret #2: Get the league practice and game schedules
Success Secret #3: Have a Parent Meeting
Get the Rule Book: Even if you're a fan of the game and believe you know and understand it, get the rule book from the league when you accept a coaching position. Youth sports often have different rules than High School, College, or Pro leagues. The rules will change by age group and division. Knowing how long the game periods last, how many timeouts you have, and any mandatory playing time rules before the season begins will allow you to plan properly for your games.
*** Bonus Tip: Set your player rotation before you go to the game. Setting it up ahead of time allows you to plan your lineup, making sure that you meet all mandatory playing time rules. It also allows you to focus more on the game instead of wondering if Johnny or Susie has all of their time in.
Get the league practice and game schedules: You may have some latitude in scheduling practices but there will be scheduled times when you are scheduled to practice at the gym. You often have to ask for the practice schedule. It is up to you, your team, and the parents if you want to have practices over and above the practices scheduled by the league. If you do, you're usually on your own to find an open facility.
Have a Parent/Player Meeting before the season starts: Parent meetings are the most important step you can take to have a successful season. Establishing the rules and behavior expectations prior to the first practice of the season is essential. This is the time when you review team rules, pass our practice and game schedules, solicit volunteers, and ask the parent if there is anything special you need to know about their kids - Attention Deficit Disorder; Asthma; Needs Glasses; Known Allergies; etc. Trust me, you'll save yourself and your players a lot of grief if you find out the special circumstances ahead of time.
Other things to discuss:
Recruit Volunteers for the following positions:
1. Team Mom or Dad - the person who coordinates collections on fundraisers, concession stand and game day snack assignments, picture day, and other miscellaneous administrative type duties
2. Score/Stats Keepers - people who may not want to help coach but who come to the games can keep score and maintain stats for you in the stands
3. Coaching Assistants - you generally need at least one assistant, but if you can get a couple, I'd recommend it. Having extra coaches means help with running great practices and games
Discuss your objectives for the season. For example:
1. Develop the skills required to play the game
2. Have fun
3. Develop teamwork and sportsmanship
4. Give positive reinforcement based on effort rather than results
Describe your expectations of the parents. For example:
1. Be on time for practices and games
2. Volunteer when your schedule allows
3. Get involved and help your child work on their skills at home
4. Encourage good sportsmanship. Be an example by showing positive support for all players, coaches, and officials at every game and practice. Please cheer for your child during games, but try to keep from yelling instructions to them. Much of the fun is lost if their Mom or Dad is always yelling instructions.
5. Let the coach know if you or your child has any issues or concerns as soon as they arise. Problems can usually be fixed very easily if I know about them.
*** Bonus Tip: Hold your Parent/Player Meeting prior to the first practice, and away from the Gym. I like to use my local public library, which has meeting rooms that are free or very inexpensive to use. Having the meeting in this type of setting will allow you to hold your parent and player attention easier than competing with bouncing balls, goals, and whatever else may be going on in the gym.
Implementing the secrets listed above will almost certainly assure you a successful season.
Good Luck!
About The Author
Ric Reeder is the co-author of First Time Coach – Basketball, First Time Coach – Soccer, and First Time Coach – Baseball. He has coached basketball at three different levels: youth, AAU, and middle school; coached baseball in the local Little League; coached youth soccer for eight years at the recreation and competitive levels, and is a former Director of Coaching for Madison United Soccer Association in Richmond, KY.
Please visit http://firsttimecoach.com for more information on successfully coaching youth sports for the first time.
Basketball Coaching: Team Motivation
Some of us will come home from practices and wonder, “Why on earth did Johnny decide to come out for the basketball team if he doesn’t want to try?” We spend so much time and energy on the frustration and the struggle to get players to perform at their optimum level during games.
I think it can be summed up in one common sports phrase:
“The way you practice is the way you play the game.”
Too many of our players don’t take practices seriously and they are joking around and not focusing on the task at hand. They don’t pay attention in practice and it is reflected in the way they play on the field, court, or arena. What makes the problem even worse is the fact that these players often have a detrimental effect on the attitude and coachability of others.
So, how do you motivate all of the players on the basketball team to start practicing hard? First, accept that you will always have at least one bad apple. The key is limiting the amount of influence that player can have on the rest of his or her basketball teammates.
Here are some of the other methods you can use to get your basketball team motivated to practice hard and play hard:
• Reward the basketball team for ‘basketball team’ efforts – Often times peers are the best motivators. You don’t need to crack the whip on any particular player, singling that player out more than the rest. You simply need to motivate the majority of the basketball team by rewarding them when the entire basketball team comes out to work hard during practices and games.
If their basketball teammates don’t want to work and the rest of the basketball team misses out on rewards, or worse yet have to do more work at practice, you can bet that person is going to hear it from the players. I would suggest that will often be motivation enough to get most players in line with practicing hard.
• Set a goal with the basketball team before each game – In hockey, you could set a goal of each basketball team member making a good pass in each period. If the basketball team achieves that goal then they are rewarded.
The goal can be as simple as winning a game, or doing a number of different basketball team skills effectively – even in a loss. As the coach, you can find any number of goals that a basketball team can try to reach during a game or even a practice, in order to motivate the players.
• Explain to them the importance of practice – You can use all sorts of coaching tactics for this one. Start with the fact that other basketball teams are preparing for them, so they need to prepare hard and well for the other basketball teams. You can tell them that improving skills is crucial in raising the basketball team to the next level.
There are literally dozens of different motivational tactics that can be used by coaches to get their basketball team up by showing them the importance of practice. The only thing that you shouldn’t do is be negative. Always be positive with the approach that you are taking. Players don’t often respond to negative remarks.
• Have fun at practice – Set the example early that practices are going to be work, but they are also going to be fun. That way a player knows that they are going to be able to have fun during the practice, but they will also be able to have fun.
This is especially important for the younger players. At that level, you are trying to maintain excitement and enjoyment for players that are probably just learning a game. If they see and hear a coach that is negative and yelling and the practices aren’t fun, then you probably aren’t going to see them for much longer. If they stay, you likely aren’t going to get much out of them.
• Simple encouragement – You wouldn’t believe how far positive encouragement and telling a player when they are doing well goes. It is unbelievable. Just think back to when you were a player in your sport and you heard your coach say, “That was a great steal Joe,” or “how to get the ball out quick Jenny.”
All of those comments help. They help a heck of a lot more than degrading or getting angry at players. No one wants to work hard for a coach that yells at his or her players during a practice or during a game. Players like coaches that lead them to victory through positive reinforcement, good coaching and setting a good example.
It isn’t always easy getting a basketball team motivated for practices, but that is the place to start – especially if you also want to get them motivated for games. Helping to build that motivation by giving players and the basketball team some positive goals to work for – with a positive coaching mentality is the best way to get the most motivation out of your basketball team.
About The Author
Pat Anderson spent years playing basketball at the college and Professional Level. Today, he coaches 3 youth development teams and shares his extensive coaching knowledge on his blog, you can visit him here: http://www.online-basketball-drills.com/.
I think it can be summed up in one common sports phrase:
“The way you practice is the way you play the game.”
Too many of our players don’t take practices seriously and they are joking around and not focusing on the task at hand. They don’t pay attention in practice and it is reflected in the way they play on the field, court, or arena. What makes the problem even worse is the fact that these players often have a detrimental effect on the attitude and coachability of others.
So, how do you motivate all of the players on the basketball team to start practicing hard? First, accept that you will always have at least one bad apple. The key is limiting the amount of influence that player can have on the rest of his or her basketball teammates.
Here are some of the other methods you can use to get your basketball team motivated to practice hard and play hard:
• Reward the basketball team for ‘basketball team’ efforts – Often times peers are the best motivators. You don’t need to crack the whip on any particular player, singling that player out more than the rest. You simply need to motivate the majority of the basketball team by rewarding them when the entire basketball team comes out to work hard during practices and games.
If their basketball teammates don’t want to work and the rest of the basketball team misses out on rewards, or worse yet have to do more work at practice, you can bet that person is going to hear it from the players. I would suggest that will often be motivation enough to get most players in line with practicing hard.
• Set a goal with the basketball team before each game – In hockey, you could set a goal of each basketball team member making a good pass in each period. If the basketball team achieves that goal then they are rewarded.
The goal can be as simple as winning a game, or doing a number of different basketball team skills effectively – even in a loss. As the coach, you can find any number of goals that a basketball team can try to reach during a game or even a practice, in order to motivate the players.
• Explain to them the importance of practice – You can use all sorts of coaching tactics for this one. Start with the fact that other basketball teams are preparing for them, so they need to prepare hard and well for the other basketball teams. You can tell them that improving skills is crucial in raising the basketball team to the next level.
There are literally dozens of different motivational tactics that can be used by coaches to get their basketball team up by showing them the importance of practice. The only thing that you shouldn’t do is be negative. Always be positive with the approach that you are taking. Players don’t often respond to negative remarks.
• Have fun at practice – Set the example early that practices are going to be work, but they are also going to be fun. That way a player knows that they are going to be able to have fun during the practice, but they will also be able to have fun.
This is especially important for the younger players. At that level, you are trying to maintain excitement and enjoyment for players that are probably just learning a game. If they see and hear a coach that is negative and yelling and the practices aren’t fun, then you probably aren’t going to see them for much longer. If they stay, you likely aren’t going to get much out of them.
• Simple encouragement – You wouldn’t believe how far positive encouragement and telling a player when they are doing well goes. It is unbelievable. Just think back to when you were a player in your sport and you heard your coach say, “That was a great steal Joe,” or “how to get the ball out quick Jenny.”
All of those comments help. They help a heck of a lot more than degrading or getting angry at players. No one wants to work hard for a coach that yells at his or her players during a practice or during a game. Players like coaches that lead them to victory through positive reinforcement, good coaching and setting a good example.
It isn’t always easy getting a basketball team motivated for practices, but that is the place to start – especially if you also want to get them motivated for games. Helping to build that motivation by giving players and the basketball team some positive goals to work for – with a positive coaching mentality is the best way to get the most motivation out of your basketball team.
About The Author
Pat Anderson spent years playing basketball at the college and Professional Level. Today, he coaches 3 youth development teams and shares his extensive coaching knowledge on his blog, you can visit him here: http://www.online-basketball-drills.com/.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)