Believe me, I’ve been there. I’ve felt that rush of frustration, that helplessness, and the fear that maybe our kids just aren’t cut out for this. But through my journey as a coach, I’ve learned something invaluable: it’s okay. It’s okay if they’re not the fastest or the strongest. It’s okay if they’re not making as many baskets as we’d like. And here’s why.

Every child’s journey in sports is unique. Their pace of learning and their progress won’t be the same as their peers, and that’s perfectly alright. As parents, and as coaches, we should be looking at their individual growth rather than comparing them to others. Remember, they’re kids first, athletes second.

I know the traditional coaching mentality encourages the idea of pushing harder and faster. That’s the world I came from. But I realized it was causing more harm than good, leading to mental and physical burnout, taking the joy out of the game, and transforming it into a chore. I knew we had to change the script.

In this new narrative, our primary goal should be to nurture their love for the game. If they’re excited about practice, if they’re enjoying the game, they’re more likely to put the time in to improve. So let’s celebrate every small victory, every dribble they master, and every shot they make. These are the moments that will keep their passion for basketball alive.

You might worry that this approach is too lenient, that it won’t help them in the long run. But remember, we’re not just fostering skills for the court; we’re nurturing skills for life. Patience, delaying gratification, resilience, teamwork, respect – these are the true trophies they earn.

I understand the anxiety and pressure you might be feeling, and I’m here to tell you it’s okay to take a deep breath and take a step back. Let’s not measure their worth by their sports performance. Let’s create an environment where it’s okay to fail, where every missed shot is a lesson learned, and every mistake is a step towards growth.

You might ask, “But what if my child falls behind?” Let’s redefine ‘falling behind’. Every child is on their unique journey, and they are exactly where they need to be. The only person they need to surpass is the player they were yesterday.

As a coach, I promise to support your child on this journey and communicate openly with you about their progress. Regular check-ins will keep you informed, and together we can create a nurturing, fulfilling, and fun experience for your child.

Your role is pivotal in this new narrative. Let’s together change the direction of youth basketball, making it less about competition and more about growth and joy. I urge you to take this step with me, for our children, for their love of the game, and most importantly, for their happiness.

This shift isn’t easy. It goes against everything we’ve been taught about sports, about pushing to win at all costs. But when you see the joy in your child’s eyes as they play, free from pressure, you’ll realize that this is worth it.

And what about the other kids, the ones who seem to be doing so much better? We’ve all felt that pang of envy, that desire to ask our child, “Why can’t you play like them?” But remember, each child’s journey is their own. That other child has had their struggles, their setbacks, and their victories. Their path isn’t the one your child needs to walk. So, let’s replace comparison with empathy, understanding, and celebration of each child’s individual journey.

I promise you, this approach works. I’ve seen kids who were about to give up basketball because they felt they weren’t good enough, but when they were allowed to play and learn at their own pace, they flourished. They became more confident, not just on the court but in their daily lives. They learned that it’s okay to fail, to try again, to keep growing at their own pace.

One concern you may have is about their future in sports. “What if my child wants to play professionally?” you may ask. Believe me, nurturing a love for the game now will only benefit them in the future. If they decide to pursue basketball professionally, they’ll do it out of love, not obligation, and that will fuel their drive and determination like nothing else.

And if they decide not to go pro? They’ll still carry with them the invaluable lessons they’ve learned from the game: discipline, teamwork, resilience, and respect, just to name a few. They’ll have fond memories of their time on the court, rather than recalling it as a stressful period of relentless competition and pressure.

Our kids deserve to enjoy their journey through youth basketball. Let’s make sure their memories of the court are filled with joy and growth, rather than pressure and comparison. This change starts with us, with how we manage our expectations, and how we support them through their ups and downs.

An important truth we all need to remember is this: it’s not about us. As much as we live and breathe each moment our child is on the court, as much as we share in their triumphs and setbacks, this journey is ultimately theirs, not ours. It’s about their growth, their joy, and their love for the game. As parents, our role isn’t to live out our dreams or ambitions through them, but to support them in their own dreams, to guide them, and most importantly, to let them enjoy the game. They’re not playing for us; they’re playing for themselves. Let’s ensure we’re not clouding their experience with our expectations or aspirations. After all, the game is meant to be played with love and joy, not pressure and apprehension.

Parents, it’s time for a shift in perspective. I urge you to join me on this journey to redefine youth basketball, to create a space where our kids can grow, learn, and above all, enjoy the game they love. Our children’s happiness and love for the game are at stake, and the time to act is now.

The post Dear Parents…..Let’s Talk About Expectations……. appeared first on Games Based Coach.

Picture this: a group of basketball players, completely absorbed in an intense, fast-paced game that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before. The court is smaller, the teams are tighter, and the energy is electric. It’s as if the players are navigating a miniature basketball universe, where every move counts and every second is precious. Welcome to the world of small sided games! These captivating practice sessions have basketball enthusiasts buzzing like bees around a hive, and for good reason. They’re not only fun and engaging, like a thrilling roller coaster ride, but also pack a powerful punch in terms of player development. It’s like discovering a hidden treasure chest filled with golden nuggets of basketball wisdom. So, grab your metaphorical magnifying glass, and let’s dive into the magical benefits of small sided games to see how they’re transforming the way we think about basketball practice.

In the realm of small sided games, the familiar landscape of basketball is transformed into a more intimate, intense environment. It’s like taking a bustling city and shrinking it down into a cozy, bustling village, where everyone knows everyone else’s moves. The court, now a smaller, more confined space, forces players to be more precise, more agile, and more creative with their tactics. It’s as if the game has put on a pair of high-powered reading glasses, bringing every detail into sharper focus.

The teams, too, are different. With fewer players on each side, everyone gets a more significant role in the game, like actors stepping into the spotlight for their shining moment. It’s the basketball equivalent of a tight-knit jazz ensemble, where every musician gets their chance to shine, playing improvised solos while still contributing to the overall harmony. The camaraderie and teamwork forged in these small sided games lay the foundation for strong bonds both on and off the court.

As for the energy, well, it’s nothing short of electric. Imagine a lightning storm confined within a bottle – that’s the intensity and excitement of small sided games. Every pass, every shot, and every defensive move carries added weight, fueling the players’ passion for the game and driving them to push their limits. It’s like sipping an energizing sports drink that not only quenches your thirst but also supercharges your performance.

So, what’s the secret sauce that makes small sided games such an irresistible force in basketball practice? It’s their unique blend of fun, engagement, and player development, all wrapped up in a thrilling, high-energy package. It’s like a delicious, nutritious smoothie that nourishes the body and soul while leaving you craving more. By tapping into the magic of small sided games, basketball coaches and players can unlock new levels of skill, teamwork, and passion for the game, transforming their approach to practice and paving the way for a bright, successful future on the court.

Cognitive Perks: Unleashing Your Inner Basketball Brainiac

Imagine trying to solve a complex, twisting Rubik’s Cube while sprinting at full speed down a busy sidewalk – that’s what playing basketball can feel like. With countless variables in play, such as opponents’ movements, teammates’ positions, and ever-changing game dynamics, it’s no wonder that basketball players need to be mental athletes as well as physical ones. Luckily, small sided games have swooped in like a superhero, ready to save the day and transform players into quick-thinking, adaptable basketball prodigies.

By shrinking the playing field, like turning the basketball court into a compact chessboard, and reducing the number of players, these games create high-pressure situations that demand lightning-fast decision-making and laser-sharp focus. It’s as if the players have been plunged into a thrilling action movie scene, where they must dodge obstacles, outwit their adversaries, and make split-second choices to survive and succeed.

These small sided games act like a mental gym for the players, helping them flex their cognitive muscles, build mental resilience, and sharpen their strategic thinking skills. The intensity and rapid pace of these games constantly challenge players to analyze, anticipate, and adapt on the fly. It’s like tossing them into a mental obstacle course, where they must navigate twists and turns, conquer challenges, and emerge victorious in the end.

The end result? Athletes who can handle the heat of competition with grace under pressure, outsmart their opponents like master chess players, and bring their A-game when it matters most. By embracing the cognitive perks of small sided games, basketball players can unlock their full potential, both mentally and physically, and rise to new heights of excellence on the court.

Physical Gains: Turbocharging Your Skills with More Touches

Let’s face it: the more you practice something, the better you get at it. It’s like kneading dough, turning a sticky, unmanageable mess into a smooth, elastic ball ready for baking. Small sided games offer basketball players an all-you-can-shoot buffet, giving them more chances to handle the ball and perfect their skills, just like a musician practicing their scales until they become second nature.

Plus, the smaller court size means players need to be swift and agile, gracefully navigating the space like dancers on a stage or figure skaters gliding across the ice. The confined space forces players to tap into their inner agility, moving with precision and finesse to outmaneuver their opponents and seize every opportunity.

This focus on efficient movement not only improves individual abilities but also helps teammates learn to move in harmony, like a flock of birds soaring in unison or a school of fish darting through the water. The result is a well-oiled basketball machine, each cog working seamlessly with the others to create a formidable force on the court.

And let’s not forget the fitness boost! The non-stop action of small sided games keeps players’ heart rates pumping like high-octane fuel, building sport-specific endurance that’ll leave their opponents gasping for breath and eating their dust. It’s like an adrenaline-fueled workout that pushes athletes to their limits, challenging their stamina and resilience.

In short, small sided games are a treasure trove of physical gains, offering players a golden opportunity to hone their skills, fine-tune their teamwork, and supercharge their fitness levels. By embracing the power of more touches and more opportunities for growth, basketball players can reach new heights of excellence and dominate the court.

Emotional Boosts: Igniting Confidence, Fun, and Team Spirit

Basketball isn’t just about physical prowess and mental sharpness – it’s also about having the heart and passion to give it your all. Small sided games are like a shot of adrenaline or a sprinkle of pixie dust for players’ confidence, providing a fun, engaging atmosphere where they can thrive, grow, and spread their wings.

Think of it like playing your favorite video game on a smaller, more challenging level – the victories are sweeter, like a decadent dessert, and the motivation to keep going is stronger, fueled by the addictive rush of success. As players enjoy triumph in these mini-games, they develop a love for the game that carries over into full-scale competitions, like a fire that keeps burning brighter and stronger.

Plus, small sided games are a fantastic way to build team spirit, like a magical potion that binds players together in unity and camaraderie. Working together to conquer challenges and achieve shared goals, teammates form lasting bonds that go beyond the court, like links in a chain that grow stronger with every victory. It’s like a basketball family, united by their love for the game and their drive to succeed, all working together like the pieces of a well-fitted puzzle.

To sum it up, small sided games are a game-changer in the world of basketball practice, like the unexpected twist in a gripping novel or the surprise ingredient that takes a recipe from good to unforgettable. By blending cognitive, physical, and emotional benefits into one exhilarating package, they’re revolutionizing how players develop and grow. So, why not give them a try? You might just discover the magic ingredient that takes your team’s game to the next level, unlocking a world of untapped potential and untold success.

The post The Magic (Science) of Small Sided Games in Basketball appeared first on Games Based Coach.

At the core of this ground-breaking methodology lies the principle of Learning Through Play. By fostering an environment ripe with Competition, players are empowered to push the boundaries of their skills and tactics, while still enjoying the thrill of the game. This dynamic approach is rooted in the Constraints Led Approach and the Games Based Approach, both of which emphasize the importance of creating adaptable, versatile players who can confidently tackle any challenge on the court.

As we explore the fundamentals of small sided games, it becomes apparent that this innovative method is the catalyst for accelerated Skill Development. By reducing the number of players on the court, each individual is granted more opportunities to engage with the ball, enabling them to hone their abilities and techniques with greater frequency. The result? A generation of athletes equipped with the dexterity and finesse required to dominate the game.

Yet, the true genius of small sided games lies not only in their capacity to elevate skill levels, but also in their ability to tap into the underlying principles of Neuroscience. As players navigate the complexities of these miniature games, they are inadvertently engaging in mental gymnastics that strengthen their cognitive capabilities. From enhancing decision-making skills to fostering adaptability, the evidence supporting the efficacy of small sided games is abundant and irrefutable.

What sets small sided games apart from traditional practice methods is their Holistic Approach to player development. By focusing on the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of the game, coaches can cultivate well-rounded athletes who are primed for success both on and off the court. This comprehensive method encourages players to think critically, communicate effectively, and develop a deep understanding of the game’s intricacies – all while reveling in the exhilaration of competition.

In the quest to unlock the power of small sided games, coaches must be willing to embrace change and champion innovation. By adopting a progressive mindset that encourages experimentation and exploration, we can foster an environment in which players are free to test their limits and uncover their true potential. The future of basketball practice planning hinges on our willingness to push the boundaries of convention and forge a new path that prioritizes growth, learning, and – most importantly – fun.

So, as we embark on this journey to revolutionize the way we approach basketball practice planning, let us not shy away from the challenges that lie ahead. Instead, let us embrace the power of small sided games, harnessing their potential to transform the landscape of basketball coaching forever. With steadfast determination, unwavering commitment, and a healthy dose of creativity, we can unlock a world of possibilities for both coaches and players alike – and, in doing so, redefine the very essence of the game we all know and love.

The post Unlocking the Power of Small Sided Games in Basketball Practice Planning appeared first on Games Based Coach.

Let me tell you a little secret: most of your youth basketball players will never make it to the NBA. I know, it’s a shocking revelation, right? But it’s true. The odds of any one of our players reaching the highest level of professional basketball are slim to none. So why do we, as coaches, often approach our practices like we’re molding the next LeBron James or Stephen Curry?

Basketball is about more than just the NBA

Here’s another secret: it’s OK if our players don’t become NBA superstars. Our mission as youth basketball coaches should be to help our players become the best versions of themselves on and off the court, while having a ton of fun along the way. We want them to be excited about coming to practice, not dreading it like a trip to the dentist.

Coaching as facilitation, not dictatorship

No one enjoys being bossed around by a drill sergeant. Players don’t need long lectures or constant nitpicking; they need guidance, support, and the freedom to explore and be creative. As coaches, our role is to facilitate learning, not micromanage every aspect of their development.

Think of it like teaching someone to ride a bike. You can’t just hold onto the handlebars forever; eventually, you have to let go and let them figure it out for themselves. It might be a little wobbly at first, but that’s all part of the learning process.

Encouraging creativity and confidence

By allowing our players to experiment and make mistakes, we foster an environment where creativity and confidence can flourish. Instead of drilling them to follow a rigid set of rules, encourage them to think outside the box and come up with their own solutions. This not only develops their basketball IQ but also teaches them valuable life skills like problem-solving and adaptability.

For example, instead of running the same old predictable layup drill, why not set up a mini-game where players have to come up with unique ways to score? It’s not only more engaging, but it also encourages them to be more versatile on the court.

The power of fun and enjoyment

Remember when you were a kid, and playing basketball was just plain fun? Let’s bring that back. Practices don’t have to be a grind; they can be engaging, enjoyable, and even downright entertaining. Mix in some games, challenges, and friendly competitions to keep things fresh and exciting.

When players are having fun, they’re more likely to stay engaged, work harder, and develop a genuine love for the game. And who knows? That love of the game just might be the secret ingredient that propels them further than anyone ever expected.

The real measure of success

Ultimately, our goal as youth basketball coaches isn’t to churn out NBA players. It’s to help our players grow as individuals, both on and off the court. When they leave our program, we want them to be better players, better teammates, and better people. We want them to have learned valuable life lessons and built lasting friendships, all while having a blast playing the game they love.

So let’s rethink our approach to coaching youth basketball. Let’s shift our focus from creating NBA stars to unlocking each player’s unique potential. Let’s prioritize fun, creativity, and personal growth over winning at all costs. And let’s remember that at the end of the day, we’re not just coaching a sport; we’re shaping the lives of young people.

In conclusion

As progressive coaches who think outside the box, we have the opportunity to create a lasting impact on our players’ lives. By embracing a more player-centered approach and prioritizing fun, creativity, and personal growth, we can help our players develop the skills and confidence they need to excel both on and off the court.

So forget the old-school, drill sergeant mentality. Let’s be the coaches that our players will remember fondly for years to come – the ones who made basketball an unforgettable, enjoyable, and transformative experience. Because that, my fellow coaches, is what truly matters.

The post The Real Goal of Youth Basketball – Why Creating Pro Players Isn’t Everything appeared first on Games Based Coach.

Hey, basketball coaches! Are you tired of seeing your players struggle to apply their skills during games, even though they’ve practiced those same skills tirelessly during traditional drills? It’s time to rethink your training methods and embrace the power of the spacing effect. In this blog post, we’ll show you how incorporating breaks and game context into your training sessions can help your players learn better and perform more effectively on the court.

What is the Spacing Effect?

• The spacing effect is a proven learning technique that helps people remember and apply skills better by spacing out practice sessions.
• Instead of using mass repetitions with no defense and no game context (like dribbling around cones), you can improve your players’ skills by breaking up practice sessions and incorporating game-like situations.
• Think of it like watering a plant: you don’t want to drown it all at once, but instead give it just enough water consistently to grow.

Why Does the Spacing Effect Work in Basketball Training?

The spacing effect isn’t just for studying; it works in sports training too. Here’s why:

• Memory reinforcement: Just like a muscle, your players’ skills get stronger when they practice repeatedly. Spacing out practice sessions gives their brains a chance to remember and apply the skills they’ve learned.
• Better focus: When you take breaks between practice sessions and include game context, your players are less likely to get bored or lose focus. This helps them pay better attention and learn more effectively.

How to Use the Spacing Effect in Basketball Training

Ready to transform your team’s training? Here are some tips to help you use the spacing effect in your basketball practice sessions:

1. Break it up: Divide your practice session into smaller segments, focusing on one skill at a time.
2. Plan your breaks: Schedule breaks between drills, giving your players time to rest and mentally process what they’ve learned.
3. Add game context: Incorporate game-like situations into your drills, such as playing defense or simulating game pressure. This helps your players learn how to apply their skills in real-game scenarios.

The Future of Basketball Training

As we continue to learn more about the spacing effect and other learning techniques, basketball training methods will evolve to become even more effective. Some exciting possibilities include:

• Personalized training plans: As we understand the spacing effect better, we’ll be able to create tailored training strategies for individual players, based on their strengths and weaknesses.
• Innovative practice methods: New training techniques and technology could help make practice sessions even more engaging and effective for players.

Conclusion

The spacing effect is a game-changer for basketball training. By breaking up practice sessions, incorporating game context, and giving your players breaks, you’ll help them learn and apply their skills more effectively on the court. So the next time you’re planning your team’s practice, remember to space out your drills – your players (and their performance) will thank you!

The post Space Out Your Drills – Boost Your Team’s Learning with Better Breaks appeared first on Games Based Coach.

The post The Man In The Arena (2023 Remix) appeared first on Games Based Coach.

Picture this: a swarm of kids on the basketball court, dribbling, laughing, and shooting hoops with the kind of enthusiasm that could power a small city. While it may seem like they’re simply having a ball (pun intended), there’s a lot more going on beneath the surface. This article will dive into the importance and science behind kids learning through play, specifically on the basketball court. So, lace up your sneakers, grab your clipboard, and let’s explore the slam-dunk benefits of play-based learning for young athletes and teenagers!

The Starting Lineup: Why Learning Through Play Matters

Just like the starting lineup in a basketball game, learning through play is crucial for setting the stage for success. Here’s why it’s essential for young athletes and teenagers:

Developing Skills: In the fast-paced world of basketball, players need to master a range of skills – from dribbling to shooting, and everything in between. Play-based learning allows kids to practice and hone these skills in a fun and engaging environment.

Building Confidence: Nothing boosts a player’s confidence quite like sinking a three-pointer during a casual pick-up game. As kids and teens learn through play, they gain self-assurance in their abilities, which translates to improved performance on the court.

Nurturing Creativity: When young athletes play, they experiment with new moves, strategies, and tactics. This trial-and-error process encourages innovation and creative thinking, essential skills both on and off the court.

The Slam-Dunk Science: How Play-Based Learning Works

Now that we’ve established the importance of learning through play, let’s delve into the science behind this slam-dunk approach to development.

The Brain’s MVP: Neuroplasticity

The star player of the learning process is neuroplasticity – the brain’s ability to adapt and reorganize its neural pathways based on new experiences. When kids and teens engage in play, they’re essentially dribbling their way through a neural obstacle course, strengthening connections between brain cells and forging new pathways. In other words, play is like a full-court workout for the brain, promoting growth, adaptation, and overall cognitive development.

The Assist: The Role of Dopamine

When we talk about learning through play, we can’t ignore the crucial role of dopamine – the neurotransmitter often associated with pleasure and reward. Just like a perfectly executed assist on the basketball court, dopamine helps facilitate learning by signaling to the brain that an activity is enjoyable and worth repeating.

During play, dopamine release increases, reinforcing neural connections and motivating kids and teens to continue practicing and perfecting their skills. It’s a win-win situation: young athletes have fun while developing their basketball abilities, and their brains are rewarded for the effort.

The Game Plan: Applying Play-Based Learning to Basketball

So, how do you harness the power of play-based learning for young athletes and teenagers on the basketball court? Here are some strategies to get you started:

Emphasize Small-Sided Games: Small-sided games are the basketball equivalent of a gourmet appetizer – all the flavor, in a bite-sized portion. With fewer players on the court, young athletes have more opportunities to touch the ball, make decisions, and experiment with new skills in a low-pressure environment.

Incorporate Fun Drills: Keep things fresh and exciting by mixing up your practice routine with a variety of engaging drills. Think of these as basketball-themed carnival games – they’re fun, challenging, and sneakily educational.

Promote Creativity and Problem-Solving: Encourage players to think outside the box by designing their own plays or coming up with inventive solutions to on-court challenges. Remember, basketball is a game of strategy and creativity – so let your players be the Michelangelos of the hardwood!

Foster a Positive Atmosphere: Creating a supportive, fun environment is crucial for play-based learning. Be the coaching equivalent of a cheerleader with a megaphone, encouraging your players to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them. After all, the basketball court should be a place of joy and discovery, not stress and fear.

Celebrate Progress and Effort: In the grand arena of youth basketball, it’s essential to focus on growth and development rather than just wins and losses. Be sure to recognize and applaud your players’ efforts, improvements, and achievements – this positive reinforcement will help cement their love for the game and drive them to keep learning.

The Final Buzzer: The Lifelong Impact of Play-Based Learning

As the buzzer sounds and we wrap up our exploration of learning through play, it’s essential to remember that the benefits of this approach stretch far beyond the basketball court. Young athletes and teenagers who learn through play develop a strong foundation of life skills – such as problem-solving, creativity, and adaptability – that will serve them well in all aspects of their lives.

So, whether you’re a coach, a parent, or simply an enthusiastic fan of youth basketball, make it your mission to promote play-based learning. By doing so, you’ll be helping to nurture a generation of well-rounded, resilient, and joyful individuals who will take the world by storm, one slam dunk at a time.

In conclusion, as we’ve seen, the importance and science behind kids learning through play is undeniable. It’s a slam-dunk approach that benefits young athletes and teenagers alike, promoting skill development, confidence, creativity, and overall cognitive growth. So, embrace the power of play on the basketball court and watch your players bounce their way to brilliance!

The post Swishing Into The Science Of Play appeared first on Games Based Coach.

Picture this: the Growth Mindset is like a garden that flourishes with proper nurturing and care. It’s the idea that abilities and intelligence can be developed and cultivated through hard work and dedication, much like a farmer tending to his crops. The Growth Mindset is the antithesis of the Fixed Mindset, where people believe that their abilities are as unchanging as the Rock of Gibraltar.

You might be scratching your head and wondering, “What in the world does this have to do with basketball?” Let me connect the dots for you. A growth mindset is essential for player development in basketball; it breeds a love for learning and a drive to constantly improve, just like a car that runs on high-octane fuel.

Players with a growth mindset see challenges as tantalizing opportunities to get better, and they don’t let setbacks or failures get them down. They bounce back like a rubber ball on a trampoline, exhibiting resilience and persistence, which are critical for long-term success in basketball and life. Additionally, a growth mindset helps players overcome performance anxiety, boosting their confidence like a rocket headed for the stars.

As a coach, how can you foster a growth mindset in your players? Easy-peasy! Create a supportive and challenging environment, much like a greenhouse for growing exotic plants. Provide opportunities for players to practice and experiment with new skills, give positive and constructive feedback, and encourage them to embrace challenges, failure, and focus on the process of improvement, just like a sculptor chipping away at a block of marble to reveal a masterpiece within.

Progressive coaches see themselves as facilitators of learning rather than drill sergeants barking orders. They understand that player development is an ongoing process and are committed to helping their players reach their full potential. Progressive coaches are patient, supportive, and encouraging, providing players with the tools and resources they need to succeed, just like a seasoned chef equipping their apprentice with the finest knives and utensils.

The cherry on top? A growth mindset allows coaches to adapt to the changing needs of their players and the sport. Progressive coaches are always on the lookout for ways to improve and aren’t afraid to try new things. They understand that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to player development and are open to feedback and input from their players, much like a DJ taking song requests at a party.

To wrap it all up, being an effective progressive coach requires self-awareness and a deep understanding of your own coaching style and methods. This demands ongoing reflection, self-evaluation, and a willingness to listen to feedback and make changes when necessary. Progressive coaches are also committed to continuous learning and invest time and resources in their own development, much like a dedicated student burning the midnight oil.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to ditch that old-fashioned coaching style and embrace a growth mindset. Your players will thank you for it, and I guarantee that they’ll throw you a surprise party with cake, balloons, and confetti!

The post The Power Of Growth Mindset appeared first on Games Based Coach.

Let me start by saying, forget everything you know about “fundamentals.” Yeah, I said it. The F-word is a myth. Don’t worry; I’ll explain why. Basketball coaches often teach players techniques in a certain way, where they demonstrate the technique and the player must copy it exactly.

Once the player can copy the technique perfectly, they can move on to more advanced techniques or try playing in a game. The idea is that practicing the techniques repeatedly will help the player perform the skills automatically in a game.

As a coach, your job is not to produce robots who can perform every skill with textbook perfection. You’re here to develop athletes who can think on their feet, make split-second decisions, and have fun while doing it. Trust me; nobody wants to watch a game of perfectly executed “fundamentals” with no heart or creativity.

In the world of sports training, the term “fundamentals” is often used to refer to the basic skills and techniques that all athletes must learn in order to succeed. Which typically involves a lot of rote memorization and repetition of drills and exercises. However, the concept of “fundamentals” is not as clear-cut as it may seem.

What may be considered a fundamental for one athlete may not be the same for another, and the traditional approach to teaching “fundamentals” may not be the best for all athletes because it doesn’t take into account that every player learns differently and develops skills at their own pace.

We’ll explore the limitations of the traditional approach to teaching “fundamentals” and offer alternative perspectives on how athletes can develop their skills in a more personalized and effective way.

Also, basketball isn’t just about following specific techniques, it’s about adapting to the changing situations on the court. Shooting, for example, requires different movements and solutions depending on the location on the court, the positions of offense and defense, the time and score, fatigue levels, and sizes of defenders.

So instead of just teaching players one specific technique, coaches need to focus on helping players develop their own style and adapt to different situations on the court.

It’s important for coaches to understand the complexity of the brain and how players act unpredictably in game situations, resulting in unexpected movements and techniques. It also fails to account for the fact that the best athletes in the world often don’t adhere to these traditional “fundamentals” and instead rely on their natural talents and creativity to succeed.

So, let’s talk about how you can develop your athletes into confident, adaptable players without relying on the boring old “fundamentals” approach.

First, throw them into the game. Yes, I said it. Let them play, experiment, and learn from their mistakes. It’s okay if they miss a layup or fumble a pass. Those mistakes are where the real learning happens.

You know what else is essential? Fun. Yep, it’s not a dirty word. If your athletes are having fun, they’re more likely to be engaged, willing to take risks, and, most importantly, they’re more likely to come back to practice.

When was the last time you heard of a kid begging their parents to sign them up for a sport they hated? Probably never.

In short, I’m not saying you shouldn’t teach your players any “fundamentals” (I prefer to call them “Foundational Skills”). They definitely need to learn how to shoot, dribble, run, and jump, but don’t make the mistake of focusing solely on these skills at the expense of everything else.

Teach them how to dribble and shoot, but also teach them how to fake out their defender and create their own shot. Learning basketball is not a linear process where everyone learns the same technique at the same time.

Players should be allowed to experiment with different techniques and movements to find what works best for them.

The post The F-Word (No Not That One…) appeared first on Games Based Coach.

Listen up, coaches! It’s time to throw out the old-school, traditional coaching methods and embrace a new approach to coaching youth basketball. Because let’s be real, who wants to be a boring, outdated coach with a team full of unhappy players? Not me, that’s for sure.

I’m sure you’re all familiar with the traditional approach to coaching, with its heavy emphasis on drilling basic skills and winning at all costs, right? It’s the same old, tired approach that’s been around for centuries, and it’s time to shake things up. Trust me, I’ve been there, using the same traditional methods and getting the same lackluster results.

But, after doing my own research, reflecting on my own experiences, and taking a step back to reevaluate what truly matters in youth basketball, I realized that it’s time for a change.

Here’s the deal, the traditional approach to coaching ignores the unique needs and abilities of each player. It’s like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, it just doesn’t work. Each player is different and has their own strengths and weaknesses, interests, and learning styles. As coaches, it’s our job to cater to those differences and help each player reach their full potential.

By using a “one-size-fits-all” approach, we’re limiting our players to only a few specific skills and stifling their creativity on the court. And let’s face it, do you really want to be known as the coach who crushes the creativity and individuality out of your players? I sure don’t.

The emphasis on winning at all costs is also problematic. I get it, winning feels good and it’s a sign of a successful season. But, at what cost? Are you really willing to sacrifice the happiness, interest, and player development of your team just to win a few games? I sure hope not. It’s time to prioritize player development and enjoyment over winning.

By creating a positive, supportive environment and encouraging creativity on the court, your players will not only develop their skills, but they’ll also develop a love for the game that will last a lifetime.

So, how do we break free from the traditional coaching methods and embrace this new approach? It’s simple, really. Focus on player development and create a fun and engaging experience for your players. This means incorporating game-like situations and allowing for creative expression on the court. Encourage players to take risks and try new things, even if it means making mistakes. Emphasize the process of learning, not just the end result.

And most importantly, make sure your players are enjoying themselves and having fun while they play.

Here’s an example of how I put these principles into action with my own team. Instead of spending hours drilling basic skills, I mix in game-like situations and scrimmage play during practice. This not only allows my players to develop their skills in a more meaningful and enjoyable way, but it also helps them learn how to think creatively and make split-second decisions on the court. I also make a point to recognize and celebrate each player’s individual strengths and weaknesses, and help them improve in areas where they may struggle.

And instead of putting all the emphasis on winning, I focus on creating a positive and supportive environment that encourages player development and a love for the game.

The results speak for themselves. My players are happy, confident, and excited to play basketball. They’ve developed a strong set of skills and a love for the game that will last a lifetime. And, by prioritizing player development and enjoyment, we’ve also seen an improvement in our win-loss record. It’s a win-win situation.

Finally, it’s important to remember that your players look to you for guidance and support.

As a coach, it’s your responsibility to create a positive, supportive, and enjoyable environment that encourages player development. This includes providing opportunities for players to express themselves, fostering a love for the game, and creating a team of skilled players who are confident and creative on the court.

The post Trading In Tradition appeared first on Games Based Coach.