I’ve gotten a whole bunch of requests for [tag]youth basketball coaching tips[/tag] over the past few days. Here’s an idea that one of my subscribers sent in. Very creative!
From Terry…
I hope this doesn’t sound corny but this year what I did was write every player’s name on a piece of paper and in the background had the word TEAM in a color scheme that wasn’t visible until all the pieces were in place. I went to the local Staples Store and bought a piece of white board and a strip of two Velcro which allowed me to affix the pieces. Once we had selected the team I scheduled a practice off court in a meeting room.
I had each child arrive knowing they made the [tag]basketball team[/tag] but not knowing who else made the team. I gave each child an envelope with their piece of the puzzle. After I explained to them that they had made the team I gave them a list of expectations which they had to acknowledge in writing and give back to me. It was called “The Players Pledge”.
My team was an Under Ten Team which consisted of 8 and 9 year olds. After we discussed the expectations, I had each player bring up their piece of the puzzle and put it on the board. It was amazing to see their faces once they recognized the word TEAM. Some of them were playing their first year of organized ball. It was a great way to begin the bonding process. That sign came to every [tag]basketball practice[/tag] and every [tag]basketball[/tag] game. The kids had to tap it before every practice and every game.
I hope this helps another [tag]basketball coach[/tag] get the point across that success is only possible when each member is recognized and valued as part of the team!