Youth Basketball Coaches: What You Should Teach Your Players

Over the past couple of days, I have received a few questions regarding various aspects of youth basketball.

Some of the same questions have been asked multiple times by numerous coaches, usually by those who are just beginning or by others who want to brush up on their knowledge base.

By far the most popular question is:

* What should I teach the players?

Answer: I’d like to answer this in 2 steps and break the question into 2 parts.

First, the question can be rephrased to: How should I teach my players?

The best way to get your point across is to keep it simple and do it with enthusiasm!! Not necessarily jumping up and down and putting on a circus act, but generally showing the kids this fun for you and you will make it fun for them.

You have to capture their attention. These kids are like sponges and if you make it simple and fun, their learning will be tremendous as well as yours.

The key is to demonstrate, not just tell.

Second: What should you teach your players?

You must teach them the fundamentals such as:

* dribbling
* passing
* defense (no zone.. yeah, yeah, I know some of you think it’s crazy, but man-to-man is the way to go)

Once they have success at this, they will see themselves improving and will be more willing to take on additional challenges.

Each day I will delve into the fundamentals above and provide you with my favorite drills to enhance your player’s development.

Of course, you must make sure they know the rules of the game and what is allowed your league.

For instance, some leagues for U-9 allow 6 seconds in the lane, and once you reach the U-10 and above level, it goes back to 3 seconds.

I even heard of one club only permitting man-to-man defense.

Hope this provides you with some insight into the groundwork you need to implement.

Have a great season.

Feel free to leave comments for discussion and share with a fellow coach, player and parent.

Are Coaches Passionate About Teaching Your Kids?

Starting a program from scratch can be a very trying ordeal; however, with passion and desire you can accomplish just about anything your mind perceives.

Over the past few months, I have noticed such an individual in the San Antonio, Texas area who displays much of the attributes needed to be successful in any endeavor.

Basketball is his passion, and working with youth as well as established players appears to be his “calling”.

I recently had the privelege of interviewing Coach Tim Springer, and became more of a fan than I already was.

Click the play button button and listen for yourselves. Feel free to share with other parents and coaches and don’t hesitate to leave comments

Basketball Video: Something Old, Something New

The Edge" videos were taken this summer mainly as a review guide for the players between classes. This allows them to practice just a few minutes a day on the skills learned in the prior class.

The following video encompasses some older ballhandling drills as well as newer ones. Youth basketball coaching is about constantly teaching and encouraging the players to use what they learn and to challenge themselves to newer heights.

As part of the agility training we strive to make sure the players keep a proper stance and balance so they can shift quickly from one move to another with or without the ball.

A complete basketball player will need the basic skills necessary to compete and the athleticism and balance to be able to implement their moves.

Drills You Can Practice On Your Own

First day of "The Edge".. What the beginner's can do right in their own basement, backyard, sidewalk, roof (just kidding)

How Can A Soccer Guy Teach You About the Benefits of Free Play in Youth Basketball?

Coach Mike Thompson discusses why “free play” is important and it’s benefits.

He’s created an event called “Soccer Festivals”. Can you see how this transfers to basketball or other sports?

Click the play button below to find out how.

Interview with Coach Ronn

Coach Ronn discusses his philosophy on life and basketball.. Also, provides insight into how coaches should coach and how to setup your practice when you have limited time.


Click the play button below to review the interview with Coach Ronn Wyckoff

Agility Training and Why It's Important To Youth Basketball Players

Coach Thompson discusses the reasoning behind the agility training and how it can enhance a player's enthusiasm and keep them involved in sports, and much more.

The link below is an interview with Coach Barry Thompson