A Youth Basketball Program

If you are coach or a parent wanting to start up a youth basketball program in your community, first of all GOOD FOR YOU, secondly create a plan and be flexible.

Youth basketball is about 2 things:

1. Create a FUN atmosphere where kids want to be apart of. Don't scare off the kids.
2. Build a foundation of solid skill- teach them how the skills will make them a better player.

You should take the time to outline each practice (believe me, this only takes 5 minutes if you are organized). Take the time to create a template form. This way you simply can input your plan practice each day. Here is what one might look like:

1. Warm up
2. Ball handling skills
3. Passing skills
4. Shooting skills
5. Defensive skills
6. Full Court skills
7. Fun Games

Obviously each day will be slightly different but if you have basic headings you can put the drills you want to use "today". you will have to have rebounding and boxing out adding in as well- but not every day.

So, take a few minutes and create a simple template for yourself that you can use to keep your practices organized.

The next real important step is to create fun times. Take the time to plan some events that the kids can get involved in. Maybe a 3 on 3 tournament, maybe a different activity like dodgeball. We play a game called kickball basketball sometimes after practice- they love it. We are also planning a basketball lock in. This will be a night where hold a practice in the early evening then watch basketball movies (Hoosiers), spend the night at the gym, have breakfast and play some ball.

Starting any youth program is about creating excitement and belonging. Also, ask for help from parents if you need it.

Love to hear your thoughts!

Play Hard,

Lee

PS: If you are looking for skills and drills for basketball go to www.SportsSpeedEtc.com and check out Basketball Speed and Basketball Speed 2.