Motivating Young Basketball Players

 


Randy Eastburg, a construction business owner in Texas, enjoys watching sports and spending time with his children. Randy Eastburg has combined these interests as a coach for his children's basketball teams. One team won several state championships and another achieved high standings in national competition.

The key to successfully coaching youth basketball lies in maintaining a healthy balance between fun and skill development. Without both elements in place, many children will not put in the effort that leads to a sense of improvement and accomplishment. It is therefore crucial for the coach to model a positive attitude and enjoyment of the game, as this sets the atmosphere of each practice.

Young basketball players also respond well to verbal praise, both for accomplishment and for effort. In addition, this provides the coach with an opportunity to sandwich a suggestion for improvement in between compliments. Particularly hard work can prompt a public compliment, which can motivate other players to strive for such a compliment of their own.

Coaches should always remember that each player must feel like a valued part of the team. It is important to distribute praise evenly and even more so to emphasize the achievement of group goals. If players are invested in their friends' success, they may be increasingly motivated to work on their own skills and to participate fully in each practice.