Best Practices

Inclusive

All of the players get equal time to improve. Treat each player as you would want to be treated. We also dress alike in practice — same top, same shorts. It builds unity and shows we’re in this together.

Time on Task

Line standing is minimal. Be creative and maximize your space to keep players active and engaged. Practice length should be age appropriate. Avoid the “3 L’s”: Laps, Lines, and Lectures.

EnJOYable

Your players shouldn’t dread practice and be clock watchers. Have some fun and allow them to fall in love with the game. That’s not to say it’s not hard, and let’s keep the end goal in mind — player development for all.

Practice with Pace

We want to play with pace. To do this we need to mirror our practice in such a way. Avoid over-talking and unnecessary stoppage. Because the game is so fast-paced and converts so quickly, it requires extraordinary concentration. This is a response we need to intentionally practice.

Trust Simple

Don’t try to teach everything at once. Pick one or two skills per practice and stick to the fundamentals. Use small-sided games (1v1, 2v2, 3v3) to build confidence and reinforce learning.

Communicate Expectations

Take time early to share your philosophy with both players and parents. Be clear about what matters most — effort, growth, and having fun. When everyone understands the plan, the season runs smoother for all.

Compete Every Day

We want competitors. Use small games, scoring systems, or daily challenges to teach players how to embrace the battle. Remember, to “compete” means to strive together — we push each other to be our best.

Coach as a Team

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Lean on assistants, parents, and resources for support so you can focus on teaching and connecting with your players.

Coaching Cues & Habits

Eyes Up / Clap Twice – Cue for attention and energy.
Echo Yells – Team repeats calls to build communication and unity.
Open Hand = Freeze / Closed Fist = Sprint In – Clear, consistent whistle signals.
Coach from the Dot – Teach from the middle of the floor to command presence and efficiency.
Laws of Learning – Explain → Demonstrate → Imitate → Repeat, Repeat, Repeat.
Every Kid, Every Day – Directly connect with each player daily.

Culture Builders

Spotlight Drill – End practice by celebrating one player. Teammates share specific words of encouragement directly to that player, eye to eye. Builds value, confidence, and community.
3 H’s – Hero, Hardship, Highlight. A deeper team-building exercise that fosters vulnerability, connection, and gratitude.

Competitive Habits

Compete Every Day – Build in competition through scoring systems or mini-games.
Strive Together – Compete = “to strive together.” We make each other better.
Celebrate Effort, Not Just Outcome – Praise toughness, resilience, and doing your best when it’s needed most.
Track & Reward Competition – At varsity we chart “Competition Points.” For youth, simply keep score, recognize effort, and build the love for competing.

THE TEAM