Coaching a youth basketball team can be a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to share your love of the sport with others. One of the most important aspects of coaching is running effective practice sessions. This step requires that you find a gym that is right for your team, but it's important for you to realize that not all gyms are equal. There are several things you should look for in a gym to make sure you choose the one that is best for your team.
The Obvious
It may seem obvious, but you want to make sure that you find a gym that has enough space to accommodate your team. Keep in mind that your team will need to practice variousbasketball drills throughout the practice session. In fact, you may need to run several drills simultaneously. Think about what types of drills you plan on using during practice and make sure that any gym you are considering has enough room for your team to spread out and learn new skills.
Less Obvious
In addition to space needs, you want to make sure that the gym is suitable for basketball. For example, you can tell from the kind of flooring if they cater to specific sports or weight lifting types. You also want to find out if the gym provides some of the tools you need to run practice, such as basketballs, blocking pads, resistance bands, jump ropes, agility ladders or cones, and hand weights or kettlebells. Having these supplies right at the gym will avoid the need for you to carry them back and forth. You may also want to look for a gym that has a weight room for your team. Find a gym that has multiple exercise machines, including treadmills and ellipticals, as well as weights.
Convenience
Convenience may not be at the top of your list, but if you want to make sure all team members make it to every practice, you should make the location of the gym as convenient as possible for the parents. Look for gyms that are close to the school or a bus stop, this could make it easier for kids to get to practice. Also, find out what times the gym is available and if the gym will guarantee that you can have the gym at the same time for every practice. Being consistent with practice times will help the team and their parents plan their schedule around the practices.
After checking out several gyms for your team, you will quickly realize that not all gyms offer the same opportunities for your team. Be sure to check out the size and location of the gym and find out what special features and services it offers. This information will help you select the gym that is ideal for your team.
As you get ready for the season, make sure you have everything you need as a coach!
