|
Post by charger11 on Oct 20, 2014 6:06:23 GMT -6
I coach a very young and inexperienced team. They've worked hard, over achieved and surpassed all expectations. This week they take on a rival that has experience and talent. The game is always a big one but this year is even bigger with both teams vying for a championship. Would anyone one offer any advice on how to mentally prepare for this big game and new experience for my young team? Also, how to help them not get caught up in all the distractions and hoopla surrounding this game.
|
|
|
Post by agap on Oct 20, 2014 6:58:20 GMT -6
If they've worked hard, overachieved, and surpassed all expectations already, why treat this game any differently?
|
|
|
Post by realdawg on Oct 20, 2014 9:04:20 GMT -6
Don't treat it any different. Prepare them the same. They know it's a big game. If anything prepare yourself a little more as to what they may do if your plan works
|
|
|
Post by coachwoodall on Oct 20, 2014 9:23:21 GMT -6
Embrace it. These are the games that you want to play/coach in. I wouldn't get all geeked about, but to try and deny/hide it only makes the jitters worse. Like others have said treat a Monday as a Monday, etc..... but put it on the table and address it. If we are playing a team that does/has XXXXXXX then we address it as part of the game plan. Playing for a Region/Conference/etc.. championship is the same.
We have a couple of young pups on the staff this year and I made sure to talk to them about enjoying these big games/big time atmosphere because they don't come around very often. Don't forget that your coaches might have the tight arse too.
|
|
|
Post by gibbs72 on Oct 22, 2014 10:21:30 GMT -6
Maybe show them a ladder or some kind of picture that shows each opponent you've played/ beaten this season and then have your rival at the end of the ladder. Just cross them off and to make a statement that this is just any other week except the jerseys have different words on them. Just a thought.
|
|
|
Post by olinedude on Oct 23, 2014 10:23:16 GMT -6
I think a lot can be said for reading your team's personality. With my OL I listen to the comments they make, the questions they ask, the things they are concerned with, to get a read on them. When they get over confident you have to make sure they respect the opponent, if they seem apprehensive you remind them of all the good they've done and how much they've won. I think it really depends on your kids as far as the emotional response. As far as practice throughout the week, keep their routine the same, but maybe throw in some fun things to loosen the kids up mentally.
|
|