Practice Planning

Introduction: Organization and planning

Practice Planning

Practice planning is very importance to a well run and organized workout. Many coaches plan out to the minute, listing times for each element of the practice and sticking to the schedule. Coaches like to include some games elements in each practice like an out-of-bounds play, press breaker, special play or game ending situation. Also include the fundamentals of the game: passing, shooting, defense. A good practice plan covers these areas and is followed!

Practice Plan Ideas

A good plan prepares your team for the game. Early on in the season, not as much time is spent on your opponents but on preparing your offense and defense. As the season rolls on, more time is spent on your opponents tendencies and refining your team.

As a coach you should plan out the season. Organize each phase of the season for best results. Start with the pre-season and go through the year.

Plan the length of practice, many coaches practice too long. Practice should be organized and timed out. No segment should last more than 10 minutes. Break up drills, come back to important areas or trouble areas. Keep you players active and avoid standing around. Organize your season like this:

Pre-season - from the start of the school to the date of the first practice.
Pre-season practice - from the first day of practice to the week before the first game.
In-season practice - from game week to the last game of the season.
Post season practice - from last game to end of school year
Off season - from end of school to beginning of school.
Yes, basketball has become a year-round activity!

Organizing Practice

An outline of a general practice for the entire season should be made. This allows you to set goals for each workout. In college, plan out each player's workout and set personal goal with them to improve. Once a general plan is made you can get specific to each day. Plan about one to two weeks ahead so you can spread out offenses and defenses you want to use. Post the practice plan so the players know what is expected. The daily schedule lists the drills, minutes allotted for each drill, and area of emphasis for the day. Some coaches like to include a word for the daily or allow one play to pick a drill. Team bonding is an important part of practice.

Remember your philosophy and goals when planning practices. Be consistent. Here are some practice plan sheets to help you develop your practices

Daily Plan (need acrobat reader)
Weekly Plan
Goals

Practice tips for everyday

Daily Coaching Duties

Coaching takes on may duties. Do you have to sweep the floor, pump up the balls, and get out the practice gear? All coaches at some time did all of that. Work with your managers to help get practice setup and ready. Do you have to tape ankles and take care of injuries? Once you are ready for practice to start, be on time. Tell your player when you expect them on the court AND ready to go.