Coaching Guidelines for K-2 Division
PDF Version: Guidelines for Kindergarten and Grades 1 & 2 Division
December
Group style practices focused on fundamentals and getting athletes
excited for the season to start
January
Weeks 1 & 2
The main goal is to teach them basic fundamentals in
a way that keeps them moving and having fun. Drills or stations
focusing on stationary dribbling, dribbling while moving, pivoting,
shooting technique, passing, rebounds and defense are key here. If
they can pick up a few things regarding rules then that's great too.
Focus on getting players to learn teammates names
Most learning at this age is done through “games”: Simon says, red
light green light, dribble tag, fishy/fishy cross my ocean, what time is
it Mr. Fox and Pressure, Monkey in the Middle (works on passing and
defense) Sharks vs Minnows (dribbling and defense).
Youth basketball drills and game videos on youtube
Weeks 3 & 4-
Focus on developing core skills; dribbling, passing,
shooting, and defense. As time goes on you can introduce new
concepts like cutting or moving without the ball (statues are bad so
make lines and shapes with your feet or pretend you're playing tag
and keep away from the defender when you're trying to get the ball).
Towards the end of the month feel free to work in some 1 on 1 and 2
on 2. Once they're able to understand basic man to man or match
up defense principles, try 3 on 3.
Many coaches elect to go the way
of teaching a triangle zone here because it's easier. Teaching
matchup defense is very important as all defensive styles are
grounded in matchup defense principles.
Last 15 minutes of practice : Consider 3v3 or 4v4 scrimmaging with
other teams to start generalizing those skills you have taught in
isolation. Stop play frequently to adjust positioning, be on the court
giving constant direction. Keep substitutions quick.
Drill ideas and practice plans:
Coaching Manual
February
Continue to build on fundamentals for the first 30 minutes of practice.
If you feel your team is ready, connect with other coaches at your
practice to scrimmage
March
Continue to build on fundamentals and continue to scrimmage other
teams.