An Inspiring Week 1 is in the Books

Words cannot describe how impressed I was in the effort, competitiveness and skill that was on display in week one of practice. We were able to accomplish more then I could have ever imagined starting the week.

The JV and Varsity teams have now officially been split up. Although some minor tweaks may be made along the way, I was able to take each player aside and talk to them about what I expect from them, what role I see them playing and what I want them to improve on. Each player looked me in the eye, took the constructive criticism in stride and immediately went to work. I was overjoyed with each player’s reaction.

A congratulations is in order for my two captains, John Terry and Pat Barbour. They are leaders in every sense of the word both by example and by holding themselves to the highest level of accountability. I am confident they will lead this group to great things this winter!

Enjoy the day off, ice those knees and lets get back at it!

Coach Chadwick

Practice Schedule Updated Through Feb 17th. Attendance Policy

Happy Saturday All…another week..another Patriots W.

I have updated the schedule to add practices through February 17. Of course this is subject to change, but its a good template to work off of.

You’re Either Early or Your Late

We expect players to be dressed and on the floor at the start of the practice time. You will be considered late even if you’re in the locker room at the designated start time.

Excited to get this going!

Is the Garbageman an MVP Candidate?

The press can only cover so much of a basketball game. The formula is quite predictable, give the score, who scored the most points and throw in a paragraph or two about the flow of the game and big baskets that were scored in key moments. Unfortunately, in most releases what gets missed are all the little plays that turned the tide of a game.

These “garbage plays” can be taking a charge, grabbing a key offensive rebound, diving for a loose ball, or shutting down the opposing teams tops scorer down the stretch. However, despite these plays arguably having more of an impact on a game than any one shot could, these plays often go unnoticed by those reporting on them.

Who is the Best Garbageman?

If you want to see the type of impact a garbageman can have on a game, look no further then Dennis Rodman. Dennis had no natural offensive ability, couldn’t hit a shot from more then 4 feet out, but had more of an impact then athletes with twice his natural ability, why? Because Rodman was willing to make the plays that others were not. He would give up his body to make a play. He was the player you hated to play against, but loved having on your team.

You Don’t Need to Score to be an MVP

You do not need to score 20 points to be an MVP, you just need to show that you will do whatever it takes to get the W. This mentality is why a garbageman will always have a place on the court when it matters most.

Pre-Season Top 10 for Athletes

As we approach the first week of practice, it is essential that all athletes begin their daily regime now. Taking care of your body and mind is the most important aspect of being properly prepared for what will be a grueling pre-season. Here are the essentials:

  1. Get up early. Sleeping in takes away the most productive part of the day and can prohibit you from getting a good night sleep.
  2. First thing you drink in the morning=WATER!: No soda, no gatorade, not even coffee. Start with 16 ounces of water it will get you on the right track to being hydrated all day.
  3. Get fresh air before school. I suggest at least a 1 mile run with some hills (2 miles is ideal). It does not need to be a sprint, just a modest jog to warm up your legs and mind. There is no better time to do this, then first thing in the morning before breakfast, but after your 16 ounces of water.
  4. Do not rush to school: Give yourself plenty of time, there is no worse way to start your school day and no easier way to get a speeding ticket then to feel like your being rushed to get there in time.
  5. Find a way to get a basketball in your hand: 5 minutes of ball handling adds up to significant work each day if you find multiple times a day to do it. Bored? Dribble 100 times with your weak hand, no more than 2 feet off the ground. Make sure to keep your head up, and focus on rhythm and accuracy. Speed comes later.
  6. Shots, Shots, Shots: I know it’s cold, but there are numerous outdoor hoops available. Again, if you have 20 minutes to spare, get up 100 shots. Be sure to spin the ball to yourself to simulate receiving a pass. Playing P.I.G. or H.O.R.S.E. is fine too as long as you simulate the pass with each shot. Flat footed shooting does not properly simulate the types of shots you will take in games.
  7. At least 50 pushups before bed: Basketball muscle develop is all about tone and endurance, not bulk. Focus on cardio activities that build endurance. Pushups are a great mixture of strength and cardio and they work a ton of basketball muscles.
  8. Go to bed early: If you wake up early, get your work in, you will be tired by 10pm. Great thing about going to bed early, is you get up early as well.
  9. Limit Sugar: Less sugar means less crashing. Focus on healthy foods such as vegetables, fruits and grains. It will build your stamina and keep you fueled throughout the day.
  10. MOST IMPORTANT: Stay on top of your school work! Basketball season eats up a ton of time. Get ahead of your school work if you can, it will keep you from having long nights crunching for an exam later.