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Post by shocktroop34 on Oct 3, 2019 9:38:58 GMT -6
Not only are we 0-4, but we've been ravaged with injuries. 7 starters have gone down with season ending injuries. 5 have been ACL tears. We know that the lack of weight room is a major contributor. We also practice on a grass field, but play on turn. We don't practice much on the turn as there are always soccer and field hockey games going on (nothing I can do about that part). I was curious if anyone had ever heard of 5 ACL tears in one season... That's crazy! I've never heard of 5 ACL tears. I feel your pain, coach. We're 1-4 right now and have 5 starters out for the season already, but 3 of them were 2 way starters so it's really like losing 8. Broken ankles (mostly from illegal chop blocks) and arm injuries are the culprits. We played last week with an additional 2 starters out (including a 2 way starter) and have had a couple of other starters miss games with ankle and knee injuries, too. Our weight room numbers have been terrible, though we made up some ground this past offseason. We started our season with 60 kids and had 32 dressed for practice yesterday, including JV players. Our JV is even more banged up and most of the kids we lost there are ones we were expecting to play key backup and ST roles on varsity for the remainder of the season. We're looking at having to cancel JV games simply because we literally don't have any players available at key positions like QB, RB, and LB. We're down to exactly 1 QB and 2 RBs in the entire program this week. Man o man. I've been a member of this site for years and I would read posts like this and feel for guys in these situations. However, it never resonated with me as much as it does when you personally go through it. I had been fortunate in the past. I guess when you coach long enough, there are just things that you have to face in this profession. Yet, having experience doesn't make it any easier to endure. Best wishes the rest of the way.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Oct 3, 2019 9:35:25 GMT -6
Do you not HAVE a weight room? That stinks if that's true. I would recommend at least doing body weight exercises. 5-Direction Lunges, Step-up in the bleachers, Air Squats, that sort of thing. I agree, the lack of having a weight room is not good. 5 in one year is crazy... For clarity, we have a weight room. I was hired late in the spring and don't feel like the we had adequate effort/results that might have some contributing factor with our injuries. We also have two coaches on staff who are certified strength and conditioning. One is finishing his master's. I'm just frustrated, and grasping for answers, knowing full well that there most likely isn't one definitive answer.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Oct 2, 2019 7:10:47 GMT -6
Not only are we 0-4, but we've been ravaged with injuries. 7 starters have gone down with season ending injuries. 5 have been ACL tears. We know that the lack of weight room is a major contributor. We also practice on a grass field, but play on turn. We don't practice much on the turn as there are always soccer and field hockey games going on (nothing I can do about that part).
I was curious if anyone had ever heard of 5 ACL tears in one season...
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Post by shocktroop34 on Aug 2, 2019 20:29:24 GMT -6
I guess the other factor that upsets me is that my son is on the JV, so I won't really get to sit back and enjoy any of his games. I guess I can watch some of the game, but not all of one. He's a freshmen, playing organized football for the first time. It was something I was looking forward to watching. I also have a son in the 8th grade, and it will be the same situation next year. I'm just trying to process this so I can enjoy coaching and be there for my family. As always, I appreciate the feedback. carookie (35-40 Varsity/25-30 JV)
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Post by shocktroop34 on Aug 1, 2019 16:41:10 GMT -6
CA that's how it always was. Kid can only play in 1 of the games. UT we have sub-varsity on Thursday night, then Varsity on Friday nights. Kids can play in both. Each state has different rules. Casey, I guess I feel a little better knowing that other places do this. I must have been sheltered all these years and didn't realize that this was actually a thing. I have seen Monday and Saturday schedules for lower levels, but I guess I never paid attention to those who went on the same day. Now I just have to structure some things a little differently. bignose has provided some very good insight on organization. I appreciate the feedback.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Aug 1, 2019 11:57:28 GMT -6
Maryland. As intense of a game that football is, I just don't see how it helps a varsity team that only has 10 coaches (5/5) adequately prepare for a contest. It just seems like too much on one day. With this structure, it makes more sense to not truly split the staffs or teams. I’m assuming the JV plays the same opponent as the varsity on Friday night, correct? Practice all the kids together during the week. Make all 10 coaches into varsity coaches. Then have like 2-3 position coaches work with the JV for their games (you can rotate this) and call those plays—this is a good way to groom young coaches. Varsity can watch the JV kids play or hang out in the locker room. Focus all your preparation on varsity have JV just run a simplified version of that. When JV’s over, let those coaches combine and the JV kids can be dismissed. The JV kids who don’t leave can just hang out on the sideline and not be a distraction. The key is to remember that JV is JV. It’s about development and fun, not wins and losses. You don’t need to prep for it heavily. This crossed my mind. This is quite possible. I will just have to adjust my practice plans, and some other logistical practice concepts, etc. But this may be what serves us best. Thanks for the insight.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Aug 1, 2019 10:27:05 GMT -6
Its how we do it in CA. I've been coaching for 20+ years and its always been that way here. Freshmen typically play Thursday nights and JV & Varsity play Friday nights. Any logistical hurdles that you run into?
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Post by shocktroop34 on Aug 1, 2019 10:15:15 GMT -6
That is how we do it in Maryland Public Schools as well. Been doing this since forever, and there is no problem with it. JV plays either Thursday afternoon, or Friday at 4. The biggest issue I see, is that you lose the ability to move kids back and forth from JV to Varsity. I know those who play JV on Monday can play those kids on Friday as well, with limited play time, usually a 6 quarter per week limit. We can't do that. Juniors are mandated to play on the Varsity, and once a kid moves up to the Varsity, he cannot go back down. What is your concern? Good question. My concern is, like many others, I utilize my JV staff for game-day duties from everything from supervision to team meal prep to uniform/equipment issue. Not to mention that I want the JV guys to be fresh (not worn out from their game) in order to help the varsity with adjustments, scouting, charting, etc. I just feel like it's a lot to ask for the JV guys to do all on one night...
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Post by shocktroop34 on Aug 1, 2019 10:11:41 GMT -6
Where are you? That sounds like a nightmare. Maryland. As intense of a game that football is, I just don't see how it helps a varsity team that only has 10 coaches (5/5) adequately prepare for a contest. It just seems like too much on one day.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Aug 1, 2019 9:38:41 GMT -6
I'm looking for feedback on any teams that play both levels on the same day. Our JV is at 4pm and the Varsity 6:30 or 7pm. I've never had a schedule like this before.
I don't like it. Not enough time to explain the politics, etc. but as you might imagine, I'm battling other influences, factors, etc.
I can't change it (right now), so I'm looking for ways, thoughts, ideas on the most efficient ways to navigate through this type of game day. Any ideas are appreciated.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Jun 23, 2019 20:16:14 GMT -6
I have two ladies (one on the JV and the other on Varsity level) that are willing to be team parents. I have some ideas on responsibilities that I would like them to do, but I wanted thoughts on how you would (or have) utilized such individuals. Mainly organizationaOther ideas are appreciated.
I've had volunteers in the past and it has worked. My current volunteers are good people and simply want to help. Spare me the 'I wouldn't let a parent near my program' comments. Nevertheless, other ideas are appreciated.
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Post by shocktroop34 on May 23, 2019 10:59:18 GMT -6
I nixed it years ago as a deterrent to avoid injury. The NFL seems to be bent on anything remotely relatable to concussions.
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Post by shocktroop34 on May 23, 2019 10:27:45 GMT -6
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Post by shocktroop34 on May 9, 2019 7:55:56 GMT -6
Just got an order back from Pro-Tuff Decals. Was supposed to be here by Friday. It showed up two days early. Quality shirts. I almost went with a local guy, but Pro Tuff saved me about $100. Free shipping. Easy to work with. JMO. www.protuffdecals.com
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Post by shocktroop34 on Mar 15, 2019 9:47:35 GMT -6
We’re starting one. Our entry fee will cover officials but we will get the gate and concession money. Our MS will keep the 7th grade entry fee $ and set up concessions on that field. How much will you charge at the gate?
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Post by shocktroop34 on Mar 15, 2019 9:30:12 GMT -6
Starting to get responses from teams in the area. The first question I was asked is: Do the 8th grade teams/ages include kids that are getting ready to enter high school? I guess I didn't think about this...I assume it would be for teams that are going to be 7th and 8th graders in the fall? Any quick feedback is appreciated.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Mar 13, 2019 9:35:12 GMT -6
Culture sustains the lulls and pitfalls of the off season, where scheme is no longer present.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Mar 12, 2019 19:16:55 GMT -6
Entry fee was $100 per team with a guarantee 4 games. Some schools wanted to enter an all 7th and all 8th grade team (going into freshmen) which is fine but they pay $100 per team. If you can get 8 teams, thats $800. I looked up the nearest 3 districts and searched for the AD's/football coaches and emailed them all with the above reasons as a selling point. Also emailed them the rules/format. Ended up having schools from 2 other districts joining us. Expenses were relatively low, we used the local high school practice field by contacting their coach/AD (free). Everything else we already had, yard markers, bring your own footballs, refs (use volunteers/assistant coaches/any adult and explain to them their job is really just to keep track of score, downs, and mark where ball is to be played). Also Free. Use former players as timekeeper (4 sec QB clock - reason = let the kids throw the ball around and play. You don't want a tournament filled with sacks after sacks) If you teach QB steps/progression properly, the ball will be out way before then. 1st, 2nd, 3rd place trophy cost $25 total. Spent about $100-150 on snacks/drinks for concession stand and end up turning around $400-500. $1,000 is easily doable if you can get the # of teams entered. Another idea for paying coaches is splitting stipends? I also just asked my 2 paid coaches and I to give $100 bucks each from our contract to the volunteer coaches so they get a little something Great information. Thank you for the insight. I should have been more specific regarding my previous question in terms of entry fee. How much did you charge people at the gate? Just curious. And I agree with you on splitting stipends. We are only allow to split one on the varsity and one on the JV level. With 10 coaches, there are still a couple guys I'm trying to cover. I will also most likely take some off the top of mine. Anyway, the input is appreciated.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Mar 11, 2019 19:00:01 GMT -6
badtotheflexbone What did you charge for an entry fee? Also, what is the most you've cleared after expenses. I want to use this money to pay my "volunteer" coaches. Members of staff that I'm taking over didn't get paid last year. It is a priority for me that everyone gets some money. p.s. Great video. Thanks for sharing that.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Mar 11, 2019 14:02:50 GMT -6
I did a search and didn't see ANY threads on this, so I'm going to assume that it may not be a popular topic/idea, but I have to ask: has anyone every run a 7th and 8th grade (one day) passing tournament? I've been encouraged by our youth organization to set one up. Plus, my AD said that we could run concessions and keep all of the money.
We have a healthy youth program in, and around, our school community. I'm rather old school in my philosophies, and the football purists may frown on this idea, but I see two benefits: I can earn some money, and give the kids an outlet to play some football before their season starts.
Is this stretching the bounds of what is considered age appropriate? I'm not taking offense to any comments, thoughts, or ideas. I appreciate your feedback.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Jan 7, 2019 14:14:17 GMT -6
I'm curious if any coaches journal/document from year to year.
When I hear of "The Process" and other such phrases, I often wonder if a part of that process is about taking meticulous notes that are refined from year to year in order to improve.
Do any of you consistently write things down and revise your ideas over time?
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Post by shocktroop34 on Dec 14, 2018 17:59:04 GMT -6
Interesting How does that work time wise with practice if varsity coordinators coach varsity JV and JH? Are the high school and JH practices staggered times? does this “stunt growth” of the JH coaches not getting that experience coordinating? Unlike other states, Texas has athletic periods. 8th grade practice starts before school and runs through 1st period. Coordinators have 1st period off. 7th grade practice last period and goes about 15 minutes after school. Coordinators have last period off. Freshmen, JV, and Varsity practice after school. JV & Varsity practice together, offense for 12 periods, defense for 12 periods. Freshmen practice on the other end of the field. When Varsity/JV offense is working, the defensive coaches go help with the Freshmen. When Varsity/JV defense is working the offensive coaches go help the Freshmen. As far as stunting the growth of the JH coaches, the HS coordinators don't call anything. They assist the JH coaches. The Varsity coaches give the sub-varsity a mini clinic at the beginning of year. During "2-a-days" the JH coaches assist the varsity coaches, learning the drills and techniques that they will teach. This is exactly what I was looking for. Thanks. Feel free to share any other bits of info. This is good stuff.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Dec 13, 2018 22:45:51 GMT -6
Most of the school around here are more or less vertically alligned from the 7th grade through high school. Thanks Coach. I am interested in how the initial process took place. (My OP should have been more specific). Was it an expectation that the younger programs run the same stuff? Did the HC have to come in and ask the youth guys to run his stuff? Did the HC win in a manner that made everyone just get on board? If you were there from the early stages, or even if you were not but aware of the process, how did it all take shape?
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Post by shocktroop34 on Dec 13, 2018 21:58:34 GMT -6
Does anyone know of or conduct a program where there is a vertical alignment of systems? I know of a one, but they are rivals and don't share much information. I was curious to how the successful programs implement a program from the top, down to the grass roots levels.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Apr 3, 2018 19:31:45 GMT -6
I've been a member for over a decade and have less than a thousand posts for the very reason the OP stated. I don't have time for the bullsh*t. Personally, I'd rather look and learn, than debate.
This site goes through phases (every now and then) where things become less than professional. Having said that, this site is far better than other similar type boards.
I treat this site like the mall...I come in looking for something specific, and once I find it, I get the hell out.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Mar 26, 2018 17:46:32 GMT -6
fbdoc hasn't posed since 2015. He was a coach I really appreciated. Experience, insight, and a different perspective that always made me think. I always said his players must be very fortunate to play for him.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Dec 12, 2017 12:48:48 GMT -6
I generally get the most milage out of round table discussions. It doesn't involve a lot of planning, effort, or energy. I mainly have to keep an open mind, be objective, and be willing to listen.
Creating an environment where students feel safe, where they can let their guard down, and know that their words are protected from player-to-coach is also important.
If you want to develop leaders, you must first develop their voices, and model the most effective ways of communication. Many coaches are not comfortable with this because it is uncomfortable, so to each his own. I don't knock guys who aren't into this kind of stuff. I personally believe in it.
For more formal activities, I've used Jeff Janssen's Championship Team Building; and The Team Captains Leadership Manual.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Nov 8, 2017 10:56:33 GMT -6
Let me ask you...what is the climate of football in your area? Is it high/moderate/low in terms of competitive football culture? Also, what strategies do you see the successful coaches (in your area) use to "promote" themselves or their programs. Not criticizing. Just wanting to get a better feel of where you're going with this thought process. Really High level of football, even the small schools will fire you, (Community Cares). Seems like coaches who are getting jobs are one of three things 1. Really good and experienced. Check. Get it 2. Really Good friends with the person doing the interviewing. Meh 3. The few jobs remaining go to the person who has the most hype. I've never been one to self-promote. Fundamentally, I feel that any coach who puts anything (including him/herself) in front of the players, has misplaced priorities. However, I can somewhat understand the frustration of seeing THAT TYPE of person get a job that he might not seem qualified to have. I'll use myself as an example. Ten years ago, I moved from the midwest to the east coast. During my first HC stint, my teams went 2-7, 4-5, 4-5. My first season in the east, our team went to the state semi's. I was a LB coach. Not a coordinator. Not a guru. Just a position coach. Immediately after my first season at my east coast school, a job opened up in our conference. I applied. I didn't even think anyone knew my name. But they did know the school I was at, as they won football games. Long story short, I went from a virtual unknown, to a guy who got a job based on my association with winners. And when I got the job, we eventually became winners. The result?...I've had three former assistants receive HC jobs based on the success of our program. And they weren't god-awful, dead-end, re-building jobs. One assistant is currently 10-0 who took over the top program in the conference with 2,000 students. Another was plucked to rebuild a program, took them to the playoffs, and has since been hired at an even bigger school to do the same. The last assistant was hired at a perrenial playoff school and has continued their success. This is not a brag or self-adulation. This is just proof that people can become HC's without the need to self-promote. None of my guys did that. I wouldn't have it. I think you'll find success quicker by helping build the program you're in. At least it worked that way for the guys I know.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Nov 3, 2017 12:09:59 GMT -6
I feel the most effective promotion is to win. Not to over-simplify your OP, because in theory I understand what you're tying to say. But nothing attacts attention like a winner. I agree. Thats what should be. But- If you win and dont take enough credit for it, your pundits attack you. 1. He won because of a Weak Schdule 2. He won because he has Great Players 3. He won because they got lucky 4. They are good on offense or he is a good coordinator because they have a great HC You cant always just win, I feel like you have to take credit for it and I hate that. I dont want to take credit. Its the kids at the end of the day. Let me ask you...what is the climate of football in your area? Is it high/moderate/low in terms of competitive football culture? Also, what strategies do you see the successful coaches (in your area) use to "promote" themselves or their programs. Not criticizing. Just wanting to get a better feel of where you're going with this thought process.
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Post by shocktroop34 on Nov 3, 2017 10:33:04 GMT -6
I feel the most effective promotion is to win. Not to over-simplify your OP, because in theory I understand what you're tying to say. But nothing attacts attention like a winner.
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