First Time in the Booth

Good luck to you coach. After 7 years OCing from the sideline, our HC thought it was time I tried the booth. Being able to see the whole field was just way too much info for me. I got lost in seeing everything instead of what I should have been watching. That was the first and last game I was in the booth, the rest of the year, he was up in there.

I agree with what many are saying. I was up in the box for the first time 2 years ago as a Co-OC (Passing game), and at first it was a bit overwhelming. Information overload. After being there for a couple of games our other OC and I got into a good rhythm. Warrior is right. You need to memorize your script backwards and forwards, or you will be spending as much time looking down as you do looking at the field. Something else that really helped is that I went up there for our two Preseason scrimmages even though most teams don't. It helped get my feet wet. I would advise it. Good luck coach.

I went in the booth this year, it was great once you get the hang of it. I found that it allowed me to think clearer and prepare easier for the next series (I was less distracted). Be careful about how much stuff (charts, etc) you bring up there. I have found that the more I have the less effective I am. I have my call sheet out, everything else is in my pockets or on a clipboard. I have another coach who charts plays and down and distance, # carries and yards for each player, etc. I speak to him at half, sometimes in between series depending on situation. The only thing that really bothers me about being in the booth is not being there for timeouts. The guy you rely on has to be a good listener and understand exactly what your saying. (know the offense inside and out)

Get this book.


Assign responsibilities to your on the field guys.


Be ultra-organized.


Have a hit sheet.



Have a script.



What offense do you run?