CAL Intermediate Gold Division, Kilauea gym
Our guys hustled, but the mental part of our game is still not quite there. We let a very big team push us around too often, and though we had some box outs here and there, we didn't have the heart from start to finish to really battle in the paint.
When we ran the floor and stepped up on the traps, we were fine. But too many of our Pups don't know where to go or when to do it. Missing practice time has hurt us as a team, and though it can't be helped, it is still a major factor in our slower-than-expected (by me) development.
Missing players (Josh D, Chris, Micah) have really hurt this winter/spring. Our first-time players are doing their best, but without our experienced guys to round out our starting lineup/rotation, the challenge is mountainous at times.
I was disappointed to hear one of our parents call out one of our players a few seconds before the game started regarding one of the weaknesses in his game. Be aware that I heard it loud and clear, and though I love all our parents, I do not tolerate this kind of stuff. If you think it's an issue, you know I already know about it. Each of our players has strengths and weaknesses he or she is working on. If you feel there's an issue, bring it to me and the team and that's the way it's done. Not yelling something from the bleachers that could easily distract the team and take their focus off what I've instructed them. Since we've been playing as the Thunder since 2010, this is the first time I've ever heard any parent do this at a game.
I hope to God that every one of our parents takes what I'm saying to heart. None of our players are perfect. None of our parents are perfect. Lord knows I am far from perfect. But when it comes to keeping our players accountable, it's the COACH who does this and nobody from the bleachers. I've always welcomed our parents to join us on the bench if they want to coach. That would be welcome. I would love it if our experienced parents or former coaches would be there on the bench to help us. But if you are NOT on the bench, please refrain from calling anybody out.
If this is not acceptable, that's fine. This might not be the right team for you and your child. I would hate to see that happen, but I won't put up with this stuff being yelled from the bleachers. Give me space to coach our Thunder or join me on the bench. Easy enough? I think so. Let's do this with love. Sometimes it's tough love, but love is key.
LOVE.
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