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Coaching ‘Turns’

Coach:  Since most of the “pre-serve” routine consists of dribbling and turning around the cones, do you specifically teach the hook turns before the serve, or do you do it later? My first practice theme is always dribbling, but it occurred to me I might have to teach the turns at the same time if I want to do the serve. Any thoughts?

Karl:  If you follow the ‘9-Step Routine’ to the “T” then there should be no question in your mind as to when to Introduce any dribbling fake/feint (i.e. turning).

Step 1 (Begin Practice) by Demonstrating and Explaining your theme (Show & Tell) them how you want them to ‘turn!’

Step 2 (Warm-up) consists of developing individual confidence in ball handling skills in this practice the ‘turn!’ Includes some stretching.

So, while the players are alternate between dribbling and stretching … You would focus on improving their ‘turning’ skill. Remember that your job is to observe and help…but, only those who need help. Note: Repetition of the ‘turn’ move begins during the warm-up phase when there is no opponent around to disrupt practicing the move.

Step 3 (1+1) In the cooperative stage of practice you ask the player without the ball to allow the player with the ball to carry-out successful ‘turns!’ You must also remind the players that you will stop play to make ‘points of refinement’. This means that you are going to improve their ‘turn’ move by helping them!

Step 4 (1 vs. 1) In the competitive stage of practice you let the players know that no stoppages will take place and that they should test their ‘turning’ abilities during the game as often as possible!

Step 5 (Break) I would suggest having some of the better ‘turners’ put on a demonstration while everyone is rehydrating. You never know when their minds-eye might catch something that will make them better ‘turners’  Then, prepare them to use the ‘turn’ vs. more opponents during the Small sided games and scrimmage.

Step 6 (Small Sided Game) Make a rule that during the (+) game a player can not pass the ball until after they have made a successful ‘turn’. Give a goal/point during the (vs.) game for every successful ‘turn’.

Step 7 (Scrimmage) Make a rule that during the (+) game a player can not pass the ball until after they have made a successful ‘turn’. Give a goal/point during the (vs.) game for every successful ‘turn’.

Step 8 (Cool-down) Compliment each individual player on their progress in ‘turning’ the ball.

Step 9 (End Practice) Compliment the team on their progress of ‘turning’ the ball while reviewing the finer points of making ‘the turn’. It would be wise to give them a homework assignment …Yes  You want them to practice ‘the turn’ at home.

I am sure you can see that they will have plenty of repetitions of the ‘turn’ move and in time will master this skill to everyone’s satisfaction.

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