My linebacker coach at ASU stopped a film session one day and said, "Archie, you are the worst practice player I have ever seen that can play the way you do on Saturday."
When I was at my best, I was not a good practice player by most standards. Not because of a lack of effort but because I had to think my way through practice, see and feel what I needed to feel, and many times my body was a step slow. I had to make mistakes. Those were the mental reps that let me turn it on game day.
My rookie year our coaches told me Friday was one of the worst practices we had all season and were concerned going in. We spanked the Packers 45-17 that Sunday in the divisional round of the playoffs.
I knew coaches who showed their players the cards of the exact plays they were about to get in practice. Those players graded out perfect every day. Were they prepared? I don't know.
Not all practices are created equal. Intentional practice is what matters most. The goal is to peak on game day, not redline all week.
I am “kid-first”. I was this way as a 7th grade B team coach, a Freshman coach, a D1 Dir of Player Personnel, and now as a Head FB Coach.
Apparently, being “kid-first” and meaning it, upsets a lot of people who aren’t.
So be it 🤷🏾♂️.
#iCoach
Back at the old stomping grounds but this time it is for soccer! My daughter's first ID camp. I averaged 16 yards a catch here! 1 catch for 16 yards. 😆
I would put the character of our coordinators up against anyone TX. RC taking kids to church, OC attending parties for our life skills kids, DC is a shining example for our boys of how a gentleman should act in public, STC playing soccer with our 2 sport guys. The BEST @ ROE
"Kid hasn't been to workouts all summer, but talking about can he get a "Speedflex" because he doesn't want to get picked on for wearing a "Bucket"
Me:
When I played in high school, I often heard my coaches addressing each other by their first names. I have always wanted to do this in front of my athletes, but I often refrain. I think it is great for our youth to see our friendships and comradery amongst our staffs.
Parents, teachers, & coaches:
Let’s STOP with this whole; “This generation...” nonsense.
We’re the ones RAISING this generation!
If we want them to be (or to act), a certain way, let’s demand it of them, and for the love of God, let’s LEAD BY EXAMPLE!