We wrap up our regular season schedule this week with a game with big ramifications for both teams. We are both 7-2. We both lost to the same 2 opponents. And… we’re both playing for a higher seeding in our Division play-off’s! Plus, it’s Homecoming and Senior Night for our guys! This is what you play (and we coach) the game for. Our kids are excited.
Next week will start the play-offs in Virginia. Only the top 8 teams will be playing in our Region. Our HC has been very wise in modifying our daily practice schedule to take into account that we’ve been going hard since July.
One thing he’s done that I like is: we no longer wear pads on Monday or Thursday— helmets only. On Tuesday and Wednesday, there is contact but it is limited to 5 minute periods. I prefer having the Scout D hold shields when we practice Team Offense. If they won’t (or can’t) hit by now, live practice is not going to help!
I’m also concerned about the beating that their bodies are taking. Thus, opening up the chances for injury during practice. I have always adhered to the adage that my HS coach used to use some 50 years ago: “If they’re going to get hurt, I’d rather it be on Friday night than Tuesday afternoon.” It’s why I’ve always been in favor of (very) limited contact during practice.
The thing that our HC hasn’t done that I like too is: our intensity level is still high and… we are still practicing the same amount of time that we always have. He has changed up the sequence of events during practice to keep things fresh and the kids focused. But, we’re out there for 2 hours and 25 minutes every Monday through Wednesday.
Good luck to those of you who are continuing your season! For those whose season has ended: get things cleaned up and put away; take some time away and then… be a Student of the Game in the off-season. If I can help, please let me know!
