Practice Makes Perfect

The latest standings have Wahluke and Wapato tied for the top spot in the league. (Click the title and the 4th grade boys to see the latest scores from around the league.) Both teams are preparing for their opponent and that translates into sweat. Today we met the boys in Mr. Martinez's class and asked the team what went well these last few games and what things do we need to work on. The boys answered well. We agreed that our passing, opening up the floor, team work, and discipline have helped us.

When it came to looking at what we can work on, they were honest. Nervousness, and improved passing came up, as did increasing our quickness. Juan and I also mentioned that as coaches we need to improve as well.

Then we ran. And today all the boys did well. Christopher (Alien) really hates to run. But today he set the tone by starting and finishing in a consistent manner. As we waited for a few kids to finish, he commented that it starting to get easier.

Back at the gym we worked on inbounding, aggressive defense, and good passing. Again Christopher (also Pretty Ricky and Ghost Boy) started slow and then responded. Not only him but all the boys worked hard.

Later in the scrimmage Cristian too aggressively stuck to his man and forced a turn-over. Cristian even drew a little anger from Antonio when he accidentally hit him as he went for the ball.

Next Saturday's game will be tough. We are playing a solid opponent with skills. Christopher summed it up when he said, "it's like they're our twins." All the boys and the coaches want is for our team to do their best the whole game.

We want them to start and end as teammates. And no matter what the score, they walk off the court as winners in their coaches' eyes.