Maximizing Every Minute
Great practices don't happen by accident. They're carefully planned, efficiently executed, and constantly evaluated for improvement.
The Foundation: Pre-Practice Planning
Before your athletes step on the field or court:
- Set Clear Objectives: What specific skills or concepts will you work on?
- Plan Your Timeline: Break practice into segments with specific time allocations
- Prepare Equipment: Have everything ready to avoid wasted time
- Consider Individual Needs: Plan for different skill levels and positions
Practice Structure That Works
Proven Practice Format:
- Dynamic Warm-Up (10-15 minutes): Prepare bodies and minds
- Skill Development (20-30 minutes): Focus on fundamental techniques
- Tactical Work (20-25 minutes): Team concepts and strategy
- Competitive Drills (15-20 minutes): Game-like situations
- Conditioning/Cool Down (10-15 minutes): Fitness and recovery
Keys to Efficient Practices
1. Minimize Transition Time
Use clear signals, designated equipment managers, and practice your transitions just like you practice plays.
2. Keep Everyone Active
Avoid long lines. Use station work, small groups, and assistant coaches to maximize touches and involvement.
3. Create Competition Daily
Everything can be competitive - from warm-up drills to conditioning. Keep score, celebrate winners, and build that competitive edge.
4. Focus on Quality Over Quantity
Better to do fewer drills with high intensity and focus than many drills with low energy.
Building Mental Toughness
Professional-level practices challenge athletes mentally as well as physically:
- Add pressure situations to routine drills
- Practice with crowd noise or distractions
- Set performance standards and consequences
- Simulate game-winning scenarios regularly
Evaluation and Adjustment
After each practice, ask yourself:
- Did we accomplish our objectives?
- Were athletes challenged but not overwhelmed?
- What can we improve for next time?
- How was the energy and engagement level?
Pro Tips:
- Start and end practice on time - respect builds trust
- Have a backup plan for weather or facility issues
- Involve players in planning - they'll buy in more
- Film practices occasionally to evaluate your coaching
- End with something positive - send them home wanting more
The Bottom Line
Professional-level practices are intense, focused, and purposeful. Every drill has a reason, every minute has value, and every athlete leaves better than they arrived. When you practice like pros, you'll play like pros.