Coaches Guidelines

These coaching guidelines are to be used in addition to the general guidelines of the Jr. Cougars basketball program.

Conduct

The Jr. Cougar program is a program designed to develop young men, in addition to developing their basketball skills. We will strive to develop sound, moral character in the participants of the program. Coaches' conduct is expected to reflect these values.

Playing Time

To develop all players in the program, Jr. Cougar coaches of all grades should have equal playing time for all players on their team in any Salvation Army or other league games.

During tournament games, Jr. Cougar coaches may play the players who, in the coach’s judgment, will provide the team with the best chance to win each game. As a result, playing time may NOT be equal for all players in tournaments but coaches should strive to balance competition with development for all players in these situations.

Clinics

Coaches and assistant coaches are required to attend coaching clinics sponsored by the Kennedy coaching staff. Available dates will be communicated to the coaches.

Awareness

This is a competitive play program and may not be for every player. Beginning in 6th grade, coaches may request a meeting with the player's parents if a player's physical, mental or emotional level is causing disruption on the team. The purpose of the meeting will be to make the parents aware of the coaches concerns and to discuss possible alternatives.

Removal

Coaches do not have the authority to remove a player from the program without review and approval from the Board of Directors.

Practice at Kennedy

When teams are practicing at Kennedy, grade level teams will practice together as much as possible. When there are more than two teams per grade, the coaches at that grade level should take turns practicing together.

Practice Frequency

Practices will typically be held twice weekly but may be more or less frequent at the discretion of the coach.

Coaching Support

The Kennedy Head Boys Basketball Coach will provide the following support for the Jr. Cougar coaches:

• When requested, meeting with coaches to go over Kennedy drills, plays and philosophy.
• Inclusion of coaches at Kennedy practices - Jr. Cougar coaches may attend any Kennedy boys' basketball practices for observation.
• Kennedy coaching staff will provide input, as requested by Jr. Cougar coaches.
• Kennedy coaching staff will attend Jr. Cougar practices when available or as request by Jr. Cougar coaches.
• Passes to selected boys' home basketball games.

Expectations

Coaches not meeting these expectations will be asked to leave the program by the Board of Directors.