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How to Split Two 6th grade Teams
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Author:  fivekings [ 06 Oct 2010, 21:05 ]
Post subject:  How to Split Two 6th grade Teams

This is a similar post to the coach trying to figure out appropriate number of kids per team; however, I know I will have enough for two teams (7 or 8 kids per team) but trying to figure out how split them into two teams.

I have coached the current group of 6th grade boys for the past two years (core of 8 kids). First year both kids and I were on a steep learning curve. Last year, found this website and starting running a motion as well as really learning the fundamentals. Kids and I loved it and we had some success. We all are still learning though. Now this year I am expecting several new players - some who have never played organized basketball before. I am very happy for the interest (we live in a small town where we only have so many bodies) and will not cut. We do not play in a league, but play sporadic, local one-day tournaments along with scrimmages with other area teams. I could split up into "A" and "B" teams, or could split up so both teams have even ability. If even ability teams, then both teams would not be that competitive. Winning is not my primary objective, really seeing the kids grow both in ability and as community members is what I am looking for. If I split evenly though, then I am worried my more experienced kids will not grow as much as they could if playing all together.

What I am leaning toward is split into more and less experienced teams - having all kids practice together though. I do have enough assistants to give all kids lots of attention. The less experienced kids would get more reps in scrimmage settings and more experienced kids get more reps in the more competitive tournament settings. I am afraid there will be some hard feelings either way I split the teams.

I appreciate any advice or similar experiences any of you may have had.

Author:  JoeHaefner [ 07 Oct 2010, 06:12 ]
Post subject:  Re: How to Split Two 6th grade Teams

How about you don't split the teams up at all? You just pick the team that will play in the tournaments. If you know you're going to play 4 to 6 games at tourney, bring 10.

Some tournaments you could take your top players. For other tourneys, you could split them up evenly. That way, you get the best of both worlds.

For scrimmages, I think you just bring everybody. Play your best together, mix the talent, and play the least experienced. Put enough time on the clock for two games. You could have 8 10-minute quarters with continuous clock. Personally, I wouldn't even keep score. Let the kids worry about that.

I also think mixing talent levels together give the more-experienced players an opportunity to grow as leaders.

Author:  Coach Sar [ 07 Oct 2010, 07:12 ]
Post subject:  Re: How to Split Two 6th grade Teams

This is always a tough decision but I think that Joe has given you some great advice. We always talk about that diamond in the rough... believe me, they are out there... kids mature at different ages as does their ability in sports.

Give them as much practice and playing time as you can. You say you have enough coaches to help these kids, so that isn't a problem. Since you are scheduling your own games and tourneys.... you can make sure that each team gets enough playing time. If you split A & B teams... make sure that when the B team goes to play that they have at least one good ball handler and shooter-

I think you have some great goals for these kids - keep up the good work.

Author:  fivekings [ 07 Oct 2010, 22:14 ]
Post subject:  Re: How to Split Two 6th grade Teams

Thanks Joe and Coach Sar for the great advice. This is exactly how I am going to do it - keep as one group for practices and scrimmages and do some rotating of rosters for the tournaments. One thing though that will be important is to be upfront and honest with all the families - not everyone will be able to participate in every tournament, but this will be more than made up with other game opportunities. Looking forward to the season! Thanks again.

-Jeff

Author:  Coach Sar [ 08 Oct 2010, 08:05 ]
Post subject:  Re: How to Split Two 6th grade Teams

Good luck,

I hope this works out for you and the kids. Being up front with the parents is a great idea... that way ( hopefully ) they wont have any complaints.

I think that if you are honest with the kids and parents things have a way of working out..... you have been with these kids for a few years now, they trust you and your judgement. Keep up the good work and by the way, they are lucky to have a guy like you working with them. God Bless!

Author:  JoeHaefner [ 08 Oct 2010, 09:34 ]
Post subject:  Re: How to Split Two 6th grade Teams

Glad to hear we can help, Jeff. Let us know if you need anything else.

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