07/01/2023
Another good one from my guy (and not just because he’s mentioning me🤣). Being coached hard is something that a lot of young athletes avoid these days. They prefer environments where they won’t be held accountable, won’t receive constructive criticism, and where things will be less structured. The worst thing that can happen is players “winning” games at these “tournaments” while avoiding the things mentioned above. These “wins” are reinforcing bad habits that are being created, and most players and parents don’t even see that it’s happening.
The thing they don’t realize is that even the most talented person/athlete needs those structure/plan, accountability, constructive criticism, etc. to meet their full potential. So when you’re not the most talented you really can’t afford to avoid those things, and by the time they realize that it will be too late. Parents need to understand that too.
Brandon (Coach Barnes) is one of the hardest working individuals that I’ve ever had the pleasure of coaching. That’s why he was so successful on the court, and why he’s so successful off of the court! I’m a tough coach to play for and train with. I’m hard on players, I push them, I expect a lot, and I’m never going to let up on those things. However, I’ll also celebrate, encourage, and empower even harder than I coach! There has to be a balance. Like my old coach use to tell me, If I stop saying something to you that’s when you should be worried!🤣
Love you B, and I’m proud of you! Keep shining!