Coaching Youth Hoops (Youth Basketball Coach)

www.aihoops.com In this episode of the Coaching Youth Hoops Podcast, Coach Collins and Coach Flitter break down one of the most important—and often overlooked—skills in youth basketball: sharing the ball. From “ball hog” habits to kids learning when and why to pass, the conversation dives into real strategies to help young players embrace team-first basketball. You’ll learn: Why kids struggle to share the ball—and how to shift their mindset Drills that reinforce unselfish play and good court vision How to use praise, stats, and video to celebrate assists The role of coaches and parents in reinforcing team values Whether you're trying to turn a rec team into a cohesive unit or just want your players to enjoy the we over me, this episode offers actionable coaching insight that works at every level of youth development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://aihoopscoach.com/ In this episode of the Coaching Youth Hoops Podcast, we tackle a growing concern for coaches and parents alike: how screen time is impacting youth basketball development. Coach Collins and Coach Flitter dive into the real-world effects that excessive time on phones, tablets, and gaming systems are having on today’s young athletes—both mentally and physically. You’ll hear firsthand coaching experiences, eye-opening stats, and practical strategies for encouraging players to trade screen time for skill time. This isn’t about blaming tech—it’s about creating balance. Learn how coaches can build buy-in from players and parents to reduce digital distractions, increase gym time, and foster a love for the game that lasts beyond the buzzer. Whether you're a parent wondering how to manage screen time or a coach seeking motivation techniques that resonate with Gen Z athletes, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As a reminder, to celebrate their 250th podcast episode, Coaching Youth Hoops is offering a 25% discount on all practice plans for the month of June 2025. Visit ⁠coachingyouthhoops.com⁠, click on the "Get Started" button, and use the promo code PODCAST250 at checkout to claim your savings. Coaching Youth Hoops dives into why proper footwork is a fundamental and often overlooked skill in basketball, from shooting to defense. In this episode of the Coaching Youth Hoops Podcast, hosts Bill Flitter and Steve Collins discuss the crucial yet often neglected skill of footwork in youth basketball. Collins, based in the Palo Alto area, and Flitter, from Wisconsin, first share a lighthearted exchange about weather differences before diving into the core topic. They highlight that footwork is foundational to nearly every basketball skill, from shooting—where "you shoot with your feet"—to rebounding and ball handling. Collins notes that he constantly emphasizes footwork in practice, stressing its importance by observing how poor footwork can hinder a player's overall performance. The hosts underscore the simplicity and effectiveness of focusing on basic footwork drills for young players. Flitter suggests starting with fundamental concepts like pivoting (off both feet) and proper foot placement when catching the ball to shoot. Collins adds that on defense, teaching "happy feet"—constantly moving and staying light on the balls of the feet—is essential. They connect this to the popular children's movie Happy Feet as a relatable analogy for younger players, though Collins humorously admits it's becoming less effective with newer generations. Both coaches agree that integrating footwork into every drill and constantly checking players' foot placement can lead to significant improvements in their explosiveness, shooting accuracy, and defensive prowess. As a reminder, to celebrate their 250th podcast episode, Coaching Youth Hoops is offering a 25% discount on all practice plans for the month of June 2025. Visit coachingyouthhoops.com, click on the "Get Started" button, and use the promo code PODCAST250 at checkout to claim your savings. Generate Audio Overview Deep Research Canvas Video Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Don't forget, to celebrate their 250th podcast episode, Coaching Youth Hoops is offering a 25% discount on all practice plans for the month of June 2025. Head over to ⁠coachingyouthhoops.com⁠, click the green "Get Started" button, and use the promo code PODCAST250 at checkout. Coaching Youth Hoops offers strategies for maintaining player involvement during the off-season, from camps to at-home challenges. In this episode of the Coaching Youth Hoops Podcast, Bill Flitter and Steve Collins discuss the unique challenges of keeping young basketball players engaged during the summer months. Collins opens by reflecting on the reduced stress and improved sleep he experiences after the basketball season, humorously connecting it to the constant mental load of coaching and teaching. This segues into a brief, lighthearted discussion about the potential future impact of AI on grading in education. The main topic then shifts to the difficulties of retaining player engagement in youth basketball, particularly for coaches running AAU or grade school programs where teams might change frequently. The hosts acknowledge the numerous distractions summer presents, from family vacations and other sports to the simple lack of agency many young players have in their schedules (e.g., parental decisions overriding practice). Collins notes that high school players often have more personal drive and freedom to commit to basketball workouts, whereas younger athletes might be pulled in many directions. Flitter suggests practical strategies for coaches, including running summer camps and implementing individual challenges like a "3,000-shot club" or "5,000-shot club" that rely on the honor system with parent accountability. He even shares an anecdote about his players deflating basketballs to take on vacation. Both emphasize the importance of making these activities fun and competitive, offering prizes for participation and achievement, and understanding that consistency in engagement, while difficult, ultimately shows up on the court. Don't forget, to celebrate their 250th podcast episode, Coaching Youth Hoops is offering a 25% discount on all practice plans for the month of June 2025. Head over to coachingyouthhoops.com, click the green "Get Started" button, and use the promo code PODCAST250 at checkout. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

⁠www.aihoopscoach.com The podcast celebrates its 250th episode by offering a 25% discount on all practice plans for the month of June 2025. Listeners can access this offer by visiting ⁠coachingyouthhoops.com⁠ and using the promo code PODCAST250 at checkout Coaching Youth Hoops discusses the importance of communication among young basketball players and how coaches can foster positive interactions. In this episode of the Coaching Youth Hoops Podcast, hosts Bill Flitter and Steve Collins emphasize the critical role of effective communication among youth basketball players. They share anecdotes and strategies for teaching young athletes how to interact constructively on the court. Collins recounts a situation with a talented but overly aggressive player who needed guidance on holding teammates accountable without alienating them. This led to a team meeting focused on fostering a supportive environment where players understand they are all working towards the same goals of improvement and success. Flitter introduces the concept of pre-emptive correction, advising coaches to teach players to communicate reminders before mistakes happen, rather than yelling or criticizing after the fact. He uses the analogy of setting a curfew and reminding someone beforehand, as opposed to chastising them for missing it later. Both hosts highlight the diminishing communication skills among youth due to increased screen time and less face-to-face interaction. They suggest practical exercises, like role-playing scenarios with note cards, to help players practice giving and receiving feedback. The goal is to cultivate a "loud gym", which they equate to a "winning gym," by encouraging constant, positive communication, even if it means guiding players to refine their approach rather than discouraging them from speaking up entirely. The podcast celebrates its 250th episode by offering a 25% discount on all practice plans for the month of June 2025. Listeners can access this offer by visiting coachingyouthhoops.com and using the promo code PODCAST250 at checkout Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

⁠www.aihoopscoach.com https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ podcast250. Later in the episode, the hosts celebrate their 250th episode, thanking their listeners for their continued support. They reflect on the journey of the podcast since its inception in April 2022 and mention some of their most popular episodes, including those on the "blitz offense" and discipline. As a thank you to their audience, they announce a special 25% discount on their practice plans available at coachingyouthhoops.com through June 2025 using the promo code "podcast250." They also tease upcoming developments and new offerings for their coaching resources. In this episode of the Coaching Youth Hoops podcast, hosts Steve Collins and Bill Flitter tackle the common challenge of coaching multi-sport athletes in youth basketball. They emphasize the significant benefits of playing multiple sports for young athletes, including reduced injury rates (especially for female athletes) and improved mental well-being, advocating that coaches encourage this participation. The hosts discuss the practical implications for coaches, such as players missing practices due to conflicting schedules with other sports or non-athletic activities. They advise restructuring practice plans to focus on repetition of core concepts rather than rapid progression, ensuring that players who miss a session don't fall too far behind. Communication with parents about managing conflicts and setting realistic expectations regarding playing time for those who miss practice is also highlighted. The conversation touches on player burnout and the importance of breaks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ https://teachhoops.com/ Are you convinced that specializing early is the only path to youth basketball greatness? Think again. Many believe kids must focus on just one sport to succeed, but Coach Steve Collins and Bill Flitter—seasoned experts in youth hoops—break that myth wide open. They share why multi-sport athletes are healthier, happier, and ultimately better players. Do you support your players' all-around development? This episode reveals: How multi-sport play reduces injuries and burnout Structuring practice when kids miss for other activities Setting fair, clear expectations with parents There’s even more game-changing wisdom inside. Let's change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ https://teachhoops.com/ Feeling burnt out on the sidelines and wondering if it’s just you? Most coaches think powering through is simply part of the job, but is it? In this episode, seasoned experts Coach Steve Collins and Bill Flitter—who’ve spent decades in the coaching trenches—smash this belief and show that burnout can actually be avoided. How well are you really managing stress and renewal? Listen in to discover: Why stepping away can make you a stronger coach. How side hobbies spark inspiration on the court. Tips to set healthy boundaries and say “no” (without guilt). Tune in for more game-changing wisdom coming soon. Let’s change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ https://teachhoops.com/ Are limited resources holding your team back—or is it just an excuse? Most coaches think you need big budgets and endless gym time to build a winning youth team. But hosts Bill Flitter and Coach Steve Collins, seasoned leaders in youth hoops, bust that myth wide open. Could you do more with what you already have? In this episode, you'll discover: How to find free or affordable gym space with a creative twist. Smart ways to maximize limited practice time—yes, even with just two sessions a week. Resourceful fundraising and uniform tips that won’t break the bank. There’s even more game-changing advice waiting inside. Let’s change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ https://teachhoops.com/ Do you pull players out after a mistake—or let them play through it? Most coaches think punishing mistakes builds discipline, but what if it actually kills confidence? On this episode, Coaches Bill Flitter and Steve Collins—masters of youth hoops—break down better ways to handle repeated mistakes. Ask yourself: Is your correction helping or hurting growth? Listen in for: How to give quick, meaningful feedback without crushing spirits Why short, positive teaching moments matter more than benching Creating a game environment that builds resilience Plenty more coaching wisdom ahead. Let's change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/⁠ ⁠https://teachhoops.com/⁠ Are too many voices holding your players back? We’ve all heard that “more mentorship is always better”—but what if competing advice is confusing your athletes more than helping them? Veteran coaches Bill Flitter and Bill Powers (with 30+ years in the game!) share how collaboration—not silos—fuels real growth. Are you fostering healthy communication between the players’ AAU coach and parents? Listen in to discover: Building trust with players, parents & fellow coaches Why “being a great teammate” beats stats every time Simple strategies to align, not compete, for your players’ development Even deeper coaching wisdom awaits! Let’s change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 🎙️Our latest podcast: ⁠Youthsportsinder.com⁠ - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ https://teachhoops.com/ Are too many voices holding your players back? We’ve all heard that “more mentorship is always better”—but what if competing advice is confusing your athletes more than helping them? Veteran coaches Bill Flitter and Bill Powers (with 30+ years in the game!) share how collaboration—not silos—fuels real growth. Are you fostering healthy communication between the players’ AAU coach and parents? Listen in to discover: Building trust with players, parents & fellow coaches Why “being a great teammate” beats stats every time Simple strategies to align, not compete, for your players’ development Even deeper coaching wisdom awaits! Let’s change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://teachhoops.com/ What if you could see your players’ shooting form improve—without just trusting your gut? Most coaches think eyeballing shots and yelling “follow through!” is enough. Spoiler: it isn’t. In this episode, Bill Flitter welcomes Eric Anderson, CEO of SIQ Basketball, whose smart ball tech tracks every shot with mind-blowing precision. Is your feedback helping your shooters actually get better? Listen in to discover: Real-time shooting data—no more guessing games. Gamified drills that keep kids fired up. Personalized tips straight from NBA-level coaches. There’s even more game-changing advice inside. Let’s change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 📈 FREE Game Analytics: https://gc.com/coachingyouthhoops 🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ https://youthsportsinsider.com/ Is youth sports becoming a luxury item instead of a rite of passage? Most coaches assume youth basketball is accessible for all—but today, skyrocketing costs suggest otherwise. Hosts Steve Collins and Bill Flitter, seasoned minds in the game, dive head-first into the crisis of rising fees, revealing who gets left behind and what can be done. How affordable is youth hoops in your community? This episode helps you: Rethink true “accessibility” in your program. Spot hidden costs alienating eager athletes. Find creative ways to keep kids—ALL kids—playing. Fuel up on more insights inside. Let’s change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 📈 FREE Game Analytics: https://gc.com/coachingyouthhoops 🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ https://youthsportsinsider.com/ Do you think the biggest thing holding back your young players is just a lack of skill? Many coaches blame short attention spans or poor physical ability, but the truth might surprise you. Hosts Steve Collins and Bill Flitter, seasoned youth hoops experts, challenge this thinking and reveal what really keeps 3rd–6th graders from improving. How do you nurture confidence on your team? Listen and discover: Why fear of failure trumps all as a limiting factor Simple ways to boost confidence on and off the court How to encourage mistakes as part of real growth Even more coaching gold awaits in the episode! Let's change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 📈 FREE Game Analytics: https://gc.com/coachingyouthhoops 🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ https://youthsportsinsider.com/ Are you sure your kids are really improving, or just looking flashy at practice? We often think visible in-game skills mean progress, but what about those hidden steps forward? Hosts Coach Steve Collins and Bill Flitter—true veterans of youth hoops—dive into what REAL improvement looks like (hint: not always a straight line). Ask yourself: Are you celebrating the right wins? Hear how you can: Spot subtle signs of development under pressure Encourage mental growth, not just physical Guide players through setbacks and breakthrough moments There’s so much more wisdom packed inside! Let's change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 📈 FREE Game Analytics: https://gc.com/coachingyouthhoops 🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

https://coachingyouthhoops.com/ https://youthsportsinsider.com/ Is winning the only thing that matters in youth basketball? Too many coaches fall into the trap of chasing victory at all costs, forgetting what really helps players grow. In this episode, seasoned coaches Steve Collins and Bill Flitter unravel the roots of the “win at all costs” mentality and offer a fresh, healthier perspective for coaches who want more for their players. How do you define success on your team? Listen in for game-changing tips on: Redefining what "winning" means for youth players. Building fun and long-term player motivation. Creating a supportive environment for real development. Let's change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 📈 FREE Game Analytics: https://gc.com/coachingyouthhoops 🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Practice Plans & Planner Tool: https://www.coachingyouthhoops.com Navigate to Products > Practice Planning for the $9 downloadable structure guide. GameChanger App for film/stats/live viewing: https://gc.com/coachingyouthhoops New Podcast Launch: Youth Sports Insider Website: https://www.youthsportsinsider.com In this episode of the Coaching Youth Hoops Podcast, hosts Steve Collins and Bill Flitter dive deep into how to effectively structure and organize youth basketball practices. They discuss their personal routines, emphasizing the importance of creating a calm mental space for players, having flexible but structured plans, and aligning practice segments with real game situations (offense, defense, transitions, etc.). From meditation huddles to constraint-based drills like 3-on-3 no-dribble, they highlight how intentional design helps athletes develop both skills and basketball IQ. The episode also promotes several tools and resources including a full-season practice plan generator and a structured planning guide—all designed to save coaches time while increasing practice impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GameChanger (sponsor) 👉 https://gc.com/coachingyouthhoops Youth Sports Insider (new podcast launch) 👉 https://youthsportsinsider.com (For those in the business of youth sports—club directors, tournament operators, facility managers, and more) In this episode of Coaching Youth Hoops, Coach Bill Flitter and Coach Steve Collins dive deep into one of the most intense and under-practiced aspects of basketball: end-of-game situations. Broadcasting from the heart of Chicago, they share real-life game scenarios, strategies, and golden nuggets for youth coaches on how to prepare their teams when the game is on the line. From teaching players the "dribble-per-second" rule to the importance of simplifying playbooks with just four key plays (baseline, sideline, full-court, and late-game defense), this episode is packed with actionable advice. They also introduce their brand new podcast, Youth Sports Insider, aimed at the business side of youth sports. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, you’ll walk away with practical tools to elevate your late-game coaching. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Game Changer https://gc.com/coachingyouthhoops 📥 Full-season plans: coachingyouthhoops.com 🎧 New podcast: youthsportsinsider.com Steve and Bill break down how to run an effective youth basketball camp—from structure and drill planning to keeping kids engaged. Topics include station work, small-sided games, ideal camp lengths, using player-coaches, and balancing fun with fundamentals. They also tease a new youth sports project and announce their upcoming podcast, Youth Sports Insider, focused on the business side of youth athletics. Are your youth basketball camps truly elevating the player's skills? Is station work the best structure? Does everyone do the same thing at the same time? In this episode, coaches Bill Flitter and Steve Collins, both seasoned experts, explain the winning strategy of an effective basketball camp. Could your camp plans use a new playbook? Discover: The power of station work for personalized skill growth. How to keep youths constantly engaged and moving. Balancing skill fundamentals with game-like structure. More game-changing insights are just a listen away. Let's change the game together! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review. 👷🏼Build a season-long practice plan in 60 seconds: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/basketball-practice-plan/ ✅Download FREE Season Planning Checklist: https://coachingyouthhoops.com/season-checklist/ 📈 FREE Game Analytics: https://gc.com/coachingyouthhoops 🎙️Our latest podcast: Youthsportsinder.com - Hear directly from forward thinkers and innovators turning sideline hours into real growth opportunities and lasting impact. Keywords Coaching Youth Hoops, Basketball coach, Game Changer, gc.com, Youth sports, Youth basketball, Practice plans, Fundamental skills, Basketball camp, Skill work, Small sided game, Camp structure, Camp length, Station work, Offense and defense, Shooting drills, Dribbling drills, Game insights, Camp activities, Camp personnel, Camp duration, Teaching methods, Coaching experience, Camp planning, Practice session, Camp fun activities, Basketball skills, Youth sports podcast, Youth sports insider. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices