Team Boxes

[JMN]

NFHS; fundamental issue; KEEPING PLAYERS IN THE TEAM BOX

Most often when working the flanks, I work hard at keeping the players in the team box. I use the coaches to help as well as talking with the players. And, I reserve a sideline warning primarily for those few occasions when I'm getting no help from the coaches/players in complying with my requests. My sideline warnings are few and far between.

I've seen 2 tactics that have worked well and wondered if any of you have any further suggestions.

#1 - Out of my control, but effective. The home team had put tarps down to identify the team box. All I needed to do was to tell the coach to get the players in the box and he would bark at them to "get on the tarp!" The kids obeyed instantly and it seemed that "get on the tarp" made more sense to them than "get in the box". If this is consistent with what others have seen, wouldn't it be great to have a league that supported the tarp.

#2 Instruct the chain crew to work 2-3 yds off of the sideline. I know, we've all been there. They claim they can't because of the coaches and players. Precisely the point! When they are off the line, the players stay behind them and often the coaches. And, the chain crew can help to keep kids behind them so that they can do their job. How many of you are successful at running the chains off the line?

Other tips?