Taking the plunge!!

[Hartsy]

Originally Posted by SmokeEater

Myself, I keep any comments I have toward players specific to rules knowledge. Help the kids to understand when they are violating or breaking the rules. Never get involved with strategy and skill adjustments.

Perception is reality to some, if you are seen giving "coaching" tips during a game then someone will sure a heck think you favor one team over another.

JMO

Smoke

It is certainly appropriate to help the younger kids with the rules. This will keep you busy enough that skills and strategy coaching will not be on your mind much.

I also try to keep the game flowing well by getting the kids to the right place at the right time. It's amazing to me that no one ever seems to know whose ball it will be for the throw in, where to line up for the free throws, and when to enter (or leave) the court, or who will be shooting a free throw.

With the older kids, the speed of play will keep you occupied most often. There is always something to talk about with your partner during breaks, and plenty to watch while on the court.

[Mwanr1]

I would recommend helping them with rules, (i.e., don't walk into the free-throw lanes when the shooter has the ball, where to stand for free-throws, no moving on an inbound pass on a dead ball, play the whistle, etc)

As the game progresses, depending on the situation, it isn't a bad idea to use some form of encouragement. For example, on free throws, as a lead, let them know they are doing a good job on the court. Say things like, "you guys are all doing well, way to play hard, way to play clean, good job players, etc". ) But make sure if you do decide to give some form of encouragement, be fair and not be bias. Be consistent with encouraging and helping both sides. At the grade-school level, you want the players to feel that they are holding some sort of responsibilities and that they owe apart of this game. This way, they will grow and learn not just about the rules/philosophy of basketball, but life in general.

I would also recommend doing pre-game introductions with captains to avoid further complication that may go on during the game.