Playoffs? Talking about playoffs.....

It is that time of year again!  The best time of year, the money maker time.... PLAYOFFS!!!!!


That is right Coach Mora, we are talking about playoffs.  As the playoffs approach, teams are cumulating a season of hard work, dedication, and a little bit of luck.  Players and coaches have put in hours upon hours of work in the weightroom, off-season, 7-on-7s and doubles for this time of year.  Playoffs, what the game is all about.  Playoffs give teams a chance to prove that they are one of the best in their respected state, and it can never be taken away.  But what about the team that just qualifies for the playoffs?

Many teams across the country are happy to be in the playoffs.  Satisfied that they overcame adversity and injuries to qualify for the playoffs and provide pride for their team, school and community.  There is an amount of pride in that, but instead of feeling satisfied, challenge your team to rise above their ability in the playoffs.

The Stones got it, don't be satisfied!

If your team is satisfied with making it to the playoffs, challenge your team to meet and exceed their expectations.  Last year at this time, I wrote about how "PLAYERS BECOME PLAYMAKERS IN THE PLAYOFFS."  I strongly believe that as coaches, we can put our players, no matter their ability, in a spot to become that playmaker.  With that ability, you can help build up your players confidence to be that playmaker.  Teach them how to recognize a certain team's offense/defense, and know the other team's tendencies.  Provide the player with everything that you have, and in turn they will give the team everything they have.  By you modeling and showing that you are not satisfied, the players will pick up on this and mirror the same attitude.    

One of the key to the playoffs is keeping your team focused on the task at hand.  Players, specifically Seniors, will become distracted with the media, their friends/family, and that creeping thought in the back of their head that this playoff game could be their last game of their career.  Communicate with your players that all of these things going on are realistic, but the only thing that matters is the next play their in the game.  Focus on that one play.  Know the down and distance, and understand your own responsibility.  This focus will allow your players to calm any anxiety or anxiousness they feel before the big game.

Be proud of being in the playoffs, but don't be satisfied with just getting there.  Good luck to all the playoff qualifying teams around the country, working towards that goal of a state championship!

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