Post by Coach J Campbell on Nov 24, 2008 18:06:38 GMT
Coaches always refer to special teams as one-third of the game, but in reality, only 20 to 30 plays involve special teams play. That is about 20% of the game! However, special teams play is an integral part of every football game because each play either involves a scoring opportunity or a field position change. Each week, regardless of the level, from Youth to the NFL, games are won or lost because of blocked kicks, big returns, missed extra points, or some other aspect of special teams play. Why does this happen? Is it because of the lack of interest by the players or coaches? Fatigue, mental lapse or scheme? I believe it is a combination of all those factors.
As a coach, we are responsible for the “how to” and the players are responsible for the “want to”. But, the way we coach the “how to” sends an important message that impacts the players “want to”. Staff assignments become a key indicator to your players about the importance of special teams. Every coach, including coordinators must have special teams’ responsibilities, but the head coach should be responsible for special teams, and have a passion for it. It will rub off on the players and your coaches.
We do not ask our players to come early or stay late to work on specialties – this generation of players views that as punishment. If it is truly as important as offense and defense, then it needs to be part of practice, not an after thought. We consider the following critical keys to success in our special teams play:
· Emphasize special teams play – every coach has special teams' responsibility
· Personnel selection – good players must play
· Be efficient with time – coaches sit with players, always talking football
· Special teams circuit – use it to keep the entire team involved
As a coach, we are responsible for the “how to” and the players are responsible for the “want to”. But, the way we coach the “how to” sends an important message that impacts the players “want to”. Staff assignments become a key indicator to your players about the importance of special teams. Every coach, including coordinators must have special teams’ responsibilities, but the head coach should be responsible for special teams, and have a passion for it. It will rub off on the players and your coaches.
We do not ask our players to come early or stay late to work on specialties – this generation of players views that as punishment. If it is truly as important as offense and defense, then it needs to be part of practice, not an after thought. We consider the following critical keys to success in our special teams play:
· Emphasize special teams play – every coach has special teams' responsibility
· Personnel selection – good players must play
· Be efficient with time – coaches sit with players, always talking football
· Special teams circuit – use it to keep the entire team involved