UH Practices set us apart

Camp Style Practice courtesy of Coach Peterson (Ohlone College)

There are many things which in my opinion set Uptempo Hoops aside from other organizations.  We are proud of the club we put together.  We offer opportunities exclusive to UH, such as our strength and conditioning program and the camp style practice held on Monday, 4/30.  This camp is very special.  The host of the practice was Coach Peterson, head of Ohlone Men's College Basketball.  Over 50 players were in attendance and he commanded each of their attention.  They were captured by his movements and hung on every word.  Children as young as 9 were trying their best to keep up with the 12 and 13 year olds.  The camp style was quick as Coach changed drills, one right after the other with little time for water breaks.  These young basketball enthusiasts practiced hard with no complaining.  As a matter of fact, there were quite a few smiles and laughter.  They were enjoying it.  They were learning new moves and perfecting old ones. 

Coach Peterson giving directions while players
listen attentively

Whenever Coach yelled "center court", there was no hesitation.  The players faced center court quickly, some running to be closer to Coach in order to hear better.  One great thing which the coaches did was mix up the players.  On one half court, you could see a player from each team.  They respected one another and did drills side by side.  Often, when pairing up, the players remained mixed and worked out with each other.  Drills varied between individual work and team work.  Kids were learning the importance of planting before a shot and knowing which direction you will dribble the ball before you move your feet.  They understood why the ball is kept in one hand with their body between the defender and the ball, regardless of how far the opponent was.  The players learned passing moves which involved at least 3 different hands touching the ball before the ball touching the basket.  Other drills were between the leg dribbles and turn around and shoot moves.  Some moves were complex, even the parents had a hard time following.  But not these players.  They listened attentively and did exactly what they were taught.  The coaches walked the floor assisting and correcting players' forms.  There was such organization and support.

Coach Otico shows 4th grade the
correct way to do a drill

Coach Peterson may have appeared intimidating to some players, especially those who don't know him.  However, if you listen closely you hear the humor.  He keeps it light.  Kids are still smiling and having a good time.  Those who catch his jokes chuckle a laughter.  The Coach did a good job of keeping the kids wanting to practice.  I realize that's not a stretch since these boys love basketball, but just to note that practice wasn't all work, it was fun too.  As onlookers we grinned a lot seeing the boys work hard and enjoying the experience.  Coach Peterson would stop a drill and there was silence.  When we heard "hold the ball", immediately, the balls froze in the air.  You could only hear the heavy breathing of winded boys and Coach's commanding voice.  I don't think an hour and a half, one night was enough.  There was so much for these boys to learn, though they all learned quickly.  By the end of the evening, they were sweaty, thirsty and tired.  However, they were all smiling.  "What a great practice" was  heard.  I think they were all ready for a tournament that evening.  This is love for the game. 

Coach Peterson demonstrates proper execution

These kind of practices, in my mind set UH apart from other organizations.  We have the benefit of having high level practices exclusive to our players.  When I say exclusive, I do mean just for UH.  Practices like this are valuable and often could cost an organization a lot of money.  Our coaching staff is already experienced and gifted.  We just now took it to the next level.  The players were excited to hear Coach "JP" will conduct practice Monday.  Those who practiced with him last year know he doesn't wait around for the whining to stop, you are either on board or go sit on the bench.  Everyone puts in effort and everyone earns their spot on the team.  These boys were earning it last night. 

It was exciting to see over 50 players practicing together and working hard.  I walked the gym back and forth many times and there was just so much positive energy.  The kids enjoyed the workout.  The coaches were psyched to do their part.  They were encouraging and supportive.  They reinforced whatever lesson was being taught.  I hope, in his busy schedule, Coach Peterson will be able to have more practices like this.  It reinforces the basics and teaches some of the more experienced players some new moves. Truly, at Uptempo Hoops basketball IS a way of life.