Basketball Coach Preseason Checklist

Overview

1. Evaluate the Previous Season

2. Conduct Player Assessments

3. Pre-Season Training and Conditioning

4. Pick Your Fall Fundraising Partner

As a guide for basketball coaches during the pre-season we recommend you plan out your fundraising for the season to free up your plate so you can focus on your team. Fundraising is an essential part of any program’s improvement. With the proper funds, your team will be able to afford essential gear, resources, and travel expenses. Setting up a digital fundraiser is the most profitable form of fundraising that takes the least amount of time. A best practice is to run a digital online fundraiser with eTeamSponsor during your season because digital fundraising takes minimal time once it is running. Consider an earlier approach in the Fall during the pre-season for the more traditional fundraising methods that are more labor-intensive, locally-bound, or low-earning fundraising campaigns. Think about using our industry-leading tool that makes you the most money, is simple to use, and allows out-of-state/region family members and friends to also be able to support your program.

Want to learn more? Download our Expert Guide to Team Fundraising!

Ready to get started with digital fundraising? Schedule a meeting today!

5. Recruiting and Retention

Basketball recruiting is a year-round lifestyle in college coaching, if it’s not, you’re likely behind. However, in high school, it’s more of relationship cultivation with your district elementary and middle schoolers. It’s wise to be investing in their future players: attend local basketball games/tournaments, build relationships with middle school coaches, and observe/instruct and reach out to potential players who feed into your district or likely admits for private schools. Additionally, make efforts to retain existing players by ensuring they feel valued, and motivated, and that their mental health is in check as they continue playing for your team.

6. Communicate with Players and Parents

Maintain open communication channels with both players and their parents. Keep them informed about the off-season schedule, skill development plans, your fundraising and any changes in the basketball program. Regular updates will foster a sense of unity and dedication among the players and their families.

7. Coach Education and Development

Invest in your own basketball coaching education during the pre-season by attending workshops, seminars, or online courses. Stay up-to-date with the latest coaching techniques, strategies, and rule changes. A few resources that have helped us improve our team’s culture over the years are  Frosty Westering’s book “Make the Big Time Where you Are” and Jon Gordon’s book; “You Win in the Locker Room First”. Continuously improving your coaching skills will reflect positively on the team’s performance. 

8. Develop Team Goals and Objectives

Collaborate with your coaching staff and team captains to establish clear and achievable goals for the upcoming season. These goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Having a shared vision will align the team and coaching staff toward a unified purpose.

9. Assess Equipment and Facilities

Check and maintain basketball equipment, such as balls, hoops, and safety gear, to ensure they are in good condition. Also, assess the state of practice facilities and address any necessary repairs or improvements. Safe and well-maintained facilities will create a positive environment for practice and games. Fundraising is often used and necessary to enhance facilities and equipment so your players can train with the latest technology and in a facility they can be proud to represent. Digital fundraising is very efficient as it takes less than 60 minutes to get set-up and leverages text message, social media posts, and email to reach potential donors. 

10. Strengthen Team bonding

Promote team bonding activities during the off-season to foster a strong sense of camaraderie among players. Organize team-building exercises, social events, and community service projects to strengthen the team’s bond on and off the court. Setting up a buddy system between the returners and the newcomers improves the social dynamic amongst the team and allows the veterans to develop their leadership skills. Culture matters and it must be practiced.

Conclusion

Fall is a great time to get your team ready for the upcoming season. By using our basketball coach pre-season checklist, you can lay the groundwork for a successful season this winter. It is important to remember that the off-season is a crucial time for growth and improvement, for both players AND staff. Having a plan for everyone on your team is key to them being prepared for the season ahead. Good Luck!

– Coach Ted and Coach Shanan