In running a youth basketball training and AAU program, there is often an overarching philosophy or organizational culture that needs to be put in place and at the forefront is determining whether the emphasis of the program will be on learning basketball or winning and having a winning reputation. Over the course of many years, there have been basketball programs that built a reputation on winning and recruiting those that are deemed elite or already good at basketball, however should that be what youth basketball is about?
However, as impressive as an AAU program can be, winning can sometimes be the only motivator for a player. Although a player can be developing their skills and improving, absent wins with their team, it may be difficult for some players to continue to work with the same work ethic, and stay focused. For many – the wins are an actual confidence builder and without that they will not feel a sense of accomplishment.
Additionally, for those older athletes they believe that winning can create exposure for them and their team and opportunities. Many kids dream about getting the attention of scouts and coaches and receiving a scholarship to play at a prestigious highschool or collegiate level. Absent a winning record and more importantly a winning mentality, they will not think this can be achieved.
Therefore with all these considerations in mind, the best AAU programs will strike a balance where learning and development is the priority at a younger age and strive for the wins and emphasize that as an athlete gets older, matures and their goals evolve. Learning and winning are not mutually exclusive. Creating a competitive environment that emphasizes individual development, knowing how to develop players through constructive feedback, and celebrating both victories and moments of growth are key.
One other thing to note is that communication to coaches, parents and players on the type of program they will be participating in is essential to set expectations. That will allow everyone across the board to determine if that program meets their expectations and values, but it will be hard for anyone to pass up an enriching AAU experience that fosters both learning and success.
