EP27: Basketball Practice Ideas for U10’s with Sam Funnell

In this episode, Alex Sarama is joined by Sam Funnell to discuss her innovative use of the Constraints-Led Approach (CLA) in youth basketball. Sam addresses the misconception that the CLA cannot be applied to younger age groups and emphasizes the importance of patience, creativity, and playfulness when working with beginners. She explains how she incorporates constraints and games to help her U7 and U9 teams develop skills and have fun. Sam also discusses the engagement of young players, the use of age-appropriate equipment, and the challenges of managing a practice with this age group.

Need help with ideas for your next practice? Our FREE youth basketball practice book gives you 21 small-sided games which you can use instantly. Get your free copy here: https://education.transformingbball.com/21-SSG-for-Your-Next-Practice

Level up your coaching with our Amazon Best Selling Book: https://amzn.to/3vO1Tc7

Access tons more of evidence-based coaching resources: https://transformingbball.com/products/  

Key Takeaways:

02:00 - What an U9 practice with Sam would look like

05:20 - The importance of age appropriate equipment

09:00 - Strategies to keep kids focused in a fun way

12:25 - Dribbling and Passing Games

13:35 - Finishing Games

16:50 - Shooting

18:55 - Advice for Youth Coaches

Follow Sam here:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/coachsam_nz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachsam_nz/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/coachsam_nz

Links:

Website: http://transformingbball.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/transformbball

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformingbasketball/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@transformingbasketball

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/transformingbasketball/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@transforming.basketball