I had the pleasure today to work out the Pine Island (MN) boy’s high school program today. I was quick to notice Coach Ryan Raabe and his staff jumping right into the drills, playing defense, banging, sweating it out and getting after it with the kids. These guys are doing things the right way and it showed in the rapport that players had with the staff. Bottom line is that players absolutely love coaches who will get out on the floor and put the work in just like they are. If you aren’t in good enough shape to be an active participant in practice, get in shape. In reaching today’s players you need to be able to show them you are willing to put the work in. Is it right for a coach to expect a player to be in shape on the first day of practice, when he himself isn’t? Honestly, I don’t think so. As a coach do you have to be in game shape? No, but I do think you should do whatever you can to get out on the floor and get after it with your kids. At a clinic we were speaking at, Ganon made a great point regarding this. He said, “I know a lot of you are busy, with a wife and kids, let alone your team. Get your workout in during practice so you can go home and spend more time with your family.” Check out the pictures below from the 1st day of camp!