With the many scholarship opportunities available, it is no wonder many young athletes are looking for ways to improve themselves better to be able to stand out on a competitive level. Consult the list below for ways you can help your young athlete elevate his or her basketball skills.
Join a Basketball Program
Many basketball programs available will provide invaluable experience and tips to all participants. Look up various basketball prep schools that will help prepare student athletes of all ages prepare for challenges to come. If your child is looking to improve his or her athletic standing when it comes to college placement or simply wants to compete at a higher level, prep schools and camps provide unique opportunities for him or her to improve his or her skills.
Get Big on Fitness
Succeeding on the court takes more than strong dribbling skills and a perfect shot. Help your young athlete elevate his or her game by encouraging a strong focus on developing overall fitness. Offer to go on regular runs with your child to help improve cardiovascular fitness. If your child is of an appropriate age, look into providing your child with a gym membership and a means of getting there so that he or she can find other ways to improve fitness levels. If possible, outfit your home with some in-house sports equipment, such as weights and resistance bands.
Study the Game
Give your young athlete the opportunity to study the game through televised sports events and live basketball games. By taking your child to professional basketball games, you will help encourage his or her enthusiasm for the sport while also giving him or her the opportunity to see the pros in action. If possible, obtain an ESPN subscription to ensure that your child has access to as many televised basketball games as possible. Offer to watch games with your child often to demonstrate your support and make it an opportunity to bond.
Encourage a Good Attitude
Help promote having a positive attitude by being a role model for your child. When attending your child’s games, offer positive reinforcement and display good sportsmanship to your athlete’s teammates, the opposing team and the basketball officials. Encourage your child to accept constructive criticism with an open and positive mind. Teach your child the importance of good sportsmanship even in the face of defeat.
By demonstrating your support and providing your young athlete with the proper resources, you can help your child bring his or her game to the next level.
