The USA Basketball Gold License is a nationally recognized credential that sets a high standard for youth basketball coaches. To earn this license, coaches must complete comprehensive training in key areas such as:

• Player Safety: Concussion awareness, injury prevention, and SafeSport certification to protect the well-being of every athlete.
• Positive Coaching Practices: Training in effective communication, sportsmanship, and creating a supportive environment for personal growth.
• Basketball Fundamentals: Courses that focus on modern strategies and skill development to ensure our players learn the game the right way.

Coaches with the USA Basketball Gold License embody the highest standards in youth sports. Here’s how this benefits our program:

• Athlete-Centered Coaching: Gold-licensed coaches prioritize the long-term development of players, ensuring that individual growth and enjoyment remain central to their experience.
• Safe and Inclusive Environment: Through education in SafeSport and proper conduct, our coaches create a safe space for all participants, fostering respect and inclusivity.
• Advanced Knowledge and Skills: Licensed coaches stay current with basketball trends and techniques, applying the latest coaching strategies in practices and games.
• Commitment to Continuous Improvement: Coaches engage in ongoing professional development, sharpening their skills to meet the evolving needs of our athletes.

We believe that the foundation of a great basketball experience lies in quality coaching. By encouraging our coaches to pursue the USA Basketball Gold License, we are making an investment in the future of our athletes and our community. The standards set by this program align with our core values—building well-rounded athletes, fostering teamwork, and promoting a lifelong love of the game.

With every Gold-licensed coach on the sidelines, parents and players can trust that they are receiving guidance from individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about youth development and integrity.

Together, we are shaping the next generation of players—on and off the court.

Commitment and Qualifications

• Commitment: Coaches are expected to commit for the duration of the applicable (travel/recreation) season, roughly from October through March.
• Attendance: Coaches should attend all scheduled practices and games. If absences are unavoidable, they must notify the team and travel/rec coordinator as early as possible and ensure that their absence does not negatively impact the team’s development.

Qualifications

• Pass a background check.
• Complete SafeSport certification and concussion training (when applicable).
• Preferred: USA Basketball Gold License OR eLearning Coaching program.
• This is a volunteer position and is considered the backbone of our association.

Coaching Behavior

• Positive Coaching Behavior: Adhere to the 90/10 rule, maintaining a positive atmosphere for all players. Address issues such as lack of effort, intensity, focus, team rule violations, and selfish play at appropriate times for maximum impact.
• Sportsmanship/Respect: Show respect to all players, families, coaches, officials, and opponents. 
• Code of Ethics: Follow the SBBA Coaches Code of Ethics guidelines (in Association Handbook) to ensure a professional and respectful environment.

Practice Structure

• Fundamentals: Encouraged to dedicate 50% of practice time to individual skill development and team fundamentals.
• Player Development: Aim to develop all players in practice and provide game experience when possible (e.g., ball-handling drills).
• Defense: Limiting the use of half-court zone defense is encouraged (for 6th-8th grades).

Team Characteristics

• Effort and Team Play: Ensure that players are working hard, playing aggressively, and competing. Promote unselfish play and ensure that players are positive and respectful towards coaches, teammates, opponents, and referees.
• Fun: Ensure that the experience is enjoyable for all players.
• Parent Coaches: Avoid giving special attention to their own child. Player positions, roles, and playing time should be based on skill and ability as demonstrated in practices and games, following the association handbook’s expectations.

Winning

• Balanced Approach: While winning is important and players like to win, it should not be pursued at all costs. Emphasize winning within the framework of the Shakopee Boys Basketball Association guidelines, as detailed in the association handbook.

These guidelines are designed to ensure a positive, respectful, and development-focused environment for all players and coaches!