SHS Basketball Blog

Relentless persistence:
The High basketball tradition revolves around

1. Players who will never quit.
2. Team mates who will apply themselves relentlessly.
3. Playing as a team and for each other.

Success comes from those who can focus on the moment, those who are able to ‘play one play at a time’ rather than those who focus on what might happen.

A group who can handle adversity:
In difficult situations or when things are not going our way, it is critical that each and every player remain focused and contributes to the team effort. Adversity is overcome by poise; it is essential to focus on the moment with positive self talk and courage. This is Sydney High tradition. Treat a pressure situation as a challenge rather than a threat. Adversity is a great opportunity.

An assertive group:
Successful players take responsibility for their own actions. They are their own most important coach, manager, psychologist etc. They take charge and are proactive. Players who are timid will not communicate effectively or make skillful decisions.

A great defensive team:
This is of particular importance. We want players who are conditioned both physically and mentally towards playing great defence. We want players who are eager to develop the required techniques and have the persistence to restrict and stop an opponent as much as possible for an entire game. Our general goal defensively as a team is to force teams to try and beat us by shooting from the perimeter over a defender’s hand.

A ‘WE’ squad:
Attitudes can be developed just like physical skills. A ‘WE’ group is developed by absence of blame, mutual respect, self-sacrifice and an absence of negative behaviour. Players who see themselves as superior or those who allocate blame to their team mates do not have the necessary attributes to play for High or squad. Be proud to represent your school in the best possible way. Project our themes. Play for the team, make your team mates better and project a never say die attitude. The coaching staff are working together to make your season the best experience it can be.

Rules:

· Any one athlete can change teams at any time within the year group or squad or move to teams outside of the squad. It is possible you may be asked to leave basketball if you constantly break rules. You need to be working hard to make yourself and your peers successful. If you break a rule or think there is potential to do so in the future see Mr Hayman and explain yourself in person.

· You must wear correct playing uniform on Saturdays. Players are not allowed to have the same playing number as another member of their team.

· Captains of each team are to email reports to the MIC basketball for publication in the Shootin’ Hoops section of the High Notes.

· Games are rarely called off. It is usually best to attend the venue. If your game is called off you can always enjoy supporting the first grade side that play indoors. If unsure check the school website for sporting fixtures or call 93610027 if you are playing a home game. If you are away use the opposing schools contact details.

· Work on your game shots. The more you practice the more your coach will want to make you better. Play hard one on one in your spare time with your mates.

· Be at every training and games early, have a stretch, routine warm-up and be mentally ready. GPS Basketball requires all team members to turn up every game. Staff members will note your attendance.

· Sick / Injured/ Tired players must attend training, camps etc and support their peers as much as possible.

· Play and train hard and leave it all on the court. Academics are more important than basketball. It is a well known fact that students who balance their lifestyle with goals for exercise as well as goals for school achieve higher results academically. Think about basketball when at training, in games or when working out. Don’t let anything that happens at training filter into your school life.