tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65159630013719177572024-03-05T00:47:16.441-08:00Binford's BlogOnline blog for Coach Tricia Binford and the Montana State University Women's Basketball Team.Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.comBlogger369125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-72370642707749484792014-11-18T10:11:00.000-08:002014-11-18T10:11:14.291-08:00CHAMPIONSHIPS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmba97R3iX7m6ubrb_KlLgpAayMVP-_97ztkdPoc46Q1NeR74tRGbXbHS2kL32AJ9LIXBNybfrn0xiuBprTwUFZ2nzktoZwGJ8lrlgArxsjGIuVv84BgQoIc0WgT6rwZN_jmj_jBFp7c/s1600/Broncos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirmba97R3iX7m6ubrb_KlLgpAayMVP-_97ztkdPoc46Q1NeR74tRGbXbHS2kL32AJ9LIXBNybfrn0xiuBprTwUFZ2nzktoZwGJ8lrlgArxsjGIuVv84BgQoIc0WgT6rwZN_jmj_jBFp7c/s320/Broncos.jpg" /></a></div>This past weekend we opened up at Boise State, my Alma Mater, where they had an Alumni Reunion and recognized our 1993-94 Big Sky Champion Team who was also nationally ranked. What an amazing season that was, and what an fantastic experience to be a part of.
Although our Bobcats didn't win that night, it was a nice distraction to have dinner after the game with my former teammates. We reminisced, told many stories about that season and the seasons that led up to it. When you reflect on an experience after having lived it you gain a much broader appreciation. Here is what I know to be true after my career at Boise State.
A Championship Program is built when people work harder than they think is possible and they selfessly buy into their role, value their role, and no one cares who gets the credit. Our program was built on a team concept with one goal, and that was to win & lose as a team. Our 1993-94 squad was built over many seasons, many players, and that particular season all the pieces and all the hard work came together.
One of my teammates, Shelly "Wright", was a senior when I was a freshman. My freshman year was SO HARD because she made it nearly impossible for me to just get an entry in practice because of her hectic pressure. As a result the only thing I remembered of my first collegiate game was how easy it was to get the team into our offense. She had challenged me relentlesly every day and I never had a game experience more difficult than a practice. Jokingly my other teammate, Heather Sower, told the story of how our junior point guard, Lyndsie "Rico" went out mid season after breaking her wrist. She said she was pretty much thinking we "were doomed" because they were stuck with this freshman, "Who is this Trish character running the team." What if Shelly & Lyndsie hadn't prepared me?
We talked about our favorite coach of all time, June Daughtery who led this special team and how she used to make us run 12 200's or 8 400's or ride mountain bikes off cliffs. Yet when it came time to tip off, I can't think of one team that ever ran us off a court or any kind of adversity that could throw us off of our vision because we had completely come together through that mental and physical challenge and could compete with anyone. Do you think playing in Missoula is harder than running 12 200's?
What a team. What a season. Don't take one day for granted. Appreciate it, believe in yourself, each other, and be willing to do more than what you think is possible.
Coach Bin Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-3642980317085992542014-09-24T14:30:00.001-07:002014-09-25T09:44:19.675-07:00Home Visits<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11Vnrv_Qznb-7Daj7Z6fB_vc8n0ErsRbtVkxSLgvaFgIACEXeiLLN4aChCJfyVYs-1mGm97Tih_fKP6dez8jy3ONWvOZhLriUResPQmdn9IHGpvB4rzcu1wTrNKYgbqwL6rbGLeB137k/s1600/DogBone.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11Vnrv_Qznb-7Daj7Z6fB_vc8n0ErsRbtVkxSLgvaFgIACEXeiLLN4aChCJfyVYs-1mGm97Tih_fKP6dez8jy3ONWvOZhLriUResPQmdn9IHGpvB4rzcu1wTrNKYgbqwL6rbGLeB137k/s320/DogBone.png" /></a></div>The past few weeks I have had an opportunity to get on the road and do some home visits with the junior class, yes class of 2016. I'm not so good with directions and finding houses in the dark, so Siri & I have become very close. When I push the button, she now asks, "Where can I help you get to, Trish?"
Here are a few tips that I found extremely helpful.
1) Find a good restaurant on the road. I say choose Popeyes. When you forget your wallet there, you can be confident they will put it in their safe for you.
2) Exercise, but don't go running outside when it's 90+ degrees out and you are from Montana. You may start having hip pain later on.
3) Clarify the correct address before you head to the home or you might be across the street knocking on the neighbor's door.
4) Make sure your rental car doesn't have an spedometer displayed in Kilometers, or you might have a heart attack when you glance down and it says you are going 100.
5) If you get a car in Kilometers, DON'T panic. Just ask Siri to make sure you are under the speed limit.
6) Wear high heels so you can try to be taller than, well, ANYONE.
7) Bring a snack for the puppies. Actually, that's probably an NCAA violation, so don't do that.
8) Remember everyone isn't a Denver Broncos fan like you are.
9) Last but not least, be yourself. When you stumble over your own words, have a good chuckle about it. If they start to finish your sentences for you, that means you've made a great connection!
Good luck and Go Cats!
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-73657837987266799662014-08-14T10:57:00.000-07:002014-08-15T10:34:50.116-07:00Becky Hammon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53zpEwn2igKavCU1wXC9irUJT9A9aEpHFFw96UjZxupZIgrWQK3PRYNgqT4xr46hY9LAWstCTMhu7eA125M6gYJpunO4MmqnB8D5aqZecHBMLVOK4JL5DZvQxWezwZKDsZq7zeTtxiEk/s1600/Hammon.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53zpEwn2igKavCU1wXC9irUJT9A9aEpHFFw96UjZxupZIgrWQK3PRYNgqT4xr46hY9LAWstCTMhu7eA125M6gYJpunO4MmqnB8D5aqZecHBMLVOK4JL5DZvQxWezwZKDsZq7zeTtxiEk/s400/Hammon.PNG" /></a></div>Congrats to Becky for a great coaching opportunity to work with one of the greatest coaches of all time.
This was quite a big story the first few days, and whether or not this was a breakthrough for women. I suppose I have looked at it through a transparent lense, probably similar to Coach Popovich, in that it was a great & qualified hire, and someone that matched the philosophy of the organization.
Here is why.
1-Becky has had an incredible playing career and has consistently proven herself against any odds or any critics.
2-Becky has an impressive knowledge of the game and has carried a coaching mentality to her on court successes.
3-Becky is a worker! You can't play at the highest level for as long as she has, overcome the injuries, setbacks and do what she has without that kind of passion, commitment, and work ethic. That may be one of the most important reasons Coach Pop hired her.
This hire makes sense and is good for everyone involved. What is remarkable about Coach Popovich is that he finds, mentors, and develops winners. He seeks people who don't take anything for granted but work for everything and every opportunity presented to them and that's exactly who Becky is.
So, to answer the question about what I think about the hire and breakthrough for women... If you are qualified and have a workers mentality then there is no reason you should't have just as good of an opportunity as the next person.
Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-28764538302637112892014-06-27T11:31:00.001-07:002014-06-27T11:31:25.890-07:00The Down Falls of Living In MontanaI feel absolutely blessed to be able to live in Bozeman, MT, but there are a few down falls that we do have to live with.
1) We get disappointed when we "ONLY" see a deer.
Our family went to Big Sky this past weekend to celebrate our parents 50th Wedding Anniversary and my kids shrugged their shoulders when we saw deer 20 yards from us. They had already seen deer. They were hoping to see a bear or a moose.
2) We get frustrated with traffic when it takes us 12 minutes to get home from work instead of eight.
To clarify, I have mastered the back roads so I can still get home within 10 minutes even if there are 20 other cars on the road. Yet, when you don't "really" have traffic you do grow to be pretty darn impatient if you don't get through the first stop light within 30 seconds.
3) We really can't decide which view is the best because when you have a different mountain range every which way you look you tend to get spoiled.
4) You have to hike or you waste your backyard.
For all of those who have jumped on board for Chillin4Charity, the Bobcats are going to show you one of our favorite hikes this weekend up to Grotto Falls and do our chillin our Montana way.
Go Cats!
Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-69676615359086624892014-06-12T10:16:00.001-07:002014-06-12T10:16:07.983-07:00Leadership DevelopmentWhen you look at any successful organization, program, team, it begins with the consistent message, vision, and motivation of all to drive, work, and push every day until your team reaches that common goal.
One of the most important components of achieving your mission on a daily basis is through your leadership, begining from the top and trickling down throughout the entire squad. In other words I would describe it as "peer pressure" to think, act, and respond in the way of a champion.
As coaches, strengthening our own leadership ability as well as those who have the most influence among their peers may be our most vital 6th man ingredient in overcoming the adversity of daily challenges and disruptions.
However you go about identifying those individuals, commit to this area.
Go Cats!
Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-89565262482733830212014-05-22T13:46:00.001-07:002014-05-22T13:46:19.424-07:00BUILD YOUR CULTUREIt's been a fantastic week hanging out in San Antonio with the San Antonio Stars and Head Coach, Dan Hughes, the two time WNBA Coach of the year. Dan coached me in Cleveland when the Rockers won the Eastern Conference Championship and continues to mold champions every single day here in Texas.
It's important for all coaches to continue to learn, tweak, invest, and grow their programs in every way, and the off season is a terrific time to do this. I am so blessed to have mentors who are so open. June Daughtery, the Head Coach at WSU, is another great mentor of mine who ironically I've been on the phone with for the last half hour.
What impressed me so much with the Stars program was the transparancy from the coaches, support staff, throughout the players themselves. They were all so friendly, engaging, complimentary of one another, while being able to nearly kill each other on the court. What a skill that is to be a team first, pursue the highest bar, while not allowing anyone else around you to lower it.
Dan has built an exceptional program where its culture is sustained by the people involved. I am so thankful that we have these same quality people here at Montana State.
I've come away with simple pieces that can help us improve our efficiency as a program. I think Dan is a master at teaching the game from so many angles to cover all learners & we will carry these into our program. He is so gifted in putting each athlete in their strengths & communicating what's desired out of their performance.
A big thank you to the San Antonio Stars, Head Coach Dan Hughes, his fantastic assistant coaches, trainer, strength coach, and players. I am rooting for you tomorrow against the Mercury, and as a former teammate will also being cheering for Penny Taylor.
So good luck Penny, but Go Stars!
Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-16212016897867326682014-05-13T08:59:00.000-07:002014-05-13T08:59:03.487-07:00INFLUENCEThe off season is one of our most valuable opportunities to grow individually. What an opportunity to look around and grab ahold of all the factors that can be a great influence on our personal development.
Take advantage of your location.
Growing up in Colorado was one of the best things that could have happened to me as a kid since Carbondale was over 6,000 feet in elevation. My game was based on speed and endurance and I think that impacted my sustainability in my playing career. Look at Katie Bussey, former Bobcat, who plays like the Energizer Bunny but grew up in Alamosa, Colorado which is even higher at over 7500 feet. Coaches watch prospects for what they CAN do. Just think if you could make your best move, crash the glass, sprint the floo, defend at your highest intestity EVERY possession. Wow, that would be fun!
Take advantage of your support, find someone better to compete against.
Being the youngest of three I would say I took advantage of playing against my brother ALL the time. Some of the greatest improvements are based upon the toughest competition. I ran the 400 in high school and my fastest split is when I ran it in a relay because I had to "catch" the opponent in front of me. Jasmine Hommes had a break out year for the CATS and she also competed against Rachel Semansky the last two years.
Take advantage of your resources.
One of my favorite sports movies is "Rocky" especially when the theme song "Eye of the Tiger" comes on and you know Rocky is now going to get to work. I think it's Rocky IV when he goes to Russia and doesn't have a gym to train in so he uses everything in the barn out to the foothills and snow. If you are an opportunist, a competitor, you will find what's around you and make it work for you to get better.
This past spring we took our team to the climbing wall to strengthen our bodies in a totally different way. Sometimes changing it up can be a great motivator.
Take some time this week and make a list of people you know that can provide great wisdom as well as the resources you have at your fingertips that you can utilize to get better.
Today is an opportunity and one we all should take advantage of to move forward.
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-82772897713637810182014-04-08T15:42:00.000-07:002014-04-08T15:42:26.084-07:00Happy AnniversaryHappy Anniversary to my mom and dad who have been married for 50 years.
I am so thankful for my parents, the role models they are, and to be a part of their celebration. We learn so much from our parents and for me I take so much away from each of them.
My dad is one of the most optimistic and positive people I have ever known. I think a great family movie "Meatballs" that describes my dad's aspect on life's curve balls is that "it just doesn't matter." I think my outlook in every challenge that I have ever faced has had a lot to do with his influence on me.
My mom is known as the fighter. Any challenge that she has been faced with she has taken it head on. There is no one tougher than my mom.
Enjoy a wonderful celebration & thank you to all of our parents for their love, mentoring, wisdom, and example they bring to each of us.
In this case, your daughter, and yet still Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-46286805485538234092014-03-07T14:22:00.001-08:002014-03-07T14:22:51.398-08:00DefenseThere are many ways to defend as the Big Sky Conference has shown this year.
1) Man Defense-Run & Jump, Face Guard Denial, Saggy, Switching, Over/Under, Trapping Ball Screens, Shadowing Ball Screens, etc.
2) Zone Defense-2-2-1, 1-2-1-1, 2-1-2, 3-2, 1-3-1, Box & One
I was at my son's YMCA basketball game a few weeks back and he was guarding his player like a box out with his back to him the entire time. Guess what, it worked and completely annoyed his opponent. Not one touch, shot, rebound.
If you see our team guarding with our backs turned tomorrow, you'll know where it came from but I think it might even be a rebounding advantage since we've already boxed out!
Go Cats!Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-16870339909211725032014-02-19T12:13:00.002-08:002014-02-19T12:13:52.492-08:00VISUALIZATIONI would anticipate that our Olympians are some of the best when it comes to preparing for an event mentally before you do anything physically. The amount of pressure they are under for one moment after four years of committment is truly amazing.
The question for all athletes is how important is it to you? Whatever your answer is I will tell you your answer is how much time you put into it and then you can get a better answer.
Your edge is in your mind when it comes to performance when you are able to step out there "in the zone" without distraction, without tensing up, and without worry of the outcome.
Be in the moment, enjoy the present, be confident in your preparation, and rise to the opportunity.
Oh, and one more thing, YOU GET TO DO THIS!!
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-51363440648087368212014-02-05T13:04:00.000-08:002014-02-05T13:04:08.309-08:00FebruaryThe month of February is a very important month and I am not just talking about Valentine's Day. This is the month where teams separate due to their motivation and commitment to the process.
If you are going to be successful and finish as a champion, how you practice, how you think today has 100% affect on your ultimate outcome.
Questions to ask
1) What did you think about before practice?
Champion Answer-Goals for practice, how am I going to get better, how can I make my team better, I am going to win this drill
Second Place Answer-I hope practice is short or easy or we don't have that drill or I can't wait to do this after practice
2) What is your motivation today? (Not at the beginning of season, but the immediate)
Champion Answer-To get better at...., To win ....., To get more playing time.....
Second Place Answer-Hard to come up with an answer?
Champions are process driven. They do not get detoured or burned out by the process or adversity of what is happening in their season. They believe they are the solution and don't blame others as the problem. They have energy, find ways to put in more than what is currently asked, and they are still 100% committed to making themselves and the team better.
They are not satisfied but they are also not defeated.
Go be a champion today and then repeat it again as if it was the first day you ever stepped onto the court.
GO CATS!
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-1924659936237004022014-01-24T10:13:00.001-08:002014-01-24T10:15:55.164-08:00Big Sky Conference - No. 10 #BigSky25 Greatest Moment "Spotlight on the Broncos and Lady Griz"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXakpnoF3e8Dc5CQOdyaL7KQ32WcWZMDqxLQ94MFbJ3_XMvLv2Yso8-y9lMwa-B45n98Fi8cgtQRU9slv_rp-4Q555mRicmtIsmjkmIPaoXUkvBcveJL6UvK-yxpo00UVqvfgQnRuOwqI/s1600/medium_BSU_UM_WBB_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXakpnoF3e8Dc5CQOdyaL7KQ32WcWZMDqxLQ94MFbJ3_XMvLv2Yso8-y9lMwa-B45n98Fi8cgtQRU9slv_rp-4Q555mRicmtIsmjkmIPaoXUkvBcveJL6UvK-yxpo00UVqvfgQnRuOwqI/s320/medium_BSU_UM_WBB_Cover.jpg" /></a></div><a href="http://www.bigskyconf.com/news/2014/1/23/wbb_0123142949.aspx#.UuKtF4_KkXE.blogger">Big Sky Conference - No. 10 #BigSky25 Greatest Moment "Spotlight on the Broncos and Lady Griz"</a><br /><br />
<br /><br />
The 1993-94 women's basketball season was one for the record books for both Boise State and Montana.<br /><br />Both teams were ranked in the Associated Press Division I Top 25 when they met in the Big Sky Conference Championship game. The game ranks 10th on the Big Sky Conference's list of "25 Greatest Women's Moments.''<br /><br />The regular season came to a close with Montana and Boise State tied for first in the conference with 12-2 records. Both were named co-regular season champions, but a host had to be decided for the Big Sky Conference Championship.<br /><br />"I was also blessed to be a part of the co-Big Sky Championship Team," said Montana State head coach Tricia Binford, who was a junior on the Boise State team and went by Tricia Bader. "I knew we had something special by how competitive our practices, open gyms, and every workouts were. We also had a unique chemistry that couldn't be matched, and I feel so fortunate to have gone on this ride with such an amazing group."Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-29047826264561428862014-01-13T10:36:00.000-08:002014-01-13T10:36:17.573-08:00Recovery SessionsI thought I should blog about our recovery workouts since the media did a story on it last week.
Now that basketball has become a year round sport, working our athletes out in the summer, fall, and begining practice in October knowing what it takes to recovery properly is just as important as practice.
Here are a couple of things our team does beyond your traditional stretchdowns:
1) Ice Baths-Yes, our kids hate them but I LOVE them. Ten minutes is all it takes
2)Pool Recovery-You would think great athletes are all capable in the water but I am here to tell you that is not at ALL accurate as many still rely on the dog paddle or better yet, clinching of the edge of the pool in between strokes. However, I think the bigger issue for most is still whether or not their hair is going to get wet.
3) Lifting-Many think of lifting as strengthening but we also use it for recovery along with foam rollers. We travel with bands on the road that we can use in the doors of our hotel rooms.
Last week I was totally disrupted in my room when I heard heavy breathing outside my door. So of course I had to open my door to see Coach Starr on all fours trying to simulate the team's workout. Coach Barney (red as an apple) was also with her along with our trainer Erin who was conducting the session.
Ironically it doesn't seem to be that hard for our athletes.
I would throw in nutrition but since our team's trend is In N Out Burger I didn't think I could walk the talk.
Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-81934299080731960672013-12-13T10:55:00.001-08:002013-12-13T10:55:07.224-08:00Heading NorthwestFinals are over! Our student athletes had a busy academic week and I am confident they finished well. With that being said they LOVE road trips without any study table or books to carry in their back packs. It will be a light load this weekend.
Seattle is going to be a fun one for the Cats as we have A LOT of family in Washington so even though we are on the road we will have somewhat of a home reception with plenty of Blue & Gold still in the stands.
There will be little downtime, however, with back to back games so thankfully we have a DEEP bench to keep running. The last time I tried to slow a team down was at the Baylor Tournament a few years back when we were low in numbers, on our third game in a row, and Rachel Semansky woke up that morning throwing up with the flu. I kept yelling at Katie Bussey to slow down in transition and finally gave up on the attempt.
We won that game with six healthy players running for 40 minutes. I guess when transition is in your blood you can't fight it. We face to very good transition teams this weekend so if you like uptempo games we will see you in Seattle!
Lace up the shoes & Go Cats!
Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-37651408786325720862013-12-05T11:02:00.000-08:002013-12-05T11:02:18.174-08:00TouristsAfter our trip to Florida it is now clear you know you are a tourist when:
You hand a parking attendant a $20 bill before he gives you the change. We never saw the guy again after he sprinted faster than Carl Lewis over to the 7-11 with our twenty.
You have the entire beach to yourself. The locals stay home when it's below 80 degrees and raining.
You buy magic "stuff" for your kids just because the clerk entertained them with his magic tricks.
You walk around in your shorts and flip flops but everyone else needs sunglasses because your legs are so white.
You sing along to a Neil Diamond impersonator at the restaurant.
While driving by, you take a picture of a person lying on the ground getting handcuffed.
We had a great trip to Miami, Florida, capped by the CATS remarkable comeback victory which was sparked by Jackie Elliott's bank in 3 to go into overtime. I have never seen such white eyes and a higher vertical in my career after that shot went through the net.
I am proud of our ladies for showing such perseverance. Now it's time to bundle up, get back to work, and warm up by the fireplace.
Go Cats!
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-19500277265951312752013-11-06T11:11:00.001-08:002013-11-06T11:11:25.376-08:00ConfidenceThis week of mental training our team is focusing on confidence and what I find to be so simple is how you can build stronger confidence just by practice!
The more you practice, the more time you put in, how many hundreds of shots, how many hours of ball handling is a reminder that you are prepared.
So the next time you question your ability or have self doubt ask yourself if you have done everything in your control to prepare.
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-27202629587135020262013-10-23T14:06:00.001-07:002013-10-24T09:44:55.139-07:00NEW vs OLDNew is often exciting, whether it's a new car, new house, new clothes, new phone. However, there is something about old that is familiar, and most of the time just better.
That's how I feel about the game of basketball. When it comes to drills, plays, defenses, etc. the more familiar you are with the objective, the better performance you will see when it comes to retention and execution. I always say the less a player has to think, the better. Hopefully along the course of an entire season, she becomes better and better at making reads and the right decisions when put in familiar situations over and over again.
It is challenging, however, to sustain focus and motivation throughout the lengthy season. It's an easy solution, however. Sign athletes who love to be in the gym, are competitive and who take pride in striving for perfection. There is a responsibilty of each athlete to bring their passion and love for the game to the table each and every day in order to get better. If you are trying to keep your athletes motivated with new drills and plays, your team's ability to grow will be nearly impossible.
So don't throw away the old if it's working as you may find that is your best strength after all.
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-88177489867607486512013-10-17T13:00:00.000-07:002013-10-17T13:00:26.736-07:00Eyes, Ears, Calm BodiesTaken from the words of my daughter, "eyes, ears, and calm bodies" are great words of advice for the pre schoolers at the Child Development Center at Montana State University. Brooklyn tells me that's how you pay attention and listen to your teacher's instruction.
I wonder how my players will respond today when I ask that of them in practice?
Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-7267459628004728852013-10-11T11:00:00.001-07:002013-10-11T11:00:43.914-07:00Transition DefenseAction matters!
Have you ever watched a player on the court and tried to judge their personality off the court and been completely wrong? That's because the game requires you tap into parts of your personality that may or may not be natural, to perform at an elite level.
Transition defense, for example, REQUIRES all five players to talk, act, be urgent, and assertive with one another. Tough, aggressive action and immediate response is all necessary to be an effective defensive unit.
Very different than when I'm playing Lego's with my children!
Go cats!
Coach Bin Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-91860353433618365412013-09-27T11:02:00.000-07:002013-09-27T11:02:49.631-07:0040 DaysNot nearly the challenge that Jesus faced in his 40 days of fasting, but next week begins MSU's 40 days before our first collegiate game. Next week will be fairly easy to bring the intensity and focus necessary to get better at a solid pace. The challenge is when you are about halfway and the first game still seems far away.
Jesus was tested at a level none of us can comprehend. He was at his weakest point, where he hadn't eaten, had a level of fatigue and hunger that even the hardest conditioning workout couldn't match. Yet, he was prepared. He knew what was right, was so sure about it that the ultimate temptation couldn't break him.
For athletes, that breaking point is where you find the most mentally tough teams and players. When you find the athlete that competes day in and day out regardless of playing time, first practice, 15th practice, injury, an official's call, opponent's actions, they are unbreakable. Those athletes and teams have a resilence because they have a mental mission that keeps them driven one play, one game, and one day at a time.
The emphasis for our team this year is to CONTROL HOW WE COMPETE and HOW WE RESPOND. That will take a commitment on the court. It will also take a commitment in how we prepare off the court. To prepare for the unknown adversity aheaad is also one of the most challenging responsibilities of a coach.
I am anxious for October 1st. I will be anxious for October 16th. I will also help make sure our team is anxious on all of our 30 practices before November 10th when we open up with Cal State Northridge.
Go Cats!
Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-71626649924409006662013-09-20T13:50:00.000-07:002013-09-20T13:50:19.189-07:00You are In or OutA friend of mine told me once when I first got into coaching that my biggest frustration as a coach would be that the players would not have the same level of passion and competitiveness as I have for the game.
Today I still find that opinion to be an incredible driving force in identifying the athletes I want to represent Montana State Women's Basketball and wear the Blue & Gold uniform. The "diamond in the rough" so to speak is that unique kid that raises the level of everyone around her because she competes so hard. You either choose to fight back or you are already defeated.
I have seen over the years that the ultimate challenge is having enough players with this competitive trait and passion for the game to infect the whole team. What's exciting about the Bobcats this season is I am seeing those ingredients in Ausha Cole. After a year of red shirting, there is just something in her blood about getting on the court and taking advantage of every second. As a result Lindsay is "in the ring" and next Margreet, and Kalli, as it is trickling in to every position.
You are either in or you are out. The Bobcats will be in!
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-57444963603618829272013-09-05T12:25:00.004-07:002013-09-05T12:25:48.996-07:00Back in ActionOur newest member Coach Coppa had his first opportunity with our guards this week and brought some great drills to the table.
Our athletes were as focused as ever to Salvo's instruction to detail. Whether it was respect for Salvo's knowledge or the challenge of understanding him through his thick italian accent doesn't matter.
With that being said, I have signed up Amy, Kellee, and I for a foreign language class this fall.
Go Cats!
Coach BinCoach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-57533648738999949262013-08-26T11:16:00.001-07:002013-08-26T11:16:49.239-07:00Welcome Back!It's the first day of school and I have to say the parking lots are spectacular! Most people talk about the Bridger Mountains or the Tabacco Roots, or even our beautiful campus, BUT the newly paved lots were a special entry to start off the new year.
It's also amazing to see the transformation of our community from summer to fall which I first hand witnessed going through Wal Mart this weekend while picking up my son's school supplies. If I was a more organized parent I would have done this a month ago, but what would be the fun in that? Instead I got to see many busy families purchase furniture, food, supplies pretty much everything in bulk that will possibly last a month if they are lucky. For certain, however, their pocket books have been wiped out!
The pace of life has also changed bringing a little stress with it as well. The anticipation of finding classrooms, meeting new people, getting books makes every student's heart race just a little faster, but the students aren't the only ones feeling that today.
One of those people is Drew Inghram, our marketing director, who I saw this morning. The Volleyball Blue and Gold scrimmage last night wrapped up successfully and now he is preparing for our football season opener this Thursday. I tried to offer him an ice tea from my fridge with the disappointing response of "no more Pepsi Max?" Isn't the ice tea so much better for him?
So as you walk around campus today you will see alot of smiles and a lot of lost faces, but the most important thing you will see BOBCAT SPIRIT in the air!!
Go Cats!
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-46068174360083284342013-08-15T10:05:00.003-07:002013-08-15T10:05:47.862-07:00Year Round BasketballThe seasons have changed since I played the game. Legislation allows college coaches to train our athletes 8 weeks during the summer. Practices start the beginning of October rather than the traditional October 15th back in the day. College teams play at minimum, 30 games a year so when is the off season?
For those of us who love basketball this seems like a dream come true but when it drizzles down to our youth programs, I am not so sure. Junior high is now playing travel ball, and the challenge now kids face is when they HAVE to start playing to keep up.
As a kid, I grew up in the mountains of Swiss Village 20 or so miles out of the town of Carbondale, Colorado. I recall having a ball in my hands most of the day, or tree jumping, navigating the forest and doing plenty of tick checks with my older brother.
Whether it was winter where we went 20+ miles down the hills on tubes until we ran home with bloody faces, or the summer where we played capture the flag and ran home when I lost to my brother, the last thing on my mind was playing travel ball every weekend because it didn't exist.
Later on when we put a hoop in our driveway my time shifted to 1 on 1 games, shooting, and evenings spent working on my shot. My choices were my choices and I thank my parents for that.
I feel like our generation today is in a catch 22. Starting travel ball so young seems to put athletes at risk for chronic injuries or burnout. However, kids who don't start competing with these teams may not have the confidence to play when they get a littler older.
Perspective and knowledge are key so I choose the perspective that it's a great opportunity that kids now have with the knowledge that I don't want my kids to burn out or over train their bodies.
So, my answer is go tubing and wait until Justin and Brooklyn ask me to go shoot at the park! That's what my family did this weekend anyway.
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6515963001371917757.post-63871341447783227082013-08-12T15:56:00.000-07:002013-08-12T15:56:05.689-07:00Official Visits-What to Look ForProspects and parents will be visiting campuses in the next few weeks if they haven't visited already. Here are a few things to look for and ask as you have only 48 hours to determine the best fit for your next four years.
1) Would I like this university and community if I wasn't playing basketball?
2)What does the community say about the program?
3)What do the players & staff say was the hardest situation they went through?
4)Do you have my number?
5) Where is the gym?
6) How long does it take to walk from one end of campus to the next?
7) How many hours a week do you average on the court as a team?
8) What's your APR? Coaches will explain what this is-your retention and eligibility standards.
9) What are your former players doing now?
10) What is the coach's pet pieves? Ask both the coach and players.
11) What's the best day and worst day you have had at your school? Ask both coaches and the players.
Bottom line is that there are probably 100 questions to ask. The challenge is to get through the "red carpet" and see the program as you will see it when you are LIVING it!
Official visits can be so much fun and they can give you a very clear description if you know what to look for.
Coach Bin
Coach Binfordhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07918761605382956647noreply@blogger.com0