I've coached kids aged 6-14 for a while now, and there are a few things that come up over and over. Sharing this because I think it'll save parents a lot of stress — and help your kid actually enjoy the game.

1. Don't rush them into competitive leagues.

Kids under 10 need to fall in love with the ball first. Dribbling in the backyard, shooting on a lowered hoop, playing with friends. Structure comes later.

2. Shoes matter more than you think.

You don't need $200 Jordans. But flat-soled, properly fitting basketball shoes prevent ankle rolls and help with footwork. Running shoes are not the same.

3. The best skill to develop early is dribbling, not shooting.

Every parent wants to see buckets. But a kid who can handle the ball confidently will always find their shot. The reverse isn't true.

4. Consistency beats intensity.

2-3 sessions a week where your kid actually shows up focused > 5 sessions where they're burned out. This is a marathon, not a sprint.

5. Let them play other sports too.

Multi-sport athletes develop better coordination, avoid burnout, and honestly — they bring different skills to the court. Don't specialize too early.

At First Draft Academy, we focus on building real fundamentals in a structured but fun environment. Sessions are 1.5 hours, we keep it focused, and every kid leaves better than they came in.

If this resonates, check out our Beginner and Intermediate training programs. 🏀