The New York Jets and USA Football have joined up to host a one-day coaching clinic on Saturday, July 12, at the Green & White's training facility in Hempstead, N.Y. Successful high school and youth coaches from the tristate area will run the event, targeting local coaches who teach players from the ages of 7-14.
"The most effective way to further strengthen this great game is to provide coaches resources to become quality instructors and mentors," said Jets head coach Eric Mangini, a USA Football coaching adviser. "The Jets and USA Football work together to serve coaches in exciting ways, including the July 12 USA Football Coaching School here at Weeb Ewbank Hall."
During the morning session, coaches will gather inside "the Weeb" for some classroom work. Using four meeting rooms and the Jets' auditorium, instructors will discuss developing coaching philosophy, breaking down video, building effective practice schedules and understanding field position. They'll also cover positive team/program management, communication with players, coaches and parents, and motivation techniques and best practices: equipment, health and safety.
Then following lunch and a keynote address, the group will move outside to the Jets' practice fields or in the team's practice bubble. Throughout the afternoon, the football teaching will be hands-on.
The offensive stations will include multiple offensive sets such as running the option, the "I" formation, the wing "T", the single wing and the single back (spread) in addition to three-step-drop passing, movement passing (rollout, play-action), attacking man-to-man and zone coverage, and short yardage/goal line.
Defensive coaches will review defensive fronts and proper tackling fundamentals. Time will also be spent on coverage schemes featuring man-to-man press and zone and blitz packages.
Mangini, a Hartford, Conn., native, offers guidance to USA Football members through an online coaching course at USAFootball.com. He also hosts an annual one-day football fundamentals minicamp at his alma mater, Bulkeley High School.
Since its inception in 2002, the camp has instructed more than 2,000 kids on the fundamentals of football in the areas of offense, defense and strength and conditioning. In addition to football fundamentals, participants are educated with important life lessons in areas such as competition, teamwork and striving to be one's best.
"I'm proud to be part of USA Football," Mangini said, "and I encourage volunteer coaches to come to the facility to prepare for the season and ensure the greatest possible football experience for your players."
Last year USA Football held 18 similar clinics, which drew a total of 4,000 coaches and benefited 100,000 youth players.
All participants for the Jets' 2008 coaching clinic must be at least 18 years of age and there is a $40 registration fee. You can register at USAFootball.com now.
All participants for the Jets' 2008 coaching clinic must be at least 18 years of age and there is a $40 registration fee.
