Episode 28 - High School Hoops Season - Mike Walker, Brent Sowder, Mike Kannady

Episode 28 brings together my friend Brent Sowder (Campbell County HS) and Mike Walker (Lloyd Memorial HS). Two high school basketball coaches right here in Northern Kentucky.

As the basketball season tips off, we discuss the key aspects of building a successful team, starting with the off-season camps and workouts up to the tryout process in October.

Coach Walker and Coach Sowder share their thoughts on the traditional fall tryouts and the possibility of introducing Summer Tryouts in June, giving players more time to prepare and coaches more time to evaluate and prepare with the proper equipment.

We talk about cutting players and how coaches can navigate this emotionally charged process while continuing to support and develop athletes. Beyond just the game, we check out the role of game and team managers and why some students feel insulted by the offer to take on this critical role. What’s the real reason behind the stigma, and how can coaches and students manage the ego that sometimes gets in the way?

From practice schedules to scouting reports, we break down each team’s season preparation process. Learn how these coaches utilize assistant managers and staff to assemble detailed scouting reports, and hear about the successes and challenges they’ve faced along the way.

Lastly, Mike Walker brings up the idea of launching a Media Day for Northern Kentucky High School Basketball! He discusses how this could give teams and players more exposure and create excitement around the sport(s). And he's nominated me yours truly to do it. What do y'all think?