Football is more than just a game; it's a testament to discipline, resilience, and teamwork. High school football coaches see firsthand the transformative power of the sport, especially in shaping linemen who often never get their “glory” on the field. Let’s dive into the nuances of developing these young athletes, drawing inspiration from the legends of the game.
Skills, Physical Development, and Attention to Detail
"Football is a game of inches and inches make the champion." - Vince Lombardi
The role of a lineman is both physically demanding and technically intricate. The difference between a good lineman and a great one often lies in the little details. Whether it's the precise angle of a block, the timing of a snap, or the positioning during a play, emphasizing the importance of details in training can elevate a player's performance.
Stance and Start: The foundation of every play. Regular drills focusing on the three-point and four-point stances ensure linemen can explode off the line with power and precision.
Hand Placement and Combat: A lineman's hands are their primary tools. Drills that emphasize hand combat, punch strength, and quick resets can give them the upper hand in the trenches.
Footwork: Quick feet can be a lineman's best asset. Incorporating agility ladders, cone drills, sled pushes, and shuttle runs can enhance their mobility and balance.
Strength and Conditioning: Beyond the regular weightlifting sessions, plyometric exercises, resistance band training, and functional fitness routines can help linemen develop explosive power and endurance.
Nutrition: A balanced diet tailored to their rigorous training regime ensures they have the fuel to perform and recover.
Fostering a Positive Team Culture and Cohesiveness
"It's not the will to win that matters—everyone has that. It's the will to prepare to win that matters." - Paul "Bear" Bryant
The linemen, more than any other unit, must operate as a single entity. Their synchronized movements, trust in one another, and understanding of each player's strengths and weaknesses are crucial for both protecting the quarterback and creating opportunities for runners.
Building a cohesive unit goes beyond just drills.
Leadership Development: Encourage senior players to mentor the younger ones, fostering a culture of mutual respect and growth.
Open Dialogue: Regular team meetings where players can voice their opinions, share experiences, and set collective goals can be invaluable.
Mental Toughness: Incorporate mental conditioning sessions, helping players develop resilience, focus, and a positive mindset.
Community Engagement: Organize team community service projects. Giving back can instill a sense of purpose and humility.
Balancing Academics and Athletics for the Future
"The principle is competing against yourself. It's about self-improvement, about being better than you were the day before." - Steve Young
Football is a significant part of the players’ lives. It is the academics that do the most to shape their future. A successful high school coach that doesn’t prioritize academics for his players is not a successful high school coach. So, think beyond the field, the weight room, and the film room.
Study Sessions: Organize team study halls or tutoring sessions, ensuring players have the resources and environment to excel academically.
Time Management Workshops: Equip players with skills to juggle their academic responsibilities with training, ensuring neither suffers.
Academic Check-ins: Regular check-ins to monitor players' academic progress can help identify those who might be struggling, allowing for timely interventions.
College Recruiting: As coaches, we play a pivotal role in our linemen's college recruiting process. From showcasing their skills in highlight reels, networking with college scouts, to guiding them through the intricacies of college visits and scholarship negotiations, we are their advocates, ensuring they get the opportunities they've worked so hard for.
Life After Football: Organize sessions with college counselors or career advisors, helping players understand the myriad opportunities that await them beyond high school, both in football and other fields.
Developing top-notch high school linemen is a comprehensive endeavor. It's about molding them into formidable players on the field and responsible, well-rounded individuals off it. As coaches, our mission is to guide, support, and inspire them every step of the way.
Savage Style is there for you every step of the way
