The NBL Weekend Takeover for 1/2 December will see Northamptonshire Titans take the reins of the NBL Instagram story.
We caught up with Titans ' Coach Barry Powell ahead of their takeover weekend, in our latest Coach Spotlight feature.
COACH SPOTLIGHT
Name: Barry Powell
Team: Northamptonshire Titans - Under 16 Boys, Under 16 Girls, WNBL Division Two (North)
What brought you into coaching?
By accident really - we started a works team, so I went to the library (no internet back then!), picked up a beginner’s drills book and got started then. Then one of the of the players noticed an advert from England Basketball in the National papers looking for Coaches at any level and so I wrote off (yes, on pen and paper!) and got involved in Jnr.NBL from that moment on.
What were your original thoughts when you moved into coaching?
The same thoughts I have today; it is an honour and a privilege to hold such a position being entrusted by players, parents and extended families to develop these young people.
What did you find most interesting to learn as a coach?
How much of a positive impact you can have on everyone around you. Its more than a sport, it’s the way we chose to live our lives and as a coach we ultimately have the ability to teach life skills.
What was the most rewarding part of your coaching journey so far?
I have had so many on the court it’s difficult to narrow that down, but if I’m honest the most rewarding part has been seeing so many of my players go off to follow their dreams and aspirations as they grow into valued individuals; attending some of the best academies that this country has to offer.
Which parts of coaching do you like the most?
Developing players for me is top of the list, especially how that has a positive impact on their self-confidence and self-esteem on and off the court. All on-court lessons also relate to life, and through basketball these young people will be the best they can be.
Where are you now? How are you using your coaching skills?
As a club we have grown year-on-year, and we are now in a position where our own venue is a viable option. Just like on the court, I have put my coaching skills at use by pulling together a team to make that happen. I truly believe that if you have the right people around you then everything is possible.
What is your coaching niche and why did you choose it?
I coach the detail and found everything including results look after themselves. Taking this and a 'family’ approach, we have found so many successes.
What is your coaching vision for the next 2 years?
Our Tiny Titans program for pre-school is currently under development and we are focusing on mentoring more coaches.
What is your favourite coaching question from athletes?
“How can I improve?” a question I often get, which just demonstrates the mindset of the players and a reflection of the outstanding work my coaches are delivering.
What advice do you have for those coaches currently in training?
Know the coach you want to be first; coach the detail; if you are enjoying what you are doing then your players will too. Learn from your players, whatever age they are, as they have much to teach us; and always be approachable.
What legacy would you like to leave behind you?
Building a Titans arena will be the ultimate legacy. To provide a place for ALL players, of ALL ages and ALL abilities, to enjoy basketball. To be a part of a family, to belong, to develop and to achieve. ‘A Place to Go, A Place to Grow!’
You can follow Coach Powell's progress this weekend when Northamptonshire Titans takeover the NBL Instagram story!
