Scrimmages are an invaluable opportunity for AAU basketball teams to improve skills, test strategies, and prepare for the competitive season. However, organizing a scrimmage takes careful planning and collaboration. This guide will walk you through the steps to ensure your scrimmage runs smoothly and provides maximum benefit for your team.
1. Finding the Right Opponent
The first step in organizing a successful scrimmage is finding a compatible team:
- Look for a team with a similar skill level or one that presents specific challenges (e.g., a strong defense, quick guards) that can help your team grow.
- Communicate with the opposing coach to confirm their interest and availability.
2. Securing the Gym
A proper venue is essential for the scrimmage:
- Book the Gym: Confirm which gym will be used and secure it well in advance. Check if there are additional costs associated with using the facility, such as rental or cleaning fees.
- Amenities: Verify the gym has necessary features like functioning restrooms, water fountains, and adequate seating.
- Scoreboard: Check if the gym has a working scoreboard. If not, plan to bring or rent a portable scoreboard to keep the game running smoothly.
3. Game Day Logistics
Once the venue and opponent are confirmed, it’s time to iron out the details of the scrimmage day:
- Referee Needs: Decide whether you’ll hire a referee. If not, discuss alternative officiating arrangements with the other coach, such as coaches or players taking turns to referee.
- Scorekeeping: Assign a dedicated person to keep the score, track fouls, and manage timeouts.
- Equipment Checklist: Prepare essential items like basketballs, a stopwatch, whistles, and a first-aid kit. Double-check all equipment is in working condition before game day.
4. Collaborating with the Opposing Coach
Open communication with the other coach is key to a productive scrimmage. Before the scrimmage:
- Discuss Rules: Agree on how fouls, substitutions, and time limits will be managed.
- Teaching Opportunities: Determine if both coaches are open to stopping the game to teach players during specific scenarios. For example, you might pause the game to review offensive plays or defensive setups.
- Testing Strategies: If desired, ask the other coach to use a particular defense (e.g., zone or man-to-man) so your team can practice plays designed for those situations. Collaboration ensures the scrimmage benefits both teams.
5. On the Day of the Scrimmage
Make sure everything is ready to go:
- Inspect the Gym: Check that all equipment, including the scoreboard and shot clock, is functional. Walk through the gym to ensure the space is clean and ready for use.
- Roles and Responsibilities: Ensure everyone knows their assigned roles, including scorekeeping, foul tracking, and coaching duties.
- Brief Your Team: Remind your players of the scrimmage format and goals, such as focusing on teamwork, trying new plays, or improving defensive communication.
6. After the Scrimmage
The work doesn’t end when the final whistle blows:
- Review and Reflect: Meet with the opposing coach to discuss what went well and areas for improvement. Collaboration doesn’t stop at the game’s end!
- Player Feedback: Gather insights from your players about their experience and what they learned.
- Plan Next Steps: Use the scrimmage as a building block to refine strategies, improve skills, and prepare for upcoming games.
Why Preparation Matters
A well-planned scrimmage can be a game-changer for your AAU team. By focusing on the details—finding the right opponent, securing the venue, and collaborating with the other coach—you’ll create a valuable experience for everyone involved. Scrimmages aren’t just practice games; they’re opportunities to teach, learn, and grow as a team.