Along with playing for the Neptune Basketball Club, I am also coaching the Under-16 neptune team. Coaching is something that I have done all my life and something that I truly enjoy. Basketball has taught me so much and given me so many opportunities throughout my life, and coaching kids is my favorite way of giving back to the game. Being able to coach a team in another country is such a unique opportunity and it has been awesome helping them develop in these first few weeks. My team here consists of about 12 kids from all different backgrounds and skill levels. A few of the older kids have been playing basketball for most of their life, which is rare here in Ireland. While some have only ever played hurling or soccer and wanted to try basketball because it was something new and fun. Most are not familiar with some of the drills or training methods that I am showing them, and they are eager to learn and try new “American” drills. Along with their interest in new drills I have to show them, they are also very interested about life in America. Despite my reasoning, they are convinced that American College is just like the experiences portrayed in Blue Mountain State. It’s funny hearing how kids here think of America and the stereotypes that they believe to be true, no matter what I try and tell them. Every practice is an adventure with this group and they keep me laughing the entire time. Coaching here is very different than coaching back in the States, but it’s a joy nonetheless. I’m very excited for the rest of the year with this squad, and can’t wait to see how they all develop on and off the court throughout our time together.
