Along with playing in the National League of Ireland, I am also playing in the college league, representing Waterford Institute of Technology. We have not lost a game all year, and actually have our first playoff game tomorrow (as I’m writing this). While all of these games have been a great amount of fun, there is one that stands out in my mind. That is the game where I got to follow in the footsteps of one of my cinematic heroes, Jackie Moon. I got to be a player coach.
This experience was certainly an eye opening one for me. I spent the day thinking of game plans, different lineups to play, and who wold start the game. This was the easy part for me, all centered around the actual game. What I was not prepared for was all the other aspects of coaching. I am talking about knowing how to get to the gym, a place in Dublin that I have never been before. Making sure that every member of the team receives their stipend. Making sure the bus driver knows where and when to pick us up. All of the logistical aspects that go into playing a game on the road.
This was an incredibly valuable experience for me, as I am looking to become a basketball coach back in the States. While everyone is aware of the impact a coach has during training and matches, not many people are aware what goes into making that match happen. I definitely have a new appreciation for all of the work that goes in to getting both of my teams ready for their matches every week. We ended up leaving Dublin with a win, a great start to my coaching career. Moving forward I will certainly be looking for different ways to help my actual coach prepare for matches.
