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The Hottest Trend in Summer Basketball Camps
By Coach Randy Brown

Last summer I begin to hear a buzz about a new concept in the summer basketball camp scene. The buzz got louder and louder this summer as this hot, new trend has begun to emerge around the country. Check the article to see for yourself just what this popular trend is all about.

The traditional summer basketball camp is firmly entrenched in every small or big town in America. Parents pay to have their son or daughter be involved in basketball camp. Some do it to substitute for babysitting while others truly expect improvement from their investment. The price being charged for basketball camps has been on the increase each year and some college sponsored camps charge obscene prices.

One has to question the value of such "team play" camps. Sure some of the fundamentals are drilled in stations, but a lot of the time is supplemented with the "fun" factor that seems to keeps kids alert for the week. Contests, team games, and too much down time usually weigh down the typical camp these days.

As a parent I have begun to wonder, "How much value does today's camp really deliver for my buck?" The answer for those that seek improvement and high value sadly is "not much." Hence the advent of basketball's new trend, the Basketball Academy.

The Academy approach delivers tremendous quality and value for the player though the price tag is steep. I have heard from several college coaches and private workout specialists this summer. They all agree that the days to come will see much more of an emphasis on teaching the game.

From what my research has gathered, these are the main components of the Academy approach to player improvement and development:

1. The high price tag seems to be in the $450-$750 range.

2. The quality of the Academy is also high, delivering high-end individual attention and teaching.

3. True teaching is done in the Academy. Not just fundamental drills, but "real" game situations are a major part of the teaching component.

4. Academy basketball is position-specific as well as focused on overall skill development.

5. Video tape is utilized beyond the extent that any player has seen to date. Drills, small group play, and 5-on-5 games are taped and broken down for each player.

6. An emphasis is put on "basketball knowledge" development through a classroom setting where a variety of topics are presented. Players take notes in a detailed notebook provided by the staff.

7. The game is broken down, unlike most camps. For example, the 4 cuts off the down screen are walked through then drilled to perfection. Rarely does the average camp get close to this kind of precision.

8. A true commitment to the individual players needs and desired improvement.

If you a player that is serious about improving as a player to the next level, the Basketball Academy approach is for you. As a coach, whether at a junior high, high school, or college program, you would do well to look into the hottest trend in teaching the game of basketball.

For more information on this new Academy approach, email me directly or visit my web site. I would love to see the Academy pop up all over the country. Our youth game would improve drastically in a matter of a few years. Hopefully you will choose to join this powerful teaching too!