Coaching Resources

Thank you for volunteering to be a Turnpike Basketball Coach!

Your time and mentorship are incredibly valuable to the young athletes in our program and community.

This guide includes everything you need to prepare for the season:

  • Preseason Requirements – 4 steps to complete before the season begins
  • Team Preparation Essentials – first tasks after tryouts/draft
  • Season Guides & Resources – helpful information for practices and games

If you have questions, contact us at turnpike.basketball@gmail.com.
Thank you for your commitment, and enjoy your coaching experience!

Preseason Requirements

All head coaches, assistant coaches, and on-court volunteers must complete these steps before the season begins:

Step 1: Register with Us

Step 2: Get a Background Check

  • Required for all head and assistant coaches.
  • Coaches under 18 are exempt, but the adult with the team must undergo the check
  • [Background Check Application →]

Step 3: Complete VBD Training

  • Each team must have a certified Volunteer Building Director (VBD) to use County gyms.
  • VBDs must be 18+, so if a coach is under 18, the adult with the team must complete the training.
  • Training is online, takes less than an hour, and is valid for two years.
  • Coaches may serve as VBDs for practices but not games.
  • [Start VBD Training →]

Step 4: Read Player Safety Guidelines

  • Coaches are responsible for the well-being of their own players and all others in the gym.
  • Required reading includes:
    • Abuse & Molestation Policy
    • Anti-Bullying Policy
    • Concussion Awareness
    • Social Media Policy
      \[Turnpike Player Safety Guidelines →]

Team Preparation Essentials

Once tryouts or the draft are complete, do these steps right away:

1. Access Your Team Page

  • Available via the SportsEngine app and/or TeamCenter on desktop.
  • [Guide to Using SportsEngine to Manage Your Team →]

2. Add Your Practice Schedule

  • After the County issues gym permits, coaches will enter their team’s weekly time slot.
  • Be aware gyms may be unavailable at times; cancellations by schools are final.
  • If a practice is cancelled:
    • Check the shared spreadsheet for open slots.
    • Replacement practices must be scheduled within one week of the missed date.
    • Contact us with your requested slot and we will assign a makeup if available.

3. Send a Welcome Email

  • Introduce yourself and provide details to your team. Include:
    • Your name and team name
    • Coaching experience (if applicable)
    • Weekly practice slot
    • Game frequency
    • Volunteer needs (VBDs, scorer’s table)
    • Any personal preferences/expectations (RSVPs, behavior, sportsmanship)

Season Guides & Resources

Throughout the season, use these resources:

  • Pregame & Postgame FAQ – which team wears which color, VBD duties, setup/cleanup
  • Gym Permit & Game Rules – gym access and County requirements
  • Participation & Substitution Rules – quick summary of league rules
  • Rescheduling Procedures – how to request a new practice/game
  • Health & Safety – what to do if a player or coach tests positive for COVID

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