2004 Coaching Retreat Recap
Ottawa, KS

Win the Tip! member coaches convened on the campus of Ottawa University, May 14th and 15th for a Win the Tip! Basketball Coaches Retreat.  This member only event tipped off with Coach Reggie Minton the associate executive director of the NABC.  Coach Minton’s reflections on a 30+ year coaching career inspired members with his passion for the profession and dedication to being a “Guardian of the Game.”  Following Coach Minton Rob Miller, the director of Champions of Character Initiatives for the NAIA provided valuable insight into the importance of developing positive character traits in youth through coaching.  “Sport does not teach character, coaches teach character.  All members of your team can commit to character values,” he stated.  Friday evening concluded with Mike Taylor, the head coach of Ratiopharm Ulm, a German professional team.  His presentation on international basketball intrigued members about the game and opportunities overseas.  “Coach Taylor’s presentation on international basketball was tremendous and outstanding.  What a great example of how to be successful overseas,” stated attendee Herb Welling (Omaha South HS).

Members discussed numerous topics regarding the game and the history of the game during an open discussion session that lasted well into the night.  Many members led open discussions on a topic of their choice.  “Having the opportunity to present material that I feel passionate about and being associated with a great group of coaches, made for a awesome weekend of hoops,” claimed member Jeff Willms (Fort Hays State).  Coaches left the retreat feeling they had developed camaraderie with fellow members and gained a renewed energy about the profession.  Member, Mark Armstrong (Perry-Lecompton High School) may have summed it up best when he said, “I enjoyed it a great deal, learned a lot, and got excited about basketball again.  Wow, what more can a guy ask for?  Also, I enjoyed meeting everyone, connecting with people, and networking with some of the good guys in the profession.”

This was the second year in a row that Ottawa University has hosted a Win the Tip! Basketball Coaching Retreat.