Dear Coach,

Athletes come in all shapes and sizes. They grow and mature at varying times throughout their lives. Some are genetically more gifted than others and we must recognize this important variable. Technique, however, and the knowledge of how to maximize potential can be taught learned and executed.

I have had the great fortune to have played for coaches who have encouraged me to experiment with my game. As a result, I spent many hours in the gym, during the summer months of the late 1960's and 70's, working on all facets of basketball so that I could perform any drill in a fundamentally sound manner. Though disciplined repetition, I became expert enough in ball handling, passing, shooting, footwork and rebounding to thoroughly demonstrate these skills on a clinical level. During these years, I also developed strength and conditioning regimens that were not widely accepted at the time, but proved to be highly effective for me to achieve the body type I needed to play on the collegiate and professional level.

For the past 35 years I have shared these practice habits and demonstrated fundamental skills with over 1,000 young male and female players each year.

In the late 1970's I formulated a program called "Centered" that was tailored specifically to "Big Men." I ran this program for many college and professional players up until 1994 when I became an NBA coach with the San Antonio Spurs.

Below are some of many teaching points I cover with each player:

• Footwork: using both feet in various positions in the low or mid-post areas
• Court and Ball awareness via position
• Position timing and how to maintain position
• Balance and play readiness How and when to block out
• Finger and hand dexterity
• Utilizing the opposing player's aggressiveness to one's advantage
• Offensive rebounding tips
• Setting effective screens and opening up to the ball
• Hook shots: runners and jump hooks
• Moves in the low and mid-post areas
• Conditioning and coordination enhancement
• Communication on the court: oral commands and pronouncements
• The benefits of visualization and relaxation

It is apparent that the game of basketball can offer a young person tremendous opportunities. Paying attention to details and playing with respect for the game are necessary ingredients to enhancing the potential in each player.

Mechanical corrections and improvements can be made at any time, but off-season practice of the strict fundamentals is necessary to strengthen confidence and stretch a player's skill level. "Centered" provides a comprehensive practice routine that both challenges the player and promotes good habits. It is tailored to each individual and does not address team strategy or the principles of any team offenses or defenses.

I derive great pleasure from working with young players and interfacing with coaching staffs. As is often the case in education, a different yet credible voice can echo the words of the coach into the player's ear creating a lasting effect. We are all looking for the edge on our opponent and I believe I can be one component of that effort for you and your program.

Sincerely,
Dave Cowens

Program Requirements:

A minimum of two sessions (two hours per session on the court.)

One hour prior to each session in a classroom environment for orientation purposes.

One hour after each session to review the lessons and view the video of the day's work.

A copy of the work video will be given to each player as well as a practice routine with reminders of what was covered during the sessions.

The fee is $750 per man (two man minimum) plus reimbursement of travel and lodging expenses.

It would also be helpful to view games tape of each player in the program as well as discuss each player with the head coach prior to the sessions.

For more information or to register please complete the following: