Mason City boys basketball players got a new perspective on the game recently as they stepped into the roles of coaches and officials for the Talons Youth League. Talons League is made up of third through eighth graders and prepares them for their travel basketball season.
“My favorite part about coaching the younger kids is getting to help them improve basic basketball skills and become better players,” Junior Brock Anderson said.
Anderson and others learned the highs and lows of coaching. His fifth and sixth-grade team ended the Talons League with a 0-4 record to end the season winless. On the other side, senior Jackson Malek’s team came out victorious with a 4-0 season and a championship win.
“My favorite part is seeing how much fun they have while learning,” said Malek. “The younger kids bring so much enthusiasm and curiosity. Every game turns into an adventure. It’s awesome to watch them build friendships, gain confidence, and start developing real skills without even realizing how much they’re improving.”
Head Coach of the Riverhawk Varsity Basketball team, Nicholas Trask, says coaching young players is helping his high school team get better for the upcoming season.
“When the high school guys coach, they have to be masters of things like the offense and plays we run to be able to teach it,” said Trask. “This experience should help them to understand what we are doing at the high school level better.”
While some players coached the Talons, others officiated the games. Junior Jack Boedeker is one of several high school students who received his referee certification through a Work Ready Program at MCHS.
“It 100 percent gets easier as you do more games,” said Boedecker “It’s all about experience and getting comfortable. If you’re at all interested or just play basketball, I would definitely recommend it.”
Tony Buhr helped launch the referee training program
“It offers a safe and supportive environment where they can learn, grow, and gain confidence,” said Buhr, “The Talons league allows the officials to make mistakes without fear of harsh judgment, which is essential for developing their skills, building their confidence, and continuing to learn the responsibilities of officiating.”
In all, the Talon-Riverhawk partnership is a win-win for both teams.
“Having fun with the kids and teaching them the game of basketball.” Senior, Marcele Whitner said.
“They [Talons players] look at those guys like heroes,” said Trask. “This gives the youth a chance to interact with those heroes and learn directly from them.”
The boys’ high school team begins practicing for their season next week.
