You have to learn to walk before you can run. That idiom encapsulates the philosophy of this Sunday’s Alercio OLine Clinic at the Hun School of Princeton. We call the event a clinic rather than a camp because it is learning-based. We teach the coordination and execution of learned physical tasks and then build upon them.
Racecar drivers, gymnasts, dancers, and any athlete or performer who has to string together a series of movements, efforts, or tasks to be successful know, “Slow is smooth, and smooth is fast…”
That’s why we do not go full speed. We use a pace I call theory speed. It emphasizes a focus on proper execution rather than speed, develops an understanding and ultimately a smooth approach. Using the above idiom, we start out walking, build context and confidence, and then advance to a jog.
As we have mentioned in previous blogs, whether I am coaching my own players or attendees at my clinics, the focus is always on becoming adept at the basic skills and technique before moving on to that which requires greater skill. Fundamentals… Building blocks… a solid foundation from which to begin…
Just as Nietzsche said, “one cannot fly into flying.” I would argue one cannot excel as an offensive lineman without brilliance in the basics.
Join us at the Hun School in Princeton this Sunday and let’s work together on the best possible foundation for the upcoming season.
Coach Rich Alercio is available to discuss coaching philosophy, X’s & O’s, or teach his O-Line “techniques in the trenches.” Contact Coach at richalercio@gmail.com and share http://www.olineskills.com with your colleagues and friends. Thanks for supporting this blog and joining our conversations, and as always, thanks for your time!
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