Coaches How to structure practice efficiently for a small training group?

[presshandstands9]

I’m about to start coaching a small Xcel Silver group — just two 11-year-olds training 3 hours, 3 times a week. I’m used to running practices with larger groups where I can use circuits and stations, but with only two kids, I’m not sure how to structure things efficiently. What are some good ways to keep them engaged and make the most of the time? Are there specific things I should focus on or any tips for optimizing training in a small group setting? They’re coming right from rec so also going to have to get used to longer practices (in rec they did 2 hours once a week) I’ve also only ever coached compulsory, not Xcel so any advice is appreciated!

 

[Coach Kate]

I would honestly see if you can cut the practice time length. That is way too long for just two kids - you're basically doing s private lesson. When we did our gradual restart after covid, we had groups of 5 xcel kids and we cut it to 2.5 hours and even that felt like a lot.