The Rock Almighty. Should a Christian Follow Societal Norms Concerning Sexual Behavior? And GALACTIC COWBOYS Interview! (Monty, Ben & Dane!)

The Rock Almighty Shaker Of Heaven and Earth. Now Streaming On US Sports Radio!

 

• Author James Rondinone

PART 6 TESTIMONY

Should a Christian Follow Societal Norms Concerning Sexual Behavior?

There are probably many examples of societal norms pertaining to sexual behavior that we could present. Instead of overkill on this subject, let’s just mention a couple of them.

Let’s begin by taking a look at some articles that I found online pertaining to sexuality. This one has to do with the Romans during the time of Christ.

3 AWFUL FEATURES OF ROMAN SEXUAL MORALITY

Roman Sexuality Was [about] Dominance

Sexuality was tied to ideas of masculinity, male domination, and the adoption of the Greek pursuit of beauty.                                                                                                                                

Romans did not think in terms of sexual orientation. Rather, sexuality was tied to ideas of masculinity, male domination, and the adoption of the Greek pursuit of beauty. “In the Roman mind, the strong took what they wanted to take. It was socially acceptable for a strong Roman male to have intercourse with men or women alike, provided he was the aggressor. It was looked down upon to play the female ‘receptive’ role in homosexual liaisons.”                                                     

A real man dominated in the bedroom as he did on the battlefield. He would have sex with his slaves whether they were male or female; he would visit prostitutes; he would have homosexual encounters even while married; he would engage in pederasty (see below); even rape was generally acceptable as long as he only raped people of a lower status. “He was strong, muscular, and hard in both body and spirit. Society looked down on him only when he appeared weak or soft.” So, Romans did not think of people as being oriented toward homosexuality or heterosexuality. Instead, they understood that a respectable man would express his dominance by having sex—consensual or forced—with men, women, and even children.                                  

Roman Sexuality Accepted Pedophilia                                                                                                

The pursuit of beauty and the obsession with the masculine ideal led to the widespread practice of pederasty—a sexual relationship between an adult man and an adolescent boy. This had been a common feature of the Greek world and was [adopted] by the Romans, who saw it as a natural expression of male privilege and domination. A Roman man would direct his sexual attention toward a slave boy or, at times, even a freeborn [child] and would continue to do so until the boy reached puberty. These relationships were seen as an acceptable and even idealized form of love, the kind of love that expressed itself in [poems, stories, and songs].                                                                                                                             

In the Roman [world,] a man’s wife was often seen as beneath him and less than he was, but a sexual relationship with another male, boy or man, represented a higher form of intellectual love and engagement. It was a man joining with that which was his equal and who could, therefore, share experiences and ideas with him in a way he could not with a [woman.] Pederasty—pedophilia—was understood to be good and acceptable.

Roman Sexuality Had a Low View of Womanhood

Women were not generally held in high regard in Roman culture. “Women were often seen as weak physically and mentally. They were inferior to men and existed to serve the men as little more than slaves at times.” A woman’s value was largely in her ability to bear [children,] and if she could not do so, she was quickly cast off. Because lifespans were short and infant mortality [was] high, women were often married off in their young teens to maximize the number of children they could bear.

When it came to sexual mores, women were held to a very different standard than men. Where men were free to carry on homosexual affairs and to commit adultery with slaves, prostitutes, and concubines, a woman caught in adultery could be charged with a crime. “The legal penalty for adultery allowed the husband to rape the male offender and then, if he desired, to kill his wife.” Under [Augustus,] it even became illegal for a man to forgive his wife—he was forced to divorce her. “It is not enough to suggest that women were under-appreciated in Roman culture. There are many instances where they were treated as second-class human beings, slightly more honored than slaves.” 76

I think we would agree that in America [today,] most of society would not approve of pedophilia. What about homosexuality or lesbianism? Again, I think we would agree that in the ‘50s and  ’60s, homosexuality or lesbianism was considered by society as being perverse, unnatural sexual acts between two people of the same sex. That was until the 1970s, which was called the ‘Me Decade.’ This was a time when many marginal groups continued their fight for equality. Over time, some forty plus years later, on June 26, 2015, in the case of ObergefellHYPERLINK "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obergefell_v._Hodges" v. Hodges, the Supreme Court struck down all state bans on same-sex marriage.

With these thoughts in mind, there is confusion in many churches as to whether to sanction marriages between two people of the same sex or not. Here are two articles that pertain to such. The first has to do with a mainstream church in the USA. The second has to do with the Church in Wales.

                                                      

WHY A VOTE ON GAY CLERGY AND SAME-SEX MARRIAGE COULD SPLIT THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH                                                                                                                                             

The church is considering a proposal to end its prohibitions on same-sex marriage and ordaining gays and lesbians, but a rival plan to keep those policies in place appears to have more support.

The United Methodist Church is meeting in St. Louis this week to vote on whether to strengthen or end its prohibitions on same-sex marriage and ordaining gays and lesbians — a decision that could splinter the church.

The denomination has been grappling for years with how to respond to social changes that have buffeted other mainline Protestant congregations, with individual United Methodist churches adopting contradictory — and sometimes competing — practices. At some churches, clergy members have come out as gay or lesbian from the pulpit, while other pastors have preached that homosexuality is a sin.

With [twelve] million adherents worldwide, including seven million in the United States, the church gathered 864 members in St. Louis to vote on the way forward.

But the meeting has laid bare the denomination’s fissures. “The church,” said Gideon Salatan, a member from the Philippines, “[Is] grievously wounded.”

Here’s a look at the two leading proposals, known [as] the Traditional Plan and the One Church Plan. No matter which garners the most votes, there are fears that significant numbers of people will be dissatisfied with the [outcome,] and many will ultimately leave.                                                         

What is the Traditional Plan?

This proposal essentially maintains the church’s practice of denying gays and lesbians equality and appears to have the most support. The church’s policy, which dates from 1972, states that “[The] practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching.”

The plan prohibits gays and lesbians from becoming clergy and forbids same-sex marriage. It defines homosexuals as people in same-sex marriages or civil [unions] and those who “publicly state that they are practicing homosexuals.”

Clergy who officiate at same-sex weddings would receive a [one-year] unpaid suspension. A second offense would result in removal from the clergy.

The policy would also require groups within the denomination to “certify adherence” to the rule. Those who refuse would be “urged” to leave the United Methodist Church, which would prohibit them from using the denomination’s name or logo.

The primary supporters of the proposal are church members from African nations and the Philippines, as well as evangelical Europeans and Americans, who expressed a desire to retain the church’s longstanding rules.

“I was born into a traditional church, so I am learning [what God’s will is],” Julia Stukalova, a church member from Russia, said Monday. “God loves everyone, but he wants everyone to live according to his word.”                                                                                                                           

And what’s the alternative?

The One Church Plan would allow individual churches or regions to decide for themselves whether to hire gay clergy or to perform same-sex weddings.

It would also eliminate the church policy that homosexuality is incompatible with Christianity.

Churches that choose not to hire gay and lesbian pastors or to conduct same-sex weddings would not be punished. Bishops and clergy who choose not to officiate at ordinations or same-sex weddings would be protected from being sanctioned.

The majority of support for the proposal comes from self-identified progressives, many of whom are from the United States.

“I will be very sad not to be able to claim the cross and the flame because I am being kicked out,” said Cheryl Johnson Bell, a clergy member who said her family had been part of the church for five generations.                                                                                                                             

What’s next for the church?

The church is scheduled to vote Tuesday about which plan to pursue.

If the Traditional Plan is successful, some places, particularly in California, would probably begin preparing to leave the United Methodist Church, according to church members.

If the One Church Plan prevails, congregations in Africa and Asia might start preparing to form an independent Methodist church.

Any exit, however, involves a fairly cumbersome process and would most likely not occur for several [months] or even years.

“It is true that some persons and some local churches have an interest in withdrawal and separation,” said Kenneth Carter, president of the church’s Council of Bishops. “Unfortunately, the losers will be the most vulnerable, who won’t have the protection of a united church.”77

                                                 

EVANGELICALS PUSH FOR NEW BISHOP AFTER CHURCH IN WALES ALLOWS PASTORS TO BLESS GAY MARRIAGES

By Nicole Alcindor, CP Reporter

Evangelicals who hold to traditional Christian teaching on sexuality and marriage are pushing for a new bishop to be appointed in the Church in Wales following the results of an early September vote to allow pastors to bless same-sex marriages.

The Church in Wales, composed of six Anglican dioceses in the United Kingdom, does not allow clergy to conduct legally binding same-sex marriage ceremonies. However, in a Sept. 6 vote of 28 to 12 in favor with two abstentions, clergy were approved to host blessing ceremonies for same-sex unions in their churches.

On Monday, members of the Evangelical Fellowship within the Church in Wales expressed formal disagreement with the vote. 

In a statement, EFCW addressed the Church in Wales Governing Body, asking for more "clarity and consistency" in the plan to protect and care for dissenting churches and leaders.

EFCW is calling for a new bishop, whom it said, can represent those who "hold to an understanding of the doctrine of marriage as only being between a man and a woman."

The fellowship further expressed that it finds that the Governing Body of the Church in Wales "no longer properly represents the convictions of the wider membership of the Church in Wales."

"[EFCW] deeply regrets the recent decision of the Governing Body to [authorize] a liturgy to bless same-sex civil marriages and partnerships [and] we [recognize] the difficulties faced by the bishops and others within the Church in Wales as they have wrestled to bring better pastoral provision for those who are LGBT," the statement reads. 

The statement acknowledges that the [Church] has "not always engaged well" with the LGBT community by being "deeply insensitive" and "hurtful." 

"This is something of which we repent unreservedly," the statement expressed. "The Good News of Jesus Christ is for all people, regardless of sexual orientation. However, the decision to introduce a rite allowing for the blessing of same-sex unions, while well-intentioned, is the wrong step for the Church to take."

The EFCW finds that the Church in Wales has "departed from" the apostolic faith as revealed in Scripture. 

"The only biblical context for sexual activity is heterosexual marriage," the statement argued. "The new rite for the blessing of same-sex unions, which introduces liturgy permitting the blessing of same-sex civil marriages, has, de facto, changed the Church's doctrine on marriage."

EFCW also said they find that the approved vote has caused damage to the Church in Wales' relationship with "the majority of the provinces in the global Anglican Communion" — which has taken a stance "committed to an orthodox understanding of human sexuality."

Relationships with bishops and clerics who choose to perform such blessings are now "impaired," the statement stated. 

"This decision has brought disunity to God's Church," EFCW added. "Such disunity is a grave and serious matter which grieves the heart of God. The decision [dishonors] those [who] persuaded that Scripture teaches that sexual activity is restricted to heterosexual marriage, have chosen to remain celibate, often at tremendous personal cost."

As a result of the vote, ECFW claims there are a "significant number of Welsh Anglicans" who are faced with the "tough decisions as to where their future spiritual home lies." There "have been and will be resignations from Clergy, Lay Readers, Worship Leaders, Church Wardens, Sunday School Teachers, and parishioners."

"A number have withdrawn their regular giving to their churches. Others are determined to remain in the Church in Wales structure. A significant number are seeking help and guidance on deciding their future in the Church in Wales," the statement adds.

"EFCW is committed to helping in this discernment process, including conversations with those offering alternative Anglican structures, and will continue to offer fellowship for all Evangelical Anglicans regardless of whether they stay in the Church in Wales or leave it."

While some clergy have been told that dissenting ministers will not have to surrender their church buildings for blessing services, the statement warns that other bishops "believe they can exercise their prerogative to insist that a same-sex blessing service take place in any building in their Diocese, regardless of the conscience of the local cleric."

"This needs clarity and consistency across the [province] with details on how dissenting PCCs, Lay Officers, congregations (as well as ministers) may be protected and cared for if they do not wish their church buildings to be available for such services," the statement asserts. 

Even with the current "difficulties, [pain,] and grief," the fellowship assures that it will continue to place its "hope and trust in God."

"God has not abandoned Wales or His people," the statement concludes. "We pray for all those engaged in proclaiming Christ boldly and faithfully to this nation, for it is in Him that help and salvation are found."78

The principle in which I wanted us to gain perspective is the fact that society determines what is considered acceptable sexual moral behavior. And this consideration can change from generation to generation, from centuries to centuries. However, this question remains.

Should a Christian follow societal norms with respect to approving certain sexual behaviors, or is there another avenue that he/she should pursue?

Endnotes

76 Tim Challies. “Roman Sexuality Was About Dominance,” .

 77Timothy Williams. “Why a Vote on Gay Clergy and Same-Sex Marriage Could Split the United Methodist Church,” 2019. .

78Nicole Alcindor. “EVANGELICALS PUSH FOR NEW BISHOP AFTER CHURCH IN WALES ALLOWS PASTORS TO BLESS GAY MARRIAGES,” THE CHRISTIAN POST. 30 September 2021 .

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ITJ1wj

Website: http://bit.ly/1RQnYJ8           

New Covenant Ministries - Ministerios NuevoPacto - Harbor Church, Block Island                                                                                                                                                                                                          

Sunday & Thursday Worship - Domingo & Jueves 7:00PM                  

My name is James Rondinone. I am a husband, father, and spiritual leader.

I grew up in Massachusetts and began my own spiritual journey early on in life.

I attended Bible college, having completed a two-year Christian Leadership Course of Study and graduated as valedictorian (Summa Cum Laude).

Studying and teaching the Word of God has been a passion of mine for over 20 years.

US Sports Golf. Short Game 101 and Rory McIlroy shoots 5-under 67 Round 2 The Genesis Invitational

 

US Sports Radio Listen Live

• By Charlie Anderson

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Golf is a game that requires a combination of a few different skills. The first is the ability to put the ball in play with a tee shot. The next is the approach shot to the green. The last step, and most important, is the short game. The short game is a combination of pitching, chipping, bunker shots, and putting.

Why is short game so important?

A golfer’s short game is a part of golf that is often overlooked. Many golfers neglect their short game because they want to be able to hit long drives. Golfers think they will play well because they hit the ball further than others. This is a common misconception. The majority of shots are played on or around the green. This is why it is instrumental to have a sharp short game.

Types of short game shots

Pitching: Mastering the pitching technique is essential for achieving accurate and controlled shots around the green. Focus on maintaining a consistent tempo, using the proper club selection, and executing a smooth, controlled swing. Develop a reliable short backswing and follow through with a downward strike to generate optimal height and spin.

Chipping: Chipping requires precision and touch. Use a variety of clubs, such as a pitching wedge, sand wedge, or even a hybrid, to execute a range of chip shots depending on the lie and desired trajectory. Practice distance control by varying the length of your backswing and focusing on the rhythm of your swing. Experiment with different landing spots to develop versatility in approaching the green.

Bunker Shots: Bunker shots can be intimidating but with proper technique, they can be mastered. Start by opening the clubface and aiming slightly left of your target. Position the ball slightly forward in your stance and focus on making a shallow, controlled swing. Use the sand to your advantage by entering the sand a couple of inches before striking the ball, allowing the club to slide underneath it.

Putting: Arguably the most crucial aspect of the short game, putting demands precision and consistency. Develop a consistent putting routine, focusing on alignment, grip, and a smooth pendulum-like stroke. Practice lag putting to improve distance control, and dedicate time to mastering short putts to ensure confidence under pressure.

Ways to Improve

Focus on Distance Control: One of the keys to success in the short game is distance control. Practice hitting shots to specific targets at various distances to develop a feel for different clubs and swing lengths. This will enhance your ability to gauge the necessary force and touch required for different shots around the green.

Mental Game: The short game heavily relies on mental fortitude and decision-making. Stay focused and visualize your shots before execution. Develop a pre-shot routine that helps you get into the right mindset and approach each shot with confidence.

Practice Variety: Vary your practice sessions to simulate real-life playing conditions. Include uphill, downhill, and sidehill lies in your training routine. Experiment with different slopes and bunker conditions to become comfortable with a wide range of scenarios you might encounter on the course.

Short Game Challenges: Set up specific challenges or games during practice sessions to enhance competitiveness and simulate on-course pressure. For example, create a putting course with different distances and obstacles or challenge yourself to get out of a bunker in the fewest strokes possible.

Conclusion

The short game is arguably the most difficult part of golf. There is no doubt that it is the most important. It is something that every player must master if they want to be great.

US Sports Ice Hockey - 7 Effective Puck Protection Drills for Defenseman and United States vs. Finland | 4 Nations Face-Off Highlights

 

Cool Sports & Talk US Sports Radio

• By Jacob Crabtree

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In order to shine as a hockey defenseman, mastering puck protection is crucial for both defensive and offensive success. This course details various drills and skills necessary for a defenseman to thrive when protecting the puck in both zones, generating scoring chances for their teams. 

Here are some essential drills for defensemen to become puck-protecting beasts.

Small Area Games:

2 v 2 or 3 v 3 Picket Fences:

Picket fences are great small-area games for defensive players enforcing puck protection in a limited amount of space. 

Offensive players get two points for scoring a goal and defensemen receive one point for skating the puck out or through the two cones set up at the blue line. 

How the drill is set up is defenseman and offense are lined up on a preferred side of the zone (the picket fence) and two cones are positioned on the opposite side next to each other at the blue line. 

The offensive players try to create chances and passing lanes by being diligent with the puck and try to score some goals. While defenseman try to cover offensive players and protect the puck in fashions that don’t result in turnovers or chances for the other team.

 Picket fences enforce quick decisions in tight spaces preparing players for game-like circumstances.

FCG:

Four Corners teaches players how to effectively make decisions with the puck with limited time and space.

The drill can be either 2 v 2 or 3 v 3 in the middle of the four corners. 

Cones are set up in four separate corners on a preferred side of the ice with one player staying in each corner, and four players in the center. 

With two distinct teams, two from each are in the middle of the zone, and teammates for either team are in the corners diagonal from each other. A puck is dumped into the middle of the zone where players from either team gain possession and protect the puck from the other two players. 

The players in the middle then try to achieve passing to one of their players in the corner to gain points. 

Where one point is gained for each pass made to a teammate in a corner.

2 v 1 Puck Protection Help:

This drill employs defensemen with abilities to escape forecheckers and learn how to move without the puck. 

Two extra players are standing at the tops of the circles, the coach dumps a puck into the corner where the defenseman gets a head start and two forwards forecheck the defensemen. 

The defenseman tries to protect the puck from the forwards and can use the two extras as outlets for passes to create space and time. 

The two forwards try to take the puck from the defenseman and score on the net. 

If the offensive players score they get one point, but if the defenseman is able to protect the puck and escape the forecheckers he gets two points.

 Two-on-One Battle:

While one-on-one drills are very common for developing defenseman skills, this drill enables hockey defensemen to make decisions under pressure. 

A puck is dumped into the corner where the defenseman goes first, and the two offensive players chase but do not actually take the puck. 

The forecheckers flip their sticks around and chase the puck handler building comfortably for the defenseman with forecheckers. 

For the defenseman to win the drill, they must skate the puck out or the coach blows the whistle. 

Simple yet effective in establishing puck protection skills in the most vital part of the ice for a defenseman.

Basic Puck Protection Around the Net:

Variation #1:

These two variations are very basic drills, but without a doubt essential to master for a defenseman building comfortably with pressure. 

Coach dumps a puck into the corner from a preferred side of the blue line.

Defensemen are lined up behind the blue line, where one player starts the drill from the hash marks on the same side of the zone as the coach.

The player begins skating backward portraying an actual dump-in, transitions to forwards, picks up the puck, but observes and surrounds the puck. 

Takes the puck around the net protecting the biscuit from an imaginary or actual forechecker and proceeds to make a crisp pass to the line of defenseman at the blue line. 

Enabling the next player in line to go.

Variation #2:

The coach and defenseman are in same spot as Variation #1, the puck is dumped into the corner, the defenseman starts skating backward, transitions to forward, and observes where to take space. 

Protects the puck from the forechecker and takes the puck to the back of the net, stops, wheels out the same side he/she started from, and makes a firm pass to the line of players at the blue line. 

To make the drill more game-like and possibly more enticing, the coach could throw an actual forechecker in there and tell the defenseman to make a decision around the net in any matter the player wishes. 

Hopefully getting around the forechecker and making a pass to the line of players in one fashion or another. 

Building very essential game-like skills to protect the puck from forecheckers.

Longtail Puck Protection Drill

Longtail is a drill that promotes offensive skills but teaches players how to protect the puck and keep moving to create a scoring chance in the offensive zone. 

Two lines of players are positioned on opposite sides of the blueline facing the net, two players on both sides are positioned stationary at the top and bottom of the circles. 

Where two cones on both sides of the ice are set up about three to four feet from the tops of the circle.

The first player in line starts the drill on one side, does a figure eight around both stationary players while protecting the puck from their stick checks. 

Finishes the figure eight at the top of the circle, comes around the cone, and takes a quick shot on net following their rebound. 

The next player in line can go once the player finishes his/her figure eight. 

After the player takes their shot, they take the place of the stationary player at the bottom of the circle. 

Rotating from taking their shot, moving to the lower stationary player, advancing to the higher stationary player, and back into line, forming an effective drill system. 

An excellent drill when stations are set up in different areas of the ice.

US Sports Soccer: The 5 Best Soccer Agility Drills and Celtic vs. Bayern: Extended Highlights

 

Cool Sports & Talk US Sports Radio

• By Damilare Ilyiade

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The ability of a player to have fast bursts of speed in games with a swift change of direction whilst doing it consistently throughout the game is known as agility. In the game of soccer, speed is essential, but not just a one-time movement like that of a track event. There will be moments in games where a player has bursts of speed at intervals without much rest. 

To play soccer at an elite level, agility is one key area to evaluate. The players' balance, coordination of running, change of direction, acceleration/ deceleration, reactions, body control, and space management all combine towards agility.

HOW DOES AGILITY IMPROVE MY SOCCER PERFORMANCE?

Soccer is an ever changing game that flows in all directions. To become elite, you have to be able to quickly respond to a stimuli on the field at any given time. Unlike other sports, you will be required to use every part of your body to be successful when attacking and defending. As we are seeing more and more, modern soccer is won and lost over sudden quick direction changes or fast movements. Both defenders and attackers are equally judged on their ability to produce or respond to these displays of agility.

In the 2015 Copa del Rey final, Lionel Messi reached 19.50mph in under 2.73 seconds. He stopped to change direction, and in a few seconds, he hit the top speed again proceeding to score one of the best soccer goals of the 21st century. Astonishingly, this was all with the ball at his feet. This is a perfect example of arguably the best player of all time utilizing extraordinary agility to produce world class results.

Contrary to popular belief, agility is not only limited to size. Through training and working to keep a low center of gravity, every player can improve their agility to become deadly on the dribble.

The following agility drills will help players of any size or age improve their soccer skills, and help them move with the correct technique that will prevent injury.

 

VITAL COACHING POINTS ON AGILITY

 

- Your agility determines how effective you’ll be when dribbling in the game of soccer.

- You must master the use of your body effectively through lots of practices and most especially with agility drills.

- The intensity of the drill must grow and be maintained at a level to ensure consistency and progression.

- The overall way to improve agility is to train as you would play.

 

The following drills will help players improve their ability to run and rest, change direction, dribble and swerve all without killing the rhythm and the flow of the game. 

Objective 

The drill will help raise the player's fitness and agility.

Set-up

6 cones are set at equidistance to enable forward and backward movement.

Execution 

- At the command of the trainer, the drill starts.

- The players go forth and back around the cone before dashing towards the scattered yellow circle objects.

- On approaching the yellow circles, the player must speedily step-in in no specific order.

- After which they approach the ladder and run through it.

- Walk, jog and restart.

- Repeat as the coach instructs.

Coaching tips

The drill helps the players master unfamiliar movements but movements that will improve agility on the field of play.

Objective 

The objective of the drill is to increase the player's all-round fitness and agility.

Set-up

2 ladders, a set of yellow disks, and hurdles as players line behind and take turns.

Execution 

- At the trainer’s command, the players run through the drill.

- Two sets of players lined starts with the ladder at a decent speed, stepping inside each space.

- And then on to the yellow disks stepping inside all the disks but at random.

- Then a short sprint to the hurdles jumping over each one.

- And then dash down the end of the drill.

- Repeat as the coach instructs.

Coaching tips

Complete the drill with split focus understanding that every stage of the drill tunes different elements of the body to the top level required to play the game.

Objective 

The objective of the drill is to help the players enhance their agility and master game movements.

Set-up

6 cones or more depending on the instructor’s intention for the duration. After the cones, set up the poles at equidistance. Line the players in single file.

Execution 

- The trainer stands at the sideline to instruct the drill. When they blow the whistle, the player starts to slalom through the cones.

- The players go around the cone at a gentle pace.

- When they get to the straight poles, they do the same motion but at a much greater speed.

- After this step, they do a slight horizontal jog before dashing down before restarting the whole process.

- Repeat as the coach instructs.

Coaching tips

The drill is slight and not intense, but it will help the player’s agility if done with utmost seriousness, focusing on the movement and the muscles involved.

Objective 

The objective of the drill is to help the players enhance their agility especially when they have the ball or receive it unexpectedly or in an unpleasant situation.

Set-up

The ladder, the cone, the pole, and the hurdles. All set at the different junctions of the drill.

Execution 

- The trainer stands at the sideline to instruct the drill. When they blow the whistle, the player enters the first ladder.

- The players go through the ladder first and perform a rapid one in one out motion.

- The players then move anticlockwise through the square cones, touching each one as they pass.

- On getting to the poles, the coach passes the ball into the player's feet. The player proceeds to dribble through the poles with the ball. Once they have made it through the poles, the ball is left stationary at the top.

- After this, the player jogs to the right, receives a pass from the second coach, gives it back, and goes through the hurdles. 

- Repeat as the coach instructs.

Coaching tips

Depending on the age range of these players, the intensity of the drill can be lowered or increased. Progressions can also be included, with a shot at the end of the poles for example.

Objective 

The objective of the drill is to help lower the players reaction times whilst improving their acceleration in different directions. (It is also a fun drill for the players)

Set-up

Using 8 cones, create two squares facing each other. Decide which square will be the leader and which will be the mirror.

Execution 

- The players will dictate the start of the game once the drill is set up.

- At random, the leader will sprint to one of the cones, touch it with their hand, and sprint back to the middle.

- As soon as the leader moves, the mirror will copy the exact path of the leader and try to beat them back to the middle.

- The game has a total of 5 rounds. Only when the mirror beats the leader back to the middle will a point be scored. Each player should have the opportunity to be the mirror, and the points are tallied to see who won the most at the end.

- Repeat as the coach instructs.

Coaching tips

A big part of agility is how fast you can react to a stimuli and produce the correct movement, such as cut inside with the ball when the defender lunges in with a tackle. This drill focuses on reaction time whilst working on the players acceleration, deceleration, speed, and one of the most important aspects of all soccer drills - competitiveness.

Numerous coaches have created resources about how to deep dive into agility and speed within soccer to maximize performance. Two great recent examples are:

- Mike Whiteman's course: Feed the Cats Soccer.

- Kwik Goal's course: Explosive Soccer Quickness & Agility.

As with anything, preventing injury to your players is of paramount importance. Utilizing correct technique when using agility equipment is vital. Here is an example of how to teach this to your team.

US Sports Track and Field: Four Shot Put Drills to Help Develop Your Athletes and Mic'd Up with Olympic Shot Putter Chase Jackson

 

Four Shot Put Drills to Help Develop Your Athletes

• By Grant Young

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Having reliable and effective shot put drills is crucial for any track and field coach due to the technical nature of the event. 

As all coaches know, shot put requires a precise combination of strength, technique, and timing, making it essential for coaches to provide structured drills that focus on these elements. Effective drills help athletes grasp the mechanics of the throw, ensuring they develop proper form and technique, which is vital for maximizing distance and reducing the risk of injury. 

Consistent practice through specific drills allows for skill refinement. Coaches can adapt these drills for varying skill levels, encouraging both beginners and advanced throwers to improve. This adaptability fosters a supportive training environment, promoting confidence and motivation among athletes. 

Incorporating drills that build specific physical attributes, such as explosive power and balance, further enhances performance. Regular assessment through these drills helps coaches identify areas for improvement and track athletes' progress over time. Not to mention that a diverse set of reliable drills keeps training sessions engaging and enjoyable, which is essential for long-term athlete commitment. 

While no coach would doubt the effectiveness of a shot put drill, finding the right drills for your program and athletes can be difficult. This is why we’ve pulled your drills from two esteemed track and field coaches that you can employ to great success during your next shot put season. 

Scott Bennett - Line Drill

Scott Bennett has over 40 years of experience coaching everyone from high schoolers to Olympians. Coach Bennett has produced 5 Olympians in the field events including one gold medalist. His most decorated throwers include 4-time Olympian and 4-time national discus champion Aretha Thurmond as well as Andy Bloom who earned 4th place in the shot put at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

In his ‘Shot Put Drills’ clinic, Coach Bennett discusses what he calls a Line Drill, which starts with the athlete in their throwing position while standing at the end of a straight line, which is either taped, chalked, or painted onto the ground. 

They are going to drop their knee over their front foot, turn in their air, tap, and then stop and look to see that they are still standing on the line. If they are, they will continue this process again and again as they move down the line. 

The keys here for a coach are that the right foot is pointed to the right side (for a right-handed thrower), the left foot should be to the left of the line, and shoulders back, the hips to the sides, and the face back. 

Scott Bennett - Seated Release

Another one of Coach Bennett’s drills is called the seated release. This is where the athlete will be seated, facing directly at a wall that will be able to sustain the impact of a throw. 

From there, the athlete will get into their typical throw, making sure to angle the toss high enough that it will mimic an actual throw in a contest. 

This drill is important because it emphasizes all of the upper body elements required for a successful throw and can help pinpoint any mechanical issues a thrower might face with their upper half. 

Jim Aikens - 360 Single Arm With Med Ball

Jim Aikens has been coaching high school throws since 1984. He had been the head coach at William Fremd High School in Palatine, Illinois since 1990 and retired as head coach in 2017. During this time Jim’s throwers have medaled at national competitions, won four state championships and 20 other state medals. Jim's throwers have also won numerous sectional and conference championships. 

He is currently the Throws Coach at Burlington Central High School in located in Hampshire, Illinois. 

Coach Aikens’ ‘Advanced Drills for Rotational Shot Put Success’ clinic discusses what he calls the 360 Single Arm With Med Ball, which is pretty self-explanatory. 

The athlete will begin by performing their 360 degree unit turn while having a medicine ball raised up with a single arm over their head.  They must keep completely balanced in order to pull this drill off. 

From there, the player will simulate their rotation while keeping the medicine ball over their head. They will not actually throw the medicine ball at any point. 

The most important aspect of this drill is that the athlete maintains proper balance in the back of the ring. While the athlete being able to do a 360 degree unit turn is key to developing this balance, even with a good 360 degree unit turn the athlete can still have balance issues.  

Jim Aikens - Spin Around an Object Drill

Another one of Coach Aikens’ drills is what he calls the spin around an object drill. As you could probably guess, this drill revolves around the athlete spinning around an object (even a teammate) in order to address any balance or mechanical issues. 

Specifically, this drill is great if a (right-handed) thrower has trouble going around the left side out of the back of the ring, which is also known as cutting the corner. Coach Aikens has found that giving them an object to rotate out and around forces them to not cut the corner. 

Any object that they can rotate around, but something with considerable height and bulk typically works best because it provides a clear indication for the thrower.

US Sports Tennis. Tennis Legend Billie Jean King’s 4 Responsibilities as a Player and Coco Gauff vs. Marta Kostyuk | 2025 Doha Round 2 | WTA Match Highlights

 

• By Grant Young

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If there is anybody you should be eager to glean tennis coaching wisdom from, it’s Billie Jean King. 

A legendary figure in the world of tennis, King has not only made remarkable contributions to the sport through her incredible achievements on the court, but she has also played a vital role in advocating for equality and social justice. 

Over her illustrious career, King won 39 Grand Slam titles, including 20 singles championships, making her one of the most successful players in tennis history. King’s pivotal moment came in 1973 when she defeated Bobby Riggs in the famous "Battle of the Sexes," solidifying her role as an advocate for women's rights in sports. 

Beyond her playing success, King transitioned to coaching and mentoring, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness and confidence in athletes. She founded the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and played a significant role in establishing equal prize money for women in tennis tournaments. King's legacy extends beyond tennis; she remains a staunch advocate for social justice, inspiring generations of athletes to fight for equality on and off the court.

King continues to make an impact as a tennis coach, with her wisdom often focusing on how tennis players can improve their mental strength, which directly translates into how they perform on the court. 

In her ‘Billie Jean King - Secrets of Success from a 39-Time Grand Slam Champion’ clinic, King shares practical training secrets along with some of the key traits that separate champions from "good" or "great" players. We have pulled some of her most compelling lessons — along with her ‘4 Responsibilities as a Player’ — to share with you below. 

4 Responsibilities as a Player

Former tennis player Leslie Allen (who joined the WTA Tour in 1977 and went on to reach a career-high ranking of No. 17 in the world in February 1981) was alongside King during the clinic, and shared a story about King telling her about the four responsibilities a tennis player has while they were on Tour together. They were as follows:

1. Putting the best product out there [on the court] 

2. Make sure you take care of the fans.

3. Make sure you take care of the sponsors.

4. Make sure you take care of the public. 

While this makes a lot of sense for professional tennis players, it might seem like this is useless information for young and amateur players. However, we would argue that it’s just as valuable information if those words are broadened. 

The first responsibility speaks for itself, and it is always sometimes tennis players (and all athletes, for that matter) should be striving for. 

However, the second responsibility will be much different, considering that youth tennis players aren’t going to be having stadiums full of fans pining to watch them play. But young tennis players can take this to mean that they must be respectful of those who are fellow fans of the game. 

In this respect, taking care of the game can mean showing respect for the sport of tennis and playing it the right way, with dignity and integrity. This is something all tennis players can feel responsible for, regardless of their level. 

The third responsibility about sponsors is extremely valuable for amateur and youth players because it can mean being respectful and thankful toward parents and coaches, who are investing time money, and effort toward their tennis careers. These “sponsors” certainly deserve a ton of respect and gratitude, which is a responsibility all tennis players should uphold. 

And the fourth responsibility can be toward fellow players and competitors, as they’re out of a player’s control and can be considered part of the public. 

This is how Billie Jean King’s 4 responsibilities as a player can be translated into powerful messages for youth and amateur tennis players. 

Helping Kids Be Champions in Life

At another point in the clinic, King discusses some of the things her parents and coaches did when she was a young player that increased her enthusiasm and passion for the sport rather than hindered it. 

She said that one of the most valuable things her parents (who rarely watched her play in person) ever did for her was to never ask whether she won or lost games when she returned home. Instead, they would ask her how her day was, and allow her to guide the conversation toward outcomes if she desired. 

This can also be a valuable lesson for coaches. Rather than focusing solely on a player’s outcome or results during the match (whether they won or lost), the coach can focus on the specific things that a player did well or could use improvement on in terms of their actual performance. 

In other words, no player is ever going to play a perfect match, and no player is going to swing and miss at every single shot. So a coach finding something for a player to build on and to work on after every match can help separate emotion from outcome, and get a player to focus on their overall development rather than their win-loss record. 

It’s lessons like these that taught King to love the game of tennis, which turned her into one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen. While it will be difficult for players to reach that same level, that doesn’t mean these same lessons can be used to produce beneficial careers for young athletes, both on and off the court.

US Sports Football: Beyond Quarters - The Need For Additional Coverage Concepts and Eagles vs. Chiefs Super Bowl 59 Highlights

 

Beyond Quarters - The Need For Additional Coverage Concepts

• By Keith Grabowski

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We all know that Quarters is a sound concept that provides many benefits.

For as good as it is, the Head Coach at Mars High School Eric Kasperowicz believes that a team needs more than quarters or it becomes vulnerable. 

In his recent presentation on Hot Coverage he said, 

“It's a great middle of field closed to complement to quarters, which we need. There's no way you can sit out there and line up and run quarters coverage, in my opinion, every snap of defense. It's too much pressure. Eventually you're going to run into a team or a player or a quarterback or a receiver that's able to take advantage of that. So in my opinion, for as good as quarters is, you have to be able to change it up and close the middle of the field and protect the post.” 

As he points out, one of the most effective methods is the three deep-two under under hot coverage philosophy. This approach, which he adapted from Coach Narduzzi's teachings, can help you level up your defensive game. Note - Coach Kasperowicz spent a year on Coach Narduzzi’s staff so he knows this coverage well.

Understanding the 3D2 Under Hot Coverage Philosophy

At its core, the 3D2 under hot coverage philosophy involves three deep defenders, two underneath defenders, and six Blitzers coming in for the attack. The objective is to close the middle of the field, keep the offense off balance, and allow the defense to play zone coverage. 

The key to this approach is effectively disguising the 3D2 under coverage to create a strong defensive strategy. This includes:

1. Blitzers going hard and fast: Blitzers must attack with speed and intensity to make the quarterback feel pressured and get rid of the football quickly.

2. Edge Blitzer peeling with routes crossing their face: This allows the edge Blitzer to cover any running back that crosses their path while maintaining zone coverage.

3. The tackle wiping out to the C gap: In situations with a three-man surface, the tackle will wipe out to the C gap, squeezing behind the action to maintain a strong defensive position.

Coach Kasperowicz shares those ideas in this video:

Benefits of Gap Sound Blitzing

Gap sound blitzing is a crucial aspect of the 3D2 under hot coverage philosophy. Being gap sound means defenders are responsible for a specific gap and maintain their position throughout the play. This approach offers several benefits:

1. One-on-one pass rush matchups: Gap sound blitzing can create opportunities for one-on-one matchups between defenders and offensive players, increasing the chances of a successful defensive play.

2. Closing the middle of the field: This approach helps protect the post and keep the offense off balance.

3. Preventing quarterback pumps or fakes: The pressure from the Blitzers should prevent the quarterback from having time to pump or fake, ensuring they cannot effectively utilize these tactics.

He explains those in detail in this video:

Building off of a Quarters concept will allow you to stop many concepts that an offense can throw at you, but having a change-up like Hot Coverage can make your defense much more difficult to attack and put the opponent’s QB and receivers in uncomfortable positions.