Coaching is simply a special method of the general umbrella term of teaching. Using this definition, the NHP coaching philosophy is simple -- praise what the coaches want repeated and correct negative habits and behaviors. "Winning" is important, but only as positive reinforcement for the following positive principles. That is, the coaches would rather have everything done the right way, the positive way, and the classy way than to promote the "Win at all costs" mentality. The coaches want to leave the young people the impression that poise, self-confidence, positive attitude, preparation, and teamwork are the important things one needs in athletics in specific and in life in general.

Moreover, there are some guidelines and philosophies from which the NHP coaches have borrowed. The largest of influences is coach John Wooden of UCLA. He believed that work on the improvement of the individuals' basic fundamental skills, increase self-esteem, promoting preparation and confidence, doing a few things well instead of a lot of things marginally, insist on teamwork and recognition above individual glory, and make the opponent worry about your system/game instead of you worrying about theirs.

The coaches a NHP apply coach Wooden's pyramid of success and recognize its similarities to Maslow's hierarchy of needs. That is to say, prepare oneself physically, mentally, and spiritually. This preparation will lead to the highest level of achievement...self-actualization.

Sports Program Eligibility Criteria

1. Must carry 2.0 GPA (cum.) w/no F's not including PE grade.

2. Academic Eligibility to participate will be determined by weekly Progress Report that will be circulated Monday of that week.

3. The student must be in school at least 4 periods of the days of practices to be eligible to participate in that day's practice. Unless they have an excused absence, i.e., Court, P.O. Meeting, Dr.'s Appt., etc.

4. The student must be at practices to participate in that week's game. Unless it is excused by coach, i.e., Court, P.O. Meeting, Dr.'s Appt., Work, etc. The student must attend at least one of the practices during the week.

5. If the student is suspended from school they will not participate in the game that immediately follows suspension.

6. If the student is busted with drugs or alcohol they will be suspended from the team for 2 games. If they are caught a second time they will be kicked off the team for the remainder of the season.

7. If the student participates in a fight during or at a game they will be suspended for a minimum of 2 games. If a student gets in a second fight during or at a game at any point during the year they will be banned the rest of the school year from participating in any athletic program here at North Hills Prep.