Ep 2889 Interview Coach Simms

In this episode of Basketball Coach Unplugged, host Steve Collins welcomes back coach Simms for a follow-up conversation on mental health and emotional regulation in youth basketball. Simms shares how his organization was nominated for Junior NBA Program of the Year in 2021 and subsequently became pioneers in applying the neurosequential model of therapeutics—developed by Dr. Bruce Perry—to youth sports. This model emphasizes understanding how trauma, emotions, stressors, and triggers affect athletes' behavior and performance. Simms explains practical tools for coaches, such as the '3 R's'—regulate, relate, reason—as a framework for engaging with dysregulated players. He highlights the use of rhythmic, repetitive movements like dribbling and shooting as natural regulation techniques, and introduces 'regulation zones' in practices where players can reset emotionally. The episode also covers how predictable routines, music, and transitions (like whistle cues) can help stabilize young athletes’ nervous systems. Simms stresses the importance of knowing players on an authentic level—asking 'what's happened to you?' instead of 'what's wrong with you?'—to build trust and effective communication. He reflects on the long-term impact of pandemic-related isolation on youth development and expresses optimism about the recovery of social connection and normalcy in sports. Key takeaways include: (1) Use the 3 R’s—regulate, relate, reason—to manage emotional moments with players; (2) Incorporate rhythmic, repetitive activities (e.g., dribbling, shooting) as natural regulation tools; (3) Create designated regulation zones in practices for emotional reset; (4) Use predictable cues (e.g., specific whistle patterns) to signal transitions; (5) Start practices with calming elements like instrumental music and silence to help players transition from school stress; (6) Prioritize knowing players' stories and backgrounds to meet them where they are; (7) Recognize that trauma and stress are widespread and affect athletes in ways not always visible; (8) The neurosequential model in sport offers a powerful, science-based framework for mental health support in youth athletics. The overall tone is hopeful, insightful, and deeply empathetic, emphasizing growth, connection, and the healing power of sport.