Invite local knowledge into program planning
Skip to content
Learning hub · CoachesCoaches · Community relationships · Guide · 5 min to use
A place to belong, on and off the court. Explore After Hours Hoops
Invite Local Knowledge into Program Planning
A visiting coach may know basketball without understanding a community's routines, priorities or protocols. Ask before making assumptions. Good preparation creates space for local partners to influence the session rather than simply welcoming a plan already decided.
When to use it
Use before coaching in a community that is new to you.
Put It into Practice
- Ask the designated community contact about timing, welcome practices, access needs and local priorities. Confirm whom to consult rather than expecting one athlete or family to represent everyone.
- Share your draft session purpose and identify what can be adapted. Follow agreed protocols and obtain permission before using stories, names, cultural material or images.
- After the session, ask the partner what worked and what should change. Record the agreed planning improvements without treating community knowledge as material you can reuse elsewhere automatically.
What It Can Look Like
A local partner recommends an earlier finish around a community commitment, and the coach adjusts the session before invitations go out.
Your notes stay on this page. They are not saved or sent. Print before leaving to keep a copy.
Take it with you: Partnership starts when local knowledge can change the plan.