About the Guest(s):
Tay Hester is a former college basketball player and current EYBL (Elite Youth Basketball League) coach with Pro Skills, a premier youth basketball organization. Originally hailing from Compton, California, Tay has played at various levels including at UTEP and Nebraska. She now commits her time to coaching, mentoring youth athletes, and sharing her extensive knowledge of the game.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode of "It's Just Different Podcast," host Ashley Roberts sits down with former college basketball player and current EYBL coach Tay Hester. Tay shares her journey from playing basketball in Compton to her college career at UTEP and Nebraska, and how these experiences shaped her coaching philosophy.
As someone deeply embedded in youth sports, Tay provides invaluable insights into the world of AAU basketball, the EYBL circuit, and the importance of making informed decisions during the recruiting process.
The conversation delves deep into key areas such as the value of understanding a team's roster during recruitment, the importance of practice and effort, and the unique challenges women face in the coaching profession.
Tay's profound advice for young athletes and their parents on navigating the competitive landscape of basketball stands out.
From highlighting the significance of practice intensity to discussing the intricate dynamics of team relationships and parental influence, this episode is packed with crucial advice for aspiring athletes and their families.
Key Takeaways:
Evaluating College Programs: Tay underscores the importance of assessing a team's roster and understanding where a player fits within that framework.
Practice Intensity: "You practice like you play, you can't flip that switch," Tay emphasizes the need for vigorous practice to excel in games.
Women's Role in Coaching: Both guests touch on the challenges and importance of women in the coaching profession.
Educational Insights: Tay advocates for getting accurate information from experienced sources and being focused on long-term goals.
Parental Support: Highlighting the role of parents in an athlete's journey, Tay suggests they should support their child's experience and trust the process led by experienced coaches.
Tay on IG: @justay_32
Ashley on IG: @_thisisashleyr
Its Just Different on socials: @itsjustdifferentpod
