SAMANTHA AND ONE
Craig Nickel
PGC Basketball Camps Director of Directors
Know More About Craig Nickel
Craig coaches high school in Canada and is also the director of directors with PGC Camps.
As a high school basketball coach in Canada, Craig Nickel uniquely leads both boys' and girls' teams, thanks to the distinct seasonal scheduling of girls' basketball in the fall and boys' in winter. This structure has given him a diverse coaching experience, allowing him to appreciate and adapt to the distinct dynamics of both teams. With girls, he finds a readiness to adhere closely to coaching strategies and follow the game plans. On the other hand, boys tend to exhibit more freelance play, which can be challenging but also rewarding due to their increased athleticism. Thus, Nickel's coaching approach focuses on channeling these inherent tendencies to maximize the performance of both his teams.
Craig Nickel shares his insights on AAU basketball, acknowledging its benefits while also highlighting potential limitations. Despite being a coach for AAU teams, or club basketball as it's referred to in Canada, he emphasizes the concern that the extensive commitment to competition could impede player development. The relentless cycle of tournaments can monopolize athletes' time, leaving little room for skill enhancement. Nickel advocates a balanced approach, restricting the number of competitions while stressing the importance of consistent improvement. He believes that if a player is skilled enough, coaches will notice, eliminating the need for excessive tournament exposure. He underscores the choice between "getting better" and "getting exposed," and firmly sides with the former.
In a candid revelation about his personal interests, Craig Nickel shares his passion for golf, an aspect of his life many may not be aware of. While he modestly states that he's not necessarily great at the sport, his love for it is evident. During the pleasant summer months in Canada, he relishes the opportunity to indulge in his hobby, appreciating the tranquility and challenge that golf offers.