The second day of the 2012 Football Canada Coaches Association (FCCA) Convention, presented by Voxx Sports, featured Greg Knox, Jim Barker, Curtis Modkins and Dr. Charles Tator. The four did not dissapoint a crowd who was ‘wowed’ by speakers on the first day.
Mark Pankow (Smith Falls) said this about the 2 days: “my coaching colleagues and I weren’t sure how you would top last years event in terms of quality and breadth. Somehow you did. In fact the balance of fundamentals, systems and coaching principles was perfect. See you next year!”
Brian Guebert who presented on Saturday said “I was at the Nike Clinic in Las Vegas this year and the FCCA hands down is better”.
McMaster Marauder defensive coordinator, Greg Knox led off the day, presenting on creating defensive pressure. Knox’s presentation also informed coaches how to disguise defensive alignment and schemes to keep the offense guessing.
In an effort to help coaches build a better offense, Toronto Argonauts’, Jim Barker, helped coaches understand the opposition by breaking down the defensive rules of man and zone coverages. The current general manager demonstrated that he still has the coaching bug, speaking passionately about football.
A coach at heart, Barker is also a true believer in coaching development. “I was invigorated as soon as I pulled my car into the full parking lot,” exclaimed Barker. “The coaches [in attendance] came here looking to become as good as they can [become].”
Barker also hoped that every coach in attendance took away something that they can use to make themselves a better coach. Among those that embodied this ideal was Glen Mills, head coach of the Essex Ravens who recounted adding a number of new concepts throughout the weekend to an already extensive repertoire.
Following Barker, Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator, Cutis Modkins delivered another informative presentation, this time on the offensive zone run game.
The presentations concluded with an informative crash course on concussions by ThinkFirst Canada founder and Toronto Western Hospital Neurosurgeon, Dr. Charles Tator. Doctor Tator delivered a presentation full of critical information for coaches including recognizing the signs and symptoms of a concussion as well as safe return to play protocols.
Following the presentations, the afternoon concluded with Football Canada’s newly developed safe contract (tackling) module, teaching coaches the “chest-plate” tackling technique. The module aims to reduce tackling technique whereby players lead with their head.
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