I was introduced to the game at an early age.
My dad was very supportive of me as a basketball player and encouraged me to participate in as many camps, clinics, and teams that I could. Later in life, I realized this was truly a privilege that not all children were able to have.
The Salem Hoops Project will make it possible for every child to have an opportunity.
Matt Espinoza
Salem Hoops Project Creator
PE Teacher, Richmond Elementary School
USA Basketball Certified Youth Coach
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COACHING PHILOSOPHY
TEACH
“Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.”
I coach with an understanding that the game in itself is, truly, meaningless. In the end, wins and losses do not define who I am as a coach, who my players are as people, and who our team is as a whole. I believe that effective coaching can be observed without reference to wins and losses. The game of basketball is valuable for teaching, but far too often is used for self-glorification and collecting accomplishments as a means of gaining higher social status. My goal as a coach is to teach. Within the game, first and foremost I want to teach players the fundamental skills of the game. Basketball also has the opportunity to teach players life skills as well. It’s my job as a coach to help players develop not only on the court, but also as individuals.
LEAD
“And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.”
My role as a coach is driven by my calling to be a spiritual leader in a Biblical context. I am learning what this means, day by day. But, so far, I believe this means to start by living and coaching in a demeanor that I expect others to live by. It continues by dictating my leadership on principles and development rather than rules and control. The foundation of this leadership comes from the calling by Jesus to go out and make disciples. My leadership is built on serving my players and coaching staff by striving to meet their needs.
GROW
“Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.”
I coach with an understanding of my limitations. Every coach is unique, with different teaching methods different ideas on how the game should be played. Regardless of what I feel is the best way to play, it’s imperative that I continue to learn new schemes, new teaching styles, and study the game. We are never as good as we can be. Our level of growth should constantly be increasing. Every day, we should developing spiritually, emotionally, physically; in all areas of our life.
