Coaches toolbox - what do you use?

When coaches meet, whether at a clinic or tournament or game, there is usually some tremendous sharing that takes place. Invariably, beyond the discussion of offense and defense (that sometimes involves the old school salt and pepper shakers moving around the table!), the talk turns to recent dvd's, books, or coaching tools/aids purchased. In terms of aids for teaching in practices, some good tools for your equipment bag follow:

• heavy (usually yellow) basketball to make passing and dribbling tougher
• reaction balls (have knobs at odd angles) to help with quick footwork
• agility ladders or hurdles, again to improve footwork
• dribble glasses that remove the ability to see down to the ball (promotes a good heads up dribble and better feel for the ball)
  
• lacrosse balls for footwork drills in warm up (more reaction work)
• football or rugby blocking pads for physical play and intense work in the post
• tennis balls for tossing while dribbling to promote looking up and ahead
• ropes to show help lines for defenders (between the ball and their match up) as well as the physical distance of offensive player away from the ball
• soft foam ball (from a dollar store) to use when mixing in a fun game (provide a change from usual routine)