[older than dirt]

I think the only time a program can grow is when the kids grow themselves. They have to be commited to playing after the season is over. Working on their own game and improving their skills, not just during the regular season. A lot of kids (boys and girls) just want to play during the season and after the last game they never touch a ball again until the next year's season starts. I also think you need a coach who encourages this behavior even if its not playing for them off season. As long as they are playing somewhere, for someone even if its against their mom or dad , just play.(sorry got a lil off topic..lol)

Great post, bballmama. You have to have a coach who is interested and knows how to work with kids, not as a group, but with individuals. At the same time, you have to have players who have a love of the game and want to excel.