On this episode of Art of Practice, presented by GoRout, host Keith Grabowski is joined by Evan Karchner, head coach at Maumee High School in Ohio, and Lucas Stanton, head coach at Solon High School in Iowa. Together, they explore how coaches can turn practice from script-running into a competitive, pressure-filled environment.
Karchner and Stanton share strategies for creating game-day urgency during Tuesday and Wednesday practices, including Purple vs. Gold situational drills, deliberate special teams competitions, and sudden-change two-minute scenarios. They also explain how keeping score through turnovers, explosive plays, and other key metrics builds accountability and reveals how players respond under pressure.
The discussion also highlights how GoRout reduces operational downtime, allowing practices to stay fast-paced, efficient, and focused. The result is an environment that keeps players mentally engaged, physically fresh, and better prepared for game day.
Chapters
The Core Essence of Competitive Practice Environments
Keeping Score: Tracking Turnovers & Metrics to Drive Accountability
Creative Compete Structures: Organizing Purple vs. Gold Periods
Sudden Change: Maximizing Two-Minute and Situational Game Scenarios
High-Stakes Third Phase: Special Teams Competitive Drills & Techniques
Special Teams Strategy: Maintaining Full-Roster Intensity & Alignment
Micro-Competitions: Implementing Pressure Points in Small Group Work
The Efficiency Audit: Eliminating Dead Script Time to Keep Players Fresh
Tech-Driven Tempo: Utilizing GoRoute to Accelerate Practice Reps
Podcast Link: Work Your Special Teams with a Kicking Scrimmage
Learn More About Our Partner - GoRout
GoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at https://gorout.com/podcast/
Connect on X:
Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski
Evan Karchner: @CoachKarch
Lucas Stanton: @CoachStanton20
GoRout: @Go_Rout
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