Meet coach Paul Barber! Paul an experienced dual athlete that plays and coaches basketball and football. He believes that it was his attention to detail that led him to win a basketball state championship. Paul now conducts each of his coaching sessions with passion and precision to help young athletes reach another level.
Tell us about yourself.
I started playing basketball as a 9 year old. I was a starter on my junior varsity team in high school as a freshman, and then played three years on varsity. My senior year my team won the Virginia division III basketball state championship. I ended up playing division I football in college, but I now coach both youth and adult basketball teams in New York.
Why did you decide to become a private coach?
I like helping kids and encouraging them to get better. When I watch someone improve, I am encouraged as well.
What can an athlete expect from a session with you?
We always start with the basics. I want my clients to improve on all of the little things, and I am very specific and exact. My sessions turn up quickly though: I will add more challenging exercises as we progress.
What is your coaching philosophy?
I am very detail oriented, and I expect my players to learn not make little mistakes.
What is your favorite moment from your athletic career?
I hit the game winning shot in the semi finals of the 2000 Virginia state basketball tournament. My teammates carried me off the floor, and I was all over the news and in the newspapers.
Do you have any surprising traits that someone might not know?
My uncle is Art Shell. He was the first African American head coach in NFL history.
Favorite sports movie?
Remember the Titans.
Favorite sports mantra?
If he can, I can.
