Tournament Tips for Coaches

Before the Battles

  • Arrive with your team 15-20 minutes before your battle begins. Check-in to receive your specific battle schedule.
  • Take a moment to “huddle” with your team: calm nerves, take a few photos, and give a pre-battle pep talk.
  • Reassure your team captain and give last-minute reminders about rules and strategy.

During the Battles

  • Take a seat in the battle room that is least distracting for your team. Tell them where you are planning to sit.
  • Model positive behavior during battles and keep a smile on your face.
  • Between battles, take a moment with your team to diffuse any issues from the first battle and focus on a clean slate for the next battle. Losing a battle does not mean your team is out of contention.

After the Battles

  • Proceed to your designated auditorium after the three battles.
  • Gather your team together and take some time to recap the positive moments from the battles and from your team's whole journey. Many students experience a “let down” or “low” feeling after competing. It is important to debrief together and perhaps even arrange a post-battles celebration to end the day on a high note (see ideas below).
  • Provide each team member with their Superlative Award Certificate.
  • Finalize your plans to attend the Championship & All Team Finale to share in the pizza party, team prizes, meeting the author, and seeing the final battle.

Places to Celebrate after Tournament Day

    • Go to a restaurant or coffee shop for a meal, ice cream, or hot chocolate. A few nearby options: Jersey Mikes, Jimmy Johns, Dickies BBQ, Culvers, Biggby Coffee, Tropical Smoothie Cafe.
    • Ask a parent to host everyone at their house with a potluck, ice cream sundae bar, or popcorn with a movie.
  • Go bowling or to the arcade at Lucky Jack’s or Incredible Mo’s.