John Calipari revealed last night after the blowout win against Eastern Michigan, he would be telling the Big Blue Nation of a different method he is using with his ‘Cats. One of the key problems for this team has been the absence of a veteran leader. While guys like Deandre Liggins, Josh Harrellson, Doron Lamb, Terrence Jones, and Darius Miller became those type of guys for previous teams, this team doesn’t have that upper-class guy to judge themselves by. How will this group of ‘Cats develop into a team that can play for a national championship without this kind of presence? Well, let’s just say it’s all in their hearts.
Calipari has equipped his players with heart monitors during their practices. Strength & Conditioning coach Rock Oliver watches each player’s heart rates to determine how hard they are actually practicing. Some guys think they are practicing their hardest, but their heart rates tell a different story. Along with judging intensity, the monitors are also key for the players’ safety as well. Along with measuring heart rates, caloric measurements, and exertion.
While many tactics are tried and tried again each season, John Calipari seems to be the constant evolutionist. Not only can he now calculate how well his team is being conditioned, he can now keep a better eye on their physical well-being. During this intense training, the ‘Cats can lose around 500-600 calories per practice session. With heart monitors, the Kentucky coaches can make certain they can avoid health scares. Too many young men have collapsed on the court and lost their lives too early because of “missed” medical abnormalities. I’m glad the Kentucky Wildcats and John Calipari are taking every preventative measures to keep their guys healthy on and off the court.
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January 04, 2013
