Warwick modified learn the basics, and then some

Warwick - In the hectic competitive world of youth sports, modified programs stand out as the last bastion of purity, dedicated to developing players. And Warwick boys basketball coach Tom Rauschenbach wouldn’t have it any other way. “I have been coaching here in Warwick for six years coaching the modified team. Before that I coached in New York City for two years as a girls basketball coach. Before that I coached at the recreational level with my younger brothers,” the coach said. “Coaching this team is a lot of fun.” It isn’t hard for the coach to pinpoint why he enjoys it so much. “I have great kids. We look for strengths like character and hard work and qualities like that in our players,” Rauschenbach said. “I have a good, healthy group of kids that I am happy to have here and proud to coach.” Coaching a modified team is a different animal then coaching in most programs. “I think coaching a modified team really is more instructional. I have 18 players on this team and all 18 players play. I try to get every player here playing time. A lot more of the game is focused on developing skills,” the coach said. “Not so much winning, but improving and preparing for the next level. It is a different focus.” The modified setup allows coaches to make the most of their seasons, without the pressure of a win/loss column. “If you look at the modified rules, they are different as well. We reset the scoreboard after each quarter so there is no final score,” Rauschenbach said. “It truly is more about developing players than wins and losses.” The key to successful modified season is setting goals, and Rauschenbach has those goals for his Warwick Wildcats. “Our goals for the season is that everyone stays out of trouble, every stays healthy,” the coach said. “And if I can see a natural progression in my players from where they were.”