Students Attend the Dave Hopla Shooting Clinic

Students from the High Road Schools of Hartford (high school and primary) recently put their basketball skills to the test during a shooting clinic with renowned coach David “Dave” Hopla, known as “The Shot Doctor.”

Students Earn the Opportunity to Attend

Participating students earned the opportunity to attend the clinic by meeting school expectations for safe behavior and positive interactions with others. The event brought students from both High Road programs together for a chance to learn from Hopla and connect with their peers who were also attending the clinic.

Learning from “The Shot Doctor”

During his career, Hopla worked with NBA teams including the New York Knicks, Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors, and Detroit Pistons. His coaching centers on shooting fundamentals and the simple philosophy of “practice makes permanent.”

During the clinic, Hopla coached students on their shooting technique and emphasized the importance of practicing skills correctly and consistently. His message applied beyond basketball as students saw how repetition and effort can help turn a developing skill into a habit.

Recognizing Student Progress

The clinic also gave High Road staff an opportunity to recognize students for the progress they are making at school. By meeting behavioral expectations, students earned an experience that took them outside their regular school day and brought the two Hartford school communities together.

Students returned to school with some new basketball tips and a reminder that how they practice matters.