Things You'll Need:
- An open mind
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Step 1
Create an atmosphere of trust and create an environment for teaching the game of baseball. You should be able to create a re pore with young players from ages 9-13 that will make them believe in what you are teaching. Do not take intelligence of this age group for granted. This is not the same little league player you grew up with, they are exposed to different things and understand much more than we may give them credit for, so stay sharp. Find out something they enjoy that is not related to baseball, because baseball is a failure sport and you must have a go to subject when things do not go as planned.
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Step 2
Teach in slow steps as to create a solid foundation for teaching baseball. Some tips may be to pick out some go to drills. I like the short hop drill where you can put players about 5 feet apart and have them throw each other short bouncing balls as the other players catch it. This is example of an easy drill that young players can create immediate success with while learning a fundamental that is used at all levels. Simple drills create high return has they mature and grow.
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Step 3
Everyone wants to hit. Spend less time having players hit and more time understand defense and the game. I did not say do not hit but hitters can be created but most are born. And hitters need fundamentals but the real grow in hitting comes when the player has reached a growth stage, and muscles get bigger, stronger, faster.
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Step 4
KEEP IT FUN. When young players get bored, discouraged, frustrated, or disappointed, they quit. Baseball is not an action filled sport....all the time but when it comes there is nothing like it. So with younger players create games and keep them active throughout practices and games. DO not allow idol time from any player.
