How to Coach Little Leaguers Who Play Scared

Little league baseball is supposed to be fun and exciting. Oftentimes, young Little Leaguers are very afraid of the ball and bat. Coaching little league baseball requires men and women who understand the mind of a child. This eHow article will teach baseball coaches how to eliminate fear in their young players.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plastic Bats
• Rubber Balls
• Helmets

1. Start by using a rubber or soft baseball. Roll the ball towards the player until she is comfortable playing with it. Observe the young baseball player for signs of fear and anxiety. Throw the soft baseball in the air and teach the youth Little Leaguer to catch fly balls safely and without any fear.

2. Next, purchase real youth baseballs at your local sporting goods store. Feel the texture of the ball and compare it to a major league baseball. Show the whole Little League team that this is the same ball that the real baseball players use. Start using the real balls when the child is comfortable with the rubber balls.

3. Continue coaching and teaching baseball to youth. Video tape their progress and host a team party to review throwing, fielding and catching. Show the young players how they look on television and increase their confidence and self-esteem.

4. Finally, encourage safe play by wearing protective helmets. Use plastic bats and wiffle balls to get all players comfortable with hitting. Use fun games during practice and always keep the players moving. Avoid long practices with everyone standing around. Practice regularly and eventually all players will overcome any fears they may have. Play Ball!

Tips & Warnings

• Always let the less experienced players get more playing time.
• Never, ever force a child to play baseball.

[ljbinkop]

on 6/4/2009 I think this is good advice for all coaches. Nice idea for an article!

[blonde-doc]

on 5/19/2009 Fabulous advice! I am going to try some these techniques with my son's team.