How to Communicate in Ball Games
When you are on a ball field, it can be difficult to communicate effectively without signals. If you are trying to give or receive a play call, you don't want to yell it out unless it is in code. Sometimes it can't be yelled out, and you will want to use hand signals. Whatever way you choose, you will need to write down the signals and practice them.
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Things You'll Need
- Notebook
- Pencil/pen
- Different-colored wrist bands
- Dry erase boards/markers
Instructions
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Communicating on a Ball Field
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Create verbal signals and write them in your notebook. Your verbal signals will most likely be code for specific plays. For example, if you are playing football and you want to run a passing route down the right sideline, use a code name for the play. Do not shout out "passing route" and point to the right sideline. You can use random words, colors or even numbers to call a play. Baseball catchers sometimes have plays to catch base runners off guard. They can use numbers to let their fielders know what play they are going to run.
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Create hand signals. Baseball players use hand signals for both pitching and batting. Instead of a catcher shouting out to his pitcher to throw a fastball, he will often put one finger down while in his catching position to signal a fastball. Football coaches will often use hand signals to relay plays onto the field. Write all of your hand signals in your notebook and practice them with your team.
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Use wristbands to help signal plays. Sometimes players will be far away from the coach, and it can be difficult to see the hand signals come from the sideline. Use brightly colored wristbands to assist the use of hand signals. You can also use wristbands as decoys to prevent the opposing team from catching on to the signals. Decide before the game how you will alternate wristband colors for calling plays.
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Write plays on a dry erase board. Again, sometimes it will be difficult to hear plays being called verbally. Use a dry erase board to write the play calls down. Using numbers can be very efficient and sometimes can be easier for the team to remember.
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Study all of your signals, especially if you will be using a combination of methods. Make copies of what you have written in your notebook for each of your team members. Then, have study sessions and also practice the play calls in daily practices. The more you become familiar with the calls, the easier it will be to recognize them during a game.
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