How to Keep Kids in a Dugout Interested

Nothing quenches the desire to succeed at a sport more than spending the entire game sitting in a hot dugout. While dugout time is a necessary part of any softball or baseball game, it's important to remember that even the most involved players can grow tired or weary of sitting around. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways you can inspire your players not only to pay attention, but to actually get more interested in and excited about the game at hand.

Instructions

    • 1

      Talk them through the game. As much as possible, discuss the way that the game is going. Explain different tactics your are employing, as well as things that the other team is doing. Sometimes it's difficult for players to pay attention if they're new to the game and don't fully understand the way it works.

    • 2

      Ask your team questions about how the game is going. Quiz your players on things that have happened so far and reward them for correct answers. For example, you could keep track of correct answers and reward the person who gets the most answers right with a small treat or prize. Alternatively, you could reward every correct answer with a piece of gum or a sticker.

    • 3

      Remind your players that good behavior will impress their parents. (Reference 2) Most kids want their parents to be proud of them. Nobody wants to be viewed as a failure or not good enough. Explain that proper dugout behavior and paying attention will not go unnoticed by their families.