Youth Softball Coaching Tips

Coaching a youth softball team can be a challenge in that the coach must approach instruction from a fundamental standpoint. Many of the players on a youth team are entering the sport for the first time, and it may even be their first experience with sports. Keeping that in mind and following some basic tips for effectively coaching a youth softball team will help you find success more quickly.

  1. Run Anticipation Drills

    • Anticipating where the ball will be coming from and knowing what to do with when you get it is an important skill to possess in youth sports. Divide your team into four equal groups and have them stand in line at four different spots with their gloves on. Draw an imaginary square in an open space that is about 50 feet across. The four spots will be at the corners of the square. Give one ball to the first player in two opposite corners. This drill works by having the players with the balls roll or throw the ball to the player at the front on the line to their left. They can choose to throw it in the air or roll it like a ground ball. The other player catches the ball and then rolls or throws it immediately to the person to her left. The rule is, if you get a ground ball, you throw it. If you get a thrown ball, you roll it to the next player, according to Softball-Spot.com. This will get players to focus and anticipate where the next ball is coming from and they will also focus on what they must do with it when it comes.

    Consider Attention Span

    • It's important to work within the attention span of the young players, according to AllAboutFastPitch.com. Split up your coaching staff and assign players into small groups to work on things. This avoids long waiting periods. If your staff is too small to accommodate, then there are likely some interested parents that will help toss some fly balls or roll grounders to a small group while you work with another small group.

    Condition for Heat

    • Encourage players to eat protein-rich, filling meals in the mornings and avoid sweets when they know they will be in the heat later in the day. Protein-rich meals will boost energy and provide a filling meal that only needs to be supplemented by small meals the rest of the day. This will help the body maintain its natural cooling system, according to Girls-Softball.com. Make sure that players drink lots of water, even when they aren't thirsty. Just a few sips on a regular basis will help the body remain cool, even in intense heat. They should also occasionally have sugar-free beverages such as sports drinks that replace the minerals lost through sweating. Caffeine should be avoided, especially during hot weather.

    Keep It Fun

    • Most importantly, remember that youth sports are for learning having fun. Coach the team in an encouraging way, while still teaching kids to play to win.