Little League Baseball Practice

Little League baseball practice is usually a touchy subject. If for no other reason then you have parents of all shapes and sizes and "opinions" on how their child should be taught. Hmmm. So how do you teach them and where do you start?

1- Very first thing and really important is to get to know the parents and kids. Work with the parents first and get to know them when the season first begins and way before the first practice. It would be beneficial to call the parents and try to get to know them and see what their expectations are for their little Johnny. After school and Little league baseball practice are very demanding so you need to get to know everyone and their schedules.

2- Get to know the kids in a friendly environment. Huddle them around on the first practice and make them feel at ease, away from mom and dad. This is a great time to lay down the expectations of your team and what you expect in little league baseball practice. Let it be known that there is discipline for breaking the "team" rules. You have to stick by this or you will lose control of the kids, no doubt. When I say discipline, i mean run a lap when you are late for practice. Do push-ups, etc..You get the picture. Also reiterate that you expect their attention when you are talking. They are to give you 100% of their attention when you are addressing the team. Once again, if this is not met, laps will do.

3- Remind them that this is a team, and when you arrive late, or not follow the team principles, you are letting the team down..Team, team, team...One for all, all for one...you get the picture.

4- Reiterate how important it is to always give 100%. Not only for yourself but for your team. Tell them this is what you expect. It doesn't mean they will win everytime or get 10 hits out of 10 at bats. It means that even in failure, as long as you are giving your best effort, then you have succeeded. For now forget about the baseball drills.

Remind the parents that little league games, baseball practice, getting to the dance on time are all part of the season. Remind the parents that they can talk to you anytime after practice and away from the kids. You want to keep the kids playing ball, and any issues for off the field and away from their ears.

Just remember that working with kids applies not only in baseball but in other areas of life as well. You should know most of the fundamentals by now and if not, refer to my other baseball drill pages to learn more. It is fun and rewarding to watch them grow but it is your responsibility to make sure they have fun, they grow, and you are positive in your message. Nurture them and teach them and watch them succeed.