Expert: John Priest - 4/8/2008

Question
I have signed up for coaching my sons coach pitch team, now i am the head coach, but the organization does not give us the rules and how to play. What are the most important things for the kids to practice before the games to get the best out of the practice times? I want to teach them the right way, was is that?

Answer
Kristi,
         Your question of teaching the player the right way is an answer that I don't think I would ever have enough time to answer.  There are too many mechanics and fundamental to fully answer this question.
         Coaching little league is no different from coaching at a higher level even the professional level.  All that matters is being organized, having a plan, and who you put in place around you.  At the coach pitch level it is most important to make sure that the players learn the rules and have fun.  When I say rules I mean responsibilities for each position.  This includes playing your position, who is the cut off man on relays, etc.  Also making sure that the players have a good experience will put them on a good track for future seasons.  
         Make sure you have a plan before the games and let the parents know what will be going on.  I suggest that you have a meeting with the parents prior to the season.  Make up some rules for the team.  The most important rule may be that you have to play every position.  Most younger players like the infield and nothing else.  Make a rule, if your league doesn't have one already, that every inning or every other inning the infield will play outfield and the outfield will move to the infield positions.  
         Before the games also have a plan.  This all depends on how much time you have.  I recommend that you keep the drills quick to keep their attention and to rotate through a few stations so everyone is doing something.  First as a team stretch and loosen up their arms.  After this you can have three stations. The first station can be grounders.  The second station can be fly balls.  The third station can be hitting.  Divide the team into three and have them rotate through each station.  For the hitting station use wiffle balls, they don't go as far and with three stations going at the same time wiffle ball are safer.  
         In the beginning of the year keep the drills very simple and as you see the team improving become more specific.  Please let me know if you need me to explain the exact fundamentals or drill examples for each station.  Just remember to stay organized and keep the players interested and make sure they know the rules for the team.   

Let me know if I can help in any other way.
Thank You,
John Priest
Nokona Batman
www.nokonawreckingcrew.com