Expert: Dennis Girardi - 2/19/2009

Question
My son has a new coach that is teaching the children (age 11) to take two small steps forward when the pitcher breaks then place their glove on the ground.  Is this correct.  I feel you should move forward with your butt down and glove ready but on the ground requires you to move up your glove up first unless the ball is hit to you.  Second part is how do you disagree with a coach when you are the new person.  I played baseball for over 15 years and still play softball.  Please help.

Answer
Hey David,

I'm sure that the coach just wants the children to get their head in the game.. The gloves will never actually stay on the ground when a ball comes their way.  I wouldn't make too much of it right now.
Also, after time, you won't be the new person.. Sit tight and enjoy the game. Your son is only 11 and needs to not take the game so serious. Let him have fun and show the coach respect until he proves that he is unworthy of it. Baseball is played for fun. If it no longer is fun, then you may need to say something. But if this is as bad as it gets, then you are really blessed.
Good Luck.
Dennis