Expert: John McInnis - 1/22/2004

Question
Dear Sir,
I coach a local t-ball team and have several kids that are really scared of getting in front of the ball to catch it.  Is there any advice that you can give me on how to gradually get them out of this habbit?

Thanks
Randy

Answer
Hi Randy,

for T-ball players who are afraid of the ball, you could have a practice or two using tennis balls, wiffle balls or even very soft baseballs.  Some baseball specialty stores have super soft indoor baseballs available.  You may even find some on the internet or eBay.

The trick is getting them to make an effort and catch the balls.  You have to make a game of it!  Form two teams and create a relay competition.

X X X X X X X....Coach1
O O O O O O O....Coach2

Coaches toss ball to player, player catches ball and tosses back to coach THEN goes to end of the line and sits down.

First team to be sitting down WINS!!!

Be inventive.  Use a small bucket at first.  Get them use to trapping the ball and tossing it back.

Best advice is not to isolate those kids.  They need to see the importance of catching the ball and to have the encouragement of the entire team.  Builds better character and team spirit too!

Best of luck,

JohnMc