Now that practice is over time to take a few minutes (hopefully with our new assistant(s)) and take note of strengths and weaknesses of the practice and the players. Hopefully you’ve filled out your 5 Tools Chart.(See previous post). If not, do it now. Again, this chart will help you plan the next practice based on skill development. Did the players respond well to you? Did they keep active? Did you lose attention? Did you finish on time?
As to the players, consider their foot speed (note during the 'live portion of batting practice); Arm strength (note during throwing drills and fielding practice); Fielding ability; Ability to hit consistently during BP; Enthusiasm. These will be used as the basis to build on “the 5 tools" of Baseball.
By using the 5 tools scale, instruction can be made more effective by looking at these scores more closely. Take the scores and average by individual skill scores; then average by skill.
Note the skills that need most work and the players that can help and demonstrate those skills.
In other words, if the team average is low in a skill, more team practice is required on that skill. If the team average is being brought down by an individual, share that weakness with the athlete as something to work on privately. This will become more important as teams become more advanced and competitive.
As the season progresses, you will use the above chart to follow the progress of the team and the players. It's also a good measurement of your coaching too- the overall average (covered by the XXXX). The more the team improves, the higher your score.
A couple of things to remember
One key is to save your coaching for practices. During the game, encourage and congratulate small achievements. Competitiveness is innate in early years and should be supported. Shy kids need lots of encouragement. Have fun and make sure the players do too. Never scold or embarrass a player during the game or practice. Take notes for private discussion later or for practice. Parents also like to help at home. Gently offer small suggestions in specific areas that require work.
Throwing and fielding well, rely heavily on repetition. Do as many reps as possible, as often as possible. Ultimately your pre-game routine will include mini versions of some of your drills.
Teach and show respect for Umpires and other players. They are learning the game too. Leagues are finding it increasingly difficult to hire and retain officials due to the abuse they suffer at the hands of players, coaches and fans (parents) every year. Make sure parents understand and ask for their support in policing this ongoing problem.
Top 10 signs of a great teammate*
10) Accepts any role that will help the team.
9) Would rather score less and win than score more and lose.
8) When the team scores, congratulates teammates.
7) Has as much fun working hard in practice as during the game.
6) Has respect for opponents, but doesn't fear them.
5) You listen while others are speaking, are coachable and show respect for coaches, officials and other players.
4) You are quick to pick up a teammate.
3) You are willing to help younger or less experienced players.
2) You learn and grow from your mistakes.
1) Show confidence - not arrogance.
Next week - Basic skills.
*Proactive Coaching.info
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