Baseball Coaching Info

Teaching

As a coach, you take on a number of duties. You are role model, you are a motivator, you are an administrator, and most importantly you are a teacher.

There are two sides of teaching. On the one side there is the element of showing a player how, where, and, hopefully, why to do certain things. This requires knowledge of the sport and preparation to educate the players. Another side of teaching is guiding the players in such a manner that they will learn the various elements of the sport on their own. A teaching environment that rewards curiosity, creativity, self-confidence, and the ability to adapt will help finesse self-teaching.

Paint Clear Pictures

There are situations in a training situation when it is timely for a coach to stop the action, step in with questions, remarks, or instruction, and then step back out of the flow of play. These “teachable moments” must be inserted sparingly for situations where themes or tendencies can be addressed.

The key is to select a situation involving a decision or link of decisions where a brief discussion can be effective in the learning process. Illustrate the situation with a clear picture, while probing for alternatives. Ask the player(s) for other options. The most effective learning circumstances occur when the players learn on their own, rather than being force fed. You might be surprised how often players realizes they have made a mistake and even more surprised that they are able to recognize other choices.

Stop For Gratification

Do you only stop a practice session to instruct (or berate) when a negative situation occurs? Keep the session positive by complimenting players on a good play. Moreover, stop the training session on occasion to congratulate a player or group of players if a situation occurs where improvement has appeared. Documenting the learning process will solidify the players’ growth.

Planting positive seeds will release pressure and create a training and playing environment where the players will strive to both learn from and for the coach. Having fun is generally the quickest route to productivity and improvement.

Discover How Each Player Learns

Each person takes encouragement, motivation, and criticism in unique ways. Observe how your players listen and learn. With some it will be more effective to motivate in front teammates while others should be pulled aside. Most have a low threshold for criticism, while many thrive on direct and repeated motivation. When in doubt, hold back and address the player away from the others. As always - Shout Praise, Whisper Criticism.

Watching Better Players

Don’t you remember having heroes, whether they were older siblings, local stand-outs, or big time talents? Sports in America have progressed proficiently on both the male and female side that there are stars to admire and role models to emulate. Take the kids to college and pro games to watch the same skills they dream to have at a faster and more physical pace. Most players and coaches at advanced levels would love to volunteer a short practice time or talk with your players. They had those above them from whom they learned along the way and most want to give something back. It can’t hurt to ask and it could do wonders for your players. Make that call.