I remember when I started coaching baseball. In my mind I could see a dozen kids learning baseball skills from me. They'd hit like Ted Williams. They'd field like Willie Mays. They'd run the bases like Ricky Henderson. It would be perfect. And easy too. I played baseball through high school. Rather well if I may say so myself. Putting my knowledge into the kids heads and my ability into their bodies would be a piece of cake. I could see myself lifting the Little League World Series trophy in Williamsport.
Then I woke up.
The first day coaching Tee ball was a real eye opener. The first little slugger steps up and I say confidently "I want you to hit the ball as hard as you can and run to first base." The youngster looked at my wide-eyed and said "ok, but coach, which one is first base?" Maybe I needed to slow down a little bit.
We started playing catch. Balls flew everywhere. Catch became a game of throw and chase. kids were throwing with their wrong foot forward and every little boy through like a little girl.
The day went on and on like this. I was frustrated and didn't know what to do so I bought books and surfed the internet and talked with other coaches. Now, years later I coach high school kids and help out with some younger ones. I've discovered many drills that help teach baseball to children. The point of this blog will be to share these great baseball drills.
