4 Ways Coaches Can Teach the Fundamentals of Softball

If you have never taught or coached anything before, teaching a group of young boys or girls how to play softball can be rather intimidating. And as we discussed earlier, having played the sport does not necessarily mean you will be a successful coach.

At all levels of sports, the best coaches are usually the best teachers. Here are some tips on what it takes to be a good teacher of the game of softball and build confidence in your young squad:

Tip No.1: Explain the "Why's" Before the "How's"

Most people are naturally curious and want to know "why" they must learn something before they are willing to learn it. Kids are no different.

Players, especially younger, inexperienced ones, need to know what skill they are learning, and why. Therefore, before teaching the skill, first tell your players the name of the skill (i.e., hitting, throwing, fielding). Make sure your players understand what you mean, especially if the name of the skill is used for more than one thing.

For example, explain to them the difference between "catching" a thrown ball, and the position of "catcher." Then explain to them the importance of the skill, and where it fits into the game of softball. Give them a reason why it is important they learn the skill, and how it will help them become better players.

Tip No.2: Demonstrate the Skill

Nearly 83 percent of what we learn in life is from what we see, not from what we hear. In the learning process, seeing how something is done is critical to successfully performing the skill.

Proper demonstration is especially important for younger players who may have never seen anything closely resembling the skill they are being asked to perform. If you are unable to perform the skill correctly, find someone who can.

The following are some tips to keep in mind when demonstrating a skill:

• Teach in proper progression
• Always use correct form
• Show the skill several times
• Break the action into pieces and slow it down for the players
• Demonstrate the skill from all angles

Tip No.3: Give A Brief Explanation of the Skill

Enhance the demonstration portion of the learning process by giving a brief explanation of the skill along with the demonstration. Use simple words your players will understand. Then ask them if they understand what you just taught them.

You can even have your players repeat your explanation back to you. If they look puzzled or are unable to repeat what you have said, you probably have not gotten through to them.

If that is the case, try using different words or emphasizing different points. Ask them what they do not understand. As a reminder: Young kids especially have short attention spans. Keep your explanations short and to the point, then get your players active and performing the skill.

Tip No. 4: Instruct Your Players

After you have demonstrated and explained the skill to your players, and you are sure they have some understanding of how to perform it, let them practice.

Initially, you will have to be hands-on with some of your players, while others may grasp the skill immediately. Spend time with those that are having difficulty, and walk them through each step. This will help them gain confidence and be able to perform the skill on their own.

Also, do not overlook those players who have more advanced skills and catch onto things quickly. They also need positive reinforcement and feedback. Remember: When teaching a skill, make sure to teach it in the proper progression.

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Courtesy of Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA)– the National Governing Body of Softball in the United States.