Storyline: The primary lesson I’ve learned? It shouldn’t be about competition. Rather, it’s about understanding the game and, through understanding, having a love for the game.
What does it take to be a youth sports coach?
Courtesy: ROAR Sports
You have to teach children different values that they are willing to work for as they get older.
I’ve been a youth sports coach for seven years. The primary lesson I’ve learned is that it shouldn’t be about competition but, rather, an understanding of the game and, through understanding, a love for the game.
Let’s focus on baseball.
Ages 3-12
Isn’t three years old a little young? The best answer is not in today’s time. It’s all about starting them early.
Here’s what I like to do. Sit your team down and explain the rules of the game. Ask questions. When you hit the ball where do you run? Then show them where first, second, and third bases are. I like to have kids run the bases just to get a feel for it.
In hitting, I like to lecture about what a baseball bat is and how to hit the ball properly. When you start kids young they can hit the ball off a tee. Never throw them the baseball either over- or under-hand until kids understand hitting mentally and get a feel for swinging the bat.
At the age of three to about seven it should be about focusing on the rules and developing skills. A parent or coach should not be competitive just yet. Make them better ball players.
Courtesy: Lakota Sports
Ages 10-12
Here’s where it gets a little more competitive. Players begin to understand organized baseball and the commitment it takes to be on a team that competes with another team.
Coaches need to teach players the values of teamwork, respect, sportsmanship (no matter what the outcome), and how those values translate into everyday life.
The sad reality is that about 70% of young athletes quit when they are about to enter middle school. The primary reason? The game isn’t fun anymore.
I believe that, with fun, come wins and the willingness to work hard and respect each other as friends and teammates. As coaches, we have to remember that they are just kids. Coaches need to prepare athletes for what’s ahead.
Very informative article! I think more parents and coaches need to read this article. The sports I played when I was younger and into adulthood I loved. Too many people get caught up in the win – lose situation. What I learned growing up playing sports whether it is a team or individual sport, for me…losing made me better! Very good article Matthew Paris and thank you for coaching and molding these kids right.