Playing a sport and coaching one are two sides of the same coin. I grew up playing softball and I have always loved the game. After more than 17 years of playing the game I am starting my new journey of coaching the game. Playing and coaching are very, very different. I am starting to see just how difficult it can be to teach a game I know inside and out to younger girls in a way that they can understand. Keep in mind the following as you begin coaching younger girls.

Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. When you coach younger kids you will have to repeat what you have already said 100 times 100 more times. “’Keep your glove pointed up,’ ‘Bend your knees,’ ‘Down and ready,’ ‘Yes, the tap on the shoulder means that you steal,’ ‘Extend your arms,’ ‘Get your glove in the dirt,’ ‘Hit her in the chest,’ ‘Hustle.’” You can never say something too many times.

Demonstrating. When you coach younger girls you sometimes have to demonstrate what you are trying to teach. So when you have to demonstrate head sliding just remember that you are not as agile and in shape as you used to be and you will throw out you back and neck…just saying.

Encouragement. They are still learning the game that you know by heart. They haven’t been playing for as long as you have so you have to remember that it’s okay if they struggle sometimes. What you need to do is encourage them every chance you get. Cheer for them when they make an awesome play or hit a base rip, they will light up when you do.

Constructive criticism. Yelling is not the answer, especially for younger girls. Coach them so that they understand what you are wanting them to do without having them shut down. Instead of yelling at them for not covering or for not knowing where to throw the ball to, show them or explain it in a way that they will understand.

Practice. Practice. Practice. This may seem a little cliché, but practice doesn’t make perfect, practice makes permanent. Keep working with them every chance you get. The growth from the beginning of the season to the middle to the end will definitely leave you speechless.

Softball is my favorite sport and I hope that I can be the coach that makes these younger girls love it as well!

Go Red Hot Chili Peppers / Red Devils / Ice Cream Lovers / Whatever happens to be on the girls’ minds before we start the game…!!!