Positive Coaching: How To Encourage Young Baseball Players

Being a youth baseball coach is a unique opportunity to work with developing players. Some are trying out the game for the first time and just want to have fun. Others already aspire to reach the majors and take the game quite seriously.

But regardless of their experience level, the right coaching approach is crucial for success. Positive baseball coaching is key to helping players reach their potential while still enjoying the process. By following these five tips to coach baseball from Bownet Sports®, both new and experienced coaches can oversee a successful season.

1. Learn About the Players

Your players are more than a jersey number. Talk to them and learn who they are - their family background, why they play, interests outside of baseball, etc. You might even set aside some group time at each practice to discuss life beyond baseball. Players each have particular needs; this will help you identify and fulfill those needs to give them a better chance at success. It also shows you care about them as a person and not just as a player.

2. Catch Them Doing Things Right

Building up a player's confidence and self-esteem is crucial for both individual and team success. So when they do something right, make sure you acknowledge it. You don't need to stop practice and make a big speech - something as simple as "Great catch!" or "Nice hustle!" will provide the positive reinforcement and motivation players need. Some coaches believe praise will weaken a player, but according to psychologists, this usually only happens if you give unwarranted praise.

3. Provide Constructive Feedback

Mistakes will happen, especially among young players just learning a skill. The important thing is to not focus on the mistake itself - rather, focus on how to fix that mistake going forward. For example, instead of scolding a player for swinging incorrectly off the tee, show them the correct way to do it. Giving them instruction and time to perfect tasks during practice is what leads to being able to do that task during a game.

4. Be Calm

No matter what happens in practice or a game, it's important that coaches remain calm and focused. If you're high-strung, overly emotional and easily rattled, that will rub off on your team. These behaviors produce negative energy that inhibits learning and creates an environment of fear. Conversely, a positive mindset and composed demeanor will help your players relax. Remember that youngsters look to you for leadership, and model the behavior you want to see from them.

5. Provide the Equipment They Need

At the youth sports level, many players still haven't learned what training equipment they need. Even if they have, they might forget something - or perhaps their parents can't afford it. Make sure to have plenty of baseball accessories on hand so your players can still enjoy a good practice. Keep a few extra bats, gloves, helmets and other gear ready for communal use. And rather than reprimanding players who don't have the right gear, use it as a learning opportunity.