New 8u dad

[acooper1983]

Hi all, new 8u dad, daughter is playing in a rec league feeder program for a larger travel organization in our area, summer league was her first organized season, we’re into fall season now, excited to be here and learn, I’m currently assistant coach after our head coaching changed after summer, we’re really into fielding and decision making for the girls, because they all seem to have a harder time with that than batting, and that work was non existent during summer league. I look forward to picking up tips, my main focus is fostering a love of the game, as well as teaching solid core fundamentals, all while having fun, I firmly believe girls this age have to “feel good to play good” and love my roll as Hype man to all these wonderful kids!

 

[Orange Socks]

Lots of reps at this age. Work on things at practice that you saw during the games that need improvement. Focus on your bottom 1/3, they will improve the most.

 

[acooper1983]

Lots of reps at this age. Work on things at practice that you saw during the games that need improvement. Focus on your bottom 1/3, they will improve the most.

Thanks, that what were striving to do! our league unfortunately keeps putting advertisements out for fall ball, and our team has swelled to 16, until they can find another coach to start a 3rd team, its bothers me as it makes it hard to give the girls meaningful reps.

 

[CoachCeetar]

Thanks, that what were striving to do! our league unfortunately keeps putting advertisements out for fall ball, and our team has swelled to 16, until they can find another coach to start a 3rd team, its bothers me as it makes it hard to give the girls meaningful reps.

I dunno how serious things are, but 16 for fall could be perfect if the kids are also playing soccer, cheer, etc.

 

[dothekindthing]

Ask for parent help at practices too! You might be surprised that there are moms or dads who want to help at some level. Splitting the girls into groups of 3-4 and running drill stations is great for getting a lot of reps in and keeping kids focused. This is also a great way to pair up girls with similar skill levels or break up friends to build a true team mentality. At this age try to always end practice with some kind of game where they don’t even realize they are growing skills because they are having fun! You want the kids to want to come back because YES they do have to want to play to want to get better.