Coaches,
I have always coached 17-18 year old players, so when a father in the neighborhood asked if I could help his son and 3 other boys who are all in 7th grade (13 yr. old) prepare for high school ball in a couple of years, I was happy, but apprehensive, to say yes.
Coaching my team for 15 years, we stressed the mental aspects of the game (aggressive baserunning, throwing a low and outer half strike on 3-2, etc...).
I feel that as I work with the boys, I need to convey to them how the skills they are being taught translate during the game.
For example, 2 of the boys play SS. I noticed that both of them crossed the right foot behind the left foot when they were crow-hopping for the throw to 1B. I demonstrated the proper footwork and explained to them how crossing over in front would save the arm and cause less throwing errors. I asked them to do the footwork every day for a week for 5 minutes and we would review during our next session in my yard. They came back 5 days later and both were doing it and they said it felt natural.
Any suggestions on what these kids should be learning at the age of 13? The kids currently play SS, SS, C, and OF. I can't really project what they will play in a couple of years. The one SS has good actions, nice feet, but a so-so arm.
Thanks for your help!
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