WELCOME TO THE YOUTH COACHING NETWORK

A Free Coaching Newsletter
June 2000 Issue 4 (Links Edition)
Kelly P. Hanaway, Editor (editor@teamanizer.com)

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IN THIS ISSUE (Table of Contents)

1. "Youth Coaching Network" Newsletter Update

      T ogether
      E veryone
      A chieves
      M ore

2. Feature Articles by Sport:

Dear Fellow Coaches,

Thank you again, one and all. I have received only positive comments on our new format (some good tips also - thanks).  This month I am including a new feature.
A monthly on-line poll.  Please make your opinion known.  You can see the results of your vote immediately. If you need to receive this newsletter in the old (text) format,
please email me Coach Kelly , and I'll gladly email you a text version.

Baseball is as hot as ever.  I've received the majority of comments and requests on this sport.  Basketball, though nearing completion still generates a significant amount
of requests particularly for drills (see this months drill).  Soccer continues to be consistently popular while football, hockey, and cheer are understandably quiet.  I am wide open here,
looking for authors on any of these three.
 

Drop me an email if you'd like to become an author to this newsletter

"Swing Hard; In Case You Hit It"

Very Best,

Kelly P (Coach Kelly) Hanaway :-)
 

If you haven't already done so, please forward this issue to one or two of your friends or fellow coaches. Thanks so much!
 
 

BASEBALL: " Confessions of a Third Base Coach" - Coach Kenneth B. Gamble

For the past six years I have been a third base coach in Dixie Youth Baseball. I started out in TeeBall when, like most parents who become
coaches, I was drafted into coaching  because I showed up at the first practice and hung around to watch. I started my son's first game as the
first base coach. But even then I had my eye on the third base coach's spot where our team manager was working. I could see that third was the action
spot.

The first base coach is responsible for the base runner from the time they hit the ball until they reach first base and until they leave first,
headed for second. That's all. Until they actually make contact with the ball the batter is the responsibility of the third base coach who is giving
the signals. And, once they leave first base, whether they are stealing or moving with the next batter's hit, they again become the responsibility of
the third base coach.

The first base coach's responsibilities are few. He encourages the runner to run through the base so that the runner does not slow down. He may
signal the runner whether to make the turn to go to second or to hold at first. He congratulates the hitter for his hit. He also tells the base runner
when to steal second. There are several other strategic duties of the first base coach. He must notice the depth of the infielders. He tells the runner
when there is an infield fly - he can't wait for the umpire to call or signal it. He must be sure the base runner knows the current number of outs.
He needs to know the strength of the catcher and where the catcher normally throws the ball when he is throwing out a runner trying to steal second. He
needs to know who takes the throw-down - whether it is the second baseman or the shortstop. He then uses this information to tell the base runner where
best to slide to avoid the tag at second base.

While this may seem a lot to remember it doesn't come close to the duties of the third base coach. Listed below is a preparatory course for
future third base coaches.  While this is written about youth baseball most of the points apply to softball as well.

Foremost the third base coach must stay focused at all times. I often miss the action on the field because I am focusing on one or two players
only. You can't afford to get upset about a call and let it affect your focus. There have been times when I got so upset about an umpire's call that
I caused our team to miss a scoring opportunity.
 

THIRD BASE COACH RESPONSIBILITY:

Tell each base runner the number of outs. Make runners aware of certain situations such as infield fly rule, what to
do if the ball is hit to the left side of the infield, etc. It doesn't hurt to remind the base runner whether or not he has to run when the ball is hit.
On plays where there is a possibility of an "Infield Fly" the coach should watch the umpire's hands to see if he signals that "Infield Fly".  Most
umpires just provide a hand signal.  This means that the runners advance at their own risk.  The coach should already have made a decision about what to
do if the Infield Fly is signaled.

Tell runner as he approaches third "BE SURE TO TAG THIRD" and point at the bag. As runner leaves third heading home the coach should yell out, "BE SURE
TO STEP ON HOME PLATE!"  This may seem like you are treating the players like children but I have never had a runner fail to tag the  home plate when
I have called this out. If it looks like a play could be made at home plate advise the runner to slide and tell them which side of the plate to slide to.

Tell runner as he approaches third from second to:

SLIDE - Hold both hands out wide apart with palms down. All players should slide if there is any possibility of a play on him.
STAND UP - Hold both hands out wide apart with palms up.
GO HOME - Windmill motion with left arm.

Congratulate player on hits, base running, etc..  But - do not touch (i.e. slap hands or "high five") a player unless umpire has declared "Dead Ball"
or "Time". Provide signals to batter. Provide an activator and a validator sign. An activator is a sign which tells the batter that the next sign is the real
sign. A validator is a signal from the batter back to the coach which tells the coach that the batter understands the signal.  A "thumbs-up" from the
batter is a good simple validator.  We have our batter tap his helmet to show that he understands the signal.  Early in the season you should keep
the signs fairly simple.  By having an activator sign you can mix up three or four signs well enough that other team can't decipher them in one game.

Remind batter of the balls and strikes count - both verbally and with your fingers.
Give your players (ALL YOUR PLAYERS) the opportunity to score. This includes the slower base runners.
Be cognizant of the third baseman's and shortstop's depth. Know what the shortstop does when the batter bunts. If the third baseman charges a bunt
and the shortstop does not cover third then you have an excellent opportunity to steal third. When you get a base runner on second you should
have your batter square around early as if to bunt. When the third baseman charges it leaves the base unguarded and the base runner can easily steal
third. In most cases I give the batter the signal to fake a bunt and pull back with the hope that not only do we get a runner to third but we may also
get a ball instead of a strike.

Also watch the catcher and the pitcher closely. How quickly does the catcher return the ball to the pitcher?  When the runner on third base fakes an
attempt to go home does the catcher "walk" the runner back to third? If he does and then throws the ball to the pitcher there is an excellent
opportunity to steal home since no one is covering the plate at that point. The pitcher will have to attempt to run the runner down or throw to the
catcher who is also racing towards the plate.

When your runner comes off of third what does the third baseman do? Does he come in behind the runner to cover the bag at third? If so, you should be
sure to warn your base runner so that he doesn't get caught straying too far off the bag. Remind your runner not to turn his back on the pitcher. Often
the younger base runners will turn their back on the pitcher or catcher and walk back to the base leaving themselves vulnerable to a quick throw to the
third baseman. Remind him that he can dive head first back to the bag.

Do not allow your batter to get upset about a called strike that he disagrees with the umpire. Some players can become so upset with a call that
they give up and are easily struck out on the next pitch. It is your job to notice a player that is upset and to request a time-out if needed to settle
him down. Its important that you take the time to remind the player that no matter what the outcome this is still a little boys game.  I try to know my
players well enough to know what will make them laugh or at least what will break the tension in their mind.   A quick joke told with your arm around a
player can make all the difference while reminding a player to only swing at strikes will do little good.

If there is a runner on second and third you need to remind the runner on second that the runner on third is his key. If that runner advances only
then can the runner on second advance. There is an old (and very wise) baseball theory that you should never make
the first or last out of an inning at third base.   What this means is to not make the out by aggressive base running.   With no outs you should
always hold the runner at second base if there is any possibility of a play being made at third.

When the baserunner is on third with less than two outs be sure he understands that if the hit is a fly ball to the outfield he should stay on
third and go home as soon as the ball is caught rather than risk having to retreat to third to tag up and then go home.  In almost all cases there is
plenty of time to run home as soon as the ball is touched.  Do not worry about whether it was caught or dropped.  There should be no question in the
umpire's mind that the runner was on base when the ball was first touched. The base runner should stay on third and focus his attention on home plate
and await the third base coach's shout of "GO". Be sure that the base runner understands what you are communicating to him
with your signals or words.  If there is any doubt be sure that he understands that it is his responsibility to ask you again or to request
time out.

Do not admonish a player for making a base running mistake during a game. Wait until the next practice to explain the circumstances and what you were
trying to accomplish. Remember that you want your team to be aggressive (but smart) when running the bases.
One of the results of aggressive base running is a higher chance of being put out.  You (and your team and parents) must be comfortable with
the fact that aggressive base running will result in some outs and must be willing to exchange those outs for the possibility of a larger amount of
runs (a big inning which in most cases will decide a game). There are times when you do all the right things and play all the correct odds but still get
put out.  That does not make the play any less correct.  Be sure that all the players and coaches understand that.   There should never be any
criticism (even well-meaning) if a player and/or coach work within the framework that they establish in practice - no matter what the game result.
You do not want that same player worrying about whether he will be yelled at or criticized next time he is in the same situation.  That little bit of
doubt could slow a player down enough to cost a run or the game.

From the start of our season we use visualization techniques to put the players in the situations where they want to be the player in the spotlight
in critical situations.  As the slogan on a popular baseball tee-shirt says -

"Bottom of the ninth, down by three runs, two outs, bases loaded, full count - No Fear!"

Obviously these are only guidelines.  Each player is different.  I have had some players who are baseball smart at the age of six - they are
aggressive and always have the green light.  They are the players that you purposely hold up at third base with runners behind them even when there is
a good chance that they could score from second base because they make the pitcher nervous - so nervous that he might give up an easy walk, a wild
pitch or a hit that will win the game for your team. Other players need more guidance.

But at all times the guidance should have the goal of making each player make more decisions on his own as the season progresses.   As players
become more experienced you should become less vocal .  The communication becomes less verbal and more through signals and most importantly - the
player's own baseball knowledge.

Ken Gamble
USSF National 'D' license and grade 8 ref
NSCAA soccer coach Doyle certified baseball & softball coach
http://www.decatursports.com
 
 

BASKETBALL: "Deny Slides" – Coach Kimbrough

Deny Slides

Description:  Start with two lines, each one two steps in from the three point/corner intersection (see diagram above).  The coach at the top of the key to simulate the
ball position.  The first player in each line should be facing corner, then will slide straight to the elbows in denial position.  Once they get to the
elbows, they will drop step, turn their head, slide down the lane line, with eyes looking to the top of the key. Then get in the other line.  The second
player in each line will start once the first player gets to the elbows.

Once the team feels comfortable with this technique, I have the team partner up with one on offense and one on defense; using only one line.  The offense
lined up behind the three point line in the corner, the defense lined up as they were previously.  The offense will sprint to the elbow and then cut
back door looking for the lay-up.  The defense must first stop the offenses line to the ball by stepping in front of the offense at the elbows.  Then on
the back cut make contact and guide the offense down the lane line with their outside hand, with the inside hand up, and head looking for the ball.

Once the team is comfortable with this have the offense make the cut any time they want and have the defense react to the offense.

Coach Kimbrough

kimbrokj@horizontel.com
 
 

CHEER: "Keeping Fit for Sideline and Competitive Cheerleading" - Pam Headridge

There's no question, fitness and cheerleading go hand in hand. You can't be a good cheerleader unless  you are fit. If you are fit then you can develop
into a good cheerleader. How do you get fit? You need a training regimen to supplement your practice and you need to be consistent.

     When you mention the word training, many cheerleaders seem to groan. But there are three very
     effective ways to motivate your cheerleaders to develop and maintain their fitness.
 

          Do everything to music
          Keep individual journals of progress
          Rewards successes and consistency

     Set up a fitness program, using a fun variety of exercises. Work on these four elements: warm-up,
     flexibility, aerobic conditioning, muscular fitness (strength and endurance).

     WARM-UP: Always start any kind of exercise program with a warm up. This will gradually start the
     heart beating faster, allowing the blood vessels and heart to dilate and carry blood, and to increase
     blood supply to muscles. The temperature in the muscles increases which allows fuel to be used more
     efficiently, enzymes to work better, and waste products to be carried away.

     Types of warm-ups
 

• Use large muscle movements

• Set up bonding-type game such as musical chairs, but have the chairs spaced far apart. Start off with slower music and have the

cheerleaders march to the chairs. Each time they are  eliminated then they have to stretch while the others keep going. Each time change
the tempo of the music and the type of movement they have to do to travel around the chairs.

• Have the team job lightly.

     FLEXIBILITY: Stretch muscles after they are warmed-up. Stretch again at the end of your cool-down.

     AEROBIC CONDITIONING: Choose an aerobic exercise and do it three to five times a week, 20 to 30
     minutes each time at a intensity where you feel like you are working hard but can still talk.

     Types of aerobic exercise
 

•           aerobic dance class
•           kick boxing class
•           circuit class combining light weights or resistance bands and aerobic-type movements
•           jogging the track
•           step aerobic class
•           jump lines to music, with movements in between
•           chant movements to music
•           repeating band dances several times
•           using jump ropes
•           outside fitness course
•           running stairs

     MUSCULAR FITNESS: Do weight training every other day or three days a week. Never exercise the
     same muscle group two days in a row. Proper technique is very important! Work both sides of the
     muscles to keep balance and work range of motion. Work both strength and endurance.

     Types of strength & endurance exercise
 

•           resistance bands
•           free weights
•           weight machines
•           using your own body weight (push ups)
•           working in pairs (partner adds the resistance)

     Remember, consistency and variety are two key elements to your cheer fitness training. So put on
     some music and have fun as you get in shape!

     – by Pam Headridge, coach at Oak Harbor High School, WA
 
 

GENERAL: "How to Organize a Practice" Part 4 - Coach Joe Izzo

Activities
 

This is the part of the practice where specific skills are developed.  Offensive and defensive schemes are developed.  And most of the fun is to be had.
Every practice should include at least 10 to 15 minutes of scrimmage.  The kids love it, and it’s the best way to learn how to play.  They can't learn to play the
game without playing it.  By allowing them to scrimmage, you are allowing the kids to learn from each other.  I have come to the conclusion that kids can teach
each other much better than we could ever hope to.  If you leave this for the end of the activities section you can let the kids earn the opportunity to scrimmage.
If during the introduction, you let the kids know what they are going to do during the practice, you can remind them throughout the practice that the more they fool
around the less time they will have to scrimmage.

Pick one, at the most two, skills to concentrate on during a practice.  Choose a set of drills, five to ten minutes each in length, that build upon each other.  For example when
teaching the younger players how to dribble a basketball I do the following.

1. I discuss why we dribble in basketball.
2. I demonstrate the position of the hand on the ball and movement of the arm.
3. The kids each get a ball and practice hitting the ball with their finger tips without actually dribbling.
4. They then dribble the ball without moving, one hand then the other.
5. Then they dribble across the gym in a straight line.
6. If they are old enough and talented enough, we then do a weave dribble between cones or folding chairs.

All 6 of these steps take no more than 10 minutes total.  The next practice we will review steps 1 through 3 and run steps 4 through 6.  By the third practice all we will do is
steps 4 though 6.  Again depending on talent you can begin to introduce new dribbling drills.  Splitting the players into teams and having races or other competitions is
typically a big winner for “fun.”

You will need to introduce new drills to help keep the players interested, but don’t be afraid to reuse a number of drills every practice.  Once the players know how to run a
drill you can simply instruct them to run it by name.  If every drill is new, you will spend too much time teaching them how to run it.  Which of course reduces the amount of time
they are actually working on a particular skill.  It also helps to give your drills catchy names so they can more easily be remembered.

The drills should allow at least half of the kids to be participating at the same time.  You may need to recruit help, but if you can give detailed instructions there will be other
parents willing to help.

Be creative.  Any drill can be turned into a game or a competition.  Most kids in sports really have fun competing especially when there is no parental pressure.  You should have
some team competitions as well as individual competitions.  The same drills can be used for both if you are creative.  For example, you can turn playing catch into either type of
competition.  Partners play catch and score each other based on where the ball is thrown.  The thrower get 2 points if the ball is caught between the belt and shoulders, 1 point if
its caught outside of that area, and 0 points if its not catchable.  The first player or team of players to achieve a predetermined total wins.  Or the player or team with the most points
after a predetermined amount of time wins.  If you have extra energy you can track progress by recording the results of these competitions throughout the season.

I know some coaches that will make a kid, or set of kids if that's what a drill calls for, repeat a drill until "they get it right."  I have found that this approach embarrasses the kids and
makes the other kids get bored waiting for their turn.  (We all know what happens when kids get bored.)  I prefer to let the next kid, or group, go.  Yell encouragement to those who
get it right.  The kids will teach each other better then we can.

Consider making the scrimmage activity something less than a full team scrimmage.  In soccer for example, play two games of 3 on 3, or 4 on 4 instead of 7 on 7, or 9 on 9.  Try
to set up as many games as possible to avoid substitutions.  The smaller teams will allow each player to exercise their skills more often.

Next month I will cover the last section of the practice, the Conclusion.
 

- Coach Joe Izzo
 
 

SOCCER "Motivational Coaching" - by Mike Angier

3. Monthly Poll Question

BASEBALL : Guest Coach Article

BASKETBALL : Guest Coach Article

GENERAL: "How to Organize a Practice - Part 5" - Coach Joseph P Izzo

HOCKEY: "Guest Coach Article

CHEER: Guest Coach Article

FOOTBALL: Guest Coach Article

SOCCER : Guest Coach Article

If any coaches out there would like to contribute as guest authors (or in any other way), please email me at mailto:editor@teamanizer.com.