With players not used to the game, the coach must be sure that he/she starts off with a simple strategy and develops it in phases. Below ‘s what was suggested to new coaches to Tee Ball as being the stages to develop since the players mature in the experience.
Stage 1:
- All infield fielded balls are thrown to first base (if you have a chance to get the runner out). Otherwise, the fielder improves the ball on top of the head to counteract further running.
- If the ball just isn’t fielded cleanly from the infield, the fielder improves the ball over the head to avoid further running.
- No early attempts needs to be made to get yourself a runner out in your own home base.
- Balls inside the outfield are thrown to your nearest infielder who improves the ball across the head in the diamond to stop further running.
- In an attempt to have the runner out, the ball should just be thrown once then held up. Discourage players from chasing the runner about the diamond and/or throwing the ball as soon as the runner.
Stage 2:
Teach players about forced plays. Explain that, in a very forced play, the baseman needs and then catch the ball and touch the beds base with the foot to find the runner out. Then, demonstrate towards the players around the diamond, any time a forced play is on. (This is good coaching both because players are fielding and like a runner).
Stage 3:
Next double and triple plays needs to be explained and practised. Also, explain which a double and triple play can be done after a catch is taken.
Once the issue is taken, explain best places to throw the ball to receive the extra out.
Stage 4:
Teach your players whenever they need to tag the runner at the beds base or running past them inside the diamond since they field the ball.
In many situations, encourage the fielder to understand where they will toss the ball before they field it.
Encourage them to tennis ball so the ball for your easiest out e.g. the nearest base or first base if the two main outs.< to shorten the outfielder’s throw. This allows the infielder to have the next throw quickly to the infield to prevent the play or experience an out.