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T-ball Time!
A Field of Dreams for the Whole Family By Mark Stackpole
The desire to win is strong in players, coaches and parents, but Argula encourages an emphasis on different priorities. "Winning or losing should be the least important thing," he says. "Soon enough, children will be exposed to the competitive nature of sports. If your players enjoy themselves and want to play again next season, a coach should consider the season to be a success."
"T-ball is a great progressive developmental activity for kids," says Augie Mendoza, the YMCA's associate director of sports. "They can use safe and age-appropriate equipment while learning about team building and team play. It sets the stage for adult life."
If a new coach happens to live in an area with a local YMCA chapter, there is plenty of help available. Ninety-nine percent of YMCA coaches are volunteer parents who receive training from local YMCA sports directors. According to Mendoza, the coaches receive training in supporting character development, preventing child abuse and ending practice with a drill that gives the kids positive reinforcement about their performance. In addition, every child plays for at least one-half of each game and plays all positions throughout the season.
"Kids really want their parents to be involved, and the T-ball field is a great place for parents and children to connect," Mendoza says. "It is a great family outlet with a role for everyone: base coach, snack parent, umpire and 'team mom/dad.' You do not have to know the game to get involved."
