How many times during your coaching career have you come across an obstacle? Most likely, more than you have wanted. Overcoming obstacles is something everyone has to do, especially players. A great example of this is Austin Solecitto. Suffering major hearing loss at the age of two, he is now playing baseball for Boston College. Playing baseball has always been a passion of his. With his parents and coaches standing beside him for support, he persevered through the struggle. “He’s a very special young man,” Austin’s coach stated. Besides family, players look to you, their coaches, for guidance.
As a coach, helping players overcome obstacles is important for success. Here are three steps to follow when a player is faced with an obstacle:
1. Become aware
2. Adjust and cope
3. Follow up
The first step of becoming aware is easier when communication is fluid between coach and player. When players are new, take time to get to know them; not just on the field but also their life besides baseball.
If a possible obstacle arises, the next step is to adjust and cope. Whether it is making a small modification to some drills or learning coping mechanisms, change is most often needed. Learning precisely what needs to change may be the hardest part. Trial and error might take a longer amount of time and a little more effort but will most likely have a greater result in the end. After you have done what you needed, make sure there is a follow up with the player. This is most effective recently after the adjustment and then again at a later time.
Obstacles may arise at any time when coaching, the key is being prepared. Being able to talk with players about their personal obstacles, adjusting and coping with them, and then following up to make sure they are overcoming the problem are all important. Working with, guiding, and staying positive will help the player with their struggle. With the help of caring people in his life, Austin has come a long way and wants to continue his baseball career.
Limited team slots are available in our summer series in the Iowa cornfields. Join us for an unforgettable time that includes private access to the Field of Dreams Movie Site.
Weekend Tournaments (June 27-29, July 3-6, July 18-20, Aug 1-3)
Games at Dubuque Sports Complex, 12614 Nightengale Lane, Dubuque, IA 52003
$750-$850 per team; call 563/875-7253 for “Hometown Advantage” discount
4-6 games guaranteed
Skills competition, camp out and movie night at the actual Field of Dreams Movie Site under the lights!
Ages 8U-14U
Nearby accommodations
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About All Star Ballpark Heaven
All-Star Ballpark Heaven is a tournament promoter and a new tournament facility under construction. The new site opens in 2015 and will be a very special place that nurtures young baseball and softball athletes nationwide in a way no other tournament facility is envisioning. All-Star Ballpark Heaven’s mission is to be America’s premier venue for fun family memories surrounding seasonal baseball and softball tournaments. Year-round we will help each athlete reach his or her full potential on and off the field in the sports of baseball and softball through training facilities and elite staff dedicated to the advancement of each player. Our vision is to be America’s most sought-after tournament destination by families and coaches of youth baseball and softball athletes.
TwitterFacebook Web: http://www.allstarballparkheaven.com
Phone: 563-875-7253
Email: info@allstarballparkheaven.com
