How many times have you seen it! A bater hits a slow grounder towards the third baseman. The third baseman runs in for it, fields it, then throws the ball to the first baseman. But the first baseman can't come up with it and the ball heads to the fence behind the first baseman.
Then the first baseman fetches the ball and throws the ball back toward third base to try to get the runner out at third. But the ball is thrown wide and the batter scores.
This scenario is prevalent in youth baseball. But believe me, teaching young kids (6-10 year olds) to back up is very, very difficult.
So how do you teach young players to backup the throws? Repetition, practice and constant reminding.
You must take the time out and dedicate 30 to 60 minutes on the backup drill. But not just one practice - you have to do it over and over. You must be consistent and repetitious.
The next question is how can you practice backup drills without losing the attention of the players? There is no simple answer, but one idea is to ask for some help!
Get an assistant or some parents to help. Have them interact with the players and quiz them on what they should be doing on the play. It's not to reprimand them but to keep them involved and attentive. The last thing you want is to have the kids standing alone without being involved for any extended period of time.
Another good idea is to split up the players. Make two teams and while one is in the field have the other run the bases while you practice the backup drills. You can even make a contest to make it fun - the team who scores more runs is the winner.
During game situations, it is imperative that you constantly remind the right fielder to back up first base and the third baseman to back up third base, when appropriate. Sure, there are other players on the field that you want to advise, but you really want to backup the corners and keep the ball from rolling to the fence - you can save a lot of runs that way.
Oh by the way, another good tip is to teach the kids not to throw the ball all over the place. Instead, have them run the ball back into the infield. I know; this is easier said than done.
But whatever happens, if a player doesn't backup, don't make a big deal about it. In fact, make light of it and give the kid some reassurance with a pat on the bat with some encouraging words like "Get em next time Champ!!
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