At a recent softball practice, I heard parents tell their daughters to do several things I had not mentioned to the team that were good ideas. One was to run through or beyond first base rather than stopping at first, which is what most of the girls did, and the other involved differentiating between a force play and the need to tag the runner to make an out.

These conversations were between parent and daughter, but it taught me the value of listening to these comments, and incorporating those I think the girls can benefit most from. Working with 8 and 9 year olds who are just learning softball, there is a lot to teach in a little time, so why not take all the help you can get?

Our team parents have been great, very supporting and willing to do whatever they can to help, and many also know softball. They are trying to improve their daughters' understanding and skills, not trying to second guess or take over the coaching. Yet it's silly not to act on some of this free advice. After all, it makes the parents feel more involved, helps the girls improve and most importantly, have more fun. It's a win-win for everyone.

Posted by Chris Lindsley at 08:19 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

As coach of a youth softball team, the first game of the year is always somewhat of an unknown. Add the fact that the girls are 8 and 9 and just learning the game adds to the uncertainty.

Another key thing to establish during the first game is communicating clearly with parents the way they can help. On our team those duties range from catcher, base coaches, safety parent, snack parent and a parent in charge of the lineup.

I knew it was a good sign when my daughter awoke at 7, two hours before our game, got dressed in her uniform and asked when we would leave. Things got better from there.

The team parents were great, very willing to do whatever I asked, and the players all had fun. Many of the girls knew each other, which helped, but they worked well together and did not play like it was their first game.

As coach it was fun to see them have some success and enjoy themselves. At this age, that's what it's all about, and the parents were very supportive. It was a good day, and made me realize why I like coaching so much.

Posted by Chris Lindsley at 10:44 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)

A few months before turning 40, I decided I wanted to celebrate my birthday with friends by organizing a day of sports I called the "Ultimate Sports Day."

Today is the fifth anniversary of USD, and it's something I really look forward to. Over the years the events have included running, golf, basketball and bowling, but what makes it special is doing things I like with good friends.

This idea works for people of any age. My kids have expressed interest in an Ultimate Sports Day for Kids with their friends, which is something we'll do at some point this summer. The great thing about this is it emphasizes the fun associated with sports and being active, something that's very important for all of us, but especially for kids.

Consider setting up an Ultimate Sports Day of your own. It's easy to arrange, and certainly worth the effort. My guess is that your kids, friends and others you include will look forward to it, and may even offer activity suggestions for future USDs. In short, you may find it hard to stop after one. 

Posted by Chris Lindsley at 09:45 PM | Permalink | TrackBacks (0)