Time and Place

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> Okay coaches this is for you. There is a proper time and place to talk to a kid about playing mistakes. Berating them in front of the dugout, outloud, in front of their teamates, the opposing team and all parents is not the place. Everyone makes mistakes, it is your JOB to coach them through them, not mentally abuse them in front of everyone! It would not be tolerated in the corporate world and shouldn't be in H.S. sports. We are talking kids 14-17 years of age here. kids make mistakes as well as coaches too!

So before you go and hurl your wrath at them, Think how bad it makes you look. Also, if you are going to be critical of people for mistakes, perhaps you should do so with your headline players when they make them as well!

 

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i always thought that the best time was right after they came off the field (so it was fresh in their minds) ask them over and explain to them what they should have done IF it was a mistake. if it was a error, bite your lip because its part of the game and it happens. if you feel the need to rip a child for a error or mistake in a GAME, you have no business coaching.

 

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I agree hitter, bite your lip, coach them one on one and move on, never in front of everyone including their peers.

 

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I've never understood what a coach thinks they are accomplishing by ripping into a kid publicly or while they are in the field when they make a throwing, fielding, or baserunning error. The kid feels bad enough and public humilatation just makes them feel worse. As a coach, I know emotions get high during a game but as an adult, and a leader, coaches need to understand the ramifications of their actions. The best way to handle the situation is talk and explain to the player after the inning, or call a time out and address the group if you need to. If the kid is having a bad game, ask them what's going on and make a substitution if needed. When a kid is struggling, they appreciate the help...it is a team sport afterall. Toby, you said it best...its not tolerated in the corporate world, in schools, or most anywhere else so why do it on the softball field? Coaches are leaders, managers, teachers, strategists, athority figures, and role models. I remember every coach I've ever had...good and bad...every coach needs to ask themselves....how do I want to be remembered?