Posted by: Jack Mankin (MrBatspeed@aol.com) on Tue Mar 1 00:04:59 2005

>>> Jack

Tell me what key elements to rotational hitting should be taught to 6-7-8 yearolds. Taking into consideration their age and focusing ability at this age.

Thank You <<<

Hi Andy

I think we would all agree that keeping the game of baseball fun and challenging are the most important considerations when working with very young players. But having fun at the plate and being successful go hand-in- hand.

To be successful, they must first learn to acquire a good launch position. -- The second most important thing they can learn is to ‘swing the bat-head’ instead of ‘pushing the knob’. – Next, we should let the kids have 7 or 8 uninterrupted swings between comments and adjustments.

In my opinion, young kids spend too much of their time being instructed and not enough time playing the game. If you want see real enthusiasm and kids exhibiting their natural talent, then setup a good game of ‘work-up’ and the coaches just sit in the stands taking notes for an hour of your next practice. When the game is set up correctly, the kids will get more swings than in three regular games. Plus, you get to see them playing every position.

Jack Mankin