On behalf of the Amateur Softball Association, welcome to the January issue of the ACE Coach monthly email from ASA Director of Coaching Education and two-time Olympic Coach Mike Candrea: Candrea on Coaching. As a youth sports coach, you naturally want to prepare your team to win as many games as possible, and as a Responsible Coach, you want to prepare your players to win off the field, too. The Liberty Mutual Responsible Sports program is proud to bring you this series in which Coach Candrea will provide you with coaching tips and resources that you can use for the betterment of your youth softball team.

January 20, 2010
Volume II, Issue 1

Getting Ready for a New Year of Softball!

We have all survived the holiday season and had a chance to renew our batteries for another softball season.  Around the country at this time of the year, many coaches and players are getting ready with great anticipation to begin another year of softball competition.  Coaches, parents and players alike are planning for the new season and beginning to form teams, scheduling practices and games, and hopefully preparing and organizing the road map that will take them to the promised land at the end of the summer competing at national tournaments or just enjoying a season of skill development and playing this great game.

Every coach, parent, and player has different expectations involving their participation in sports.  The most important elements of participation and competition are developing an environment that allows each individual to build the necessary softball and life skills to compete and enjoy the process and gain an appreciation for this great game. 

• Coaches at this time of the year are building their rosters, planning their practices, and putting together a schedule that will allow the best preparation for their athletes. 
• Parents are looking for the right team for their daughter that will provide quality coaching, an opportunity to gain experience by playing and sharing in the development of their daughter. 
• Even the umpires are anxious to begin preparation for another season by brushing up on the rule changes and getting back into game mode. 

Although we all have different reasons for being involved in the game, one thing that never changes is the anticipation for a new season. And, hopefully another great experience playing a game that so many people love!

One of the most important ingredients for coaches to consider at this time of the year is setting expectations for both the parents and the players.  As we select our players to coach and parents select their coaches for their daughters, there must be a mutual commitment from both sides to assure the best experience for all involved.  There are a lot of moving parts to a team and the most important element in providing a great experience is that these parts must work together and move in the same direction.

Parents must buy into the philosophy of the coaching staff and be willing to support the decisions that must take place.  There are many different levels of competitiveness in our sport and the key is to find a good match for the athlete.

• For some, a college scholarship is the goal and therefore, gaining the experience and exposure will become more important.
• Others may just want to play the game to develop their skills and enjoy participation.

Especially at this time of year, I would suggest having an organizational meeting with parents and players to provide as much information as possible regarding expectations. You'll then begin your season with everyone on the same page... all moving in the same direction.

If parents or players are looking for a different situation, now is the time to make the change, not in the middle of the season.  Remember, your job as a coach is to provide the leadership and knowledge to develop each player physically, mentally and emotionally.  The parents' role is to provide support and encouragement to both your child and their coaches! 

Have a great 2010! Until next month,

Coach Candrea