Tag Game for Agility

A Fun and Engaging Drill to Build Quick Footwork and Agility in Young Players

The Tag Game for Agility is a high-energy, safe game designed to help 6-7-year-olds develop quick footwork, balance, and agility while practicing tagging skills. The game is perfect for introducing young players to movement fundamentals in a way that keeps them excited and engaged.

Difficulty Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (Easy)
Time Estimate: 10-12 minutes

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Cones or markers to create a designated play area
  • Soft foam tag sticks (optional, for safe tagging)
  1. Play Area:
  • Mark a safe, open space approximately 15×15 feet with cones. This space can be adjusted based on the number of players and the skill level.
  • Ensure the area is free of obstacles and provides enough room for kids to move safely.
  1. Players:
  • Divide players into small groups of 4-5, or use the entire group in a larger space if numbers allow.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Objective:
  • The objective is simple: one player is “It” and must try to tag another player. Once tagged, the player becomes “It,” and the game continues.
  1. Instructions:
  • Select one player to start as “It.” The rest of the players spread out within the marked area.
  • On the coach’s signal, “It” tries to tag any of the other players, who must avoid being tagged by using quick footwork and agile movements.
  • When a player is tagged, they become the new “It” and attempt to tag another player.
  • To add variety, change the method of movement every few rounds (e.g., skipping, hopping, side-shuffling) or add specific boundaries within the space that players must stay within.
  1. Time Limit:
  • Run each round for about 2-3 minutes, then switch up the “It” player or adjust the game dynamics (e.g., add a second “It” or use specific movement rules).

Why You Run This Drill:

The Tag Game for Agility introduces young players to fundamental movement skills in a fun, engaging way. The game encourages quick decision-making, agility, and balance, all crucial for baseball skills such as running the bases, fielding, and evading tags. It also helps players build coordination and body awareness, especially when adjusting direction or moving within boundaries.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Quick Footwork: Players must move quickly to avoid being tagged, building light and agile footwork.
  • Balance and Body Control: The rapid changes in direction improve coordination and control over movements.
  • Tagging Skills: The drill introduces players to tagging, an important aspect of baseball defense.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • Fun and Engaging: Kids love playing tag, and the game’s simplicity keeps them excited and engaged.
  • Builds Agility: The drill is ideal for developing the foundational agility needed for baseball.
  • Flexible: The game can be easily modified for different skill levels or group sizes.
  • Social Interaction: Encourages teamwork and social skills, as players have to work within boundaries and stay alert.

Cons:

  • Risk of Overexertion: The excitement may cause kids to run harder than necessary, so monitor fatigue levels.
  • Need for Supervision: Coaches need to ensure players follow safe tagging rules to prevent accidental collisions.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Emphasize Safety: Encourage gentle, light tags to avoid any rough play or accidental falls.
  • Encourage Awareness: Remind players to stay within the boundaries and keep their heads up to avoid bumping into others.
  • Mix Up Movements: Add fun variations by having players hop, side-shuffle, or even walk backward to challenge their coordination.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. How can I make this game safer?
  • Use soft foam tag sticks to ensure light contact when tagging, and remind players to tag gently. Also, monitor players to ensure the game remains friendly and safe.
  1. How do I handle players who don’t want to be “It”?
  • Rotate the role of “It” frequently to give all players a chance. For more reluctant players, allow them to watch a round first, so they feel comfortable when it’s their turn.
  1. Can this drill be modified for older players?
  • Yes, for older players, you can increase the space or add additional “It” players to make the game more challenging. You can also increase the movement requirements by incorporating advanced footwork patterns.
  1. How often should I run this drill?
  • This game can be used as a warm-up drill or agility exercise 1-2 times per week. It’s a great way to start practice with energy and get players focused on movement fundamentals.

The Tag Game for Agility is a fantastic way to engage young players in a safe, high-energy activity that builds foundational skills they’ll use throughout their baseball journey. By emphasizing quick movements, balance, and coordination, this game makes learning essential athletic skills both fun and memorable.