Field the Rolling Ball For Tee Ball

A Fun and Engaging Drill to Teach Basic Fielding Skills in Tee Ball

The Field the Rolling Ball drill introduces young players to the basics of fielding ground balls with an easy-to-understand “alligator” technique. This drill emphasizes “scoop and toss” mechanics and is designed to be interactive and enjoyable for tee ball-aged kids.

Difficulty Rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (Easy)
Time Estimate: 8-10 minutes

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Soft tee balls or foam balls (safe for young children)
  • Small cones or markers (to designate where players should stand)
  • Glove (optional for younger players to start without one if they’re more comfortable)
  1. Player Positioning:
  • Arrange the players in a line or small groups, spaced about 5-6 feet apart. Each player should be facing the coach and ready to field.
  • The coach should stand about 10 feet in front of the players with a bucket of soft balls, ready to roll them one at a time.
  1. Tossing Area:
  • Ensure there’s an open area in front of each player where they can comfortably move forward to field the ball and have enough space to toss it back.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Coach Positioning:
  • Stand approximately 10 feet in front of the players, holding a bucket of soft balls. You’ll roll the ball gently to each player, giving them time to get into position.
  1. Execution:
  • Explain the “alligator” technique to the kids: their glove or dominant hand should be on the bottom, like the mouth of the alligator, and their other hand (the “top jaw”) should go over the ball to “trap” it. Use a playful voice to make this memorable!
  • Roll a ground ball to each player one at a time. As the ball rolls to them, they get into a wide, balanced stance and reach down to field the ball using the alligator method.
  • After securing the ball, the player then stands up and lightly tosses the ball back to the coach or to a designated target. Emphasize the sequence of “scoop and toss.”
  • Repeat this process for each player, providing encouragement and feedback after each attempt.
  1. Repetitions:
  • Each player should get 5-6 turns per round. After completing a round, you can either give a quick break or set up another round to reinforce the technique.
  1. Fun Variation:
  • For added engagement, you can use a “countdown” challenge: after each successful scoop and toss, the players count aloud. This keeps them involved and makes the drill feel like a group activity.

Why You Run This Drill:

This drill teaches young players the essential skills of fielding ground balls using a simple “scoop and toss” technique. At this age, players are learning the basics of coordination and glove positioning. By teaching them the “alligator” technique, you’re helping them understand the importance of using two hands, staying low, and focusing on securing the ball. These fundamentals build a foundation for fielding that they’ll continue to use as they grow in the sport.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Hand-Eye Coordination: Helps players learn to watch the ball, reach down, and use two hands for control.
  • Basic Fielding Position: Introduces young players to a ready, balanced position that keeps them engaged and ready to field.
  • Confidence and Engagement: Builds their confidence in fielding while keeping the drill fun and interactive.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • Simple and Safe: Perfect for young players, using soft balls and slow rolls to keep things safe.
  • Easy to Understand: The “alligator” method is easy to remember and makes the drill fun for young kids.
  • Builds Fundamentals: This drill establishes fielding basics that players will need as they progress.

Cons:

  • Limited Movement: Players aren’t moving side-to-side, so it’s not as dynamic as other fielding drills.
  • Short Attention Span: At this age, kids may lose interest quickly, so it’s important to keep the drill short and engaging.

Coaching Notes & FAQs:

Coaching Tips:

  • Keep It Lighthearted: At this age, kids respond well to fun, playful instruction. Use your voice and expressions to bring the “alligator” technique to life and make it memorable.
  • Reinforce Two Hands: Remind them to always bring the “top jaw” down on the ball, even if they successfully catch it with their glove.
  • Praise Often: Encourage each player, even if they miss. Building their confidence and enjoyment is the priority.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What if players struggle to use two hands?
  • For very young players, catching with two hands can be challenging. If they’re struggling, encourage them to get the glove on the ball first, then bring their other hand to “help.”
  1. Should players wear gloves for this drill?
  • It’s up to you! Some kids at the Tee Ball level find it easier without a glove. If they’re uncomfortable with the glove, let them use their hands first, then introduce the glove later.
  1. How can I keep players focused if they get distracted?
  • Keep the drill short and mix in quick challenges, like counting catches or “alligator chomps.” Keeping energy high will help maintain their focus.
  1. How often should I run this drill?
  • This drill can be done in every practice, as it’s foundational for fielding. Kids will enjoy it more as they get better, so repeating it frequently helps reinforce the basics.

The Field the Rolling Ball drill is an enjoyable and valuable way to teach kids in the Little League Tee Ball Division the first steps of fielding. By keeping it simple, safe, and fun, you’ll build their confidence and understanding of using two hands and focusing on the ball, essential skills as they continue in the game.