Throwing Accuracy Game

A Fun, Safe Game to Help Young Players Focus on Throwing Accuracy and Arm Control

The Throwing Accuracy Game is a simple, engaging drill that encourages 6-7-year-old players to throw accurately to a target. By focusing on control rather than power, this game builds foundational throwing skills and confidence in young players.

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

Setup:

  1. Equipment Needed:
  • Soft baseballs or tennis balls (for safety)
  • Cones, hula hoops, or other targets (can vary in size to make the game more fun)
  • Bucket to hold balls
  • A line marker or cone to indicate the throwing line
  1. Player and Target Positioning:
  • Set up a target area using cones, hula hoops, or even a bucket. Place the target 10-15 feet away from the players’ throwing line to start.
  • Adjust the distance based on skill level; for younger players or beginners, move the target closer.
  1. Safety and Space:
  • Make sure each player has enough room to throw safely without interference. Encourage players waiting for their turn to stay behind a designated line.

How to Run the Drill:

  1. Divide and Explain:
  • Divide the players into small groups or pairs if possible. Begin by explaining the game: they’ll take turns throwing the ball, aiming to hit the target.
  1. Take Turns Throwing:
  • Each player gets 3-5 throws per turn. They aim for accuracy, trying to hit or land the ball in the target area rather than focusing on throwing with power. Award points for accuracy:
    • 1 point if the ball lands near the target area.
    • 2 points if it hits the target.
    • 3 points if it lands in the target (such as in a hoop or bucket).
  1. Keep It Fun:
  • Rotate players after each turn. Celebrate every accurate throw and encourage cheering for teammates. Make adjustments to the target distance or size for variety and to keep the game exciting.
  1. Rotate or Repeat:
  • After each round, mix up the groups or adjust the throwing distance. You can even add fun variations, like having players aim at smaller targets for bonus points.

Why You Run This Drill:

The Throwing Accuracy Game is ideal for helping young players develop control over their throws, teaching them to aim for accuracy rather than simply throwing as hard as possible. This early emphasis on control is essential for building strong foundational skills in throwing mechanics and arm strength, and it makes learning fun.

Key Skills Developed:

  • Throwing Accuracy: By focusing on aiming at a target, players learn to control their throw, which will be essential for future fielding and gameplay.
  • Arm Control and Mechanics: The game encourages players to develop control, follow-through, and proper mechanics, which will support their skill development as they get older.
  • Confidence and Focus: Aiming for achievable targets builds young players’ confidence and concentration, two critical skills for success in baseball.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Easy and Fun: The game is simple to understand and enjoyable for young players, keeping them engaged.
  • Safe with Soft Balls: Using soft balls or tennis balls ensures the drill is safe for young players.
  • Adaptable: You can adjust target size and distance based on player skill levels, making it suitable for a range of abilities.

Cons:

  • Limited for Advanced Players: This drill is primarily aimed at beginners; older or more skilled players may find it too simple.
  • Focus on Accuracy, Not Power: While ideal for accuracy, the game does not address throwing strength. Other drills may be needed to focus on arm power.

Coaching Notes & FAQs

Coaching Tips:

  • Encourage Positive Feedback: Celebrate all throws that show good aim or control, even if they miss the target. This helps build confidence.
  • Remind Players to Stay Relaxed: Kids may want to throw harder to “win,” but encourage them to stay relaxed and focus on aiming carefully. Keep reminding them that accuracy, not power, is the goal.
  • Use Different Target Sizes: Smaller targets can be used to challenge players who show improved accuracy, while larger targets help boost confidence for beginners.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. What should I do if a player struggles with accuracy?
  • If a player is having trouble hitting the target, move the target closer or increase its size. Remind them that it’s okay to take their time and focus on aiming carefully. Positive reinforcement is key.
  1. How can I make this drill more challenging for advanced players?
  • To add a challenge, increase the distance, use a smaller target, or ask players to make different types of throws (e.g., underhand or sidearm) to improve their versatility.
  1. How often should this drill be used in practice?
  • This drill is great for beginners and can be used once or twice a week. It’s especially useful at the start of a session as a warm-up to get players focused and engaged.

The Throwing Accuracy Game is an effective and enjoyable way to introduce young players to the fundamentals of accurate throwing. With regular practice, they’ll build confidence, control, and a solid foundation for more advanced skills.