As a community, we have a unique opportunity to shape the experience for our young athletes, ensuring they develop not just as players, but as well-rounded individuals with a lifelong love for the game.

We often hear about the obvious ways we contribute: coaches teaching skills, players giving effort, and parents providing transportation and support from the stands. But what if we challenged ourselves to go beyond the expected? What if we looked for more ways to add value that go beyond the typical expecations.

Coaches, your impact extends far beyond the dugout. While developing skills is crucial, nurturing your players’ mental side is equally as important, but often focused on far less. I challenge coaches to listen with their eyes. Pay close attention to your players’ body language. A slumped posture, a downturned gaze, or a frustrated gesture can often tell a story.

This is especially true when players are battling a slump or struggling during practice. If you notice signs of wavering confidence, take action to boost their spirits before they leave the field. A quick word of encouragement, a focus on a small success, or a moment of individual attention can make a world of difference. Something I loved both as a player and a coach was taking extra time with them outside of the scheduled practice. Something as small as a 5 minute fielding or BP sessio after practice focused on that player can send them home feeling much better. Ending on a positive note pays dividends for young players, reinforcing their love for the game and building resilience.

Parents, your dedication to your athlete is undeniable. Beyond the cheers and carpools, your role in their physical preparedness can make a huge impact. I challenge parents to prioritize your child’s hydration and nutrition. It might seem basic, but proper fueling makes a significant impact on performance, focus, and recovery.

Ensuring your athlete is well-hydrated before, during, and after practices and games, and providing them with nourishing meals and snacks, directly contributes to their ability to perform at their best. This proactive support is a powerful way to add value to their athletic development and builds an often overlooked foundation that will set them apart as they get older.

As a player, your growth isn’t just measured by home runs or strikeouts. True improvement often stems from stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing challenges. I challenge every player to fail. Don’t shy away from pushing your limits, even if it means striking out or making an error. Learning from these moments is a crucial part of your development.

Remember, you’re not just a shortstop, center fielder, or catcher. You’re a ballplayer. Train like one! This means being open to trying new things, accepting constructive criticism, and understanding that every mistake is an opportunity to learn and grow. Your willingness to embrace failure and use it as a stepping stone to improvement is an invaluable contribution to your team’s overall success and positive culture.

There are so many ways of adding value that are often overlooked, but by collectively committing to these less obvious, yet incredibly impactful, ways of adding value, we can cultivate a youth baseball culture that prioritizes passion, personal growth, and ensuring a rewarding experience for everyone involved. What other “unseen” ways do you think we can add value to youth baseball?