Sometimes Nothing is the best thing to do.

Feedback is a very important tool in your coaching toolbox. Let’s be careful that we don’t use this very effective technique in a negative way. Remember when you hollered at your pitcher, Steve, when he failed to back up the catcher on that outfield throw to the plate. You yelled at him, “What’s wrong with you? Can’t you do anything right?”  

Not to worry.  We know you.  You would never coach “Steve” or anyone else that way. 

Believe it or not, we’ve heard coaches and parents make those kinds of comments to their players/kids right out in public in front of friends, spectators, teammates, strangers, and other interested parties. 

So, what happened to Steve when you hollered at him for not backing up the catcher on that outfield throw to the plate? 

Where was his mind? 

Did he really bear down on the next batter? 

Did he hear the good advice you gave him about the next batter? 

Was he dealing with the bad stuff that he would like to forget? 

If Steve is focused, leave him in that condition. 

Sometimes nothing is the best thing to do. 

At your next practice you can give him a proper, positive lesson.