Organizing a Practice

Well-planned practices, run by caring and trained coaches, with well-played games by girls enjoying softball will define our success

Coaches should place a priority on teaching the game of softball (skills, rules and strategy). For the younger divisions, the effort is instructional while for the older divisions it is about learning the game and game situations. Coaches should take the game seriously, but not at the expense of fair playing time for all players or running up the score, which is poor sportsmanship.

Milton Girls Softball realizes each coach has his or her own style, but we encourage coaches to continue to develop their philosophy and attend the coaching clinics. The one coaching objective of Milton Girls Softball Spring program is to provide the girls with a fun, enjoyable and learning experience that makes them want to continue playing softball year after year.

Goals of Running a Practice

• Fun! If practice is fun, the girls will be focused. They will give 100%, and they certainly will look forward to each and every practice.

• Keep them moving. Players should not be standing around. They should always be moving or learning.

• Always focus on positives. Be instructional. It’s a great time for 1-1 learning.

Practice Plan

A practice plan is a written plan that outlines your practice; reminding you what you want to do and when you want to do it. Some coaches may be able to organize a practice off the top of your head and be successful at it. But for most coaches out there, a practice plan is a critical part of a successful practice. You could spend 5 minutes on it or 20 minutes, and it really doesn’t matter as long as you give yourself enough detail to allow you to move through your practice in a structured and organized manner. Download a Practice Plan Template.

Structure of a Practice

• Kickoff practice by having a quick meeting with the team

• Explain goals/objectives of the practice

• Set expectations for the length of practice

• When possible, divide team into groups to keep everyone moving

• Recruit parents who are willing to help out