Youth Baseball Travel Team for 9 Year Old Player
From Ask the Baseball Pro:
Kim wrote:
My son is 9 first year of kid pitch travel ball and really struggling. Coach wants to keep him- sees lots of potential, but its really hurting his confidence. Should we go back down for a season in rec. ball? Not to mention its killing me to watch him. Thanks!
From the Baseball Pro:
This is a tough situation. The easy thing to say would be that they are 9 years old and it is supposed to be fun. But if you are a competitive person you do not have fun while struggling. One thing I do know is that when you struggle you really struggle with your confidence as well. So one thing you could do to build that confidence might be getting some sort of coaching. Maybe it is some hitting lessons at the local batting cage or pitching lessons whatever it may be. Other than that you know your son the best and if he is starting to not like playing, its not worth his time.
Your Baseball Pro, Steve Holm
P.S. How many 9 year olds are ready for travel ball? Kids mature at different rates, so another year in recreational ball and some coaching could make a world of difference. Also, playing another sport season can make a difference–soccer players make good baseball players, but there are other sports (my son plays volleyball as well). It’s key that he enjoy the sport and feel good about competing!
Host Mom, Jean
Filed By: Jean Bedord | May 31, 2007 |
