As a chartered Babe Ruth program, BGCRE Softball views the 12U Division as the focal point of our program. We want all of our younger players to aspire to play in the 12U Division and to work toward representing Redding-Easton in the Babe Ruth Softball Tournament.
Hopefully, by the time our girls reach the 12U Division they have begun to develop a love for the game, which involves recognizing and appreciating how fun it is to play with teammates and the sense of accomplishment that comes with working to improve their skills, while realizing personal and team goals.
At completion of the 12U Division, a BGCRE Softball player should possess an understanding of nearly all aspects of Babe Ruth Softball, including how to approach and prepare for practices and games, how to execute drills, a working knowledge of the key rules of the Babe Ruth game, skills at multiple positions, an advanced understanding of the execution of offense and defense, and most importantly an enjoyment of the game, which allows our girls to compete at the best of their abilities, while displaying sportsmanship on and off the field.
By the end of the season, we want our 12U players to be able to:
-- Execute common hitting strategies per ball/strike count and runners on base.
-- Execute advanced offensive strategies and tactics including sacrifice bunts.
-- Consistently anticipate and execute the proper play on defense.
-- Field a hit into the outfield and make a throw to the correct base.
-- With teammates, execute a proper cutoff play on a hit to the outfield.
-- Go back on and catch a fly ball hit by a coach.
-- As a catcher, execute all the responsibilities of the position, including making strong and accurate throws to appropriate bases to deter base stealing.
-- As a pitcher, execute more sophisticated techniques and strategies, beyond the simple basics of a proper pitching motion.
-- Understand more advanced softball training drills both on and off the field.
-- Understand coaching strategies and offensive/defensive signals.
-- Honor the game with respect for Rules, Opponents, Officials, Teammates, and Self (ROOTS).
-- End the season having enjoyed the experience on the team and looking forward to next season.
BGCRE Softball 12U Coach’s Performance Check List
You will know you are doing well as a BGCRE Softball Coach if:
-- Your players are excited and enthusiastic before and after each game or practice.
-- Your parents are smiling and saying “Thank You” after each game or practice.
-- There is a sense of unity among players on the bench and parents in the stands.
-- Your players understand and demonstrate team spirit and sportsmanship.
-- Your players have achieved the above skills to the best of their individual abilities.
-- At the end of the season, your players desire to play at the next level as individually appropriate.
-- At the end of the season, your players are sad to say good bye to their Babe Ruth experience, but are looking forward to playing at the 14U Level.