Bloggin' the White Sox

I've created this weblog to give some insight and communicate about the Granger Little League Baseball Minor White Sox.

I'm the coach, Scott Berg. Since I didn't draft the team, I'd like to thank Troy Kohutek for drafting what I think should be a pretty decent team.

We've practiced twice, and had an optional batting practice session this week. I'm very encouraged at the effort and attitude the players are displaying.

I know we have one player who's a very good pitcher right now and 3-4 others who can develop into good pitchers.

In drills everybody has been able to field grounders, catch pop-ups, make throws and make contact in the batter's box.

I have a definite outlook on what I think is appropriate and inappropriate in youth sports. Some of what I think is appropriate is:

• Kids should have fun playing ball. After practice and games I'll try to ask our team if they had fun that day. So far, they seem to be having fun.
  
• Practices need to be organized and keep all the players involved. This week's practices have been focused on basic skills in as a group, possibly at the expense of more one-on-one instruction. I'm looking for opportunities to teach proper technique to the players as need becomes apparent. I'll have more to say on this subject in subsequent posts.
  
• Parents should be positive. I hope all the parents are encouraging to their kids. I know several parents from last season, and have heard nothing so far but encouraging comments and optimism. I think our group of parents are great, and I appreciate their support.

I have told our players that I have three objectives for this season:

1. That all our players improve their baseball skills this season. The basic skills are throwing, catching and hitting. I want them all to better at each of these at season's end.
   
2. I want the players to have fun.
   
3. I want to win some ballgames. (After all, winning is more fun than losing.)

Well, I think that's enough for now. Please check back often, as I'll try to post to the blog with thoughts and viewpoints.