In the mid-1970s in Brisbane, a Tee Ball League based on the Little American League concept was established. Most of the parents, girls and boys involved had never seen the game, let alone played it. So the few umpires who knew the game had to give the new coaches some motto advice to get the league started on a positive note.
Since all the players were initially new to the game, the coach needed to spend time teaching each player where to stand and, typically, where they would throw the ball when fielding or catching the ball. Below is the advice given to new trainers.
1. Guards should be taught to be fielders first and guards second. Each base must position 2-3 meters inside the base and slightly behind the line between the bases. The second baseman must field on the first baseman’s side of the second baseman. The short stop is placed on the opposite side of second base about halfway between the baseman and third baseman.
2. If a baseman does not field the ball, he must move to the base ready to receive the thrown ball by placing his foot on the inside corner of the base on a force play, giving the runner room to touch the base.
3. The point guard should be taught to lean into the ball when it comes to receiving the ball early. Also, if it’s a wild or bad throw, he’ll have to come off base to stop the ball at all costs. A common problem is that the point guard leaves his foot on the plate and tries to lean to the side to get the ball and then gets off balance and misses the ball completely.
4. On an unforced play, where the runner must be tagged, the baseman stands between the base and the runner, moves toward the runner, and tags him with the glove hand (holding the ball) as low as possible before the runner can reach the base.
5. The catcher must stand in the batter’s box opposite the batter. The catcher must watch the ball and bat closely and be ready to field a loosely hit ball that lands near them.
6. The outfielders are evenly distributed around the field.
7. Finally, it is important that the coach:
A. Show players where to stand when fielding;
b. Explain where to throw the ball when fielded or caught;
against Discourage outfielders from sneaking into the information field; and
d. Encourage fielders to run for or chase the ball quickly.
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