Block 1: Developing the Swing (10 Weeks)
This week, players will be learning how to swing the bat with a full, natural motion. The focus is on helping them connect with their instincts—encouraging freedom and power when striking the ball. It's all about getting them comfortable swinging hard and committing fully to their shots.
At this early stage, the most important thing is to build confidence. Avoid overcorrecting or focusing on mistakes. Instead, highlight moments of success and reinforce their efforts to hit the ball with intent. Let them feel what it’s like to hit with power.
Players should aim to complete this activity set twice this week for maximum benefit.
Activity 1: Drop Feeds (Straight) – Check Swing
Duration: 5–10 minutes
Repetitions: 20–30 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, you will hit drop feeds straight back down the ground using a check swing. The focus is on making solid contact while controlling the follow-through, ensuring the ball stays along the ground. This promotes control, timing, and balance in the swing.
Watch the activity video for a full explanation on how to complete the task.
Activity 2: Bat Down Underarms (Straight) Check Swing
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this drill, you’ll face straight underarm throws and execute a controlled check swing directly back down the ground. The check swing should be compact and balanced, helping you focus on control and timing when returning the ball through the straight channel.
Watch the video demonstration for full instructions on how to complete the task.
Activity 3: Underarms – Straight Drives (Check Swing)
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, the batter will work on executing a check swing while driving the ball straight down the ground off underarm throws. The emphasis is on using correct footwork patterns—stepping into the ball with control and holding a strong position while keeping the swing compact and balanced.
This drill helps develop precision and timing for players learning how to play straight with intent but restraint.
📺 Watch the activity video for a full explanation and demonstration.
Activity 4: Underarm Throws – Straight Drive Competition (Two Zones)
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Repetitions: 30–60 balls
Activity Overview:
In this activity, the batter will face underarm throws and attempt to drive the ball straight through one of two zones:
Middle Gap (narrow): worth 3 points
Wider Zone (either side of the middle gap): worth 1 point
The goal is to consistently hit through the target zones with solid straight drives, using proper footwork and balance. If the player misses all zones or mis-hits the ball, the coach earns 2 points.
The first to 15 points wins the competition.
📺 Watch the activity video for a full explanation and demonstration.