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Practice Session Lengths by Age Group
Optimizing Practice Session Lengths for Young Athletes
ℹ️Coaching Notes
The listed times are guidelines that are useful for many but not all teams.
- Spring/Summer season
- Weather
- Field/Facility Lighting
- Time of the season (development, cultural and competitive)
All the factors listed above can effect the optimal time of a session.
Navigating the optimal duration for practice sessions across various age groups is a delicate balancing act, crucial for fostering both skill development and a love for the game in young athletes. Understanding the unique needs of each age group is key to ensuring that practices are not only productive but also enjoyable, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for baseball.
| Age Group | Warm-up/Instructional | Game Like Activities | Total maximum session time ** |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-6 years | 20-30 minutes | 15-25 minutes | 75 minutes |
| 7-8 years | 30-45 minutes | 15-25 minutes | 90 minutes |
| 9-10 years | 30-45 minutes | 15-25 minutes | 120 minutes |
| 11-12 years | 50-75 minutes which includes 20 minutes for team strategy | 15-25 minutes | 120 minutes |
| 13+ years | Maximum session time will be team specific | ||
** Occasionally, players may request additional work to work on a specific drill or technique that they learned. Sessions can also include some extra time where a coach can extend practice to work with a smaller group of players.
OLLB and the Orleans area has many options for coaches to complete position specific drills. The batting cage are Heritage Park is available throughout the year to all coaches and teams. Note, at least 1 coach on site will have to follow the batting cage demonstration/training. Fields are available throughout the Orleans and surrounding area for additional practice times. Especially in spring season, coaches are encouraged to host combined practices for multiple teams to maximise field time, coach availability and equipment. Please ensure you contact the field scheduler for availability
To help explore how to create a safe, fun engaging and movement based practice, keep looking for updates on the Coach's Clipboard or use one of the links below.
Links: