Being SAFE is the Name of the Game
During local competition, League officials and Babe Ruth Commissioners must focus on providing a safe environment for players, coaches and spectators at youth baseball games.
There is so much going on during youth baseball games. As many as 30 players are full of energy, anxious to play catch and swing bats. In fact, if there are two teams playing and two teams waiting to play, there can be as many as 60 energized kids within a fairly confined area. Parents set up their lawn chairs and picnic blankets so that they can relax and socialize with their peers all around the field. The players’ siblings are running around with the other brothers and sisters, unconcerned that a baseball game is going on.
With so much action involving so many children, there are many factors that can turn what looks like a simple, fun tournament game into a potential safety hazard – both on and off the field. It’s probably not possible to make any athletic venue completely safe for everyone; however there are some precautions that can be taken to help ensure an atmosphere that promotes safety.
- Make Sure Equipment Fits and Is Not Worn Out
- Use Appropriate Bats and Balls
- Designate an Area for Warming Up
- Pick Out a Safe Rooting Location
- Assign a Coach or Parent to Bench Duty
- Walk the Field Before the Game
- Keep Their Heads in the Game
- Teach the Proper Fundamental Techniques
- First Aid Considerations
