Rounding is the next step. The runner takes a wider path around the base than through it. This saves time by keeping momentum and speed.
What you need: Home plate, bases at 60 feet, 10 kids.
Setup: Kids at home. Bases set at regulation distance.
How to run it:
- Cue: Eyes, Drive, Touch, Brake (then around the next base).
- Kid hits a ball (or is given one) and runs full speed.
- They Touch the inside corner of first, then immediately attack the path to second.
- They round second by taking a wider arc (3 feet outside the base), looking at third.
- Do 5 reps from home. Walk back. Focus on rounding second smooth, not sharp.
What to watch: Do they slow down when rounding? Or keep momentum? Momentum is key. Do their eyes move to third as they round?
If they’re struggling: Have them jog, not sprint. Walk through the rounding arc first. Then jog.
If they’ve got it: Add a cutoff throw. Coach throws to a relay at third. Runner has to decide to go home or pull up.