KidsBeginner
Teach young players ages 5-10 to track the ball, move their feet and catch after a bounce.
- Players2
- Time10 min
- EquipmentRed low-compression balls
Setup: Partners stand facing each other on a short court or across a line, about 10 feet apart.
- Partner tosses the ball underhand so it bounces once.
- Player moves and catches after one bounce, with two hands at first.
- Count catches in a row as a team.
- Progress to one hand, then to catching with the hitting hand only.
Coaching cues
- Watch the ball
- Soft hands
- Move your feet to the ball
Common mistakes
- Grabbing at the ball
- Standing still and reaching
Progression: Catch the ball with a cone or after it bounces over a low line.
Coach's note: For ages 5-10, catching games build the tracking and footwork that make hitting easy later.