How do you choose the right equipment for your youth ballplayer.
Here's a couple of examples: Did you know that the first time parents buy gloves for their child, over half of them buy a glove size too big for their young player to handle? Remember, when you try the softball or baseball glove on, make sure the child can make the tip of the glove move by wiggling their fingers.
If they can't- go down a size until they can.
Should you invest in catching equipment for your young softball or baseball catcher if they are 10 years old? Definitely not, kids are growing like weeds at this age and any equipment you buy will be obsolete in a year.
Poor fitting catching equipment is a major cause of catching injuries.
Make sure, however, your little league or ASA pony team has good fitting catching equipment.
Besides, maybe your player won't like catching next year! I coached youth baseball and softball traveling teams for several years.
I've had hundreds of parents come to me for equipment advice whether their player is six or sixteen.
I also played college baseball and got scouted by a couple of major league teams.
Believe me, choosing the right equipment is critical whether its girls fastpitch softball or a baseball Cal Ripken league.
Research your product as you would any other big purchase.
Having the right equipment gives your youth ballplayer a chance to show their talent without worrying about what they are using or wearing.
This builds confidence and positively impacts performance.