1. Background.
As a coach, it's important to recognize you typically have two types of kids. In the first group are kids that have Dads that work with their kids and know enough about hitting and put enough work into it. In this group are also kids who are fortunate enough to receive frequent instruction from professional or semi-professional trainers. For the most part these kids can be allowed to continue unhindered with some minor tips and encouragement. In the second group, are kids who receive no quality instruction and very little practice except that provided by you--the coach.

Hitting begins in the dugout (Phase 1), continues into the on-deck circle (Phase 2) and into the box (Phase 3). Almost every hitting coach feels the same about one point: Thinking and planning occur during Phase 1 and Phase 2, but never during Phase 3. The batters box should be a non-thinking zone, you clear your head of all thoughts, except "see the ball - hit the ball".

Five years ago, while observing people taking batting practice at the "Field of Dreams" in Dyersville, Iowa, an idea hit me. I immediately picked up a bat and without actually taking a swing, knew that I had discovered a way to help hitters at all levels generate more power with amazing bat control.

Hitting isn't always about trying to hit a home run, or even hit to their weakest spot.  Below are just a few of the possibilities and what you should attempt to do.

One of the biggest problems with hitting—Dropping the Barrel

The swing plane is the path (or arc) the barrel of the bat takes around the body. The majority of kids have a similar problem with their swing plane. It’s a very common problem with youth hitters. The problem is caused by dropping the barrel of the bat to level (or even below level) a split-second before the swing starts. This causes the bat to be in good position to hit the high pitch—but terrible position to hit the low and the low and inside pitch.