Hi Coach,

Coaching up here in Northern California, Little League (10-12 year olds, Majors).  The one thing I have the biggest problem with is kids pulling their heads as they swing and not keeping their eyes on the ball.  I've tried a lot of home remedies, but nothing works consistently.  Any hints?

Thanks,
     
Don:
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You are correct this is a problem and you're correct until he can once to stay in and look at the ball while he swings it will not happen.

The first and foremost thing is that they have to get in the right sequence: have to step and get their foot on the ground, rotate their hips,then bring the bat through the strike zone hands first.
 
The best drill that I've found for this  is a version of the soft toss drill.  Get a  screen (probably a pitcher L-screen) and have the batter stand at the plate (preferably in a cage) and soft toss directly at him both underhand and overhand just like your throwing pitches over the plate, using a screen to protect yourself.  This will allow him to concentrate on the three steps and not worry about how hard he's going to hit it or if he's going to get it and he can keep his head down and see the ball all the way and even trying to see it come off the bat.
 
Hope this helps and if we can help you more with getting DVDs or conversation please just let me know.
 
Coach Arnald Swift