The Importance of Assistant Coaches in Tee Ball

Assistant coaches play a far bigger role in tee ball than many people realize. At this level, having multiple adults on the field isn’t about filling roles—it’s about safety, organization, and creating a positive experience for young players.

In this episode, Marty Schupak explains why assistant coaches are essential in tee ball and how shared responsibility dramatically reduces risk. Young players move quickly, swing bats without awareness, and need constant supervision. When more adults are present and engaged, the field becomes safer and more manageable.

The episode also explores how setting expectations early—starting with the first parents’ meeting—can change the tone of an entire season. By making it clear that every parent is an assistant coach, teams run more smoothly and no single person carries the full burden.

Marty discusses practical ways to involve parents without overwhelming them, including asking each family to help with one practice and one game. Even small contributions, when shared across the group, create a major impact. With enough assistants, coaches can split teams into smaller groups, increase repetitions, and reduce standing around—making practices more effective and more fun.

Importantly, assistant coaches don’t need baseball knowledge to be valuable. Their primary role is safety, followed by energy and encouragement. Over time, many parents grow more comfortable and even discover a lasting interest in coaching or volunteering.

This episode also looks at the bigger picture: how welcoming assistant coaches help build a strong, supportive community around youth sports and set the cultural foundation for a successful league.

Learn more at www.SchupakSports.com

Schupak Sports is a weekly youth sports commentary hosted by longtime coach and author Marty Schupak. New episodes are released on Fridays. Learn more at www.SchupakSports.com.