Proper throwing mechanics for pee wee QBs
As a parent of a pee wee football player, nothing gets me more excited than watching my son toss a perfect spiral downfield for a touchdown. But proper throwing technique doesn’t just happen overnight. It takes time, patience, and plenty of practice to develop the mechanics needed to shine as a youth quarterback.
In the beginning, it’s tempting as a parent or coach to focus on the result rather than the process. You want to see completions and scores. But in order to get there, you have to lay the groundwork with proper fundamentals. Here are some tips to help your pee wee QB throw like a pro:
Grip
The grip sets the foundation for everything else. Young QBs should grip the laces of the football with the fingers, not the palm. The ball should sit in the pocket created by the index finger and thumb. This gives greater control and accuracy. Make sure the wrist is flexed and the elbow is at a 90 degree angle in the “L” position. This protects the elbow from overextending.
Stance
A proper stance begins with feet about shoulder-width apart in an athletic position. Less experienced QBs can start with the non-throwing foot slightly forward. As they improve, teach them to stand with feet parallel or pointing slightly outward. The upper body should be comfortable and balanced, not hunched over. Head up, eyes reading the defense.
Motion
The throwing motion itself begins with the ball held high near the ear, elbow up. As the QB steps forward, the ball is brought back with control, keeping a firm grip and the elbow above shoulder height. The movement should be compact and efficient, not an exaggerated windup. Hips and shoulders rotate forward for torque as the ball is released off the fingertips.
Follow through
This is one of the most critical yet overlooked parts of throwing. The follow through promotes full extension and finish on the throw. After release, the thumb on the throwing hand should point down and away from the body as the arm fully extends. Weight transfers through the hips as the back foot comes forward. This follow through ensures maximal energy transfer for distance and tight spirals.
Use the whole body
Throwing is a total body motion, not just an arm action. Young QBs need to learn to rotate the hips and shoulders as they throw. Power comes from the legs driving off the back foot. Weight shifts from back to front. The kinetic sequence flows energy up through the body like a whip. It all starts with proper balance and stance.
Emphasize repetition
Like any skill, proper throwing technique comes from muscle memory developed through repetition. Have your pee wee player shadow practice without a ball first to nail down the mechanics. Then graduate to short throws focusing on technical precision vs. distance. As the motions become second nature, they can begin adding more velocity and range as their body develops.
Stress game speed
Crisp, quick throws are key. Even in practice, have QBs simulate game speed reps working on getting the ball out fast and decisive. The difference between a pee wee and high school QB is often processing time and urgency. Develop this early by practicing quick tosses on rhythm and timing.
Focus on footwork
Precise footwork gets the QB in proper position to deliver the ball powerfully and accurately. Short drops of 3, 5, or 7 steps with proper foot patterns will sync the lower and upper body. Stress consistent pacing on drops without extra gather steps. Keep eyes downfield throughout the drop to maintain vision on routes.
Maintain a firm front side
On release, young QBs often have a tendency to pull their front arm down, which collapses the shoulder and causes throws to sail. Coaches should drill keeping that front elbow up and locked to maintain a firm throwing platform. This keeps the ball on a tighter spiral plane.
Watch the elbow
Have pee wee QBs practice staying compact on the delivery. The elbow should always be above the shoulder on the throw. QBs who drop or severely bend the elbow will sacrifice velocity and risk shoulder strain. Keep throws tight with a 90 degree angle.
Point the front toe
For optimal drive from the lower body, the front toe should point at the target on release. This ensures full rotation through the hips. If the front foot is open too much, power is lost. Keep drills stationary at first focused on proper front foot alignment.
Perfect balance
Good QB coaches preach the importance of balance in the pocket. On throws, young passers should avoid falling away or leaning back on the backend. This causes inaccurate throws and limits their ability to reset and reload. Balance comes from footwork and core strength.
Mastering throwing fundamentals takes time and commitment, but pays huge dividends. With proper repetition and mechanics, your pee wee football player will be zipping balls like a pro in no time!
Finding the right youth football for small hands
As a parent shopping for that first football for your aspiring pee wee player, it can be tricky finding the right size to fit their small hands. Most youth and junior footballs are sized down versions of the official NFL ball, but not all are created equal when it comes to quality and grip.
The last thing you want is for that brand new football to slip right through their fingers or sail off sideways on throws. With so many options on the market today, here are some tips for choosing the best pee wee footballs for small hands:
Know the size standards
Pee wee footballs are typically sized at 5 or under. The smallest youth size is a F5 or PE5, which stands for Pee Wee 5. These measure about 9 inches long and have a skinny profile that fits tiny hands. The F stands for “freshman” in high school sizes. As kids get older, they graduate up to the larger junior sizes.
Get the right materials
While you’ll see youth footballs made from rubber, foam, and composite blends, leather remains the top choice for grip, feel, and performance. Opt for pebble-grained, full-grain leather over synthetic for better grip, even when wet. The tackiness of leather helps control while throwing and catching.
Focus on laces, not logos
Those tiny hands need to grip the laces, not the logo panels. Look for balls with wider lace panels running directly under the pinky and index fingers. Avoid balls with narrow lacing just under the middle two fingers. Wider lacing gives broader surface contact and control.
Consider hand size
Every child has different hand size, so their football needs may differ too. Try various sizes and brands to see what feels most comfortable. A ball that’s too big or small will hinder learning proper mechanics. Goldilocks had it right – you want one that’s just right.
Weight matters
Lighter isn’t always better with peewee footballs. Ultra-light balls may be difficult to spiral and throw accurately at distance. Find the sweet spot between too heavy and too light – usually 10-12 ounces for ideal spin and tight spirals without excessive strain.
Look for softness
Hard leather footballs can lead to sore hands and fingertips in young players. Opt for youth balls with cushioned foam or composite lining under the leather. This softens impact on receptions to protect those little hands as they learn to catch.
Prioritize grip over designs
While it’s tempting to get distracting colors, team logos, or crazy designs, simple is better for learning. Subtle grain leather provides the optimal grip. Flashy graphics and zig-zags may look cool but can impact handling of the ball.
Go official-size
Though not regulation NFL size, opt for a full peewee dimensions vs. undersized toy balls. This builds skills using the same relative shape and proportions as the real thing. No need to go mini until they are really young.
By keeping these tips in mind when shopping for that first youth football, you can help ensure safe handling and success as your pee wee player develops the skills and mechanics needed to advance to the next level.
Best cleats for traction and ankle support
As a parent shopping for cleats for your aspiring pee wee football player, you want shoes that provide maximum traction on the field without sacrificing ankle support and protection. The wrong cleats can lead to slips, falls, and injuries.
With so many youth football cleat options out there, here are some features to look for when selecting the best model for your young athlete:
Studs for traction
The studs or spikes on the bottom of the cleats dig into the turf to prevent sliding. Opt for molded or detachable studs over screw-in for durability. Look for multiple shorter studs rather than a few long studs for optimal grip at all angles.
Proper fit
Cleats should fit snugly without pinch points or pressure. Measure your child’s foot and size up if in between sizes for some growing room. Lace-ups allow more customization for fit vs. slip ons. Heel lock tech prevents slippage on the field.
Ankle cut height
Higher mid and 3/4 cuts provide more ankle stability and support than low cuts, crucial for youth players. Make sure the ankle collar has padding to prevent blisters or abrasion if hit. Some parents opt for braces under higher cleats.
Lightweight materials
Today’s football cleats use mesh, synthetics and flexible materials to remain light for speed and agility. Leather still offers durability in high impact zones. Ensure the cleats aren’t too bulky or heavy for smaller feet.
Stud configuration
Edge rushers and linemen benefit from cleats with more studs toward the toes for pivoting and pushing off. Skill players like QBs and WRs need balanced stud alignment for straight ahead speed and cuts.
Removable inserts
Removable footbeds or inserts allow you to swap out standard comfort insoles for more customized orthotics if needed. This further optimizes comfort and performance.
Durable exteriors
Look for abrasion-resistant panels in high wear areas to reduce damage from turf or occasional looks from opponents. Synthetics like TPU offer protection without adding weight.
Flex points
Strategic flex grooves and indentations in the sole allow more natural foot movement and bend for acceleration. This also prevents rolled ankles or Achilles strain from overly stiff shoes.
With the right cleats that provide grip, support, and comfort, you’ll give your little rookie the tools to cut, pivot, and sprint like a gridiron superstar.
Work on ball handling skills with peewee footballs
Once you’ve got the right sized peewee football for your young player’s hands, it’s time to develop their ball handling skills. Handling the ball with confidence is crucial for any position on the field.
Here are some drills and tips for improving ball control using pee wee footballs:
Basic carries
Start with simple handoff exchanges and running with the ball properly tucked with three points of contact. Do walkthroughs focusing on tight ball security at the waist without swinging arms.
Ball drills
Have players move the ball in circular motion around their waist and knees to improve hand-eye coordination. Toss the ball back and forth from hand to hand. Spin it horizontally to work on grip changes.
Through the ladder
Running through agility ladders while carrying the football promotes concentration on both coordination and security. Bonus: it builds footwork too!
Gauntlet drills
This drill has players carry the ball while coaches try to knock it loose. Excellent for improving grip strength and learning to cover up in traffic.
Ball exchanges
Practice proper technique for clean pitches, handoffs, and pass drops. Mistakes get real game reps. Stress keeping eyes up and presenting a target.
Ball concealment
Run plays with ball carriers keeping the ball hidden using body position, angles, or behind blockers. Keeps the defense guessing!
High and tight
On contact plays, drill tucking the ball properly before getting hit. Should be second nature when defenders arrive.
Ball disruption
Defensive players try stripping or dislodging the ball from carriers and receivers. Strengthens ability to absorb contact.
Wet ball drills
Repeatedly dipping the ball in water makes it slick. Strengthens grip and simulates inclement weather.
Mastering basic ball control early gives pee wee players the tools and awareness to excel at the next level. Consistent skills drills using properly fitted youth footballs develops natural technique.
Focus on conditioning and endurance in practice
Football games are won and lost in the fourth quarter. That’s why building conditioning and endurance in pee wee players is so crucial. Their young bodies are still developing strength and stamina.
Coaches and parents can help lay the right foundation by incorporating targeted drills and training techniques in practice:
Energy systems training
Mix in drills that stress different energy systems – short bursts, tempo runs, and distance. Blend anaerobic and aerobic work. Let the demands of their position guide specifics.
Incremental progression
Build up duration and intensity gradually over weeks and months. Periodization prevents overload injuries. Proper rest and recovery is key too.
Incorporate shuttles
Suicide runs with directional changes build acceleration, deceleration and lateral quickness – all needed on the football field in games.
Add sled work
Pushing sleds build explosive leg drive and power needed for blocking and trenches play. Use light weights that allow proper form.
Leverage position drills
Drills that mimic game stances, footwork and movements prepare muscles for the specific demands players will face.
Develop mental toughness
Push through comfort levels with motivation and encouragement. Grit and resilience are built, not born.
Watch the heat
Carefully monitor for signs of heat exhaustion in young players. Schedule intense drills for cooler parts of day and keep players well hydrated.
Make it fun
Put them through challenging circuits but remember they are still kids. Creative games and competition keeps them engaged.
Laying the fitness foundation at a young age will pay dividends throughout their football career, giving your pee wee players the stamina and strength to excel on the field.
Master the basics of blocking and tackling safely
Football is a contact sport, but safety should always come first, especially at the pee wee level. Coaches must emphasize proper fundamental techniques for blocking and tackling to reduce injury risk.
Here are some tips for teaching young players safe execution of these key skills:
Stress heads up blocking
Players should always maintain helmet position with head up, never leading with the crown. Start in stance with eyes on target and strike upward through thigh and hip.
Focus on body mechanics
Leverage comes from leg drive, hip rotation and shoulder dip. Win leverage battles at youth level through technique, not size.
Work on hand placement
Inside palms on opponent’s chest plate, thumbs up. Punch up and out on contact. Keep feet churning and reset hands to maintain position.
Practice 2-on-1 drills
Double team blocking develops handwork, communication and angles between linemen to gain control.
See what you hit
On tackling, ensure head is up and eyes open to avoid dangerous drops of the head or blind hits. Avoid big collisions.
Keep the head out
Teach wrapping up with facemask across ball carrier’s chest or waist. Head goes to the side, not down into knees.
Shoulder tackling
Open up the chest plate and drive up through the thigh and hip. Sink and roll hips through contact.
Work break down drills
Slow motion repetitions ensure proper footwork, angles, body position and pad level on all contact skills.
With disciplined instruction, young players can perfect tackling and blocking safely and gain confidence taking on contact as they progress in football.
Learn offensive schemes and plays designed for peewee
Installing offensive schemes tailored to pee wee skill levels gives young players the building blocks for success. Coaches should adapt concepts for developing talent rather than expecting kids to run complex varsity offenses.
Here are some tips for introducing schemes:
Focus on fundamentals
Footwork, ball handling, route running. Master the basics before adding complex assignments. Build proficiency and confidence.
QB-friendly passing
High percentage throws like quick outs, flats, and screens. Shorter drops and reads that get the ball out fast with accuracy.
Emphasize repetition
Keep the playbook limited. Repetition builds timing, precision and assignment retention better than volume installs.
Single wing concepts
Direct snaps remove handoffs. Sweeps and powers simplify backfield mechanics for younger kids.
3 yards and a cloud of dust
Power running wears opponents down and instills toughness. Double tight sets provide blocking beef up front.
Play action passing
Complement run game with effective fakes and roll outs. Gives less experienced QBs clearly defined 1/2 field reads.
Hybrid schemes
Mesh spread concepts with downhill gaps and counters. Misdirection slows over pursuing defenses.
The best pee wee offenses feature focused game plans that put young athletes in positions to execute and gain experience. As skills develop, more complex schemes open up.
Teach defensive alignments tailored for youth players
Defensive schemes need to be adapted for pee wee players still learning assignments and positioning. Coaches should introduce concepts focused on fundamentals versus complex packages.
Here are some tips for teaching sound defense at the youth level:
Keep it simple
Basic 4-3, 3-4 or 3-3 stack fronts provide structure. Less thinking allows kids to play fast and aggressive.
Drill stance and starts
Work extensive reps on proper stance, first step explosiveness, backpedaling and breaks. Master the basics.
Install run fits
Teach how to fill lanes and play responsibilities based on blocking schemes. Gap integrity limits big plays.
Fundamentals over schemes
Sound tackling, block destruction and pursuit trump exotic blitzes and coverages. Don’t outscheme kids’ capabilities.
Keep pass coverage simple
Man or basic zone principles allow athleticism to take over. Avoid complex pattern match concepts.
Leverage speed
Funnel speedy players to the ball. Move safeties up to balance numbers near line of scrimmage.
Disguise basic
Subtle pre-snap movements can confuse QBs. Don’t telegraph coverages.
Well-coached pee wee defenses feature agile, energetic players flying to the football within defined roles. As technique improves, more sophisticated schemes come into play.
Emphasize sportsmanship and team spirit
While skills and strategy are obviously key, don’t overlook the importance of instilling strong values like sportsmanship and team spirit in your pee wee football players.
Coaches and parents can model good behavior and cultivate it with these methods:
Team building activities
Off-field bonding experiences bring kids closer together. Community outreach events also nurture team pride.
Positivity
Celebrate effort and hustle as much as results. Praise progress. Lift players up after mistakes.
Leading by example
Coaches and veterans demonstrate how to win and lose gracefully. Be examples on and off the field.
Establish expectations
Set clear ground rules for respectable conduct. Review and reinforce regularly.
Respect opponents
Wish other teams good luck pre-game. Congratulate them sincerely afterwards. Demonstrate appreciation for competition.
Acknowledge officials
Accept referees’ decisions without argument. Teach players how to interact politely with officials.
Encourage teammates
Foster supportive sideline cheers and bench behavior. Everyone’s role is important.
Developing high character student-athletes should take priority over chasing wins. Lessons learned through youth football extend far beyond the field.
Proper helmet fitting to prevent concussions
Helmets are the most important piece of protective gear for pee wee football players. A properly fitted helmet that stays securely on the head aids in concussion prevention.
Follow these guidelines for optimal helmet fit:
Measure the head
Use a cloth tape to accurately measure head circumference. Match to helmet size charts, going to larger shell if on the cusp.
Check for snug fit
Helmet should feel comfortably snug all around without painful pressure points. Wiggle it to confirm minimal movement.
Adjust interior pads
Most helmets have removable/adjustable pads for customizing fit. Target the crown, sides, and back of head.
Test chin strap
With chin strap buckled, the helmet should not shift or slide excessively. Optimal fit across jawline.
Assess peripheral view
Ensure the helmet allows adequate upward and side vision. Mask should not obstruct line of sight.
Check for gaps
Look for finger width gaps between pads and head which can compromise safety. Fill any gaps.
Recheck fit frequently
As kids grow and shapes change, confirm regular helmet fit. Don’t wait for end of season.
Taking the time to properly outfit your player with a helmet that fits correctly plays a key role in keeping them protected on the field.
Stay hydrated and eat healthy snacks for energy
Proper hydration and nutrition are vital for young athletes exerting themselves on the football field. Dehydration and low energy from poor fueling can hinder performance.
Here are some tips for keeping pee wee players properly fueled:
Promote water breaks
Schedule multiple planned stoppages for water consumption. Don’t rely solely on thirst to dictate drinking.
Monitor urine color
Instruct parents and players to check urine color. Dark yellow indicates dehydration; it should be pale.
Discourage soda/juice
Sports drinks are okay but water is ideal for hydration. Limit sugary beverages which can cause cramping.
High protein snacks
Jerky, nuts, nut butters provide sustained energy. Pair with fruits or carbs for well-rounded diet.
Keep blood sugar stable
Consistent snacking prevents blood sugar crashes. Complex carbs best for steady energy.
Curb caffeine
Some pee wee players mistakenly drink coffee or energy drinks. Discourage as it dehydrates.
Emphasize nutrition
Educate parents on packing nutritious meals and snacks. Kids refuel best with healthy whole foods.
Football demands a lot from young bodies. Proper hydration and smart fueling gives them the stamina and strength to excel.
Get quality sleep and take time to recover
Young athletes need ample rest for their bodies and minds to recharge. Football is a demanding, high-impact sport. Recovery should be integral to pee wee training regimens.
Here are some tips for helping players maximize rest and recovery:
Emphasize sleep hygiene
Work with parents to ensure early, uninterrupted bedtimes for players during seasons. Sleep is crucial.
Schedule rest days
Build at least one off/light day into the weekly practice plan. Muscles strengthen during downtime.
Listen to bodies
If players are sore or exhausted, adapt plans. Don’t overdo practices when more recovery is needed.
Use ice baths
Ice bath immersion helps reduce inflammation and soreness. Contrast baths boost healing effects.
Stress nutrition
Proper nutrition provides the raw materials for muscle repair and growth. Hydration also critical.
Soft tissue work
Massage, foam rolling, and stretching increases blood flow to tight muscles. Speeds return to action.
Monitor overtraining
Watch for signs of burnout like lethargy, illness, irritability. Overwork hinders progress.
Integrating strategic rest and recovery into training keeps young bodies primed to excel on the field and avoid injury.
Stretching routines to prevent youth football injuries
Stretching is a vital component of injury prevention for pee wee football players. Their growing muscles and joints need proper warm-ups and increased flexibility for protection.
Here are some tips for safe, effective stretching routines:
Dynamic warm-ups
Light jogging, shuffles, and bodyweight moves get the blood flowing before static stretching.
Upper and lower body
Target all major muscle groups – calves, quads, hamstrings, hips, shoulders, neck, back, etc.
Use proper form
No bouncing or straining. Hold gentle stretches for 20-30 seconds. Exhale and ease into deeper holds.
Focus on angles
Stretch at multiple angles to target muscles through full range of motion specific to football.
Yoga-inspired moves
Poses like downward dog, child’s pose, and lunges offer terrific hip and core stretches.
Emphasize control
Slow, careful stretching prevents overstraining tight muscles. Never push through pain.
Maintain posture
Keep back flat to isolate target areas and prevent injury. Head/neck alignment also key.
Following an organized stretching regimen prepares young football bodies for practices and games by enhancing flexibility while reducing injury risks.
Evaluate coaches experience with pee wee programs
When assessing youth football programs, the qualifications and track record of the coaching staff should be a primary consideration. Coaching kids requires different skills than high school or college.
Here are some things to look for in pee wee coaches:
Relevant certifications
Licenses or training specific to coaching youth sports, not just football knowledge. Knowledge of age appropriate methods.
Temperament
Patient, enthusiastic and relatable with children. Avoids anger and harsh criticisms.
Communication skills
Explains drills and concepts in ways young athletes understand. Listens to feedback from players.
Teaching over winning
Focuses on developing fundamentals,effort and teamwork. Results not overemphasized.
Previous experience
Has successfully coached youth leagues before. Knows how to connect with elementary and middle school kids.
Safety focus
Emphasizes injury prevention. Keeps players healthy and avoids dangerous drills or conditioning methods.
Positivity
Supportive coaching style. Builds up players’ confidence levels and encourages maximum effort.
Selecting coaches adept at both football and working with young athletes ensures a great experience that fosters skills and personal growth.
How parents can provide positive support on the sidelines
Parents play a vital role in creating a fun, supportive environment at pee wee football games. Their attitudes and actions on the sidelines directly impact players.
Here are some tips for parents looking to be a positive influence:
Model good sportsmanship
Cheer both teams when good plays happen. Be polite and respectful to all – coaches, refs, other parents.
Encourage effort most
Praise hard work and hustle, not just scoring. Recognize all contributions big and small.
Don’t coach
Avoid shouting instructions or corrections. This confuses players and undermines coaches.
Keep calm
Cooler heads prevail. If emotions run high, take a walk to regain composure.
Stay positive
Players learn from modeling. Keep comments upbeat, supportive and free of negativity.
Resist comparing
Don’t contrast one child’s skills with another’s. Celebrate kids’ own growth and successes.
Keep perspective
Remember it’s about life lessons and fun, not championships. The score doesn’t matter.
Parents who embrace a healthy, encouraging perspective provide the foundation kids need to thrive and develop both on and off the field.