#268 batter up

Tee ball, the first level of organized baseball for kids, has rules that sound much like casual, schoolyard play, but Tee ball estimates 2.2 million players participate in an organized game.  

Examples include:

> The website lists "recommended" rules and typical modifications of them
> Even things as fundamental as what constitutes an inning can change (either three outs or a "bat around" where each player bats one time before sides switch)
> Rules can change with each inning or batter
> The inning can end with 3 outs or 5 runs
> The batter hits the ball off a stationery T, swinging as many times as necessary to make contact
> Teams may not keep score, but if they do, they can elect to end the game when "that's enough"
> The final decision on rules is made at the local level


The group knows its purpose (teach primary baseball skills without fear) and adapts its practices to fit the needs of its community.  Participants and organizers go into the game with a sense of adaptability and change.  

There is a lot that organizations could learn about flexibility from Tee ball.  When the situation warrants creativity or new thought, think about playing by the Tee ball rules and see if the added freedom helps you score a home run.

-- beth triplett
leadershipdots.blogspot.com
@leadershipdots
leadershipdots@gmail.com

Source:  www.teeballusa.org
Thanks to Scott D. for the idea