Promoting involvement in the dugout

How do you keep non-starting players motivated and involved from the dugout? Tune in as Kirk Walker and Ken Eriksen share strategies for keeping every athlete—regardless of playing time—engaged and committed to team success.

Coach Walker makes the point that every player brings value to the team, and it’s the head coach’s responsibility to establish a culture where everyone feels recognized and respected. Assigning meaningful dugout roles, such as stat tracking and timing pitchers, provides opportunities for all players to contribute to the team’s advancement.

Meanwhile, Coach Eriksen describes how regular one-on-one meetings help non-starters understand their current standing, where they need to improve, and how they can work toward more playing time. His honest, transparent approach ensures players know exactly what’s expected of them and how their progress is measured.

Whether you're managing a large roster or trying to fortify team chemistry, this video offers practical advice on keeping your entire team engaged, empowered, and striving for excellence.