When coaches shift from seeing games as just messing around to skill development, everyone will win.
Not only will the kids be more engaged, coaches can become more creative in their ability to manipulate the space, time, rules, and incentives to help players problem solve.
Every time you attack 1 v 1, there is a battle for who owns the athletic rhythm. This can happen in a variety of styles, initiating contact, changing direction, creating/closing space, etc.
Own the rhythm, and you can own your opponent.
@CASporleder expect a ton of inefficient mechanics. It's part of it. For some, they will naturally develop it; others need some coaching/constraints to get there. If a cue works, great! I love external cues that relate to something they already know.
@CASporleder if a kid is really struggling? if you have another coach/parent play catch in the dugout if available.
If not, I'd have a point system if they throw it below your head they get a point and above it, the parent/coach would.