Tauranga children took a swing at t-ball and softball today at the Carlton Street Reserve to see if they would fancy picking up the bat more often.

Bay Junior Softball Association Linda Thurlow says the game is a great way to develop hand and eye coordination and is cheaper than most sports codes.

Asher Woolley, 3, having and go at the plate while Ella Woolley, 5, plays catcher. Photos: Chris Callinan.

T-ball coordinator Lindsay Martyn and WBOP t-ball/softball junior presdident Linda Thurlow watch as Ella Woolley, 5, swings for the ball with Kerralin Thurlow at the catchers position.

She says if children are interested in play, and their school is not involved in the sport, they will match them with other players and put them in a team so everyone can play.

The open day at Carlton Street Reserve today was about focusing on teaching the key basics such as throwing, pitching, base running and batting.

People who missed out on today's open day will get another chance with a second open day planned for September 27.

For more details call Linda on 021 141 7017.