Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers: coaching youth softball pitchers

Showing posts with label coaching youth softball pitchers. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Softball Pitching Tips and Drills - Increase Speed Video

http://www.softballperformance.com/ - Softball pitching drills and tips on how to increase pitching speed.

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Friday, November 19, 2010

Fastpitch Softball Drills - Develop Speed and Accuracy With These Pitching Drills

Fastpitch Softball Drills - Develop Speed and Accuracy With These Pitching Drills
by Guest Author Becky Wittenburg

Once softball pitchers have developed their technique, they often reach a plateau where they no longer improve. However, there is always potential to be a better pitcher. These innovative fastpitch softball drills were designed to help pitchers develop their speed and accuracy on the mound.

Snap Drill

This fastpitch softball drill was developed to practice the snap of the wrist at the end of the pitch. Using the wrist muscles to snap the ball as it is released will increase the velocity of the pitch.

For this drill, two pitchers will stand about ten feet apart. The first pitcher will start with the pitching hand down at the side, holding the ball. She then takes her wrist back slightly before flipping the ball forward to her teammate, focusing on using as much power as possible. The partner will catch the pitch and use the same technique to snap the ball back. Each pitcher should snap the ball twenty-five times, working to increase strength in the wrist and velocity in the snap. This also serves as a great pitching warm-up.

Two for One

This drill for fastpitch softball helps the pitcher develop fielding skills while practicing pitches. The pitcher needs to always be prepared for a ball hit back to the mound.

Set up this drill with the pitcher at the mound and the catcher at the plate, each with one ball. As the pitcher delivers her pitch, the catcher will toss a ground ball to the mound. The pitcher should field the ball and use it for her next pitch, while the catcher will receive the pitch and use it for her next toss. Complete the routine twenty times, focusing on proper technique and increasing reaction time.

Distance Pitching

This pitching drill develops arm strength while emphasizing accuracy of pitches.

Start with the pitcher twenty feet from home plate, pitching to the catcher at home. The pitcher throws as many pitches as it takes to get five strikes, according to the catcher's judgment. Next, the pitcher should move back ten feet and pitch five strikes from that position, and so on until she is sixty feet from home plate.

Pitching from a long distance stretches the arm and increases strength, resulting in more powerful pitches. Using the catcher to determine strikes will keep the focus on accuracy, as well.

Isolation Drill

This softball drill for pitching focuses on the last portion of the pitch. By isolating the final stage of the pitching motion, players can develop the specific moves required to deliver an accurate pitch.

Have the pitcher stand thirty feet away from a teammate. The pitcher will start by raising the pitching arm and curling the wrist to form a letter "c" above the head. She should then complete the pitch from this position, concentrating on swinging the arm down, firing the hips, snapping the wrist, and releasing the pitch.

And if you'd like to see more free softball drills and coaching tips, go here to watch a free video:

http://www.softball-spot.com/vid/

Becky Wittenburg is a kids softball coach, and the owner and publisher of Softball-Spot.com, the web's #1 resource for softball drills, tips, and practice ideas for youth and high school coaches.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Becky_Wittenburg

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Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Softball Pitching - Steps to Becoming a Successful Pitcher

Softball Pitching - Steps to Becoming a Successful Pitcher
By Becky Wittenburg

Many girls have the potential to succeed as softball pitchers. However, developing the right skills is a slow and challenging process, and it is easy for players to become discouraged. In order for a beginning player to make it as a pitcher, she needs to have the patience to spend months and maybe years honing her skills.

The following plan breaks down the steps necessary to develop a beginning pitcher. Coaches should remember to take it slow and provide positive encouragement.

Step 1: Mechanics

A player should remember to:

Start with a relaxed upper body
Lean the body forward and push off the rubber for good speed
Open the body - toward third base if right-handed - as she begins the rotation
The arm circle should be fast, smooth, and consistent with the arm straight
Keep the stride straight toward home plate and land with her stride foot turned at a slight angle
Close the body as she nears the release point by turning toward the catcher, starting with the shoulder
Keep the wrist slightly bent as she nears the release point and snap it forward as she releases the ball
Have a loose and natural follow through after the release

Step 2: Speed

Softball pitching requires proper mechanics, but after that is mastered, a player should be able to increase speed over time without having to worry about maintaining control. Focus on keeping mechanics smooth and gradually work on throwing harder over time.

Step 3: Accuracy

After a few months of focusing on mechanics and speed, a pitcher should start working on controlling the location of the pitch. Over time, she should be able to pitch into any of the four corners (low-outside, low-inside, high-inside, and high-outside) so accurately she will not have to throw down the middle.

Step 4: Change-Up

With mechanics, speed, and accuracy under control, a pitcher can now develop pitches other than her fastball. Her change-up should be around 30% slower than her fastball. Her approach can utilize any number of techniques, including:

adjusting the wrist snap
flipping the ball out
following through low and toward the catcher
moving the ball back in the palm

One important thing to keep in mind is that the hitter should have no indication of a change-up.

Once a pitcher has mastered these steps, she can move on to developing additional pitches, like the drop ball, screw ball, and rise ball.

And if you'd like to see more free softball drills and coaching tips, go here to watch a free video:

http://www.softball-spot.com/vid/
Becky Wittenburg is a kids softball coach, and the owner and publisher of Softball-Spot.com, the web's #1 resource for softball drills, tips, and practice ideas for youth and high school coaches.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Becky_Wittenburg

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Wednesday, September 1, 2010

EASTON SOFTBALL - PITCHING TIPS: STANCE

EASTON FASTPITCH SOFTBALL - PITCHING TIPS: STANCE
Posted on YouTube by eastonbbsb

Stacey Nelson, Easton brand ambassador and pitcher for the USA Softball National Team, talks about the basics of a pitching stance and demonstrates the technique for a powerful stride.

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Monday, August 30, 2010

Softball - Pitching Techniques

Fastpitch Softball - Pitching Techniques
Posted on YouTube by thesportingspirit

Belhaven College softball coach demonstrates 3 softball pitching techniques

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Thursday, August 26, 2010

Arm Action Tips

Fastpitch Softball: Arm Action Tips
Posted on YouTube by ontariofastpitch

Fastpitch softball pitching tips

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Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Softball Pitching Tips and Drills - Increase Speed Video

Softball Pitching Tips and Drills - Increase Speed Video
Posted on YouTube by softballperformance

http://www.softballperformance.com/ - Softball pitching drills and tips on how to increase pitching speed.

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Thursday, July 22, 2010

Youth Softball Pitching Tips

Youth Fastpitch Softball Pitching Tips
By Guest Author Trevor A. Sumner

Eddie Feigner was a world famous softball pitcher who started his team, "King and his Court," in 1946. He was such a good pitcher that he needed only two fielders behind him when he pitched. His team barnstormed throughout the United States and all over the world for almost 55 years. Eddie pitched for that duration of time because the softball pitch is made with a natural motion of the arm. That's a stark contrast to baseball pitchers who can have arm complications because the overhand throw is not a natural arm motion.

It is suggested that youth softball pitchers throw as many as three hundred pitches per week so that the repetition will give them outstanding pitching technique. Youth softball pitching tips aid young softball pitchers mentally as much as physically. There are many devices that are on the market that return the ball to them upon impact that young pitchers can use to practice their craft and many are perfect for solo play.

Some youth softball pitching tips for youngsters who want to improve themselves as softball pitchers are:

Know the Game - Learn the rules of the game of softball, and learn all you can about the strike zone.
Master the Strike Zone - When you pitch, avoid the middle of the strike zone where a batter can get the best part of the bat on the ball and make the best contact.
Take a deep breath before releasing the pitch.
Visualize the pitch and the flight of the ball before releasing it.
Concentrate on the strike zone and your catcher's glove. Do not think about the batter.
Release the Ball with Confidence. Don't make the mistake of hoping the ball goes where you intend to throw it. Throw the softball with confidence.
Don't Overthrow. With runners on base, do not squeeze the ball too hard. One of the best youth softball pitching tips is to throw relaxed at all times, even with the game on the line.
Take Extra Time with a Runner on Base - Young softball pitchers must learn to control their emotions at all times when pitching.
After You Release the Pitch, Field Your Position. Follow through after you deliver the pitch directly toward the batter. That's why you're wearing a glove!
Have Fun - Remember to enjoy softball and pitching, because it is only a game.
These youth softball pitching tips are meant to help young softball pitchers to have more success on the pitching mound. Continuous practice using a variety of age-appropriate softball pitching drills will ultimately make the difference between a talented pitcher and a great one. And when you make these drills fun by tapping into the natural idolatry of softball pros like Jennie Finch, Cat Osterman, or Monica Abbott, you may find it easier to motivate your team. It is up to mentors, coaches and parents to encourage and support our youth in all their endeavors.

By Trevor A. Sumner who works for Weplay.com, a youth softball community dedicated to providing parents coaches and athletes the tools and information to celebrate the love of the game. Weplay has one of the most comprehensive softball drill libraries in its active softball community.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_A._Sumner

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Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Softball Pitching Drills - The One-Knee Drill

Softball Pitching Drills - The One-Knee Drill
http://www.softballperformance.com/ - Lauren Bay, star pitcher and Olympian demonstrates an excellent drill to increase your pitching speed and technique.

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Monday, July 12, 2010

A Fast Pitch Pitching Drill

A Simple but Effective Fast Pitch Pitching Drill
By Guest Author J Cox

An Important Pitching Drill: One Knee Pitching

The pitcher on the softball field is the most important player. No other player has the power to influence the game the way the pitcher does. In order for the pitcher to be effective, there are many little things she must do well. To help her perfect all these little things, there are many different pitching drills she should perform regularly. One of the most important pitching drills is the "One Knee Pitching" drill.

One knee pitching is performed exactly how you would think it would be done, with the pitcher on one knee. The pitcher will actually kneel on the knee that is on the same side as her pitching arm. She will be about 15 to 20 feet away from the catcher. There should be a line on the ground that extends from the pitcher toward the catcher. The pitchers other foot (on the glove side) should be placed on that line. That leg should be slightly bent. By being on one knee the pitcher will have a steady lower part of the body and will be able to focus on her upper body and the mechanics for pitching.

To begin the softball pitching drill, the pitcher should have her glove and pitching hand (holding the ball) down beside the leg she is kneeling on (her pitching leg). Both of the pitchers hands should stay together as she completes the first quarter of her arm circle. Then she should continue with her motion making sure to come through and stay with the straight line. That's the point of the drill; staying within the line. Throwing balls and strikes isn't important.

During this pitching drill the pitcher must be sure to keep her balance at all times. She can't allow her back to arch backward or her shoulders to fall forward. Also, she can't let her arm go behind her head as she is pitching. Finally, she has to make sure her arm finishes in line with the line that's extending toward the catcher. This point can't be stressed enough.

There are many great pitching drills that softball pitchers should do on a regular basis. One of the most important drills is "One Knee Pitching". This drill should be performed regularly in order to help the pitchers balance and to allow her to focus on her upper body. To be more specific, this pitching drill will help the pitcher with her arm circle, spacing, sequencing, release posture, and the follow through.

J Cox runs http://www.fastpitchsoftballbat.net The site tries to find bargains for the fastpitch fan. The site also has several other Fastpitch Softball Articles, an example is located at http://www.fastpitchsoftballbat.net/fastpitchbaserunning

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J_Cox

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Friday, June 25, 2010

Fastpitch Softball - Basics on How Its Done & Fastpitch Softball Pitching Equipment

Fastpitch Softball - Basics on How Its Done & Fastpitch Softball Pitching Equipment
By Guest Author Mike Ripley

The game of softball is often confused with the game of baseball and many are often lead to believe that if one plays baseball one can play softball too. Before one discusses what softball pitching is all about it would be worth while to just have a glimpse of some of the differences. Softball as a game has its roots in the game of baseball. In softball the numbers of innings are limited to seven; the ball is thrown underhand and played on a smaller ground. The game of softball has been attributed to George Hancock and since then this game has become increasingly popular. Today it is played in countries all over the world.

Pitching a softball requires quite a bit of practice. It's not just about throwing the ball but instead requires proper hand and body coordination before the ball is pitched.

The whole idea of softball pitching concentrates around the pitchers body position with respect to the pitchers plate, the gripping of the ball in the hand and the proper positioning of the foot. A full understanding of these positions will help a softball pitcher perform better.

While pitching a softball the weak foot is usually placed at the end of the back of the pitch plate with the feet placed apart at around shoulder length. The arms are kept at the sides and the back heel is lifted in the air. This gives more strength to the front foot and greater balance. The weight can be shifted to the back by rocking the arms in a backward position. The arm is now brought forward with the ball in the glove such that the ball remains hidden from the batter. Rotating the ball in the air in the vertical direction and moving it in a circle the ball is released from the hip position. The action finishes by looking at the direction of the catcher. This is the essence of softball pitching where the main softball equipment with respect to the pitcher is the ball and the gloves.

However, there is fast-pitch softball also known as fast pitch or just fastpitch. This term refers to a form of softball played by women, though male and mixed fast pitch leagues also exist. They commonly start at the age of 6 and play it through the college. The International Softball Federation recognizes three pitch speeds: fast pitch, medium pitch and slow pitch. The fast pitch is considered as the most competitive form of softball. This form of softball was played in Olympic Games from 1996 till 2008.

Softball equipment helps a player to perform at the highest level possible. It is important that bats, gloves, cleats, apparel and more, are top notch in performance, quality, and durability at an affordable price. Nokona as a main manufacturer of softball equipment offers great quality and affordable prices. They make bat bags, softball knee leg guards, catcher gear and accessories (such as Nokona wrist saver, Nokona palm saver, Nokona classic glove conditioner, leather lacings, leather bags, NGM Nokona glove mallet).

Nokona athletic company provides softball players with quality gloves. They come in following series, Buffalo. Buckaroo, Classic Combo and Walnut Classic. They also use a wide range of materials to get the best results. Therefore, Buffalo and Classic Combo are made of American range bison, the leather which provides soft and sturdy at the same time. More over, Buckaroo is combination of kangaroo and cowhides to form lightweight gloves. At last, but not least important Nokona built its reputation on famous Walnut 'crunch' leather. For fastpitch, in their rich array they included series such are Catcher's mitts, Elite and Youth.

Fastpitch softball pitching equipment
http://fastpitchsoftballpitching.org
http://softballbaseballequipment.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Ripley

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Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Softball Pitching Tips and Drills - Increase Speed Video

Friday, November 19, 2010

Fastpitch Softball Drills - Develop Speed and Accuracy With These Pitching Drills

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Softball Pitching - Steps to Becoming a Successful Pitcher

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

EASTON SOFTBALL - PITCHING TIPS: STANCE

Monday, August 30, 2010

Softball - Pitching Techniques

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Arm Action Tips

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Softball Pitching Tips and Drills - Increase Speed Video

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Youth Softball Pitching Tips

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Softball Pitching Drills - The One-Knee Drill

Monday, July 12, 2010

A Fast Pitch Pitching Drill

Friday, June 25, 2010

Fastpitch Softball - Basics on How Its Done & Fastpitch Softball Pitching Equipment

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