The game of fastpitch softball is extremely competitive. The pitcher stands 43 to 46 feet from the batter and throws the ball at speeds of 65 to 75 mph, making it hard to hit and difficult to score. Since it is hard to score, positional players must make their plays successfully. During practice, setting high standards for your players is important. This lets your players know exactly what you as the coach expect from them.
Pitching Accuracy Drill
One of the biggest problems that a pitcher experiences is having difficulty controlling the ball. The pitching accuracy drill is designed to build confidence. Have the pitcher stand 20 feet from the plate and throw 10 pitches. From that distance, eight or nine should successfully cross the plate. Next, move the pitcher back 10 feet to make a total of 30 feet from home plate. Repeat this process with every 10 pitches until the distance from home plate reaches 60 feet. If at any time eight of 10 pitches fail to cross the plate, start over from the beginning. Once the pitcher has completed the exercise from 60 feet, have her move back to the pitchers plate. She should now have more control of her pitches and be more accurate.
Soft Toss Drill
Because hitting is a challenge in the game of fastpitch, it is important the proper mechanics are used every time the hitter is up to bat. According to PlaySportsTV.com, you can practice the swing individually with each batter by performing the soft toss drill. Have the batter stand about 10 feet in front of a barrier, such as a fence, and take her normal stance. From the side of the player, softly pitch the ball to them at around the height of the hip. Have the player swing and hit the ball into the barrier with every pitch. The drill will ensure that the player is using the proper position and mechanics to make contact with the ball. Ensure that she is shifting her weight properly while keeping the hands in front of her body. If necessary, alter the swing or stance after each swing.
5 By 5
The 5 By 5 drill is often used near the end of practice. According to Coaching 1.0, the drill consists of hitting five ground balls to each one of the infielders. The first ball is a bunt. The second ball is a double play ball. The next three are grounders that the fielding player throws to first base. If any of the players misplay, drops or throws the ball away, the drill starts over from the beginning. Perform the same drill with your outfield players. Hit two hard groundballs and three fly balls to each player. If any ball gets misplayed, the drill starts over. By ensuring that every ball is played perfectly, the team understands what standards are being set.
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