High school softball can be extremely competitive, and "Select" team players might populate the roster in softball hotbeds. Girls hoping to make the freshman, junior varsity or varsity teams must develop good overhand throwing mechanics. Arm strength and accuracy are important, as is the quickness of release. Players in grades nine through 12 should not overlook the importance of throwing ability.
Step 1
Turn sideways and set your feet before starting your throwing motion. Grip the ball with three or four fingers across the seam with your thumb beneath your index finger. Bring your throwing hand back in a circular motion. Outfielders must make long throws, so they should use a big circle. Infielders need to make quick throws, so they shouldn't bring their hands back as far. Catchers need to throw quicker still, so their motion is very compact. Turn the ball so that it faces away from the target. Aim the glove hand or the raised elbow at the intended target. Do not dip your front shoulder.
Step 2
Turn the ball toward the target as you begin the throwing motion. Lead with your elbow.. As you bring your arm through, pull back with your glove arm. This helps add power to the throw while keeping your body balanced. Snap down on your throw as if you are waving goodbye to the target.
Step 3
Bring your throwing-side shoulder through to the point where the glove-side shoulder started. Bring your back leg in line with your front leg. With proper follow through, you make full use of your body and put more power and speed on the throws.
Step 4
Use the one-knee drill to master the proper grip, arm rotation, release and ball spin. Go down on one knee on your throwing side. Play short-distance catch with another player, snapping the ball like dart throws. Focus on producing the proper spin. Then extend the throwing distance and shift to full rotation throws. By leaving your lower body out the equation, you can polish your release and arm motion.
Tips and Warnings
- Long-tossing is a good way to build arm strength. Play catch from greater and greater distances. Quickness of release is as important as arm strength for catchers and left-side infielders. Warm up your arm thoroughly before playing a game.
- Arm strength takes time to build. Don't become impatient. Excessive throwing can damage the shoulder rather than strengthen it. Don't attempt a strong throw without getting loose.
Things You'll Need
- Softball
- Softball glove
- Training partner
References
- MonkeySee: Softball Throwing Mechanics -- Gloveside and Lower Body
- Life in the Fastpitch Lane: Using the Glove Arm When Throwing
- Life in the Fastpitch Lane: Getting a Better Follow-Through On Throws
- Life On The Fastpitch Lane: A Common Throwing Problem, Dipping the Front Shoulder
- Life in the Fastpitch Lane: Throwing Problems, Check the Thumb
- YouTube: Softball Throwing Mechanics
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