When youngsters start learning the game of fast pitch softball, it is all about the fundamentals of the game. The fundamentals of pitching include stance, grip, backswing, delivery and follow through. However, once a young girl understands how to deliver the ball to home plate, it is about incorporating the elements of the windmill delivery that allow the pitcher to deliver the ball with velocity. The fast pitch softball pitcher must also become a fielder that can protect herself after releasing the ball.
Step 1
Stand tall on the pitcher's rubber, with your shoulders back and your feet at least shoulder-width apart. Your dominant foot must provide the push off the rubber when you deliver and that foot needs to be touching the rubber until you have released the ball. Your other foot must step toward home plate and may not step to the side as you deliver the ball.
Step 2
Hold the ball with a four seam grip. That means your fingers will go across the seams and not with them. This is the basic grip for a fastball. You will learn how to throw drops, risers and curves as you get more experience, but concentrate on throwing the fastball.
Step 3
Bring the ball back to start your motion. Some pitchers will bring their arms back to mid-back level while others will bring their arms to head height. Some will do it slowly while others will make this move quickly. There is no right or wrong way. Choose what feels comfortable and don't try to impress anybody.
Step 4
Relax your arm and keep it straight as you bring it forward. Do not stiffen your arm. Drive forward with your left leg if you are right-handed and shift your weight from your back leg to your front leg as you come forward. Don't take a big or exaggerated stride just because you see more experienced pitchers step 5 feet or more. You want to have control and balance when you release the ball and a big step will keep you from having this vital factor.
Step 5
Push off the rubber hard with your dominant leg. After you release the ball, face the batter and take a ready position to field the ball. The instant you have finished your delivery and gotten rid of the ball you become a defensive player. Not only do you have to make plays to help your team win, you also have to protect yourself.
