Coaching competitive softball poses a number of unique challenges, starting with selecting the right players for your team. Holding tryouts can help you scout and evaluate the available talent, but orchestrating an effective tryout can be a daunting task all its own. Keeping a few tips in mind can ensure your softball tryouts provide the foundation for a strong team.
Planning
Running a successful softball tryout requires extensive planning. Put in the time to not only devise appropriate drills but also to account for all the necessary equipment and logistics. Make certain you have the field in optimum condition with enough bats and balls to accommodate drills. You'll want to have a sign-up table with profile sheets and pens so you can collect all necessary personal information. You'll also need a first-aid kit in case of injuries and plenty of water to keep the players hydrated. Finally, don't forget to advertise the tryout online and in local newspapers so interested players show up.
Communication
Successful softball coaches must communicate to their players in a clear, friendly manner. Before the tryout begins, gather all the players around to introduce yourself and explain what will follow. Inform players to try their best during every drill and not to hold anything back.
Coaching
During tryouts, you should keep coaching to an absolute minimum. Explain the drill, go over all the key points and answer questions, but then get out of the way. Your role during a tryout is to evaluate talent not coach. While a few helpful words of encouragement are fine, allow the players to demonstrate their skills without your influence.
Warmup Period
Before getting into the actual drills, start your softball tryout with some stretching and general warm-up exercises such as jumping jacks, running in place or other forms of light aerobic activity. You want to make sure the players are loose and warmed up so they can perform their best and avoid any potential muscle strains.
Sprints
All softball tryouts should contain timed sprints to evaluate each player's speed. Time each player from home to first, from first to third and then all the way around the bases. Give them two chances at each distance, documenting their time after each run.
Throwing and Fielding
After the players have had a chance to warm up their throwing arms, put them through some basic fielding drills, dividing them up into outfielders and infielders. Hit them popups, flies, liners and grounders to test their gloves and mobility. You'll also want to have them throw to the various bases to check arm strength and accuracy.
Hitting
Give each player 25 or more swings to evaluate hitting. You want to provide ample opportunity for players to demonstrate their full range of skills, including slap hits and bunts. Permitting a greater number of swings will allow each player a better chance to find her groove at the plate.
Pitchers and Catchers
After you've evaluated hitting and fielding, turn your attention to pitchers and catchers. Write down each pitcher's various pitches and chart them for accuracy, speed and consistency. Also, pay attention to the pitcher's attitude and field presence. For catchers, note how they frame the ball, if they can block balls in the dirt and if they have a strong arm.
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