Coaching Youth Softball
Coaching Youth Softball
Coaching Youth Softball
Table of Contents
1. FORWARD ......................................................................................................................................... 1
2. INTRODUCTION............................................................................................................................... 1
3. SPORTS & LIFE ................................................................................................................................ 3
4. GETTING STARTED ........................................................................................................................ 5
5. DEALING WITH PLAYERS .......................................................................................................... 12
6. DEALING WITH PARENTS .......................................................................................................... 15
7. SOFTBALL POSITIONS................................................................................................................. 17
8. THE EFFECTIVE PRACTICE ...................................................................................................... 20
9. FUNDAMENTAL DRILLS ............................................................................................................. 23
10. GAME TIME................................................................................................................................ 35
11. TEAM SAFETY ........................................................................................................................... 36
12. CONCLUSION............................................................................................................................. 40
13. PRACTICE SAMPLE ................................................................................................................. 41
14. USEFUL COACHING FORMS ................................................................................................. 42
Field Positions & Batting Order........................................................................................................ 42
Snack/Refreshment Sheet .................................................................................................................. 45
Field Position Diagram...................................................................................................................... 47
Injury Report Sheet............................................................................................................................ 48
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While all efforts have been made to produce an accurate document, neither the author nor publisher
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CoachSoftball.com
Copyright 2004
All Rights Reserved
1. Forward
“A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort
of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove…But the world may be different
because I was important in the life of a child.” – Author Unknown
2. Introduction
So you have decided to volunteer (or someone has volunteered you) to coach youth
Softball. Good Luck, You’ll Need It!! But on a serious note, teaching beginners
the game of Softball can be fun and rewarding.
It may not be apparent to you, but you will now be looked upon as a teacher,
mentor, leader, ROLE MODEL, authority & parental figure by the youngsters on
your team. Do not underestimate the effect or influence you can have upon a
young child. Young Softball players are very impressionable and will watch your
every move. Whether you feel it or not, your team will take on the characteristics
of you. The team takes your lead and you are the leading influencer of the team’s
attitude.
Does this all sound like a daunting task? While you should not become
overwhelmed with your responsibility, you also should not take your coaching
responsibilities lightly.
Think of the speeches that we have all heard, whether it’s an induction speech to
the hall of fame or an interview by the media. When asked who has been a major
influence on their lives, after mentioning family, many respond “my old coach
from ….”
There are not many more rewarding positions than that of helping others,
especially helping children. If you can have the slightest bit of positive influence
on another’s life, your life has been a great success. Watching a player improve as
both a Softball player and a person is one of the most fulfilling accomplishments
one can have. If you are lucky enough that when a former player is asked who
influenced his or her life and they say your name, you should consider yourself the
“richest” person in the land.
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Coaching Youth Softball
With a little organization, planning, and above all patience, coaching can be
productive, educational and most of all enjoyable.
This instructional guide has been written to assist the coach in the following areas:
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In the August 2001 issue of Sport Illustrated for Kids and article entitled Kids
Speak Out a survey found that:
• 57% of those surveyed said there was too much violence in youth sports
• 74% said they had witnessed out of control parents at their games
• 36% said they were embarrassed when witnessing bad parental behavior
• 37% said they witnessed parents yelling at kids
• 27% said they had witnessed parents yelling at coaches or officials
• 25% said they had witnessed coaches yelling at kids or officials
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As we have previously stated, as a coach you are looked upon as a teacher, mentor,
leader, ROLE MODEL, authority & parental figure by the youngsters on your
team. Do not underestimate the effect or influence (positive & negative) you can
have upon a young child. In coaching young players, winning or losing should be
the least important thing for both you and the players. Soon enough, children will
be exposed to the competitive nature of sports. Your goal should be to teach the
children about the game of soccer and to instill upon them a love for the sport.
If your players enjoy themselves and want to play again next season, you should
consider your season a success.
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4. Getting Started
By obtaining and reading through this guide you are well on your way to an
excellent start towards successful Softball coaching! In coaching young Softball
players, planning and organization is half the battle. Before you step out onto the
field, there are a number of things that you must first do.
However, in some leagues you may receive little, if any, information (only the
basics - team roster and team name). Whatever way your league is organized,
there is some basic information that you will need to effectively run your team.
The quicker you receive this information, the quicker you can get down to the
business of coaching.
The Basic information you will need before you get started is:
1. Practices – When and Where? Some leagues have standard practice
days and times for each team. In other leagues the coach is
responsible for reserving dates, fields and times for practice. You
need to find out how your league organizes its practices and act
accordingly. If it is your responsibility to “book” practices, do it as
early as possible so that you are able to get the best times.
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Optional Equipment
• 6-10 “Sock” Balls - “Sock” balls are softer than Tee Balls
and good for a warm-up partner catch drill. They are also
good for the “Hitting into the Backstop” drill.
• Sports Cones – Good for various drills detailed later in this
guide.
• 1 Tennis or Racquetball Racquet
• 6-10 Tennis Balls – Used with the tennis racket for the “Pop
Fly” drill as well as other catching drills.
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Prior to the start of the season, find out what rules your league
follows.
Give the parents your contact information. This information should consist of:
Name
Phone Number
Cell Phone
Email Address
Date, Time and Location of First Practice or Team Meeting
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Address
Contact Phone numbers (Home, Work, Mobile)
Emergency Contact Number
Email address
Health Issues (i.e. allergies, asthma, etc.)
Explain to the parents what equipment a player will need for the upcoming season
(such as a Softball glove and Softball cleats). Advise parents that the Softball
glove should be the proper size for the child and be somewhat broken in so as not
to be too stiff where the player cannot close the glove. To help first time Softball
parents in selecting the correct equipment for their child, send them the “Choosing
the Proper Softball Glove” section in this guide.
If possible, try to have a team meeting with your players and parents prior to your
first practice. This will give you time to discuss your Team goals for the year and
handle any administrative matters. However, with busy schedules, this meeting
may not be feasible, in that case set aside the first 10 minutes of the first practice
to go over these issues.
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The key to a glove is control. The Softball player should be able to move the glove
quickly to the ball, which requires a glove that's not too big and heavy for him or
her. And even more importantly, the player must also be able to close the glove
with his or her hand, so that the ball does not fall out. This requires a glove that is
soft and “broken in” enough so that the player can close the glove and ' squeeze'the
ball.
Softball glove sizes begin around the 9-inch range; the measurement is usually
listed on the glove itself. The new, pre-oiled gloves are usually excellent for
Softballers, as they are soft and require little or no break-in. For a very small child,
or one with less strength than his or her peers, there are vinyl, or combination
vinyl-and-leather models. These are very inexpensive and, while they will not last
as long as higher quality gloves, they bend easily and allow the player to catch the
ball from day one. There are also full leather gloves in the under-11 inch size,
which cost more, last longer, and might require some break-in. Some new models
even have a notch designed into the heel of the glove to allow easy and immediate
flexing of the pocket.
As much as you want to buy the best for your kid, avoid the expensive, stiff gloves
for players under 10 or so. They'
d have to play eight hours a day, seven days a
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week, for six months before it gets broken in. And in that time, they'
d make so
many errors that they'
d be shopping for soccer cleats by then!
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At the start of the season, you should have at least 6 sock balls ready for practice.
You can use the sock ball for catching drills, pop fly drills, as well as hitting drills.
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When explaining a drill or concept, do not get too technical. Yes, you must teach
the basics, but do it in a way so that THEY can understand.
If you explain a drill 3 times to your team, and they don’t understand it; guess
what!? YOU are explaining it wrong!
Spend a little extra time with the players that may be learning slower than the
others. After practice, give these players some additional “homework” to do
before your next practice/game. Take these players aside and discreetly talk to
them (be careful not to make it look as though you are singling out these players).
For the players that are excelling faster than the others, add some “twist” or
additional complexity to a drill the rest of the team is performing.
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The best way to keep the players focused is with constant movement and change.
Each drill station should have no more than 3-4 players. With this small number of
players, you cut down on the amount of time a player is only watching the other
players go through the activity. The time that a player is not engaged in activity is
the time you will “lose them”. To have groups 3-4 players, you will need as much
help from others as you can get. With a team of 11 players you will need 3-4
different groups (therefore, 3-4 different coaches).
As far length of time goes, each drill should be done for no more than 10-15
minutes at a time. Survey your team’s attention span and adjust the length of each
drill accordingly.
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• If a behavioral problem persists, sit the player down for a “time-out” for a
few minutes. Once they see all the other players, who behave, enjoying
themselves, they will want to join along.
• If all else fails, speak with child’s parent on a one-one basis, asking for their
help in addressing the problem.
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To run an effective practice, with 2-3 station drills, there will be the need for at
least 3-4 coaches. Before every practice, give a detailed explanation to all the
assistant coaches. Go over what drills the team will be doing and what you need
them (the coaches) to do.
Suggestions/Constructive Criticism
As a coach you should be willing to accept suggestions and constructive criticism
from parents during the year. Parents may have an “outside” view of how things
are going and their input can be valuable.
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for the season is to HAVE FUN!! Hopefully at this beginner level, you will not
have to deal with parents who are over critical with their children. As previously
mentioned, at the start of the season explain to the parents what your goals are for
the team. Your team goals and the parents’ goals should be very similar. If a
parent has different goals than yours (“I want my son to play error free in the field
this year!”) they need to be discussed and addressed at the beginning of the
season.
If a problem with a parent persists, discreetly take the parent aside, and once again
explain your coaching philosophy to them. Explain that their criticisms are a
distraction to not only their child, but to the entire team. Another tactic is to move
the child to the opposite side of the field, away from the parent; and away from the
comments.
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7. Softball Positions
When asking a new player to “go play 2nd base” nine times out of ten the player
will go and stand directly ON the base. For the first few practices you may need to
position your players in proper area of the field.
1St Base
1st base will be the most active (and can be the most dangerous) position on
the field. The 1st baseperson needs to pay attention at all times because most
plays will end up at 1st base. The 1st baseperson should stand 2-4 feet off 1st
base (towards 2nd base). If there is a base runner on 1st base, have the fielder
position themselves either in front or behind the base runner (so they don’t
get run over when the runner starts to run for 2nd base). It’s a good idea to
have an assistant coach standing by the 1st baseman to ensure the player is
paying attention and ready to catch the ball being thrown to them.
The Pitcher
In Softball, the Pitcher can be a very active position. Majority of the hits are
straight up the middle toward the pitcher. Because of this, the pitcher needs
to be alert at all times. Also, the pitcher is the closest position to the hitter,
therefore; the ball reaches the pitcher at a higher speed than any other player.
Some leagues do not have a pitchers position. If your league does not call
for a pitcher, simply add another infielder between shortstop and 2nd base. If
you are using a pitcher as a fielding position, do not have the player stand
directly on the pitchers mound. Instead, have the pitcher move back a few
feet off the pitchers mound to a safer location.
2nd Base
2nd Base is another position where young Softball players will find a lot of
action. The 2nd baseperson should line up 4-5 feet off 2nd base (towards 1st
base).
Shortstop
The Shortstop should line up between the 2nd Base bag and 3rd Base (3-4 feet
off second base to the players right).
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3rd Base
The 3rd base person should be lined up 3-4 feet off 3rd base (to the players
left, towards 2nd base)
Catcher
Since in the majority of beginner softball leagues the players will be hitting
off a Batting Tee, there is no real need for a catcher. At the beginner level,
the catcher position could be very dangerous. Beginner Softball players tend
to throw the bats after they hit, so a catcher would be in harms way of a
thrown bat. Because of this danger, you should eliminate the catcher’s
position and simply add an additional infielder or outfielder.
The Outfield
Unlike in older leagues, in many beginner Softball leagues there are usually
4-6 outfielders. You have your traditional Right Field, Center Field, and
Left Field positions, as well as the following outfield positions:
• Short Field (usually lining up a few yards behind 2nd base)
• Right Center Field (Lining up between Right Field & Center
Field)
• Left Center Field (Lining up between Left Field & Center
Field)
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Position Key
∗For Softball
• Eliminate Catcher position 2;
• Add Left Center position between 7&8;
• Add Right Center position between 8 & 9;
• Add Short Fielder position in front of 8.
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As previously mentioned, the best way to keep the players’ focused is constant
movement and change. You should break your team into 2-3 groups. Each group
should have no more than 3-4 players and each group should be doing a different
drill. With this small number of players, you cut down on the amount of time a
player is only watching the other players go through the activity. The time that a
player is not engaged in activity is the time you will “lose them”. To have groups
3-4 players, you will need as much help from others as you can get. With a team
of 11 players you will need 3-4 different groups (therefore, 3-4 different coaches).
As far length of time goes, each drill should be done for no more than 10-15
minutes at a time. After that time have the groups rotate into another station/drill.
This keeps things different and helps eliminate player boredom. Gauge your
team’s attention span and adjust the length of each drill accordingly.
Practice Goals
You need to establish goals for each practice. At the start of each practice these
goals should be shared with the assistant coaches, parents and most of all the
players. Don’t overwhelm your players with a large number of goals for each
practice. Even if you want to accomplish many things in practice, only designate a
few as “practice goals”. Remember for many players, this may be their first
experience with Softball. You need to learn crawl before you can walk.
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The one goal that should be consistent for each and every practice is:
TO HAVE FUN!!
Practice Components
Practices should have 3-4 basic components that should remain consistent
throughout the season. While the practice components should remain consistent,
the practice drills should vary so that the players do not become bored.
Pre-Practice Talk – Before you start each practice, you need to tell your players
what you will be doing in the practice. Quickly tell them what drills they will be
doing (and in what order), what is expected from the players, and what the goals
are for the practice. It’s a good idea to have the parents listen in to the Pre-Practice
Talk so that they know what will be going on.
FUNdamental Skill Drills – In this portion of practice you will teach your
players the fundamental skills needed to play Softball. These drills can consist of
Base Running drills, Fielding & Catching drills, Throwing drills, Hitting Drills,
etc. For this part of practice you should divide your team into 3-4 groups
(depending on your team size) and have a different drill at each “station”. After 10
minutes have each group move to a new station.
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By using this station approach, you will have a smaller, more manageable group of
players and be able to give more individual and one-on-one instruction. Also,
players tend to become less bored since they will be more involved and not have to
waiting around for long periods of time until it is their turn. In addition, the varied
drills offered at the different stations will keep things new to a player and help
keep things interesting.
Game Situation Drills - Many coaches will say that “The only way you learn
the game is by playing the game” This may in fact be correct for older children,
but for first time players, even the Softball basics may be a challenge. You may
run into a situation where you even need to “coach” them on what hand their glove
goes on.
Think of Game Situation Drills as small, manageable portions of games that will
concentrate on the development of 2-3 core skills. Again, remember to try to keep
all the players active during the drills. Lulls in the action and standing around
waiting will quickly bore a young child.
Post Practice Talk – Just as the “Pre-Practice Talk” it’s important to have a
“Post-Practice Talk” as well. In this short conversation you want to cover the
following:
• Go over what the team has accomplished in this session,
reinforcing the important key concepts.
• Strongly compliment the team, tell them how well they have
performed.
• Also, remind parents of the next practice or game. Although all
parents should have schedules by now, it will not hurt to remind
them what’s coming up next.
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9. FUNdamental Drills
When going over the Softball fundamentals, do not get too technical with younger
children. Yes, you must teach the basics, but do it in a way so that THEY can
understand. If you explain a drill 3 times to your team, and they don’t understand
it; guess what!? YOU are explaining it wrong!
We cannot over-emphasize the need for clear communication with your players.
DO NOT assume they know what you are talking about. We remember telling our
team to “run through the base”. After a few ill-fated attempts at this drill, one of
the players finally called out “Coach, what’s a base?”
Clearly explain what the players will be doing before each drill. Look into their
eyes as you’re explaining the drill. If they have the “fogged over” look on their
faces, they didn’t get it! Explain it again and ask if they have any questions.
“Where is …?”
This is a good drill to start the first few practices. Simply call out a position,
“Where is Shortstop!” and have your entire team run to that position. By
having the entire team trying to find the position together, you are fostering
teamwork and camaraderie, and those who don’t know the positions can
learn from those who do know. After a few practices the entire team will
learn where all the positions are on the field.
Position “Homework”
After a few practices, give your players some “homework”. The field
positions worksheet in this guide can be used to help players with position
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recognition. A player simply writes the position initials (ie LF=Left Field,
1=1st base) on the proper place on the field. Parents may have to assist their
child on this project.
Relay Races
Split the team in half, with one group of players behind home plate and other
half of players behind second base. Give the first player of each group a ball.
At "GO!" the first player from each team begins running the bases, with the
ball in hand. After making a complete lap around the bases (back to each
player' s starting point), that player then hands the ball off to the next player
in line, who continues the relay race. The first group of players to finish the
race wins.
For this drill, set up a coach 3-4 feet past 1st base. Have players run from
home plate, touch 1st (remembering to run “through” 1st base) and give the
coach standing past 1st base a “High-Five”.
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Variations of this drill can be Home plate to 3rd base and Run all the Bases
Drill.
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Catching Drills
Catching a ball can be one of the most difficult things for a player to do. Some
young Softball players will be afraid of catching a Softball because they are afraid
of getting hit by the ball. This fear will make them flinch or turn away right before
the ball reaches their glove. They' ll end up dropping the ball instead of catching it,
or, worse, the ball may hit them. If a player gets hit with the ball enough times, he
or she may want to quit even before they have really started to play.
To overcome a player’s fear of the ball, start by using a softer ball. Beginner
league Softballs are inherently softer than Competitive League Softballs, tennis
balls are even softer. That’s why for beginner Softball players, you should think
about using a tennis ball for the first few catching drills.
As we stated before, your players need to learn to crawl before you can walk. In
learning to catch, having a player be able to simply touch the ball with their glove
is more than half the battle. Praise them for this “simple” accomplishment.
The most important thing a young player can do when catching is, KEEPING
THEIR EYE ON THE BALL. The player should focus on the ball and watch it
enter their glove.
>Hold the glove palm up for throws coming under their belly button.
>Hold the glove palm down for throws coming above their belly
button.
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• As the players master this drill, have the partners back-up a few more feet
for long throws.
• You can also add a third player, and have the group form a triangle for a
triangle throwing drill. Have the players throw the ball amongst
themselves in a clockwise direction; then after awhile, switch to a
counter-clockwise direction.
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Fielding Drills
One way to have players pay attention during games to have them in “Ready
Position” as the batter is getting ready to swing. Before a batter is to hit
simply yell for your players to show you that they’re in the ready position.
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Throwing Drills
While throwing may seem natural to some players, others find it quite difficult.
Many new players get confused as to what foot moves forward with the throw.
Break down throwing into small steps that are more easily understood.
• Face Target
• Properly grip ball with throwing hand
• Bring Arm Back in “L” shaped position
• Step forward with opposite foot (then that of throwing arm)
• Move arm forward in throwing motion and let go of ball
• Hand should be pointing to target (where you want the ball to go)
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“Target Practice”
To develop throwing accuracy, the players try to hit a target approximately
10 –15 feet away. You can make this into a competition by awarding points.
2 points for hitting the target on a fly; 1 point for hitting the target on a
bounce.
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Hitting Drills
It has been said that hitting a Softball is one of the hardest things to do in all of
sports. Hitting off a Tee makes this task slightly easier. The goal for young
Softball players is to develop good habits early. Emphasize the proper grip of the
bat, proper stance, and the level swing. And remember, the most important thing
when hitting is KEEPING YOUR EYE ON THE BALL!
For some players, the bat may be heavy and quite difficult to swing.
For these players, have them “choke-up” on the bat. This is, move
their hands further up the bat.
Batting Stance
In the proper Batting Stance, the player should have his or her feet
shoulder width apart, feet point straight, knees slightly bent, bat back
and up.
Without a bat, have your team line up in the proper batting stance.
Walk around your team, inspecting their stance and correct any errors.
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The Swing
When swinging the bat, a player’s arms should be extended and the
swing should be level. Make sure that a player is not too close to the
batting tee (This will cause the arms not be extended).
The player should make contact with the ball with the “sweet” part of
the bat (the middle of the bat).
• Have the player practice hitting the top of the batting tee
with bat before you place the ball on the tee.
• Once you place the ball on the batting tee, have the player
take a “slow motion” swing, stopping just short of hitting the
ball. Take a look at the swing and bat contact point and, if
needed, adjust the player’s stance.
• Have the player hit the ball.
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For this drill you should use “sock balls” so that you do not damage
the backstop or fence.
Also, it is important to have the other players whom are not hitting
away from the action in a safe area.
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Rules
In many Softball leagues, the entire team bats in an inning and all players are safe
at 1st base. Therefore, score is not kept and there is no winning or losing team.
Find out from your league director what your league rules are and prepare for the
game accordingly.
Line-up rotation
So that all players get a chance to play all positions, we suggest that you rotate
your players every inning. The line-up chart included in this guide makes the field
position rotation process easy. Before each inning, as your players are about to
take the field, shout out the position where each player will be playing for that
inning. You will probably have to help young Softball players find their positions,
have your parent-helpers and assistant coaches aid in getting the players where
they need to be.
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Also watch for the hitter that throws the bat after they hit. At the beginner level,
players tend to release the bat at the end of their swing, sending the bat flying. To
prevent bat throwing, set up a cone a few feet to the side of the player and have the
player “place” the bat at the cone before they run to 1st. This should help eliminate
bat throwing.
Ball Safety
Softball should not be played with a “real” Softball like the ones the older children
and professionals use. The Softball should be like a Softball, but softer and with a
rubber/cushioning coating. While this ball is somewhat softer, it still hurts if you
get hit with it. Be aware of where the balls are. If you start off your practice with
a simple game of partner catch, you can have up to 6 balls flying around! For this
partner catch drill, I suggest that you use tennis balls, they hurt less.
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throw ball to 1st base). Therefore, the child playing first base MUST be alert at all
times and be able to catch, or knock the ball down, and/or get out of the way of the
ball. Many young players may not be able to catch proficiently, however that
should not stop them from taking their turn 1st base. As long as they don’t let the
ball hit them, they should be fine. An assistant coach should be stationed at 1st
base to make sure the player is paying attention and ready to attempt the catch.
First Aid
Many leagues offer a First Aid seminar for their coaches. It is important that you
and your assistant coaches attend this clinic. If your league does not offer a First
Aid seminar, contact your local hospital; many have free or inexpensive clinics
available. The information gained from these clinics will be of the utmost
importance in the event of an injury.
Most leagues supply teams with first aid kits. If your league does not supply First
Aid kits, purchase a basic kit; it can be an invaluable piece of equipment. Most
basic First Aid kits can be purchased a local pharmacy, department store or online
for under $25.
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• Ace Bandage
• Splint
• Gauze
• Plastic Gloves
The most important piece of equipment regarding First Aid is a Cell Phone. If
there is a serious injury on the field, precious time can be wasted searching for a
phone to call an ambulance. Parents of an injured child can be contacted quickly
as well. A mobile phone can cut down on the time between injury and help
arriving.
Is a player allergic to bee stings? For most people, the venom from a bee or wasp
sting causes little more than local swelling, pain, and redness, which usually go
away within several hours. Some people, however, are allergic to elements in the
venom and have more severe reactions, which can range from extended swelling to
potentially deadly anaphylactic shock.
For most stings, minimal treatment such as a cold compress or ice pack is
sufficient. If you have multiple stings or a severe allergic reaction, you need
medical help at once.
However, those allergic to bee stings can go into anaphylactic shock, the usual
treatment is the bronchodilator epinephrine injection. Again, the player’s parents
should be at the field at all times with the bee sting kit/injection readily available.
Disclaimer
The information contained in this guide is purely a source of information and can at no time
replace the expert eye of a qualified professional. We recommend seeking professional advice
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before embarking on any form of self- treatment. The content provided in this guide is NOT
intended to be relied on for medical diagnosis or treatment. Never delay in seeking
professional advice because of something read in this guide.
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Coaching Youth Softball
12. Conclusion
During the season, you will probably experience the whole spectrum of emotions
from delight to frustration. Remember: It’s only a game. The kids are there to
have fun! If you have taught them a thing or two, consider the season a success!
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Coaching Youth Softball
FUNdamental Drills
Base Running Drill – 5 Minutes
• Running through 1st base – Team lines up at home plate, one at a time the
players run to 1st base, running through 1st base, high-five coach located 3-4
feet past base. (Emphasis should be running at full speed through the base)
Station Drills – Divide team into 2-3 groups (rotate groups after 10 minutes)
1. Station 1 – Alligator Fielding Drill – 10 Minutes
2. Station 2 – Knelling Throw Drill – 10 Minutes
3. Station 3 – Pop Fly Catching Drill – 10 minutes
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Coaching Youth Softball
This sheet can be customized to suit your league’s rules, actual team playing
positions, etc. For this scenario we assumed an 11 player team and eliminate the
catchers position. For an 11-player team, it will take eleven innings for the entire
team to get to play all the positions. The length of you season should dictate when
you switch the players’ positions. It is suggested that you switch player’s positions
each inning.
The Line-up Sheet should be completed prior the season or each game. To fill out
the lineup, simply list your players down the column, this will serve as there
fielding position and the number where they bat in that inning. A “Planned” and
“Actual” column has been included just in case you need to make game day or on
the field changes due to absenteeism or injury.
For the next inning, you simply shift the line-up down one position and the
previous last player (in this case the Short Fielder) moves up to the first position
(Pitcher). The shifting method is continued until all players have played all
positions and have batted in all slots of the line-up.
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Coaching Youth Softball
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11
Page 43
Coaching Youth Softball
1 2 3 4 5 6
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7 8 9 10 11
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Page 44
Coaching Youth Softball
Snack/Refreshment Sheet
For young Softball players it can be debatable as to what the most important thing
is during a season: The game itself or what the snack will be after the game! At the
start of the season, hand out a snack sign-up sheet to parents. Snacks are a special
treat for after the practice/game. Snacks are not a substitute for water (each player
should bring water for water breaks during practice). Parents should take turns
volunteering to bring a snack to the game/practice. They should bring enough for
the entire team and any siblings that may be around.
With the increase in children allergies, great lengths should be taken to avoid
snacks that children may be allergic to. At the start of the season when you parents
about their child’s medical condition, you should also ask about any food allergies
that may exist. To be on the safe side, snacks with peanuts should be avoided.
Snacks should be served AFTER practice/the game. If the snack is served in the
middle of practice it may be difficult to get the players to refocus on Softball after
the break. Snack time will help build team spirit and camaraderie.
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Coaching Youth Softball
Please volunteer to bring a snack for the team. Due to allergies, please
avoid snacks that contain peanuts. Thank You!
Page 46
Coaching Youth Softball
Answer Key
Date Time
Name of Player
Location
Type of Injury
Extent of Injury
Other Action
at
www.CoachTeeball.com www.CoachFlagFootball.com
www.CoachYouthSoccer.com www.CoachYouthBasketball.com
www.CoachYouthSports.com
Youth Softball Drills
&
Sample Practice Plans
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................ 1
POSITION RECOGNITION DRILLS....................................................................................................... 1
1. “WHERE IS …?”................................................................................................................................ 1
2. CALL OUT THE BASE!........................................................................................................................ 2
3. POSITION “HOMEWORK”................................................................................................................... 2
BASE RUNNING DRILLS.......................................................................................................................... 3
4. BASE RUNNING WARM-UP ................................................................................................................ 3
5. TEAM RELAY RACE .......................................................................................................................... 3
6. RUNNING THROUGH 1ST BASE .......................................................................................................... 3
7. HOME TO 2ND BASE RUN ................................................................................................................... 4
CATCHING DRILLS .................................................................................................................................. 5
8. CATCHING POP FLIES (TENNIS BALL) ............................................................................................... 5
9. CATCHING POP FLIES - GROUP.......................................................................................................... 5
10. PARTNER CATCH .......................................................................................................................... 5
11. BALL AGAINST THE WALL OR PITCH-BACK ................................................................................. 6
FIELDING DRILLS .................................................................................................................................... 7
12. THE READY POSITION SHUFFLE ................................................................................................... 7
13. GROUNDBALL DRILL USING “THE ALLIGATOR CATCH” .............................................................. 7
14. “DON’T RUSH” DRILL .................................................................................................................. 8
15. “1-2-3” FIELDING DRILL .............................................................................................................. 9
16. DON’T SWARM DRILL .................................................................................................................. 9
17. COVERING YOUR POSITION DRILL ............................................................................................... 9
THROWING DRILLS ............................................................................................................................... 11
18. THROWING FROM A KNEELING POSITION................................................................................... 11
19. “TARGET PRACTICE”.................................................................................................................. 11
20. HULA-HOOP THROW .................................................................................................................. 12
HITTING DRILLS..................................................................................................................................... 13
21. BATTING STANCE DRILL ............................................................................................................ 13
22. THE PROPER SWING DRILL......................................................................................................... 13
23. HIP ROTATION DRILL ................................................................................................................. 14
24. HITTING THE TOP OF THE BATTING TEE ..................................................................................... 14
25. HITTING OFF THE TEE................................................................................................................. 15
26. KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE BALL .................................................................................................. 15
27. HITTING INTO THE BACKSTOP .................................................................................................... 15
28. HOME RUN DERBY ..................................................................................................................... 16
GAME SCENARIO DRILLS.................................................................................................................... 17
29. HOME, 1ST BASE, 2ND BASE DRILL................................................................................................ 17
30. 2ND BASE, SHORTSTOP, 3RD BASE DRILL ...................................................................................... 17
31. INFIELD PRACTICE (ENTIRE INFIELD) ......................................................................................... 18
32. INTRA-SQUAD SCRIMMAGE ........................................................................................................ 18
PRACTICE SAMPLE 1............................................................................................................................. 19
PRACTICE SAMPLE 2............................................................................................................................. 20
PRACTICE SAMPLE 3............................................................................................................................. 21
PRACTICE SAMPLE 4............................................................................................................................. 22
PRACTICE SAMPLE 5............................................................................................................................. 23
Making a “Sock Ball”........................................................................................................................ 26
Legal Notices
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or means, mechanical or
electronic, including photocopying or recording or by any information storage and retrieval system or
transmitted by email without the express permission of the publisher.
While all efforts have been made to produce an accurate document, neither the author nor publisher
assumes responsibility for error or omissions or contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.
CoachSoftball.com
Copyright 2004
All Rights Reserved
Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Introduction
The following drills have been specifically included in this book, with the
young softball player in mind. Many beginners to the game of softball may
find some concepts more difficult than others. If a drill is not working,
move on to another and revisit that drill during a later practice.
The best way to keep the players focused, is to have constant movement and
change. You should attempt to have all the players involved with an
activity/drill at the same time. That will cut down on the amount of time
that a player is only standing around watching the other players go through
the activity. The time that a player is not engaged in activity is the time you
will “lose them”.
Also, to keep everything new and exciting, each drill should last no more
than 5-10 minutes. Gauge your team’s attention span and adjust the length
of each drill accordingly.
We have included a number of drills in this book so that you won’t find
yourself running out of things to do.
1. “Where is …?”
This is a good drill to start the first few practices. Simply call out a
position, “Where is Shortstop!” and have your entire team run to that
position. By having the entire team trying to find the position
together, you are fostering teamwork and camaraderie, and those who
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
don’t know the positions can learn from those who do know. After a
few practices the entire team will learn where all the positions are on
the field.
3. Position “Homework”
After a few practices, give your players some “homework”. The field
positions worksheet in this guide can be used to help players with
position recognition. A player simply writes the position initials (ie
LF=Left Field, 1=1st base) on the proper place on the field. Parents
may have to assist their child on this project.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
For this drill, set up a coach 3-4 feet past 1st base. Have players run
from home, touch 1st (remembering to run “through” 1st base) and
give the coach standing past 1st base a “High-Five”.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Catching Drills
Catching a ball can be one of the most difficult things for a player to do.
Some young Softball players will be afraid of catching a Softball because
they are afraid of getting hit by the ball. This fear will make them flinch or
turn away right before the ball reaches their glove. They' ll end up dropping
the ball instead of catching it, or, worse, the ball may hit them. If a player
gets hit with the ball enough times, he or she may want to quit even before
they have really started to play.
• Make this drill into a contest and see how many times they can
catch the ball without dropping it. The group with the highest
number wins.
• Or you can have each group sit after they drop a ball. The last
group standing, wins.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Fielding Drills
12. The Ready Position Shuffle
The “Ready Position” is a simple technique to teach young Softball
players. The players simply face the direction of the activity (i.e. the
coach, the batter, etc), legs slightly more than shoulder width apart,
bend at the knees and have their glove and hand out, down and ready
for action. Having their hands low and facing towards the action
(Pinkies down) completes the “Ready Position”
For this drill, line your players in a straight line across the field. On
the coach’s command, the players are to get into the ready position.
The coach then points either left or right, in whichever direction the
coach points, the players are to shuffle to that direction maintaining
the proper ready stance and avoiding crossing their feet so they don’t
fall.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
the throwing hand is the top. When the Alligator closes his mouth he
“eats the ball”. Start by slowly rolling the ball directly to the player
and watch for proper fielding technique.
As the players get familiar with this drill, start rolling the ball to the
left or the right of the player. Emphasize the proper footwork
(shuffling to one side or the other) to get their body in front of the
ball.
To slow players down, mark a number “1”, “2”, or “3” on a few balls.
Make the marks large enough to read. Roll or hit ground balls to the
player and have them properly field the ball into their gloves. The
player then should look at the ball and shout out the number marked
on the ball, then have the player throw the ball to the proper base.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
By having the players put words to their actions you are slowing the
player down and making them concentrate on the specific task at hand
and reinforcing proper fundamentals.
After practicing this drill a number of times you should see a dramatic
decrease in swarming.
It’s best to go over this drill a number of times, having the ball “hit”
(you walking it over) to all the positions
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Example 1: Example 2:
Ball is “hit” to 2nd baseman. Ball is “hit” to Shortstop
1st baseman covers 1st base 1st baseman covers 1st base
2nd baseman fields ball 2nd baseman covers 2nd base
Shortstop covers 2nd base Shortstop fields ball
3rd baseman covers 3rd base 3rd baseman covers 3rd base
Once all the players understand where they should be, increase the
difficulty by either slowly rolling the ball or hitting the ball to a
fielder and then have the other players take their proper position.
As players get older, you can show them how to properly back-up
another player fielding the ball. However, at this age it’s easier to
have them cover a base.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Throwing Drills
18. Throwing From a Kneeling Position
To eliminate the confusion of foot movement/placement, practice this
drill. From a knelling position, players practice throwing the ball to
each other, the coach or at a target. This takes the foot movement
confusion out of the picture and allows the player to focus on the
proper arm movement mechanics of throwing.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Hitting Drills
21. Batting Stance Drill
It is important for a young player to learn the proper Batting Stance.
The player should have his or her feet shoulder width apart, feet point
straight, knees slightly bent, bat back and up.
Without a bat, have your team line up in the proper batting stance.
Walk around your team, inspecting their stance and correct any errors.
Then have them swing in “Freeze” just before they feel they would be
hitting an imaginary ball. Again, walk around your team, inspecting
their swing and correct any errors.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
good batting stance. Then have them swing and make contact with
the top of the Batting Tee. The player should have a level swing and
proper swing technique.
In this drill it is important to have the other players whom are not
hitting away from the action and in a safe area.
So you do not damage the backstop, you should use Sock Balls for this
drill.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
One coach hits or throws ground balls to the 2nd baseman. As the ball
is hit or thrown, the base runners (Group 1) run to/through 1st base.
The 2nd baseman should properly field the ball and throw it to 1st base.
After each player has gone a few times, rotate the groups. The goals
for this drill are:
• To have the base runners run THROUGH 1st base
• To have the 2nd baseman properly field the ball and throw it
to 1st base
st nd
• To have the 1 baseman catch the throw from 2 .
Have coaches at home plate, 1st base and 2nd base to make sure that all
groups are properly performing the drill.
Start this drill by having hit go to the Shortstop. Before the play
begins, the coach instructs the Shortstop where the throw should go
(2nd base or 3rd base) and why it’s going there. The coach then hits or
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Next, have the hit go to the 3rd baseman. Once again, before the play
begins, the coach instructs the 3rd baseman where the throw should go
(2nd base or step on 3rd base) and why it’s going there. The coach then
hits or throws ground balls to 3rd baseman. The 3rd baseman should
properly field the ball and throw it where he/she was instructed.
After each player has gone a few times, rotate the groups. The goals
for this drill are:
• To have the Shortstop or 3rd baseman properly field the ball
and throw it to the proper base
nd rd
• To have the 2 or 3 baseman catch the throw.
As your team gets familiar with this drill, stop telling them where the
ball is going to be hit.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Practice Sample 1
This is an example of a 75-minute practice.
FUNdamental Drills
Base Running Drill – 5 Minutes
• Running through 1st base – Team lines up at home plate, one at a time
the players run to 1st base, running through 1st base, high-five coach
located 3-4 feet past base. (Emphasis should be running at full speed
through the base)
Station Drills – Divide team into 2-3 groups (rotate groups after 10
minutes)
• Station 1 – Alligator Fielding Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 2 – Knelling Throw Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 3 – Pop Fly Catching Drill – 10 minutes
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Practice Sample 2
This is an example of a 75-minute practice. Add or delete drills as you see
fit.
FUNdamental Drills
• Partner Catch Drill – 5 Minutes
• Hip Rotation Drill – 5 Minutes
Station Drills – Divide team into 2-3 groups (rotate groups after 10
minutes)
• Station 1 – Target Throw Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 2 – Batting Stance Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 3 – Hitting into the Backstop Drill – 10 minutes
or
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Practice Sample 3
This is an example of a 75-minute practice. Add or delete drills as see fit.
FUNdamental Drills
• Don’t Swarm Drill – 5 Minutes
Station Drills – Divide team into 2-3 groups (rotate groups after 10
minutes)
• Station 1 – “1-2-3” Fielding Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 2 – Catching Pop Flies Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 3 – Keep Your Eye on the Ball Drill – 10 minutes
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Practice Sample 4
This is an example of a 75-minute practice. Add or delete drills as you see
fit.
Station Drills – Divide team into 2-3 groups (rotate groups after 10
minutes)
• Station 1 – “Don’t Rush” Fielding Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 2 – Knelling Throw Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 3 – Hitting into the Backstop Drill – 10 minutes
Or
• Intra-Squad Scrimmage
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Practice Sample 5
This is an example of a 75-minute practice. Add or delete drills as see fit.
FUNdamental Drills
Base Running Drill – 5 Minutes
• Running through 1st base – Team lines up at home plate, one at a time
the players run to 1st base, running through 1st base, high-five coach
located 3-4 feet past base. (Emphasis should be running at full speed
through the base)
Station Drills – Divide team into 2-3 groups (rotate groups after 10
minutes)
• Station 1 – Alligator Fielding Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 2 – Knelling Throw Drill – 10 Minutes
• Station 3 – Pop Fly Catching Drill – 10 minutes
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Break team into 2 groups, play game by having players field only infield
positions. Use game type conditions”; i.e. game rules, player batting order
and field position rotation, etc.
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
Practice Date:
Drill Comments
Warm-up
1
2
3
Fundamental
Drills
1
2
3
Station
Drills
1
2
3
Game
Situation
Drills
1
2
3
General Comments:
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Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
At the start of the season, you should have at least 6 sock balls ready for
practice. You can use the sock ball for catching drill, pop fly drills, as well
has hitting drills.
Page 26
Softball Drills & Sample Practice Plans
at
www.CoachTeeball.com www.CoachFlagFootball.com
www.CoachYouthSoccer.com www.CoachYouthBasketball.com
www.CoachYouthSports.com
Page 27