How to Catch a Softball

Do you find yourself rooting from the dugout instead of playing? Being able to catch the ball in softball is a skill that can help get you on the field. And though the glove will help you, it won't do the whole job on its own.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Remember that catching the ball is mostly about glove placement. Line up the glove and your body with the ball, placing the pocket of the glove toward the ball.

2. Turn the fingers of the glove up, in line with the throwing shoulder, if the ball is above your waist. Place your throwing hand to the side and behind the glove so that you can fish the ball out quickly and throw it into play.

3. Catch a fly ball, ideally, on your throwing-hand side. Point your fingers toward the sky, with your palm facing the ball. Extend your arm, keeping it bent slightly with the elbow down. A common mistake when catching a fly ball is to lift the elbow.

4. Turn the fingers of the glove down if the ball is below your waist. Place the glove in front of you, between your legs, with your throwing hand to the side and behind the glove. When the ball is cruising along the ground, catch it in front of you, not under you.

5. Remember to bend your elbows when you put the glove out to meet the ball. This will absorb the impact so that it doesn't hit the glove and bounce out.

Tips & Warnings

• "Practice, practice, practice," says Ray VanderMay, women's softball coach at Seton Hall University. "There is no hidden secret to catching a softball."

• Make sure you've warmed up well (for 15 to 30 minutes) before beginning to play.

• Softball is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek the proper equipment and training before undertaking this activity.