Softball Practice Drills for Girls
Drills provide a regimented way for softball players to practice their skills and learn the rules of the game. Using several drills during practice will not only teach these skills but will also help players focus. Integrate different types of drills in varied sequences during each practice to keep players from becoming bored.
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Paddle Ball Drill
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Staple straps to the backs of two ping-pong paddles. Each player must wear the paddles on the front of her hands and field tennis balls. This drill teaches players to field the ball with both hands and to use their bodies to cushion the ball.
"21" Throwing Drill
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Two fielders should stand approximately 60 to 90 feet away from each other. Move the players closer if they are beginners. With a coach or teammate keeping score, award points for each throw between the fielders. Throws received between head- and belt-level are awarded one point. Throws lower than belt-level and throws that require the fielder to move her feet receive no points. The first player to reach 21 points wins the game.
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Blind Throwing Drill
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Place two fielders approximately 60 feet away from each other. The first player must close her eyes and throw to the second player, who will call out if it was a good or bad throw. Repeat this until the throws are consistently good.
Broomstick Hitting
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Throw golf balls or bouncy balls for batting practice and make all of the hitters swing a broomstick handle instead of a bat. This drill teaches hand-eye coordination and helps players see pitches and make good contact on the ball.
Around the Horn Drill
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Starting at home plate, the throw the ball to third base, second base, first base and back to home plate. This is called throwing the ball "around the horn." Time each sequence and try to get faster while avoiding errors and bad throws.
Simulated Games
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Practice is the best time for players to learn about different game situations. Start with players on base and call out the number of outs. Then, pitch the ball to the batter. The fielders, runners and batter must react to the situation you've given. For example, if you call, "Two outs," and place a runner on first, the fielder should not worry about getting the out at second base and should instead make the easiest play. If someone makes a mistake, explain what she should have done and then try again.
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References
- Photo Credit girl playing softball image by pixelcarpenter from Fotolia.com
