Softball Coaching Tips
By Marc Dagenais
Take a look at the following situations. First, you know one of your players is doing something wrong with his pitching, but you can't exactly point out what the problem is. Or you'd like to find out why your batter seems to hit the sweet spot most of the time. You ask him about it, and all he can tell you is that that's the way he's been doing it since he was a kid.
It's frustrating, right? To give your players accurate feedback on their performance, you also need an accurate instrument to observe it. And what simple yet better way to do it than performing a video analysis of your players' game?
But let's get deeper into that. There are several reasons why you should do this, which I'm sharing with you in these softball coaching tips.
It helps you analyze your players' game closely
Because you can slow down videos of your players' performance, you can look at how they do things a lot more closely. Slowing down their throws or bats, helps you detect the tiny nuances of their actions. And even the minutest of adjustments can make a world of difference to your players.
You can repeat it over and over again
You can only make your players do so many rounds of pitches before they start complaining. So, instead of doing that just to analyze their game, perform a video analysis of their pitch. Now all you need is just several samples of their pitch, watch them, and rewind them. You can do hours of analysis without wearing your players down.
It's cheap
With new models of video cameras coming out several times per year, the old ones - usually just a year old - quickly gets cheaper. And since you don't really need a very high quality video for your video analysis, you can get year-old cameras to do the job. With the level of sophistication of these devices, you'll find most of your recording needs covered already. Well, that's just the basic record, rewind, and play buttons of course.
It's straightforward
Video cameras aren't just cheap, they're now simpler and easier to use. Gone are the days when huge and bulky cameras were the norm. Now you have lightweight cameras. Some even feature touch screens which make things easier for you to understand. So, even if you're a technophobe, there's no reason why you shouldn't use these cameras.
Or if you know how to hook your video camera to your computer, you can save your data there, so you can do your video analysis even when you're on the road. Fantastic, right?
So unless you're living under a rock, or aren't really serious about softball coaching, then, you should start investing on a simple video rig. Analyzing videos of your players' performance makes things a lot simpler for you. Aside from that, it eliminates the guesswork involved in relying just on your sight to do the job.
Marc Dagenais is a softball peak performance coach that helps softball players and coaches improves their game by sharing with them the tips and strategies used by the world's best softball players and coaches to achieve extraordinary performances. Visit his site and sign-up to get his FREE softball hitting tips!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3090135
Showing posts with label Softball Coaching Tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Softball Coaching Tips. Show all posts
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Softball Coaching Tips and Their Wonders
Softball Coaching Tips and Their Wonders
By guest author: Marc Dagenais
Every single person throughout the world appreciates and values all kinds of tips and strategies. Living everyday may be quite tough and challenging for some that is why coaches and tips are provided to make life easier and better. But, in order for these two to become effective and beneficial, it is important for these two aspects to amalgamate and unite for optimum results and advantages most especially in sports fields such as softball.
Softball is becoming more and more popular and relevant these days that is why a sudden rise of effective softball coaching tips are demanded by the public especially newbie softball coaches. Vast amounts of information on the different kinds of softball coaching tips and techniques are readily available in the internet for everyone's disposal...
Trust between coach and players is one of the essential and most effective softball coaching tips the whole sports industry has to offer. A team without trust is not a team at all. A team is defined as a group of people working as one and that is only possible if trust is at the center of every member's hearts.
Improving and enhancing all the player's individual and team skills and prowess should always be the main goal of every softball coach. And one way to do that is to constantly provide your team with a lot of activities that are varied and fun. It has been said that boredom and having a monotonous softball life is one of the main causes of under performance and game play decrease. Get their very important interest and one hundred percent focus every single practice game and tournament through the use of fun, new, and innovative softball training drills for softball hitting, pitching, fielding, running, and more.
Aside from having trust between team members and the coach, it is very vital to always have fairness in everyone's hearts and minds when it comes to effective softball coaching. Stay away from giving unruly praises or punishments to your players just because you feel like it. That will cause players to feel insecure and jealous of the other players. Only give them what is due and do not ever judge your players based entirely on your personal ideas and expectations. Softball coaches should always take note of their player's well-being and improvement at all times.
Another basic yet very effective softball coaching tips a coach must have for efficient coaching and teaching is the power to adjust. Not all players are the same; some may be advanced in level while other may be in the beginners' side. Learn to analyze their current playing level and status and work your way up from their.
Also, one of the great softball coaching tips every softball coach should utilize is to act as role models. One should practice what he preaches right? By being the team's coach, everyone looks at you for guidance that is why it is very important to portray a well-informed and capable look all the time. In this way, the players will learn the basics and softball techniques in a more efficient and fun way.
One will clearly see and experience an improved softball team through the magic and use of these basic yet effectual softball coaching tips. There are a lot more amazing softball coaching tips and tricks in the internet if you want more. Remember that you are one of the most essential elements for the team to take home the glory.
Marc Dagneais is Softball Peak Performance Coach that helps softball players turn their athletic talent into extraordinary performances and help coaches get more out of their players, turn their struggling team around or get an edge over their opponents. Visit us to access our directory of FREE softball drills!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais
========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
By guest author: Marc Dagenais
Every single person throughout the world appreciates and values all kinds of tips and strategies. Living everyday may be quite tough and challenging for some that is why coaches and tips are provided to make life easier and better. But, in order for these two to become effective and beneficial, it is important for these two aspects to amalgamate and unite for optimum results and advantages most especially in sports fields such as softball.
Softball is becoming more and more popular and relevant these days that is why a sudden rise of effective softball coaching tips are demanded by the public especially newbie softball coaches. Vast amounts of information on the different kinds of softball coaching tips and techniques are readily available in the internet for everyone's disposal...
Trust between coach and players is one of the essential and most effective softball coaching tips the whole sports industry has to offer. A team without trust is not a team at all. A team is defined as a group of people working as one and that is only possible if trust is at the center of every member's hearts.
Improving and enhancing all the player's individual and team skills and prowess should always be the main goal of every softball coach. And one way to do that is to constantly provide your team with a lot of activities that are varied and fun. It has been said that boredom and having a monotonous softball life is one of the main causes of under performance and game play decrease. Get their very important interest and one hundred percent focus every single practice game and tournament through the use of fun, new, and innovative softball training drills for softball hitting, pitching, fielding, running, and more.
Aside from having trust between team members and the coach, it is very vital to always have fairness in everyone's hearts and minds when it comes to effective softball coaching. Stay away from giving unruly praises or punishments to your players just because you feel like it. That will cause players to feel insecure and jealous of the other players. Only give them what is due and do not ever judge your players based entirely on your personal ideas and expectations. Softball coaches should always take note of their player's well-being and improvement at all times.
Another basic yet very effective softball coaching tips a coach must have for efficient coaching and teaching is the power to adjust. Not all players are the same; some may be advanced in level while other may be in the beginners' side. Learn to analyze their current playing level and status and work your way up from their.
Also, one of the great softball coaching tips every softball coach should utilize is to act as role models. One should practice what he preaches right? By being the team's coach, everyone looks at you for guidance that is why it is very important to portray a well-informed and capable look all the time. In this way, the players will learn the basics and softball techniques in a more efficient and fun way.
One will clearly see and experience an improved softball team through the magic and use of these basic yet effectual softball coaching tips. There are a lot more amazing softball coaching tips and tricks in the internet if you want more. Remember that you are one of the most essential elements for the team to take home the glory.
Marc Dagneais is Softball Peak Performance Coach that helps softball players turn their athletic talent into extraordinary performances and help coaches get more out of their players, turn their struggling team around or get an edge over their opponents. Visit us to access our directory of FREE softball drills!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marc_Dagenais
========================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
5 Tips for Coaching 8U Softball
5 Tips for Coaching 8U Softball
By guest author: Stacie Mahoe
Work within an 8U Attention Span
Players at the 8U level can get bored and distracted very easily. Keep them involved by splitting them up into smaller groups. Have coaches work with as few players as possible so that there is minimal standing in line time. If you don't mind parent help, ask parents to come out and help roll grounders, throw fly balls, or take care of other simple tasks. This can help move practice along and keep groups or stations small.
Everyone is Involved
Strive to have your players understand that even if it's not their turn, you expect them to be involved and pay attention. Explain that they can learn by watching their teammates do drills. They can also help their teammates by cheering them on. Just like in the game, even if it's not their turn to field or catch the ball they are still involved in the play (i.e. cover a base, let your teammate know where to throw, etc). Also make it clear that no one should be talking or playing games as they wait in line. You can explain that practice is similar to school, there is no talking simply because the focus is on someone else. No one should be talking when the coach is talking just as no one talks in school while the teacher is talking.
Take Away the Fear Factor
Many players in the 8U division will be learning many of the skills you teach for the first time. Obviously, this means they may not be able to correctly perform certain skills, catching a thrown ball for instance. If a player at this age gets hit with a ball they try to catch, they may become afraid of catching. If you've ever seen a scared player trying to catch a ball, you know that it's not likely. The shy away from the ball, they turn their head, or they close their eyes. None of these actions will help them get better at catching. Help them stop doing these things by taking away the "fear factor." You can do this by using wiffle balls, or even crumpled up paper balls until the player becomes confident in their own ability to catch a ball. An added bonus is the fact that a paper or wiffle ball often moves in flight. It does not travel in as straight a path as a regular softball. Therefore, if a player can learn to catch a curving paper or wiffle ball, catching a softball that travels in a straighter path should be relatively simple for them.
Cover fundamentals
Cover fundamentals over and over and over and over and over again. I think you get the idea. If a player learns nothing else this season, they should at least learn good throwing and/or fielding mechanics. I say "or" because everyone has a different learning curve and you may have that one player who, for whatever reason, masters skills at a much slower rate than usual. Fundamentals are also the basic building blocks these players will fall back to over and over again throughout their career if they begin struggling with a particular skill. If they never learn these fundamentals, they'll have no clue how to "get back on track" later on in their career when they need to.
Have Fun - this is not the Olympics
Last but not least, players at this age will play because it's fun, not because they see that they are the best in the league. Never underestimate the importance of enjoying the game. It's what keeps players coming back season after season, year after year. Keep the softball fire burning by making practice and game experiences fun!
For help on Keeping Softball Fun ~ don't forget to check out the e-book at All About Fastpitch.
Get more Free Softball Coaching Tips from Stacie at StacieMahoe.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stacie_Mahoe
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/234699
====================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
By guest author: Stacie Mahoe
Work within an 8U Attention Span
Players at the 8U level can get bored and distracted very easily. Keep them involved by splitting them up into smaller groups. Have coaches work with as few players as possible so that there is minimal standing in line time. If you don't mind parent help, ask parents to come out and help roll grounders, throw fly balls, or take care of other simple tasks. This can help move practice along and keep groups or stations small.
Everyone is Involved
Strive to have your players understand that even if it's not their turn, you expect them to be involved and pay attention. Explain that they can learn by watching their teammates do drills. They can also help their teammates by cheering them on. Just like in the game, even if it's not their turn to field or catch the ball they are still involved in the play (i.e. cover a base, let your teammate know where to throw, etc). Also make it clear that no one should be talking or playing games as they wait in line. You can explain that practice is similar to school, there is no talking simply because the focus is on someone else. No one should be talking when the coach is talking just as no one talks in school while the teacher is talking.
Take Away the Fear Factor
Many players in the 8U division will be learning many of the skills you teach for the first time. Obviously, this means they may not be able to correctly perform certain skills, catching a thrown ball for instance. If a player at this age gets hit with a ball they try to catch, they may become afraid of catching. If you've ever seen a scared player trying to catch a ball, you know that it's not likely. The shy away from the ball, they turn their head, or they close their eyes. None of these actions will help them get better at catching. Help them stop doing these things by taking away the "fear factor." You can do this by using wiffle balls, or even crumpled up paper balls until the player becomes confident in their own ability to catch a ball. An added bonus is the fact that a paper or wiffle ball often moves in flight. It does not travel in as straight a path as a regular softball. Therefore, if a player can learn to catch a curving paper or wiffle ball, catching a softball that travels in a straighter path should be relatively simple for them.
Cover fundamentals
Cover fundamentals over and over and over and over and over again. I think you get the idea. If a player learns nothing else this season, they should at least learn good throwing and/or fielding mechanics. I say "or" because everyone has a different learning curve and you may have that one player who, for whatever reason, masters skills at a much slower rate than usual. Fundamentals are also the basic building blocks these players will fall back to over and over again throughout their career if they begin struggling with a particular skill. If they never learn these fundamentals, they'll have no clue how to "get back on track" later on in their career when they need to.
Have Fun - this is not the Olympics
Last but not least, players at this age will play because it's fun, not because they see that they are the best in the league. Never underestimate the importance of enjoying the game. It's what keeps players coming back season after season, year after year. Keep the softball fire burning by making practice and game experiences fun!
For help on Keeping Softball Fun ~ don't forget to check out the e-book at All About Fastpitch.
Get more Free Softball Coaching Tips from Stacie at StacieMahoe.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stacie_Mahoe
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/234699
====================
Thanks to our sponsors:
Baseball2u.com/CoachesBest.com is the ultimate online baseball training and coaching store. With over 1400 products organized into categories Baseball2u.com makes finding that baseball training product easy and simple. Order securely online or by phone. Baseball2u.com is a fully licensed company and has a full time staff available from 8:00 to 5:00 CST. Their toll free customer service number is 1-877-431-4487.
The Categories they have are: BatAction Hitting Machines, Hurricane Hitting Machines, Batting Cages, Pitching Machines, Jugs Equipment, Game and Practice Baseballs, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, Portable Pitching Mounds, Baseball DVDs & Books, Clearance Items on Sales, NEDCO Bataction Replacement Parts, Baseball Training Equipment, Youth Baseball Training Equipment, Training Bats, Pitching & Throwing Trainers, Defensive Trainers, SKLZ Hurricane Replacement Parts and Much Much More! Visit Baseball2U.com today!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Coaching Softball - A Balancing Act
Coaching Fastpitch Softball - A Balancing Act
by Guest Author Michael J. Todd
Coaching softball often requires much more than simply deciding who plays where and what pitches to call. You have the individual attitudes of the girls to deal with and there is often a difficult parent or two thrown in the mix. You have to balance what is best for the team with what is best for the kids.
Coaches are expected to act responsibly and to be a positive role model to the children or young adults they are coaching. First and foremost, you are a mentor to the kids on your team, and the lessons they learn from you may be something they carry with them for the rest of their lives. Are they going to learn to be cool under pressure...or are they going to see you blow up every time a play doesn't go your way? Are you going to teach them how to handle issues calmly and with poise, or with anger and frustration?
All too often, I see coaches act in a manner that is detrimental to their teams. I have seen coaches scream and cuss at 10-year old girls on traveling teams, and I have seen them talk about how bad their team is in front of the girls. Having coached a new team or two, I know how frustrating it can be to lose over and over again. It's important to remember the girls on your team look up to you for advice and leadership. If their fearless leader is writing them off prior to a game, how are they going to feel, both individually and as a team?
A good coach is both confident and approachable. It's OK to let a player know when she has done something wrong, and we're all guilty of getting loud on the field from time to time. It's what happens after the mistake is made that is important. A good coach will use a players mistakes to help the player learn. A bad coach will use a players mistakes to make her feel bad about herself.
Coaches are often asked to make decisions under a good deal of stress. Should they pull a struggling pitcher out or let her try to fight through it and get out of the inning? Should they put a girl in the infield who's been asking to play first base but has never played the position and doesn't field very well? What's best for the individual often isn't what is best for the rest of the team. Irate parents often compound this issue and make things even more difficult.
The coach is in the middle of all this, and is responsible for balancing the entire thing. Some people may read this and wonder why anyone volunteers to coach. I'll tell you why...It's rewarding. The best coaches balance it all with ease and watch as their team develops from girls who have never touched a softball, or only played recreationally, into a team that can hang with the best.
Go to the Softball Pitching Drills website for more information on coaching and softball pitching.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Todd
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
by Guest Author Michael J. Todd
Coaching softball often requires much more than simply deciding who plays where and what pitches to call. You have the individual attitudes of the girls to deal with and there is often a difficult parent or two thrown in the mix. You have to balance what is best for the team with what is best for the kids.
Coaches are expected to act responsibly and to be a positive role model to the children or young adults they are coaching. First and foremost, you are a mentor to the kids on your team, and the lessons they learn from you may be something they carry with them for the rest of their lives. Are they going to learn to be cool under pressure...or are they going to see you blow up every time a play doesn't go your way? Are you going to teach them how to handle issues calmly and with poise, or with anger and frustration?
All too often, I see coaches act in a manner that is detrimental to their teams. I have seen coaches scream and cuss at 10-year old girls on traveling teams, and I have seen them talk about how bad their team is in front of the girls. Having coached a new team or two, I know how frustrating it can be to lose over and over again. It's important to remember the girls on your team look up to you for advice and leadership. If their fearless leader is writing them off prior to a game, how are they going to feel, both individually and as a team?
A good coach is both confident and approachable. It's OK to let a player know when she has done something wrong, and we're all guilty of getting loud on the field from time to time. It's what happens after the mistake is made that is important. A good coach will use a players mistakes to help the player learn. A bad coach will use a players mistakes to make her feel bad about herself.
Coaches are often asked to make decisions under a good deal of stress. Should they pull a struggling pitcher out or let her try to fight through it and get out of the inning? Should they put a girl in the infield who's been asking to play first base but has never played the position and doesn't field very well? What's best for the individual often isn't what is best for the rest of the team. Irate parents often compound this issue and make things even more difficult.
The coach is in the middle of all this, and is responsible for balancing the entire thing. Some people may read this and wonder why anyone volunteers to coach. I'll tell you why...It's rewarding. The best coaches balance it all with ease and watch as their team develops from girls who have never touched a softball, or only played recreationally, into a team that can hang with the best.
Go to the Softball Pitching Drills website for more information on coaching and softball pitching.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_J._Todd
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Softball Coaching - Tips for Leading Female Athletes
Softball Coaching - Tips for Leading Female Athletes
by Guest Author Becky Wittenburg
Softball coaching can be difficult, no matter what age, ability level, or gender of the players. Coaches need to be aware of what their players are going through, both in the sport and out, so that they can build trusting relationships and lead the players to be their best.
Some female athletes face mental and physical struggles when they feel pressure to perform. Girls softball coaches should know the signs of these problems so that they can know when they need to step in and help, before the situation gets out of control.
Female Athlete Triad
Softball players who feel overstressed might develop the Female Athlete Triad, a syndrome of three combined disorders that result from over exercising and not taking in enough calories.
-- Disordered eating: this aspect of the Female Athlete Triad occurs when an athlete stops taking in enough calories. It can develop as an effort to get their weight down or as a way to deal with stress. Disordered eating can be in the form of anorexia, where the athlete stops eating enough food, or bulimia, where the athlete consumes food but then throws it up.
-- Amenorrhea: amenorrhea occurs when the athlete starts missing her menstrual cycle. Athletes who normally experience regular cycles may stop to menstruate if they no longer eat enough or if they are exercising too much.
-- Osteoporosis: this part of the Female Athlete Triad happens when the athlete's bones start to lose their density, becoming fragile and prone to breakage. It is related to, and worsened by, the other conditions in the syndrome.
The Female Athlete Triad is not only unhealthy, it can be extremely dangerous. Watch for signs that your players might be over exercising or under eating. Ask them questions about their lives and let them know you really want to listen. When a player seems particularly stressed, make sure she knows how to relieve the pressure in a healthy way.
Helpful Tips for Coaching Girls
1. Let them be involved, particularly in picking positions. Have tryouts for different positions every season so the athletes can show how they perform and have a chance to try something different.
2. Develop a relationship based on trust. Coaches need to trust their players, and players need to trust their coaches. This means that a coach needs to respect when an athlete says she needs to use the restroom and understand that women's bodies are different from men's. This also means that a player should trust that a coach has her best interest at heart when he asks her to push harder, try a new approach, or change her position.
3. Remember that softball is just a game, and it's supposed to be fun. Coaches and athletes need to work hard, but practice shouldn't be a dreaded thing. Drills can be both challenging and rewarding, and if a coach is able to keep things positive, players will learn the sport, perform well, and have a good time.
For more coaching tips and free softball drills, go here to watch a free video:
http://www.softball-spot.com/vid/
Becky Wittenburg is a kids softball coach, and the owner and publisher of Softball-Spot.com, the web's #1 resource for softball practice drills, tips, and coaching ideas for youth and high school coaches.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Becky_Wittenburg
by Guest Author Becky Wittenburg
Softball coaching can be difficult, no matter what age, ability level, or gender of the players. Coaches need to be aware of what their players are going through, both in the sport and out, so that they can build trusting relationships and lead the players to be their best.
Some female athletes face mental and physical struggles when they feel pressure to perform. Girls softball coaches should know the signs of these problems so that they can know when they need to step in and help, before the situation gets out of control.
Female Athlete Triad
Softball players who feel overstressed might develop the Female Athlete Triad, a syndrome of three combined disorders that result from over exercising and not taking in enough calories.
-- Disordered eating: this aspect of the Female Athlete Triad occurs when an athlete stops taking in enough calories. It can develop as an effort to get their weight down or as a way to deal with stress. Disordered eating can be in the form of anorexia, where the athlete stops eating enough food, or bulimia, where the athlete consumes food but then throws it up.
-- Amenorrhea: amenorrhea occurs when the athlete starts missing her menstrual cycle. Athletes who normally experience regular cycles may stop to menstruate if they no longer eat enough or if they are exercising too much.
-- Osteoporosis: this part of the Female Athlete Triad happens when the athlete's bones start to lose their density, becoming fragile and prone to breakage. It is related to, and worsened by, the other conditions in the syndrome.
The Female Athlete Triad is not only unhealthy, it can be extremely dangerous. Watch for signs that your players might be over exercising or under eating. Ask them questions about their lives and let them know you really want to listen. When a player seems particularly stressed, make sure she knows how to relieve the pressure in a healthy way.
Helpful Tips for Coaching Girls
1. Let them be involved, particularly in picking positions. Have tryouts for different positions every season so the athletes can show how they perform and have a chance to try something different.
2. Develop a relationship based on trust. Coaches need to trust their players, and players need to trust their coaches. This means that a coach needs to respect when an athlete says she needs to use the restroom and understand that women's bodies are different from men's. This also means that a player should trust that a coach has her best interest at heart when he asks her to push harder, try a new approach, or change her position.
3. Remember that softball is just a game, and it's supposed to be fun. Coaches and athletes need to work hard, but practice shouldn't be a dreaded thing. Drills can be both challenging and rewarding, and if a coach is able to keep things positive, players will learn the sport, perform well, and have a good time.
For more coaching tips and free softball drills, go here to watch a free video:
http://www.softball-spot.com/vid/
Becky Wittenburg is a kids softball coach, and the owner and publisher of Softball-Spot.com, the web's #1 resource for softball practice drills, tips, and coaching ideas for youth and high school coaches.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Becky_Wittenburg
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Farmington Fastpitch: Sacrifice Bunt
Farmington Fastpitch: Sacrifice Bunt
Posted on YouTube by Farmingtonfastpitch
Bunting is a very important part of the game and should be taught and practiced every practice at all levels.
Coach Rob
-----------------------------------------------------------------
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SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
Monday, October 11, 2010
How to Hit a Softball
Fastpitch Softball: How to Hit a Softball
Posted on Youtube by livestrong
Utilizing proper techniques will help develop a more fluid and solid softball swing. Learn some techniques for batting in this softball video.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Softball Catching Techniques - Framing and Throwdowns
Fastpitch Softball Catching Techniques - Framing and Throwdowns
Posted on YouTube by drahiem02
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
Monday, August 23, 2010
Softball Drills
Softball Coaching Drills
Posted on YouTube by sportdvds
SportVideos.com and coach Stacy Iveson present this clip for softball players and coaches. To purchase this DVD visit: http://sportvideos.com/product.asp?Pr...
--------------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Fastpitch Softball - Basics on How Its Done & Fastpitch Softball Pitching Equipment
Fastpitch Softball Coaching- Basics on How Its Done & Fastpitch Softball Pitching Equipment
By Guest Author Mike Ripley
The game of softball is often confused with the game of baseball and many are often lead to believe that if one plays baseball one can play softball too. Before one discusses what softball pitching is all about it would be worth while to just have a glimpse of some of the differences. Softball as a game has its roots in the game of baseball. In softball the numbers of innings are limited to seven; the ball is thrown underhand and played on a smaller ground. The game of softball has been attributed to George Hancock and since then this game has become increasingly popular. Today it is played in countries all over the world.
Pitching a softball requires quite a bit of practice. It's not just about throwing the ball but instead requires proper hand and body coordination before the ball is pitched.
The whole idea of softball pitching concentrates around the pitchers body position with respect to the pitchers plate, the gripping of the ball in the hand and the proper positioning of the foot. A full understanding of these positions will help a softball pitcher perform better.
While pitching a softball the weak foot is usually placed at the end of the back of the pitch plate with the feet placed apart at around shoulder length. The arms are kept at the sides and the back heel is lifted in the air. This gives more strength to the front foot and greater balance. The weight can be shifted to the back by rocking the arms in a backward position. The arm is now brought forward with the ball in the glove such that the ball remains hidden from the batter. Rotating the ball in the air in the vertical direction and moving it in a circle the ball is released from the hip position. The action finishes by looking at the direction of the catcher. This is the essence of softball pitching where the main softball equipment with respect to the pitcher is the ball and the gloves.
However, there is fast-pitch softball also known as fast pitch or just fastpitch. This term refers to a form of softball played by women, though male and mixed fast pitch leagues also exist. They commonly start at the age of 6 and play it through the college. The International Softball Federation recognizes three pitch speeds: fast pitch, medium pitch and slow pitch. The fast pitch is considered as the most competitive form of softball. This form of softball was played in Olympic Games from 1996 till 2008.
Softball equipment helps a player to perform at the highest level possible. It is important that bats, gloves, cleats, apparel and more, are top notch in performance, quality, and durability at an affordable price. Nokona as a main manufacturer of softball equipment offers great quality and affordable prices. They make bat bags, softball knee leg guards, catcher gear and accessories (such as Nokona wrist saver, Nokona palm saver, Nokona classic glove conditioner, leather lacings, leather bags, NGM Nokona glove mallet).
Nokona athletic company provides softball players with quality gloves. They come in following series, Buffalo. Buckaroo, Classic Combo and Walnut Classic. They also use a wide range of materials to get the best results. Therefore, Buffalo and Classic Combo are made of American range bison, the leather which provides soft and sturdy at the same time. More over, Buckaroo is combination of kangaroo and cowhides to form lightweight gloves. At last, but not least important Nokona built its reputation on famous Walnut 'crunch' leather. For fastpitch, in their rich array they included series such are Catcher's mitts, Elite and Youth.
Fastpitch softball pitching equipment
http://fastpitchsoftballpitching.org
http://softballbaseballequipment.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Ripley
------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
By Guest Author Mike Ripley
The game of softball is often confused with the game of baseball and many are often lead to believe that if one plays baseball one can play softball too. Before one discusses what softball pitching is all about it would be worth while to just have a glimpse of some of the differences. Softball as a game has its roots in the game of baseball. In softball the numbers of innings are limited to seven; the ball is thrown underhand and played on a smaller ground. The game of softball has been attributed to George Hancock and since then this game has become increasingly popular. Today it is played in countries all over the world.
Pitching a softball requires quite a bit of practice. It's not just about throwing the ball but instead requires proper hand and body coordination before the ball is pitched.
The whole idea of softball pitching concentrates around the pitchers body position with respect to the pitchers plate, the gripping of the ball in the hand and the proper positioning of the foot. A full understanding of these positions will help a softball pitcher perform better.
While pitching a softball the weak foot is usually placed at the end of the back of the pitch plate with the feet placed apart at around shoulder length. The arms are kept at the sides and the back heel is lifted in the air. This gives more strength to the front foot and greater balance. The weight can be shifted to the back by rocking the arms in a backward position. The arm is now brought forward with the ball in the glove such that the ball remains hidden from the batter. Rotating the ball in the air in the vertical direction and moving it in a circle the ball is released from the hip position. The action finishes by looking at the direction of the catcher. This is the essence of softball pitching where the main softball equipment with respect to the pitcher is the ball and the gloves.
However, there is fast-pitch softball also known as fast pitch or just fastpitch. This term refers to a form of softball played by women, though male and mixed fast pitch leagues also exist. They commonly start at the age of 6 and play it through the college. The International Softball Federation recognizes three pitch speeds: fast pitch, medium pitch and slow pitch. The fast pitch is considered as the most competitive form of softball. This form of softball was played in Olympic Games from 1996 till 2008.
Softball equipment helps a player to perform at the highest level possible. It is important that bats, gloves, cleats, apparel and more, are top notch in performance, quality, and durability at an affordable price. Nokona as a main manufacturer of softball equipment offers great quality and affordable prices. They make bat bags, softball knee leg guards, catcher gear and accessories (such as Nokona wrist saver, Nokona palm saver, Nokona classic glove conditioner, leather lacings, leather bags, NGM Nokona glove mallet).
Nokona athletic company provides softball players with quality gloves. They come in following series, Buffalo. Buckaroo, Classic Combo and Walnut Classic. They also use a wide range of materials to get the best results. Therefore, Buffalo and Classic Combo are made of American range bison, the leather which provides soft and sturdy at the same time. More over, Buckaroo is combination of kangaroo and cowhides to form lightweight gloves. At last, but not least important Nokona built its reputation on famous Walnut 'crunch' leather. For fastpitch, in their rich array they included series such are Catcher's mitts, Elite and Youth.
Fastpitch softball pitching equipment
http://fastpitchsoftballpitching.org
http://softballbaseballequipment.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Ripley
------------------------------------------------------
Thanks to our sponsors:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Check out these coaching articles at the Softball Coaching Digest:
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
• Articles from the Youth Softball Coaching Clinic Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Pitchers Blog
• Articles from the Coaching Fastpitch Softball Hitters Blog
• Articles from the Tips for Fastpitch Softball Coaches Blog
• The Fastpitch Softball Training Equipment Blog
Friday, July 9, 2010
The Traits Of A Good Coach
The Traits Of A Good Fastpitch Softball Coach
By Guest Author Jenny Stalling
Being a coach is easy. But being a good coach is another matter entirely. This job requires showing a lot of certain psychological characteristics. If a coach is to succeed, he simply has to show the following traits:
1.Knows the discipline he's coaching
It's trivial, but the coach has to know ins and outs of the discipline - the rules, the history, the tactics etc. Without it they won't be able to do their job properly and will probably quickly lose face when they start making mistakes.
2. Motivates the players
This is probably the single most important trait of a good coach. Without proper motivation, everything comes apart. Remember that a coach will need to lead a team of individuals, everyone with different personal goals. The coach's job is give the players enough motivation to make them start doing things as good as they are able to, and turn their attention from their private matters to the pitch.
3. Talks only when it gets results
A good coach will never speak without a good cause. If they talk too much, they will never actually be listened, so a coach is a person who should talk only when necessary - this will give their words an extra weigh.
4. Is able to listen
Being calmer than usual means also that a coach should be a good listener. If they are to become a good coach, they need to become a surrogate father or mother for their team and listening is the single most important trait that can make it possible.
5. Knows their team
Another important matter is knowing one's team. And it is not only about matching their numbers with the names. A good coach knows everything - both about professional and private life of their players.
6. Treats everyone individually
While (or because) a good coach should know everybody and do their best to hold the place together, it is necessary to treat every player individually. Yelling works only on some of them, the same story is with talking seriously. Using the same method to get everyone do what you say will surely end in breaking some of your players to pieces.
7. Leads by example
The last, but not least: a good coach do themselves everything he will ask others to do. They always set an example - they are first on the trainings and perform every single exercise they order other to do.
Jenny Stalling is an experienced coach, who maintains an informational website on coaching techniques [http://www.coachizer.com].
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Stalling
==========================================================
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BattingCagesDirect.com
SoftballVideosOnline.com
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
SoftballrUs.com
Suggested Links:
RottenSports.com
RottenCoaches.com
Blog4Coaches.com
WildSportsVideos.com
BaseballCoachingDigest.com
YouthBaseballDigest.com
LittleLeagueDigest.com
SoftballBloopers.com
FunnyBaseballVideo.com
BaseballBloopersandBlunders.com
By Guest Author Jenny Stalling
Being a coach is easy. But being a good coach is another matter entirely. This job requires showing a lot of certain psychological characteristics. If a coach is to succeed, he simply has to show the following traits:
1.Knows the discipline he's coaching
It's trivial, but the coach has to know ins and outs of the discipline - the rules, the history, the tactics etc. Without it they won't be able to do their job properly and will probably quickly lose face when they start making mistakes.
2. Motivates the players
This is probably the single most important trait of a good coach. Without proper motivation, everything comes apart. Remember that a coach will need to lead a team of individuals, everyone with different personal goals. The coach's job is give the players enough motivation to make them start doing things as good as they are able to, and turn their attention from their private matters to the pitch.
3. Talks only when it gets results
A good coach will never speak without a good cause. If they talk too much, they will never actually be listened, so a coach is a person who should talk only when necessary - this will give their words an extra weigh.
4. Is able to listen
Being calmer than usual means also that a coach should be a good listener. If they are to become a good coach, they need to become a surrogate father or mother for their team and listening is the single most important trait that can make it possible.
5. Knows their team
Another important matter is knowing one's team. And it is not only about matching their numbers with the names. A good coach knows everything - both about professional and private life of their players.
6. Treats everyone individually
While (or because) a good coach should know everybody and do their best to hold the place together, it is necessary to treat every player individually. Yelling works only on some of them, the same story is with talking seriously. Using the same method to get everyone do what you say will surely end in breaking some of your players to pieces.
7. Leads by example
The last, but not least: a good coach do themselves everything he will ask others to do. They always set an example - they are first on the trainings and perform every single exercise they order other to do.
Jenny Stalling is an experienced coach, who maintains an informational website on coaching techniques [http://www.coachizer.com].
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Stalling
==========================================================
Thanks to our sponsors:
BattingCagesDirect.com
SoftballVideosOnline.com
SoftballCoachingDigest.com
SoftballrUs.com
Suggested Links:
RottenSports.com
RottenCoaches.com
Blog4Coaches.com
WildSportsVideos.com
BaseballCoachingDigest.com
YouthBaseballDigest.com
LittleLeagueDigest.com
SoftballBloopers.com
FunnyBaseballVideo.com
BaseballBloopersandBlunders.com
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Free Articles for Softball Coaches
Free Softball Drills
By Guest Author: Becky Wittenburg
Softball drills are what ultimately trains a team to win. It's very important that the various drills are adequate in teaching skills for different parts of the game. As the coach, it's your job to decide which drills will give the team the best practice. Here are some free softball drills that you can use.
Drills for Girls Softball
By Guest Author: Becky Wittenburg
If you're searching for the best infield drills for girls softball, then look no further. This article details two excellent combination drills that aim to improve your infielders' throwing accuracy and pivot skills in both regular play and double play situations.
Teaching Softball Drills To Win
By Guest Author: Becky Wittenburg
Teaching softball drills can be extremely challenging for new softball coaches. Here are a few strategies you can use when teaching softball drills to your team.
Softball Coaching Drills
By Guest Author: Becky Wittenburg
This softball coaching drill is explained as a defensive exercise but the skills that are being used will help to improve the players all-around. The Bubble Drill will help to ensure that your team is a step ahead of the other team. The Bubble Drill teaches the skills that a team needs to make it all the way.
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
By Guest Author: Becky Wittenburg
Softball drills are what ultimately trains a team to win. It's very important that the various drills are adequate in teaching skills for different parts of the game. As the coach, it's your job to decide which drills will give the team the best practice. Here are some free softball drills that you can use.
Drills for Girls Softball
By Guest Author: Becky Wittenburg
If you're searching for the best infield drills for girls softball, then look no further. This article details two excellent combination drills that aim to improve your infielders' throwing accuracy and pivot skills in both regular play and double play situations.
Teaching Softball Drills To Win
By Guest Author: Becky Wittenburg
Teaching softball drills can be extremely challenging for new softball coaches. Here are a few strategies you can use when teaching softball drills to your team.
Softball Coaching Drills
By Guest Author: Becky Wittenburg
This softball coaching drill is explained as a defensive exercise but the skills that are being used will help to improve the players all-around. The Bubble Drill will help to ensure that your team is a step ahead of the other team. The Bubble Drill teaches the skills that a team needs to make it all the way.
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Youth Softball - Things You Should Know
Youth Softball - Things You Should Know
By Guest Author: Blaine F Johnston
People who love softball often take their family to play this sport, including their children. This activity can enhance their skills, especially if the parents want the children to be professional players. However, there are several things that parents should know before starting to do efforts to make the children like softball superstars.
For you who do not have any idea about this sport, you can try to understand that softball is sport game played by nine players in a team. The game needs two teams that alternate between offense and defense. The team who makes more runs than the opponent team will be the winner. In addition, it can be played for both girls and boys, so it eliminates your worries that your kids will be rejected.
This game requires several skills that include strength, teamwork and craftsmanship, eye-hand coordination, and also some position-specific skills like running, pitching, and fielding. That is why the minimum age to play this game is 4 or 5 for tee ball and 7 or 8 for player-pitch teams. A kid needs to be patient and attentive enough to deal with the slower pace of baseball. In addition, the kid should be team-oriented, as the game requires team coordination to win.
If you put your kids to a softball course, you will find that they spend a lot of time lingering in the outfield. Physical activities are not done too often, but the play will become more athletic and aggressive depending on their growth. You should provide the suitable equipment that fit their body well. You can go to stores and ask the shopkeepers or even go there with your kids to know which ones that fit them perfectly. Things you must buy are uniform, gloves, cleats, batting gloves, and batting helmets. The price may vary, but the equipment for beginning players is mostly cheap.
Then, you need to consider the potential injuries that possibly happen during the game. That is why you should know the tricks to prevent injuries, such as using softer balls to reduce injury factors. This kind of ball is often used by younger places as it is well known for the ability to reduce the risk and severity of head injuries. Then, you can also reduce the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries by giving your kids breakaway bases, or also called safety-release bases.
There are several conditions you may find after certain periods of play. If your kids throw too many pitches, they can experience an overuse injury. In a response to this, you can make sure that the kids get plenty of rest for their arms. The coach may even ask you to do this. Further, you can get some tips to prevent the injuries by contacting the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.
You can buy a baseball softball pitching machine to enhance your kids' skill of hitting. However, there are also other types of softball pitching machines available on markets that you can choose base on the kids' needs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Blaine_F_Johnston
By Guest Author: Blaine F Johnston
People who love softball often take their family to play this sport, including their children. This activity can enhance their skills, especially if the parents want the children to be professional players. However, there are several things that parents should know before starting to do efforts to make the children like softball superstars.
For you who do not have any idea about this sport, you can try to understand that softball is sport game played by nine players in a team. The game needs two teams that alternate between offense and defense. The team who makes more runs than the opponent team will be the winner. In addition, it can be played for both girls and boys, so it eliminates your worries that your kids will be rejected.
This game requires several skills that include strength, teamwork and craftsmanship, eye-hand coordination, and also some position-specific skills like running, pitching, and fielding. That is why the minimum age to play this game is 4 or 5 for tee ball and 7 or 8 for player-pitch teams. A kid needs to be patient and attentive enough to deal with the slower pace of baseball. In addition, the kid should be team-oriented, as the game requires team coordination to win.
If you put your kids to a softball course, you will find that they spend a lot of time lingering in the outfield. Physical activities are not done too often, but the play will become more athletic and aggressive depending on their growth. You should provide the suitable equipment that fit their body well. You can go to stores and ask the shopkeepers or even go there with your kids to know which ones that fit them perfectly. Things you must buy are uniform, gloves, cleats, batting gloves, and batting helmets. The price may vary, but the equipment for beginning players is mostly cheap.
Then, you need to consider the potential injuries that possibly happen during the game. That is why you should know the tricks to prevent injuries, such as using softer balls to reduce injury factors. This kind of ball is often used by younger places as it is well known for the ability to reduce the risk and severity of head injuries. Then, you can also reduce the risk of ankle sprains and other injuries by giving your kids breakaway bases, or also called safety-release bases.
There are several conditions you may find after certain periods of play. If your kids throw too many pitches, they can experience an overuse injury. In a response to this, you can make sure that the kids get plenty of rest for their arms. The coach may even ask you to do this. Further, you can get some tips to prevent the injuries by contacting the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.
You can buy a baseball softball pitching machine to enhance your kids' skill of hitting. However, there are also other types of softball pitching machines available on markets that you can choose base on the kids' needs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Blaine_F_Johnston
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Coach, Be Consistent
Coach, Be Consistent
By Stacie Mahoe
When you learn about raising children, you hear about consistency. When you learn about working with animals and training animals, you hear about consistency. This key of consistency also applies to coaching softball as well.
It's only fair to your players, not to mention vital for you, that you be consistent in your actions, words, rules, and discipline as a coach. Ground rules should always be laid out at the beginning of the season. These ground rules should also include potential disciplinary actions for when those rules are broken. Be sure that you do NOT set a consequence that you will not enforce. This carries the same effect as "empty threats" in parenting. When you fall into the trap of using "empty threats" the following things happen:
1. Your players know that you won't follow through and will push the envelope as far as possible
2. You are undermining your own credibility and believability because you haven't kept your word
3. Chances are, you'll respect or make it harder to gain the respect of your players.
Whenever you give your word as a coach, be it in speech or in writing, ALWAYS do your best to stick with it. If for whatever reason, you can't follow through, let your players know before hand and figure out what you need to do to make things right. If you don't make it a point to keep your word, players will begin taking what you say "with a grain of salt" because they won't know when you actually mean what you say and when you're just talking the talk without walking the walk. This is not a good situation for you to be in as a coach. If you're players don't believe you, how can you lead them?
Avoid making up rules and consequences as you go along. Clear guidelines and boundaries from the start make life much simpler for players, parents, and coaches. Be up front about what your expectations, your rules, your guidelines, and your consequences and follow through. Choosing to follow through only *sometimes* is only asking for trouble as a coach. Make sure your rules, guidelines, and consequences are reasonable enough for everyone, including you and your staff, to follow and abide by throughout the season. Be consistent. Consistency will save you and your team a lot of heartache and frustration.
by Stacie Mahoe
Get Stacie's Free Fastpitch Tips
Join Stacie's Coach of Action Academy at CoachOfAction.com for help with reaching your BIG coaching goals.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stacie_Mahoe
Sponsor:
SoftballrUs.com/FastpitchSoftballSupply.com is the ultimate online fastpitch softball online store. SoftballrUs.com has Batting Trainers,Pitching Training, Training Bats,Defensive Training Equipment,Coaching DVDs & Books, Softball Pitching Machines, Softball Complete Net & Frame Batting Cage Packages, Batting Cage Nets, Protective Practice Screens and Nets, and BatAction Hitting Machines, and much, much more. Visit Softballrus.com now!
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