CPYA Softball Coaches Manual 2019-1 - SportsEngine · Softball glove Cleats (rubber, no metal spikes) An appropriately sized bat Helmet with cage and chin strap ... Correct and Praise

CPYA Softball Coaches’ Manual

March 2019

Coaches,

Thank you and welcome to Central Perkiomen Youth Association. Obviously, you have made a decision to volunteer to help coach the girls of CP and help them become more well‐rounded softball players and young girls. From the coaching perspective, we fully realize that your efforts require a lot of hard work and dedication. But it is also supposed to be enjoyable, rewarding and fun! This manual provides suggestions that I hope will help you get more out of coaching, and make the tasks associated with your commitment easier and more rewarding.

The commitment you have made cannot be taken for granted. You are to be congratulated and thanked for your willingness to help. Beginning with this manual, I want to support your efforts in any way possible. Please do not hesitate to contact me for anything, at any time.

Thank you again, and let’s get ready to have fun and PLAY BALL!

Michelle King Director of CPYA Softball

Purpose of the Coach’s Manual

Our goal is to provide coaches with a tool that helps prepare them for coaching youth softball. That applies to the encouragement of all of our coaches, new or experienced, Rookie level through to Senior level to focus more on teaching girls the fundamentals of the game of softball. We have included a variety of materials including:

A. General Rules – Level Rules B. Practice Planning C. Skill Set Drills

We suggest that you view this manual as an ever‐evolving document. Please do not hesitate to offer suggestions on items for inclusion in future versions of this manual. We would further suggest that you read this manual each year you coach, no matter how long you have been coaching. For the beginners, this document can be a guide, for the experienced coaches it can serve as a reminder to some very important core principles (And you never know when you will pick up on some detail that will help you).

The Central Perk Softball League goal is to help the girls in our leagues develop. This includes development at softball skills, developing life skills through sports and teamwork, and having fun while doing it. Our hope is to increase the amount of time that each girl is interested in playing softball, giving our players good opportunities to compete as they move up through each level to the best of their abilities. If we can give the girls a good softball experience we hope that an ever‐increasing number of girls will stay with the Central Perk Softball program.

Preseason….Getting Ready…. Getting Organized

Coach Selection Each year Central Perk solicits coaching staffs for each of its Recreational and Travel teams. We endeavor to pick a Head Coach, Assistant Coach and a Team Parent.

The job descriptions are as follows:

Head Coach: In charge of developing practice plans, practice schedules, game lineups and strategies. Primary contact with CPYA and parents Provides guidance to athletes on the fundamentals of softball and being a member of a team.

Assistant Coach: Supports the Head Coaches practice plans and game strategies Accomplishes tasks of the Head Coach when he/she is not available. Secondary contact with CPYA and parents Provides guidance to athletes on the fundamentals of softball and being a member of a team

Team Parent: Assists Coaches with daily activities of the team Primarily keeps control and organization of the dugout Helps tend to minor First Aid issues during practices and games Announces Lineup and keeps batting order prepared

While the decision is up to the team Head Coach, the league would encourage the Head Coach to find as many Assistant Coaches as needed. Parent participation is key.

Equipment Prior to your first practice you will be notified of a day/time to pick up team equipment. You will also be given the code to the softball sheds and shown where equipment is in the shed and how to use certain equipment (pitching machines, etc) It is the coaches responsibly to make sure ALL equipment is returned to the sheds after practices/games and to make sure the sheds are locked. **Please keep the softball sheds clean of trash and return all items where they belong so the next coach can find things easily.

Player’s Equipment You should instruct each player to have the following: Softball glove Cleats (rubber, no metal spikes) An appropriately sized bat Helmet with cage and chin strap Face mask Facemasks are REQUIRED by CPYA for any player playing in the field at the 8U, 10U and 12U

level. CPYA supplies all player a jersey and socks for recreation softball.

**Extra equipment will be in the shed if a girls forgets or needs to borrow something for the season.

Team Pictures

Each Year, a team picture day is planned, typically opening day of the season.

Participation in Picture Day is not optional! This is an important event for our sponsors and

ALL players and coaches must be represented.

Key Dates A summary of key season dates will be issued at the first Coach’s meeting. Please keep those dates in your team folder attached to this manual.

Encourage all players and CPYA families to attend activities; Opening Ceremonies, League Day, CP day at the Iron Pigs, CP movie night at the fields, Closing Ceremonies, etc

Hitting and Fielding Line Up

It is strongly recommended that you create positional and hitting lineup PRIOR to the

game. Lineup cards can be provided if desired. Typically, your assistants will direct the girls

where they should be. This helps ensure a timely turnover from offense to defense, and

frees the coaches up to coach.

Incident reports If a player is injured during a practice or game, there is a sportsmanship issue, a player or coach has been ejected, or there is a significant parent issue; the head coach should notify the Director of Softball and/or the President or the VP of CPYA. Please report within 24 hours of any incident.

Rainouts The Director of Softball, along with the Complex Supervisor and level commissioners will decide if games are to be played. Once a decision has been made, The Director of Softball will notify Level Commissioners and they will notify head coaches. Head Coaches are responsible to notify their team. If the complex it shut down, it will be posted on the website and an email may also be sent out from the league. **A quick warning on rainouts. NEVER assume. The decision is more likely to be made based on the condition of the fields. Some of the fields at the complex drain exceptionally well and others do not.

During Season…Play Ball…Be Organized

Sound Coaching Fundamentals

Attitude

Be a positive role model for the players ‐ politeness, positive attitude and great

sportsmanship are contagious! Correct and Praise. Every time you correct something,

provide positive reinforcement. Overpraise lesser experienced players to build confidence.

Unsportsmanlike Parents

If a parent becomes unsportsmanlike during a game, walk up to them and ask them politely

to keep it under control. If they become unreasonable ask them to leave the game. If they

continue, ignore them and report the incident to the Director of Softball.

Parent’s expectations

If a parent is unhappy with the time their child is playing at a certain position, be prepared

to answer their questions. Give them suggestions of drills for their child to work on to gain

more playing time in the desired position.

Communication You will see this word over and over in this manual. Communicating with parents and

players saves a lot of headaches and potential hard feelings. You cannot “over

communicate”.

Preparing for a game is critical to success: Communicate with parents on missing players in advance Prepare a line up based on the active player list Assign one of the assistants to keep bench area clean Bags hung on fence, out of players sight in. Helmets in bags or hung on hooks (not on bench) Gloves and face masks in bags when not in use Bats in bags or up against fence Benches are for players to sit and rest NOT equipment

Have a set warm up schedule prior to game time: Agility and Team stretch (10 minutes) Throwing (10 minutes) Batting practice (15 minutes) Pitching warm ups (during batting practice/work pitchers in and out of BP) Swap out batting practice time with a drill to help strengthen the team in a certain

area for improvement

Coaching during the game: Keep the girls focused (Assistant coaches and team parent can help with this)

Have a short meeting each inning as girls come off the field. Don’t be negative about errors or other problems in the field ‐‐treat them as learning

opportunities and focus on them in the next practice. Positioning and getting younger players into the ready position as the play starts is

important. Train them to get into “softball ready” positions when the pitchers start the wind up.

Keep adjustments brief, simple and positive ‐‐don’t give complex changes as they don’t work ‐‐ focus on one thing at a time.

Don’t Forget the Post‐Game: After the game it is important to get the team together briefly to talk about how things

went, and to keep them as encouraged as possible. Try to leave them on a good note, whether a win or a loss. It’s good to ask for the girls input about what they did well, what they could improve

on. It encourages the learning process. If you choose to give out incentives after a game (game ball, great play pin. etc) this

is the time to do it. Always try to find positive things to say, both the typical (point out good hits, good defensive plays, strikeouts, etc) and the not‐so‐typical (be sure to point out hustle, or a player who is always in the ready position as the play starts or is vocally supportive of teammates, etc.)

Girls should be packing up their equipment, parents should wait outside dugout. Always have the team clean up the dugout prior to dismissing the team.

Field Preparation and Maintenance

HOME TEAM COACHING CREW needs to prepare the field for games and

practices.

• Need to drag or rake the field

• Lay the lines for games

AWAY TEAM COACHING CREW needs to drag the field and clean up after games

and practices.

Instructions on proper field maintenance will be provided at the coaches meeting

prior to the season.

ALL FIELDS NEED TO BE DRAGGED AND RAKED AROUND HOME PLATE,

THE PITCHERS MOUND AND THE 1ST AND 3RD BASE PATHS AFTER EVERY PRACTICE AND AFTER EVERY GAME! THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS.

Post Season…Help the League Stay Organized….

Equipment Return On the final weekend of the season all the equipment needs to be returned to the Softball sheds. Timely return of equipment is required. This is important as we must make an inventory assessment at the end of the season.

Post Season Evaluation Sheet The Coaches will be required to submit a simple to use, 1 page evaluation sheet for all players on the Recreation team. The purposes of these evaluations are several;

It will help define age specific areas of skill development that can be planned in

the offseason. It will create a better picture for the following year’s competitive landscape when

creating teams. It will help identify which athletes will benefit from a more competitive softball

environment. It will offer the Coaches an opportunity to critique the program, offer advice on

improvement, and comment on any successes.

Remind Them Let them know that softball doesn’t have to end. CPYA offers Summer Programs and Fall Leagues, and Winter indoor training opportunities!

A. GENERAL RULES - ALL LEVELS (Regular Season)

1. Babe Ruth Softball rules apply unless specifically noted in this document.

2. CP is a RECREATIONAL league. The intensity in a Softball game should never

reach a level that detracts from the basic rules of good sportsmanship and fair

play.

3. All Coaches must have completed the required CP Background check before

being able to coach at any level. The link to the Protect Youth Sports website can

be found on the CP web site. Background checks are good for one year from the

date of issue.

4. Coaches are responsible for keeping their players, and partisan spectators under

control, observing good etiquette, and exhibiting sportsmanlike conduct at all

practices and games.

5. Coaches are responsible to have the best interest of the PLAYER in mind at all

times.

6. Coaches will provide all players with a game schedule once the League has

approved the schedule. The Softball Commissioner will develop a practice

schedule that is fair to all teams. Coaches can update and add more if needed.

7. Only coaches, assistant coaches, team parent, scorekeepers, players, umpires,

and League officials are permitted in the dugout during a game.

8. Base coaches must remain in the coach's box when their team is at bat and in

dug out behind the fence when their team is in the field.

9. Managers, coaches, and parents are responsible for limiting the communication

and items passed during the games to the players while on the team benches

and playing field. This includes food, drinks, and conversation between players,

parents, and siblings. The goal is to offer encouragement with the least amount

of distractions.

10. Only the coaches may question an umpire's ruling and such cases are limited to

rule interpretations only. A judgment call of an umpire should never be

questioned. The coach shall not allow any players, or parents to question or

harass an umpire in any way. The Manager may never leave the dugout or

coach's box to talk to an umpire, without first receiving the umpire's permission.

CP is a RECREATIONAL league. The intensity in a Softball game should never

reach a level that detracts from the basic rules of good sportsmanship.

11. Protests are not allowed during the regular season. During the playoffs, protests

are allowed for rule interpretations only. The umpire and the Softball

Director/Commissioner (or his designate) will resolve the protest BEFORE play

resumes. Judgment calls are not subject to protest.

12. Players, coaches, and spectators shall not behave improperly or use abusive

language. The penalty for this behavior is:

a. First Occurrence - Automatic ejection from the game.

b. Second Occurrence - Automatic ejection from the game PLUS suspension

for the next game.

c. Third Occurrence - Ejection from the league for the year.

Any ejection can be appealed to the CP Board of Directors or their designate,

with the player, Coaches, and umpire attending. The decision is final and not

subject to further appeal.

13. For the safety of the players and umpires, the intentional throwing of any

equipment is prohibited. Coaches should teach their players the proper way to

drop the bat after hitting the ball. Penalties for throwing of equipment are at the

umpire's discretion, up to ejection for repeat offenses.

14. When coaching and/or umpiring clinics are offered, attendance by ALL coaches

is strongly recommended. Attendance at such clinics will be consideration for

future-coaching positions at all levels.

15. Coaches should strive to make playing time as equal as possible for all players

on the team during the regular season. During the regular season, each player

must play three (3) innings in the field, unless:

a. The game is shortened due to weather, darkness, or game time.

b. A player arrives late or leaves early.

16. During regular season games, all players should be given the opportunity to play

the infield and outfield in each game. All players should be given the opportunity

to play the infield for at least 2 innings each regular season game. However, it is

up to the coaches to place players with skill set and safety in mind. For instance,

as the girls get older, the ball gets hit harder and comes out faster, so players in

the infield need to pay attention or someone will get hurt.

17. There are no intentional walks.

18. Games will consist of six (6) innings. During the regular season, there will be no

extra innings in case of a tie. Tie games will not be replayed. Games are

considered official after three full innings, or 2 1/2 if the Home team is ahead.

The league will attempt to reschedule games that are not official during the

regular season based on field availability. The Instructional leagues will play as

many innings as the allotted time permits or as warranted considering other

factors (e.g. weather) given the ages of the players.

19. In the event of inclement weather or lack of daylight, the League may suspend

play. If the League has not suspended play, the Coaches and Umpires will use

their discretion on whether or not to play, with the player's safety in mind.

20. Pitching limits of unofficial or tie games count toward league weekly allotments.

21. The umpire will notify both teams of the official time of the first pitch. If there is a

game following the current game, there is a one-hour and thirty minute time limit

on the game (1:30). Once the time limit has been reached, the current inning (top

and bottom halves, if home team is trailing or tied) may be completed without

regard to the time limit. However, no new inning may begin after the time limit

has been reached.

a. Example: Team A (home) and Team B begin at 1:01 PM. Teams C and D

are scheduled to play at

b. 3:00 PM. At 2:31 PM, the time limit is reached in the top of the 5th inning and

Team B leading. The game will end after the bottom of the 5th inning.

22. All players present must bat consecutively. All players must play at least half the

game in the field. A coach may sit a player for disciplinary reasons but must

report the incident to the Softball Commissioner before the next scheduled game.

Players arriving late will be put last in the batting order.

23. Each coach will supply a copy of his batting order, consisting of player's last

name and number, to the opposing coach. Coaches must keep scorebooks that

include player's first and last names and numbers and return to league

commissioner once season has ended. This is important administrative matter in

order to support the eligibility of players for the travel season.

24. Players in the field and on the bench are encouraged to "chatter" to support their

teammates. However, "chatter" should not distract the batter nor be derogatory to

the opposing team in any way.

25. Catchers may catch the entire game, but coaches should attempt to utilize more

than one catcher in a game whenever possible, especially on hot days. If a

pitcher throws one pitch in an inning and is removed from the mound for any

reason, she is considered to have pitched one inning. There are no thirds of an

inning when calculating pitched innings.

26. All pitchers (player or coach) must pitch from the pitching rubber.

27. Any player warming up a pitcher, whether on the field or on the sidelines, must

wear a glove and protective mask.

28. MANDATORY NO CONTACT RULE (Slide or Surrender): If a runner does not

slide and makes no effort to avoid contact with the player making the play, the

umpire can use their discretion and issue a warning the runner as opposed to

declaring the runner out. A second offense will result in the runner being

declared out.

29. Headfirst slides are not permitted unless diving back into a base that a runner

has successfully reached. Any runner making a headfirst slide will be declared

out. Repeat offenses by any player in the same game will result in the ejection of

that player.

30. Players are not permitted to coach at first or third base.

31. Only the on-deck batter is permitted in the designated on-deck area. All other

players must remain on the bench when not in the field, on the bases, or at bat.

Players may not swing bats in any other area.

32. A fielding glove, batting glove, approved batting helmet with facemask, fielders

mask, and bat(s) are the only personal equipment a player can use, except the

catcher. If a catcher has his own equipment, she may use it as long as it is

considered “normal" catcher's equipment.

33. Fielder’s masks are REQUIRED for all girls playing in the field

34. A cage is REQUIRED for all batting helmets.

35. To speed up play, coaches are encouraged to use a courtesy runner for their

catcher when the next innings catcher is on base and there are two outs.

Courtesy runners are not permitted in any other instances except in the case of

injury. The courtesy runner will be the player who made the last batted out.

36. After the completion of the fourth inning, if either team is ahead by 10 or more

runs, the game will be declared over. At the discretion of both coaches, game

can be continued until proper time limit has been reached.

37. Players may not wear any jewelry or non-Softball headwear.

38. Alcoholic Beverages are not permitted at CP Premises.

39. Tobacco products are not permitted on the playing field or in the dugout.

40. All players in CP Softball are required to play in the league for which they are

age-appropriate as defined by Babe Ruth Softball. Any exceptions require the

approval of the Softball Director.

ROOKIE DIVISION - 8U

1. Instructional League is a bridge between the introductory division and the

competitive leagues. As the season progresses, players in this division will be

introduced to a more competitive environment. However, coaches are

encouraged to continue developing the basic skills learned while introducing new

concepts such as outs.

2. Games in this Division are scheduled for two hours with no new innings started

after 90 minutes.

3. An 11-inch standard softball shall be used.

4. All batters present will bat each inning. Coaches are encouraged to rotate the

batting order each game so each player has bats in each batting order position

an equal number of times.

5. The "dropped third strike" rule shall not apply during any segment of the game.

6. The infield fly rule is not in effect.

7. Stealing is not permitted at any time. Players can take a lead once the ball is

released from the pitcher

8. Pitching Machine (Spring loaded Blue Flame) will be used for all games.

9. A play will be declared over once the ball is in control in the infield with the

pitcher. The call is made in the coach’s judgment and is not subject to appeal.

Coaches should not take advantage of the lack of skill of players at this age

and send players to the next base simply to advance a runner. If the runner

isn’t halfway to the next base they must go back to the previous base.

10. 3 outs or 5 runs per inning. Unlimited runs in the 6th inning.

11. Girls may advance one base on overthrow.

12. Each team will field ten players. Defensively, only six (6) players are permitted in

the infield: Pitcher’s mound, catcher, 1B, 2B, SS, and 3B. Remaining players (4)

should spread out in the outfield - no short fielder is allowed behind second base.

Outfielders must be positioned in the outfield grass.

13. Coaches should teach the concept of “backing up" and should discourage

players running after a ball (e.g., the third-baseman should not run after a ball hit

into left field). Players should be taught the "Ball, Base, Backup" principle-

players should do one of these on each play. If a player cannot make a play on

the ball, they should cover a base. If the player cannot cover a base, they should

backup the fielder or a base.

14. Coaches are permitted in the field of play while their team is on defense to

instruct players. If needed, parents can assist.

MINORS DIVISION (10U)

1. An 11-inch softball shall be used

2. The infield fly rule is not in effect.

3. Bunting is allowed. However, once a batter "shows" bunt, the batter cannot take

a full swing at the pitch. The batter must bunt or take the pitch. If the batter

"shows" bunt and then swings, the batter will be declared out and a dead ball will

be called.

4. Leads/Stealing - Runners may not leave the base until the ball has been

released by the pitcher.

5. No advance on an overthrow on steal (2nd and 3rd only). A player can only steal

3rd base with no running on overthrow on the pitch.

6. Teams may steal home base one time per inning.

7. A play will be declared over once the pitcher has control of the ball in the

pitcher's circle. Runners must have achieved at least 1 / 2 the distance to their

next base when play is stopped to earn the additional base. The call is made in

the umpire's judgment and is not subject to appeal. Coaches should not take

advantage of the lack of skill of players at this age and send players to the next

base simply to advance a runner. A good general rule of thumb is "if the players

in the field were of an advanced age and skill such that you normally would not

consider sending the runner, then don't send her".

8. With the exception of the pitching position, free substitution is allowed.

9. Players must pitch from the pitching rubber at 35 ft.

10. During player pitch segment of the game, normal softball rules regarding balls

and strikes will be in effect with the following exceptions:

a. An expanded strike zone will be used at the discretion of the umpire. This

especially applies during the beginning of the season. Players should be

encouraged to swing at hittable pitches.

b. A pitcher cannot walk in a run. If the bases are loaded and ball four is

pitched, a batting team coach will come in a pitch to the batter. The coach

must pitch from 35 ft and assumes the batters count. The batter gets a

max of three pitches to put the ball in play. If the batter fouls off the third,

4th, 5th, etc pitches she will get another pitch until she misses, hits or

doesn’t swing.

� Ex 1 bases loaded, 3-2 count and ball four is pitched for team A. Team

a coach comes in and throws a strike and batter does not swing. The batter still gets 2 more pitches to swing as once the coach comes in ball and strikes are not called by the umpire.

� Ex 2. Same scenario as above but the batter swings at the coach’s

pitch and misses. The result is a strikeout.

� Ex 3 Same scenarios as above and the coach pitches the third ball

behind the batters head. The result is still a strikeout.

11. A batter must attempt to avoid being hit by a pitch. It is up to the umpire to

determine if a base is awarded

12. If a batter is hit with bases loaded, the batter will have the option to either take

the base or finish the count with the coach pitching.

13. If a pitcher pitches one ball and then is removed from the mound for any reason,

the pitcher will be credited for one full inning pitched towards her allotment.

14. A pitcher can pitch a max of 3 innings per game.

15. The pitcher must use the underhand or windmill type motion, as described in the

Babe Ruth Softball Rule Book.

16. Both feet must be in contact with the rubber to start the pitch. One foot must

remain in contact with ground (toe drag) until ball is released.

17. 3 hit batters per inning, pitcher is removed from inning. Maximum of 5 hit batters

per game, pitcher is removed from game.

18. The front of the pitching rubber shall be placed 35 feet from the rear of home

plate.

19. Each team will field ten players. The tenth fielder must be positioned in the

outfield.

20. The "dropped third strike" rule shall not apply.

21. If a base runner makes contact with a defensive player who, in the judgment of

the umpire, is in the act of making a play and the base runner is not sliding, the

base runner shall be called out. A dead ball shall be called. The intent of this rule

is to protect the fielder and runner from a collision. Coaches should be teaching

the players how to slide properly. Coaches should not look to have a player

called out simply because a player does not slide and there was no real close

play at the base.

22. Games in this Division are scheduled for 2 hours with no new innings started

after 90 minutes.

23. 3 outs or 3 runs per inning. Unlimited runs in the 6th inning

24. 10 run rule in effect after 4 innings.

25. Continuous lineup

26. Rainouts can be rescheduled between coaches.

27. Coaches are to keep score and a scorebook which is required for those girls

interested in playing for the CP travel team. Also, coaches will be responsible for

updating the website with game results.

28. Coaches will be required to complete player evaluations at the end of the

season. Forms will be provided by the league commissioner.

MAJORS DIVISION (12U)

1. A 12-inch softball shall be used.

2. The infield fly rule is in effect.

3. Dropped 3rd strike is in effect. Catchers must catch the third strike when first

base is not occupied with less than two outs or anytime there are two outs.




be called.


6. The pitcher re-entry rule shall apply. A pitcher may re-enter a game one time as

a pitcher under the following conditions:

a. She must be the starting pitcher, and

b. She must be eligible to pitch, and

c. She must not have been removed because of a second trip to the mound.

7. A pitcher can pitch a max of 3 innings per game.



9. The pitcher must use underhand or windmill type motion, as described in the


10. Pitchers must have one foot remain in contact with the ground (toe drag) until the

ball is released.


plate.

12. Each team will field ten players. The tenth fielder must be positioned in the

outfield.

13. Game time limit is 2 hours. No new inning may start after 1:30 hours.

14. Stealing is allowed. However, the base runner may not leave the base until the

release of the pitch.




is to protect the fielder and runner from a collision.



18. Coaches are responsible for updating the website with game results.



SENIORS DIVISION (14U & 16U)

1. A 12-inch softball shall be used.

2. The infield fly rule is in effect.

3. Dropped 3rd strike is in effect. Catchers must catch the third strike when first

base is not occupied with less than two outs or anytime there are two outs.




be called.


6. The pitcher re-entry rule shall apply. A pitcher may re-enter a game one time as

a pitcher under the following conditions:

a. She must be the starting pitcher, and

b. She must be eligible to pitch, and

c. She must not have been removed because of a second trip to the mound.



8. The pitcher must use underhand or windmill type motion, as described in the


9. Pitchers must have one foot remain in contact with the ground (toe drag) until the

ball is released.


plate.

11. Each team will field nine players.

12. Game time limit is 2 hours. No new inning may start after 1:30 hours.

13. Stealing is allowed. However, the base runner may not leave the base until the

release of the pitch.




is to protect the fielder and runner from a collision.



17. Coaches are responsible for updating the website with game results.



B. PRACTICE PLANNING

Running an effective practice

Facilities and resources and number of coaches-take these into account.

Develop a checklist of what you want to cover.

Focus on one skill set at a time.

Explain, demonstrate, practice, and repeat

Foundations of practice

1. Practice makes permanent.

2. Begin each practice with Stretching and agility

3. Spend quality time organizing practice.

4. Set standard every day in practice. Pay attention to the details.

5. Know the game. Take the time to understand the game.

6. Be able to demonstrate well, kids are visual learners.

7. Practice is the base for team building

8. Develop a variety of drills but they must stay in the context of the game.

(quality repetitions doing things the right way)

9. Make practice fun and productive.

Practice rules

1. Run between the lines. Hustle. Sprint to your positions.

2. Encourage enthusiasm. One or two vocal people will change the whole

complexion of practice. Enthusiasm is catching

3. Look like a team. You play and act the way you feel.

4. Proper Planning prevents poor performance

5. Go hard or go home

6. Control your attitude and your effort. 2 things you can control.

7. Be a great listener. (Take off equipment, etc. make eye contact). Ask them

to repeat it to make sure they got it.

8. Good feeling will help morale. End practice on a positive note. Kids need

to walk away from that practice and that experience in a good way. End

drills on a successful note or play a game.

9. Your kids need to have confidence and believe in the system.

C. SKILL SET DRILLS

Softball Grip - Find the “C” in the softball stitching. Hold ball so that the tips of index,

middle and ring finger overlap a stitch seam. There should be separation of the ball and

palm when in correct position.

Softball “ready position” - knees slightly bent, bent at waist, hands in front. The top

hand should be separated from the glove. This is called the softball ready position or the

“alligator”.

Catching - Hold glove in front, throwing hand behind glove, catch with glove, then cover

with second hand to secure the ball. Communicate the position of the glove as ball is

thrown in four positions‐ Glove side/Cross Over/UP/down (basket catch)

Wrist flicks - This is a fantastic drill for beginners and to correct poor throwing motion

with others. With girls lined two rows facing their partner players kneel but do not sit

right knee bent, glove on right knee, right elbow in glove, girls “flick” the ball to a partner,

throwing from the wrist Teach the girls grip on the laces.

Point, make the “L” and throw: With girls lined up in two rows facing their partner still in

the kneeling (not sitting) position, girls slightly further apart, point glove hand toward

partner, right arm directly behind at a right angle to form an “L”, ball facing away from

the player as she throws to partner

Soft Hands - Pair up players (NO GLOVES) and space about 8‐10 feet apart. In the

softball ready position the roll the ball softly to each other. The receiver bare hands the

ball and accentuates the pickup to the hip, then reciprocates by rolling ball back to their

partner.

Skateboard - Split girls into small groups evenly based on the number of coaches

available. Roll ground balls to them and have them jump to the “skateboard” position

each time. Once mastered, challenge them with rolls to either side and practice “feet

first” concept.

Grounder “Alligator” and “Feet First” drills- With girls lined up in two rows facing

their partner ball is rolled to partner as a ‘grounder’, other girl catches the grounder with

tip of glove touching the ground and opposite hand positioned well above the glove as

an alligator’s mouth, opposite hand secures ball in glove

An advanced version of this drill is teaching “feet first” side to side movement.

Face a player and have her in a softball ready position. First grounder is straight

on, she return throws, coach throws grounder to glove side. Get her to move

quickly to accept ball straight on. Third throw is grounder opposite side. This is

the toughest play teaching them to back hand the ball.

Hit off a tee -

Show player where to stand in relation to home plate with toes pointed toward

the plate/tee, feet apart

When gripping bat middle row of knuckles (knocking knuckles) on each hand

should line up (doesn’t have to be exact)

Have the player extend their arms as in mid‐swing to make sure fat part of bat is

centered over home plate/tee, adjust feet to correct the distance

The player should “load” by shifting weight to back foot and then to front

During swing back foot should remain in place, twisting slightly (like ‘squishing a

bug’)

During swing front foot may step forward toward pitching mound but should not

step out toward third base

Players should keep their eye on the ball (head down) at all times during swing

Running Ear to Pocket: Preparation for base running. Running low and arms

pumping alternation ear to pocket.

Leading off a base - There are basically two acceptable methods. The front base lead

get the player closest to the next base. The behind the base leads enables the runner to

start the motion during the pitch, but can’t leave until ball is released.

Base Running - Run through first with players understanding “ear to pocket” running

skill. Have player pretend to hit the ball and run to first base, the player should run at full

speed until after she has tagged the orange side of the base and is well beyond the

base. Once the concept is understood, introduce a base coach and teach them going to

second base as well. Mix it up so they learn how to listen to base coaches. This is a

good drill to end a practice with.

Base Running‐ making the turn: Draw a line like a banana curving towards first

base. Teach the player to hit the left inside corner of the base and run towards

second…listening to coach. Line up girls at home and have them run. Coach

alternates “run through” or “look at two” commands.

The base running stance and taking a lead. Don’t leave base until ball leaves

pitcher’s hand. Show the player how far of a lead to take and note base coaches

will help determine that length depending on situation.

Base running on fly ball. This is a fun the players have a lot of fun with.

Know the field and the bases – demonstrate the location and tell the name for

each field position, have them repeat the name of the position, then say a field

position and have the girls run to that position as a group

Throw to base for force out - Begin by keeping it simple and making the throws to first

base to record an out. Once mastered, introduce the concept of getting the lead

runners. Coaches should let infield know where to throw prior to play. This introduces

the very important concept of “NEVER THROW BEHIND THE LEAD RUNNER”.

Catching pop ups (throwing) - Begin soft toss pop up drills or even whiffle ball drills to

initiate confidence. Advance as the level of comfort and confidence grows. For more

skilled athletes increase the height more to present more of a challenge. For less

experience athletes, decrease the height. For advanced athletes, 10U and up, hit the

ball off a bat.

For advanced outfield work, face the player six feet apart. Coach holds a ball in

throwing hand. Hold it up to signal start, player should step back once (first step

is always back) then coach holds ball above head left, then right, alternating

while outfield adjusts tracking using “cross over step” running backward. After

three or four shifts, throw the fly ball to the outfielder.

Batting practice‐Hitting live coach’s pitching. Most everyone knows this drill. Coaches

pitch to batters for practice. The trick is to keep all girls involved. Have some as base

runners and have fielders play as if a game situation. At younger levels where there is

not a lot of outfield play, have another coach work with a group on pop ups, grounders,

hitting tee and work players in and out of infield positions. Keep everyone involved and

moving.

Bunting Practice ‐ Have the players bunt approximately 20% of the pitches thrown to

them. Align defense accordingly for practice.

Bunting: Pivot, hand slide and bat angle.

Defending the bunt:

Catcher and Pitcher have center lane responsibilities.

Third base plays in and has the line

First base plays in and has the line

Second base covers first

Short covers third

Left backs up third

Right backs up first

Center Fielder covers second base (in some cases LC or RC covers second

when four outfielders are playing)

Infield / Outfield practice - Another common drill most coaches are familiar with. Place

players into positions and hit to both infield and outfield from home plate. Be sure to tell

players the situation and where the throw will go. This introduces the concept of “KNOW

WHAT TO DO IF BALL IS HIT TO YOU BEFORE THE PITCH”. Be sure to have a

pitcher and catcher in position and cover bunts.

Base running on a pop up‐ This is a drill players have a lot of fun with. Have a runner

on at first base. Coach stands between third and home in the field of play with a ball.

Coach throws ball into the air to themselves.

While ball is in the air, runner takes a lead and watches coach.

Coach either catches the ball, lets it drop or lets it hit their glove and fall for an

error.

If caught, runner goes back to base. If ball hits the ground, runner tries to

advance as a force play ensues.

Stealing bases‐ Simulate a pitch on the mound. Have girls steal and teach the

following.

Start in a running position when on the base

Don’t step off base until you are sure ball leaves pitchers hand

Get low and run ear to pocket to the next base

Do not look at anything except the base and base coach in front of you

Slide if in the appropriate skill set

Once on the base, then turn attention to ball or coach for further advancement

until you are sure play is over.

Sliding‐ This is a drill where safety is number 1. The player must first be confident to be comfortable sliding.

Show the sliding position in a motionless seating position. Resting on the left

thigh on the ground, the left lower leg should be bent while the right leg is straight

and on top of the left ankle. This is called the “figure four” position. Have players

sit and practice this stance.

Teach: Momentum needs to stay forward; Hands UP; in figure 4, cleat on top leg

stays off ground; Don’t lean back; NEVER head first slide.

To practice sliding, obtain a broom stick or something similar. Practice on dirt or

grass (no stone dust). Have a coach on either side of the stick holding it about

chest/belly level of player. Player runs toward stick, grab it to support

themselves, positions legs in a figure four and hit the dirt.

There are training aids such as sliding mats that make it easier for players. Also,

in warm weather a slip and slide is a great way to gain confidence and

enthusiasm in sliding…as well as having some great fun!

Four corners ‐ This is an advanced throwing, receiving and movement drill.

Split your squad evenly at each base. For 12 players put three at home, three at

first, three at second and three at third.

Start at home and have the first player throw to first as hard and accurate as

possible. Once she throws, she moves to the back of the line at first.

The first player at first receives the ball and pivots to throw to second as hard and

as accurate as possible. She then moves to second at the back of the line.

The object is to get quick accurate throws.

After a bunch of rounds, reverse direction.

Around the horn grounders‐ An advanced drill for agility, strength and stamina.

Line up players at third base. First player takes third base position.

Coach hits a ground and player throws to home.

Player immediately shifts to short and coach hit grounder there. Do not wait for

player to be set. The idea to keep them in motion.

Go around the horn and hit two at first base. One in normal position and one

guarding the line. This introduces that concept as well.

For an intense work out have the player make one complete round from third to

first, and then make them immediately make a return round back to third.

Documents

CPYA Softball Coaches Manual 2019-1 - SportsEngine · Softball glove Cleats (rubber, no metal spikes) An appropriately sized bat Helmet with cage and chin strap ... Correct and Praise