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<channel>
	<title>Softball Drills &#187; Fielding</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/category/fielding/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills</link>
	<description>Softball Drills - Hitting, Pitching, Throwing, Fielding, and More.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Thu, 08 Apr 2010 04:51:48 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	
	<language>en</language>
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		<copyright>&#xA9; admin</copyright>
		<itunes:author>admin</itunes:author>
		<itunes:summary>Softball Drills, Softball Performance Drills</itunes:summary>
		<itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
		<itunes:block>No</itunes:block>
		
		<item>
		<title>Softball Infield drills -Team Infield Drills</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-infield-drills-team-infield-drills/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-infield-drills-team-infield-drills/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 08 Apr 2010 03:11:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Infielder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Team Defense]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[defense]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[infield]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Softball fielding tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Softball Infield drills]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=928</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Purpose: Learn a series of fundamental drills to practice over and over. These <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/developing-a-middle-infielder.html">softball fielding tips</a> must be done over to develop a habit.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Procedure: You will need the following equipment tennis balls and gloves,regulation balls for older players. Explain and demonstrate each of the disciplines. Work in groups of two. Start off bare-handed. Then add in gloves and infielder</p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-infield-drills-team-infield-drills/" class="more-link">Read more on Softball Infield drills -Team Infield Drills&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Purpose: Learn a series of fundamental drills to practice over and over. These <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/developing-a-middle-infielder.html">softball fielding tips</a> must be done over to develop a habit.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Procedure: You will need the following equipment tennis balls and gloves,regulation balls for older players. Explain and demonstrate each of the disciplines. Work in groups of two. Start off bare-handed. Then add in gloves and infielder</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">paddles if applicable. Include the following:</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri; min-height: 15.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">1. Glove Work: Roll balk to each other in the crouched stance with an open glove.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">2. Grounders Straight On: Same as above except start standing up.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">3. Circle: Same as above except circle balls to the left and right.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">4. Forehand: Charge to the glove side, field the ball, and swing the back leg over (as if facing first base).</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">5. Backhand: Swing the glove-side leg over, and receive the ball with a wide stance,</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">6. Bare-handed: Skim the ground with the fingers, stay low, and be able to make one quick step before throwing,</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">7. Short hops: Field scoops and picks.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">8. Tags: Slap tags on, behind, in front, left, and right of an imaginary base.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">9. Stretch: Reach out for the toss while pushing off of an imaginary base.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">10. One-handed Flips: For double plays, toss balls straight on and to the side of your partner (older players).</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">11. Blocking: Knock down a tricky bounce with the chest (nose over the ball)</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">12. Quick Toss: Play quiet catch with tennis balls.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">13. Line Drive: Fire balls to each other from close range.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">14. Transitions: Pass the ball behind the back and between the<span style="font: 13.0px Lucida Grande;"> </span>legs, then switch directions.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">15. Self pop-up: Toss tails into the air, and catch-with two hands.</p>
<div><span style="font-family: Calibri, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</span></span></div>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
	
	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Softball Drills &#8211; Team Outfield Drills</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-drills-team-outfield-drills/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-drills-team-outfield-drills/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 08 Apr 2010 02:10:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outfield]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[softball drills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Softball fielding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=926</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri; min-height: 15.0px;">Purpose: Learn series of fundamental drills to practice over and over. These are good outfield <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/fielding-tips-for-outfielders.html">softball fielding tips</a>.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Procedure: Equipment needed are softballs and gloves. Coach has a bat and a bucket of balls with him. Have 3 groups at the outfield  One group at left,center and right field area and two players on each base. Coach will bat the ball towards the groups in the outfield and the player must follow the instructions given on where to throw back:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-drills-team-outfield-drills/" class="more-link">Read more on Softball Drills &#8211; Team Outfield Drills&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri; min-height: 15.0px;">Purpose: Learn series of fundamental drills to practice over and over. These are good outfield <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/fielding-tips-for-outfielders.html">softball fielding tips</a>.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Procedure: Equipment needed are softballs and gloves. Coach has a bat and a bucket of balls with him. Have 3 groups at the outfield  One group at left,center and right field area and two players on each base. Coach will bat the ball towards the groups in the outfield and the player must follow the instructions given on where to throw back:</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri; min-height: 15.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">1. Drop Knee: Crouch down and block the ball (hard hit ground ball  with no one on base). Throw to 2nd base</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">2. Grounders: Receive the ball out front and pivot to throw.  RF throw 1st, LF and CF throw 2nd</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">3. Shoe string: Scoop bills hit just in front of you. Throw to homeplate</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">4. Pivot Drill: Use the crossover step to change directions while going back on a ball. LF throw 2nd, CF and RF throw to 3rd</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">5. Over the Shoulder: Catch balls thrown deep over the head. Throw to 3rd</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">6. Fence Drili: Feel for the fence, and leap high for the ball. LF throw to 3rd, CF to 2nd, RF to 1st base</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">7. Self toss ups: Toss balls into the air, and catch with two hands. Play homeplate</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">8. Cut-off  Drill: Throw balls to relay person</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri; min-height: 15.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri; min-height: 15.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">When drill is done rotate the players on the outfield including infield.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
	
	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Softball Infield Drills &#8211; Bases Loaded Force-out At Home</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-infield-drills-bases-loaded-force-out-at-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-infield-drills-bases-loaded-force-out-at-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Apr 2010 15:54:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[infield]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mental training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Softball Infield Drill]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=921</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Purpose: To develop defensive tactics for making the force-out at home plate with two outs and the bases loaded. This is the kind of drill that helps players think and decide differently on the field giving some <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/mental-training/tips-to-keep-your-head-in-the-game.html">mental training</a> as well.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-infield-drills-bases-loaded-force-out-at-home/" class="more-link">Read more on Softball Infield Drills &#8211; Bases Loaded Force-out At Home&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Purpose: To develop defensive tactics for making the force-out at home plate with two outs and the bases loaded. This is the kind of drill that helps players think and decide differently on the field giving some <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/mental-training/tips-to-keep-your-head-in-the-game.html">mental training</a> as well.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri; min-height: 15.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Procedure: Equipment needed would be one softball, a bat and gloves. Set up a complete infield, including the pitcher and 3 catchers, and place runners at each base, including home plate. The coach stands in the batter&#039;s box and hits a slow ground ball to the pitcher. The player on home runs out of the batter&#039;s box toward first base.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">Where and how the pitcher fields the ball determines whether she should make the force -out at home or not.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri; min-height: 15.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri; min-height: 15.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">There is a force out at every base when the bases are loaded. On a bases-loaded situation with two outs, players are usually taught to make the throw to first base however, in some situations, that may not be the easiest throw to make.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">The Pitcher should throw the ball to the catcher underhanded fcr the force-out at home if Ihey have fielded the ball cleanly and their momentum takes Chsm toward home plate. The pitcher should aim for the catcher&#039;s chest.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Calibri;">If a pitcher&#039;s momentum takes her all the way to home plate after fielding the ball, she should continue to run home and step on the plate fcr the out. A pitcher should only run all the way to home plate if she knows he can make the out.</p>
<div><span style="font-family: Calibri, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</span></span></div>
]]></content:encoded>
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	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Free Softball Drills &#8211; Diving Drill</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/free-softball-drills-diving-drill/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/free-softball-drills-diving-drill/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 09:04:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Catching]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outfield]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=913</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">P</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">urpose: </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">To develop confidence and comfort when diving for balls. It is important that the <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/outfield-last-line-of-defense.html">outfield</a> practice on this more.</span></span></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri; min-height: 19px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Procedure: The first player in line starts on her knees. The coach will bounce the ball slightly to her. She will dive to stop or catch the ball, and try to get to her feet and throw the ball back to the coach. After four or five attempts, the next player takes a turn. Once each player is done catching to her left (glove side), switch it up and throw to the other side.</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/free-softball-drills-diving-drill/" class="more-link">Read more on Free Softball Drills &#8211; Diving Drill&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">P</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">urpose: </span></span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">To develop confidence and comfort when diving for balls. It is important that the <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/outfield-last-line-of-defense.html">outfield</a> practice on this more.</span></span></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri; min-height: 19px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Procedure: The first player in line starts on her knees. The coach will bounce the ball slightly to her. She will dive to stop or catch the ball, and try to get to her feet and throw the ball back to the coach. After four or five attempts, the next player takes a turn. Once each player is done catching to her left (glove side), switch it up and throw to the other side.</span></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri; min-height: 19px; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 16px/normal Calibri; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Players will only get comfortable when they try an activity. By making them dive in a controlled environment, they are more apt and ready for such a play during the game. Getting started on the drill will help eliminate the fear of injury. Teach feet to get to the throwing position.</span></p>
<div><span style="font-family: Calibri, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</span></span></div>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
	
	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Youth Softball Drills &#8211; Paddle Drill</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/youth-softball-drills-paddle-drill/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/youth-softball-drills-paddle-drill/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 02:30:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Softball fielding tip]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=903</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif;">Purpose: To develop an infelder&#039;s hand-eye coordination. Starting with the basics is an important <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/developing-a-middle-infielder.html">softball fielding tip</a> to follow.</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Helvetica;">Procedure: Use softballs and  foam paddles. Have two players face each other a short distance apart. One player throws the ball in such a manner as to make the ball hop, simulating a ground ball hit to the infielder. The right-handed infielder assumes the ready position and awaits the throw, keeping his left foot slightly in front of the right. The ball is tossed directly toward the infielder who is holding a foam paddle in each hand. The infielder should use the funnel technique on regular ground balls and the push-through technique on short hop ground bails. The funnel technique involves the infielder cushioning the impact of the ball as it hits the hands. The push-through technique involves the infielder catering the ball by pushing his glove forward through the ball as he points the fingers downward.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/youth-softball-drills-paddle-drill/" class="more-link">Read more on Youth Softball Drills &#8211; Paddle Drill&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif;">Purpose: To develop an infelder&#039;s hand-eye coordination. Starting with the basics is an important <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/developing-a-middle-infielder.html">softball fielding tip</a> to follow.</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Helvetica;">Procedure: Use softballs and  foam paddles. Have two players face each other a short distance apart. One player throws the ball in such a manner as to make the ball hop, simulating a ground ball hit to the infielder. The right-handed infielder assumes the ready position and awaits the throw, keeping his left foot slightly in front of the right. The ball is tossed directly toward the infielder who is holding a foam paddle in each hand. The infielder should use the funnel technique on regular ground balls and the push-through technique on short hop ground bails. The funnel technique involves the infielder cushioning the impact of the ball as it hits the hands. The push-through technique involves the infielder catering the ball by pushing his glove forward through the ball as he points the fingers downward.</p>
<div><span style="font-family: Helvetica, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</span></span></div>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
	
	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Fun Softball Drills &#8211; Relay</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/fun-softball-drills-relay/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/fun-softball-drills-relay/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Feb 2010 05:19:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=898</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px Calibri;"><span style="font-family: 'Century Schoolbook', 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 16px;">Purpose: This relay race includes the cutoff play into a running game. When <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/coaching-softball/a-case-for-second-base.html">coaching softball</a> make sure to teach the cut-off person to do relays properly</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px Calibri;"><span style="font-family: 'Century Schoolbook', 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</span>
</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Century Schoolbook;">Procedure: You will need cones, balls, and fielding gloves. Make equal teams. Place 1 cone and ball directly in front of each group (normal cutoff distance for age group). Teams should stand behind their own cone. At the starting signal, the first person in line runs to the cone. The next person in line throws the ball to his/her partner in  cutoff fashion. Fielders should yell, &#034;Hit me!&#034; with their arms up. On a successful catch the receiver then runs with the ball back to his or her team, and puts the ball back at the front of the line. The two partners must slap gloves with one person sprinting to the cone and the other returning to the back of the line. The rotation keeps going until every person has thrown the ball at least once.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/fun-softball-drills-relay/" class="more-link">Read more on Fun Softball Drills &#8211; Relay&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px Calibri;"><span style="font-family: 'Century Schoolbook', 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 16px;">Purpose: This relay race includes the cutoff play into a running game. When <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/coaching-softball/a-case-for-second-base.html">coaching softball</a> make sure to teach the cut-off person to do relays properly</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px Calibri;"><span style="font-family: 'Century Schoolbook', 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 16px;"><br />
</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Century Schoolbook;">Procedure: You will need cones, balls, and fielding gloves. Make equal teams. Place 1 cone and ball directly in front of each group (normal cutoff distance for age group). Teams should stand behind their own cone. At the starting signal, the first person in line runs to the cone. The next person in line throws the ball to his/her partner in  cutoff fashion. Fielders should yell, &#034;Hit me!&#034; with their arms up. On a successful catch the receiver then runs with the ball back to his or her team, and puts the ball back at the front of the line. The two partners must slap gloves with one person sprinting to the cone and the other returning to the back of the line. The rotation keeps going until every person has thrown the ball at least once.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Century Schoolbook; min-height: 19.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 16.0px Century Schoolbook;">For smaller group sizes, have each person throw the ball five times. For overthrows, the person must retrieve the ball, run back and tag the cone, and only then return to the team. Add in tags (at the cone) after successful catches. Always have throws going away from the group, so errant tosses do not hit anyone else.</p>
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		<title>Softball Practice Drills &#8211; Reaction Drill</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-practice-drills-reaction-drill/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-practice-drills-reaction-drill/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Feb 2010 05:13:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mental training]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[reaction time]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[softball drills]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=891</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 17px;">Purpose: To test and develop a player&#039;s reaction time when fielding an oncoming ball. This is a good <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/mental-training/real-definition-of-hustle.html">mental training</a> drill as well.</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 17.0px Helvetica; min-height: 20.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 17.0px Helvetica;">Procedure: Place four cones in a square with 10 to 15 feet between cones. The coach stands in the center of the square, and the first player stands next to a corner cone facing away from the coach. The coach throws a tennis ball toward the player, then immediately gives the &#034;go&#034; command. On the &#034;go&#034; command, the player turns and reacts to the ball, trying to make the catch. After catching the ball, the player drops it on the ground next to him. The player runs to the next cone, turns toward the coach, who has already thrown a ball in his direction, and tries to react to the tennis ball in the air before making the catch. When the first player has been to all four cones, it is the next player&#039;s turn. Players should be ready to catch the ball as they turn around and should calch the ball with both hands. Players should concentrate on making sure they calch the ball before running to the next cone.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-practice-drills-reaction-drill/" class="more-link">Read more on Softball Practice Drills &#8211; Reaction Drill&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 19.0px Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 17px;">Purpose: To test and develop a player&#039;s reaction time when fielding an oncoming ball. This is a good <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/mental-training/real-definition-of-hustle.html">mental training</a> drill as well.</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 17.0px Helvetica; min-height: 20.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 17.0px Helvetica;">Procedure: Place four cones in a square with 10 to 15 feet between cones. The coach stands in the center of the square, and the first player stands next to a corner cone facing away from the coach. The coach throws a tennis ball toward the player, then immediately gives the &#034;go&#034; command. On the &#034;go&#034; command, the player turns and reacts to the ball, trying to make the catch. After catching the ball, the player drops it on the ground next to him. The player runs to the next cone, turns toward the coach, who has already thrown a ball in his direction, and tries to react to the tennis ball in the air before making the catch. When the first player has been to all four cones, it is the next player&#039;s turn. Players should be ready to catch the ball as they turn around and should calch the ball with both hands. Players should concentrate on making sure they calch the ball before running to the next cone.</p>
<div><span style="font-family: Helvetica, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</span></span></div>
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		<title>Softball Throwing Drills &#8211; Three-Man Relay</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-throwing-drills-three-man-relay/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-throwing-drills-three-man-relay/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:44:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Throwing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relay]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[softball drills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Softball fielding tips]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=889</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica;">Purpose: To develop a quick relay from outfielder to midfielder. This is a good drill to add to your <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/developing-a-middle-infielder.html">softball fielding tips</a>.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica; min-height: 17.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica;">Procedure: You will need one softball for each team. Divide the team into groups of three. Each group spreads out in a straight line with 15 to 25 yards between each player, depending on the age or skill level of the participants. Place one ball approximately five yards behind the first player in line. On the &#034;go&#034; command, the first player runs, picks up the ball, turns, and throws to the middle player.The middle player catches the ball, turns, and throws to the third player. The third player, after catching the ball, throws it back to the middle player, who then turns and throws the ball back to the first player. The first team to return the ball to the first player receives one point. The first team to reach seven points wins.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-throwing-drills-three-man-relay/" class="more-link">Read more on Softball Throwing Drills &#8211; Three-Man Relay&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica;">Purpose: To develop a quick relay from outfielder to midfielder. This is a good drill to add to your <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/developing-a-middle-infielder.html">softball fielding tips</a>.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica; min-height: 17.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica;">Procedure: You will need one softball for each team. Divide the team into groups of three. Each group spreads out in a straight line with 15 to 25 yards between each player, depending on the age or skill level of the participants. Place one ball approximately five yards behind the first player in line. On the &#034;go&#034; command, the first player runs, picks up the ball, turns, and throws to the middle player.The middle player catches the ball, turns, and throws to the third player. The third player, after catching the ball, throws it back to the middle player, who then turns and throws the ball back to the first player. The first team to return the ball to the first player receives one point. The first team to reach seven points wins.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 14.0px Helvetica;">This game is similar to the bucket relay. In the three-man relay, the player in the middle receives most of the throws; therefore, it is imperative to rotate players after each round. As the infielder did in the previous drill, the middle player must turn to the glove side when throwing the ball. However this drill emphasizes getting rid of the ball quickly. Therefore, coaches should remind players to catch the ball cleanly before attempting to throw it.</p>
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		<title>Softball Practice Drills &#8211; Do or Die Fly Ball Drill</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-practice-drills-do-or-die-fly-ball-drill/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-practice-drills-do-or-die-fly-ball-drill/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Feb 2010 05:10:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Catching]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=877</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri;">Purpose: To develop the outfieIder&#039;s abiIity to judge the fIight of a fly ball and move to make the catch. This is a good <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/developing-an-outfielder.html">softball fielding tip</a> for outfielders</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri; min-height: 18.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri;">Procedure: You will need a bucket of sofballs and gloves, both the coach and the outfielder face the same direction. On the coach&#039;s command, the outfielder should sprint deep into the outfield. At that point, the coach throws the ball to the outfielder. The distance the outfielder runs depends on the flight of the ball. The coach&#039;s throw should lead the player so that they continue running in order to make the catch. The out fielder should look back over her shoulder for the ball as she runs. Once the coach releases the ball, the outfielder should judge where the ball will land (she should take her eyes off the ball to look at that spot. She should then adjust her angle of pursuit to get to that spot. Once she nears the spot, she should lookup for the ball as she sets up to make the catch.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/softball-practice-drills-do-or-die-fly-ball-drill/" class="more-link">Read more on Softball Practice Drills &#8211; Do or Die Fly Ball Drill&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri;">Purpose: To develop the outfieIder&#039;s abiIity to judge the fIight of a fly ball and move to make the catch. This is a good <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-fielding/developing-an-outfielder.html">softball fielding tip</a> for outfielders</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri; min-height: 18.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri;">Procedure: You will need a bucket of sofballs and gloves, both the coach and the outfielder face the same direction. On the coach&#039;s command, the outfielder should sprint deep into the outfield. At that point, the coach throws the ball to the outfielder. The distance the outfielder runs depends on the flight of the ball. The coach&#039;s throw should lead the player so that they continue running in order to make the catch. The out fielder should look back over her shoulder for the ball as she runs. Once the coach releases the ball, the outfielder should judge where the ball will land (she should take her eyes off the ball to look at that spot. She should then adjust her angle of pursuit to get to that spot. Once she nears the spot, she should lookup for the ball as she sets up to make the catch.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri; min-height: 18.0px;">
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 15.0px Calibri;">The player should be thrown fly balls to her left, to her right, and over her head. This drill is an excellent vehicle for addressing the conditioning factor in the outfielders.</p>
<div><span style="font-family: Calibri, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: medium;"><span style="line-height: normal;"><br />
</span></span></div>
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		<title>Basic Softball Drills &#8211; Back-Up</title>
		<link>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/basic-softball-drills-back-up/</link>
		<comments>http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/basic-softball-drills-back-up/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Dec 2009 10:45:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marc Dagenais</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Fielding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Infielder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outfield]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Team Defense]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[backing up]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Basic softball drills]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[covering the plate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[defensive plays]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/?p=873</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Purpose: Missing a backup duty in a game can cost a team a win. Stress the importance of backing up in a practice activity. This practice helps on <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/mental-training/real-definition-of-hustle.html">mental training</a> on focus and hustle plays</p>
<p><a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-drills/basic-softball-drills-back-up/" class="more-link">Read more on Basic Softball Drills &#8211; Back-Up&#8230;</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Purpose: Missing a backup duty in a game can cost a team a win. Stress the importance of backing up in a practice activity. This practice helps on <a href="http://www.softballperformance.com/mental-training/real-definition-of-hustle.html">mental training</a> on focus and hustle plays</p>
<p>Procedure: This drill needs a bat, gloves and balls. Arrange a fielding line up. Hit fly balls and grounders. On each ball hit, every player should be doing something. Whether it&#039;s pitcher&#039;s backing up the plate on throws home, catchers running behind first base on ground balls in the infield, outfielders backing each other up on fly balls, or middle infielders backing up throws to the pitcher with a runner on third base. Pre-think your role on each situation. Incorporate double cutoffs and run-scoring base hits. Extra players can run the bases (wear helmets).</p>
<p>In order to be in the proper position, always expect a fielding error or an overthrow on every play. The catch should also remember to recite the ground rules before each gime.</p>
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