The 5 Basic Skills Needed to Play Softball
Playing softball competitively or recreationally requires a set of basic skills that include catching, throwing, fielding, hitting and base running. A dedicated softball player must take the time to practice proper techniques in the following skills to confidently and safely play the game. Even experienced softball players must continue to practice and train these skills to improve their performance.
Capture
Proper catching skills allow a player to not only catch the ball without injury, but also position him to throw the ball accurately. The fact is that catching and throwing are two of the primary defensive skills in softball. The ability to catch and throw a ball is very important as it allows the player to throw out a base runner trying to advance to the next base.
Throwing
As mentioned earlier, pitching is one of the two most important defensive skills a player must learn in softball. A quick and accurate throw can make it difficult for the opposing team to outrun their runners or score. Softball players must practice proper throwing technique in order to hit their targets quickly, accurately and consistently.
Fielding
Fielding is another important defensive skill that a softball team must master. A good fielding team makes it difficult for the opposition to score runs. Players are taught the proper way to throw a ball that is hit both on the ground and in the air. Field drills also involve knowing where to throw the ball. Many times fielders have to rehearse specific plays so they know where to throw the ball if it is hit to them.
Hitting
Hitting is perhaps the most challenging and enjoyable skill to learn in softball. Hitting a small ball with a rounded bat in a specific area – for a split second – is a technique that softball players must constantly practice and perfect. A good shot requires hand-eye coordination, quick reaction time, proper technique and confidence.
Base running
Excellent base running is not just about speed, it’s also about smart running. Even more important than simply moving around the bases is the wisdom to assess the current game situation. The crafty base runner takes into account the number of outs and the position of the opposition in the field. Quick and smart base running puts a lot of pressure on the defensive team.
In softball where there is a lot of running and sliding, a good pair of softball cleats and a reliable pair of supportive, moisture wicking softball socks are essential items.
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