What It Takes to Have Good and Proper Softball Fielding Skills

What It Takes to Have Good and Proper Softball Fielding Skills

We all know that the pitcher is very important in a softball game but next to that, the second most valuable role is softball fielding or what is commonly known as catching. A notable catcher is able to prevent the runners from going to the next base towards homerun and at the same time, aid the pitcher to dictate the correct pitches and guard against the opposing team. It takes a long period of time to be able to develop a catcher's skills through proper training and instruction before he can achieve success.

A prerequisite of softball fielding is a firm, solid throwing arm and the only means to ensure that you develop one is to throw frequently. You can have practice sessions as often as you want such as three times a week or so.

And then, conditioning your throwing arm is very important. So, you need to be sure that you perform exercise routines that would keep your arm properly conditioned in order to avoid injuries. For example, stretching exercises can be done to warm up your muscles.

Next, you need to practice short distance throwing that would stress the proper arm form. And, gradually, after a few sets of throws, you can now attempt to throw harder and initiate long distance throwing up to sixty feet. It is best to end up practicing with long distance throwing, which is the opposite of what happens in a game because it is easier for you to manage short distance throwing as you get used to the other.

After throwing, a catcher must learn proper aiming as he needs to throw the ball to where an opposing runner would be going. The throw must be low and linear. It is much better if a catcher would throw the ball where the dirt is compared to throwing it above the head of an infielder. A catcher must practice throwing and aiming to each base for at least ten times so, he would be able to obtain proper softball conditioning. In addition, a catcher's throws would be more efficient if he adapts the squatted, catcher stance in the beginning. And after practicing throws that are similar as to those done during a game, the catcher should be able to tone down with shorter throws that focus on mechanics and the use of legs and gradually, to the distance he began with. Afterwards, he must perform the same stretching exercises he did in the beginning. If the catcher is able to do practice sessions regularly, then, there is a stronger chance for him to strengthen and properly condition his arm in a very short amount of time.

Although, throwing is important, a catcher must also learn proper footwork as his steps are shorter and faster compared to that of a shortstop. And you would be able to work on it through proper drills that you can practice along with the throws.

All in all, with correct training and regular practice sessions, it is sure that you would be able to grow into one hell of a catcher.