VRHS_softball_journal_combined

Villa Rica High School Softball

Softball NOTEBOOK

VRHS SOFTBALL PRE-PARTICIPATION CHECKLIST

● If you are starting your 4th season of school ball (Senior year) you must have communicated with me concerning your college plans. ○ (Or) with our Recruiting Coordinator ● Jonathan Martin (770) 946-6239

● Enrollment: All athletes must be enrolled in VRHS prior to a tryout date.

● All PLAYERS must have a physical examination from a doctor and the correct documentation in RankOne before participation. ○ We also will have free physicals on April 20th.

● All student-athletes are required to provide proof of primary medical insurance.

● A player must complete the documentation in RankOne concerning the drug testing policy..

Any questions please feel free to call

Head Coach —Cody Skinner (678) 997-7089 Assistant Coach—- Janene Browning (770) 316-6296 Assistant Coach—- Wes Jiles (770) 238-8014 Assistant Coach—- Izzy Rohr (770) 789-8652 Assistant Coach—- Larry Jiles (770) 500-4465

A POEM THAT ILLUSTRATES THE POWER OF‘I CAN’

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW, A NEW DAY I SEE. ON ONLY I CAN DETERMINE WHAT KIND OF DAY IT WILL BE.

IT CAN BE SUNNY, BUSY, LAUGHING, GRAY, OR BORING, COLD, UNHAPPY, AND GRAY. I MY OWN STATE OF MIND IS THE DETERMINING KEY. FOR I'M THE ONLY PERSON I LET MYSELF BE.

I CAN BE THOUGHTFUL AND DO ALL I CAN TO HELP. OR, I CAN BE SELFISH, AND THINK JUST OF MYSELF.

I ENJOY WHAT I DO AND MAKE IT SEEM FUN. OR, GRIPE AND COMPLAIN, AND MAKE IT HARD ON SOMEONE. I CAN BE PATIENT WITH THOSE THAT MAY NOT UNDERSTAND. OR, I CAN BELITTLE AND HURT THEM AS MUCH AS I CAN.

BUT I HAVE FAITH IN MYSELF, AND BELIEVE WHAT I SAY. I PERSONALLY INTEND TO MAKE THE BEST OF THIS DAY.

A FEW “UNWRITTEN” WILDCAT RULES

EFFORT AND ATTITUDE ★ There are only two things in this world you CAN control: Your EFFORT and ATTITUDE . Setting YOUR priorities and eliminating all other distractions. Come early or stay late when necessary. Motivated by an inner desire to improve yourself. Give 100% EFFORT and possess a POSITIVE ATTITUDE. PATIENT WITH YOUR PACE OF PROGRESS ★ Being a ‘big picture’ person. Willing to put in the hours, willing to overcome the obstacles and the tough days. The ability to never quit, because YOU have Perspective. ACCOUNTABLE AND RESPONSIBLE ★ If you fall short in a task, a requirement, have courage and admit your error. Carry out your punishment and move on. It is that simple. POSITIVE OR POISONOUS ★ Every environment you experience you have a choice at how you look at it, how you talk about it, how you become successful within it. There are only TWO types of people in this world: POSITIVE AND POISONOUS . Which one are you? RESPECT FOR THE PROGRAM AND THE TEAM ★ Our ups and downs are only OURS to share. Think twice before you share your ‘funny or humiliating story’ to an outsider who may ‘act’ like they really care. Possess the sincere ability to RESPECT your teammates whether you can ‘relate’ to them or not. Whether you socialize with them or not. Every person has positives within them, something that makes THEM special. It is YOUR job to find the positives and focus on them. You have a choice on your actions and words. Sir and Ma’am are a must in our program. You have to show RESPECT to get RESPECT.

WILDCAT SOFTBALL TEAM RULES

TARDINESS to mandatory team functions (practice, weights, meetings, games, study hall, class) will result in the following: IN SEASON AND OUT OF SEASON 1. 1st Offense : Conditioning by Coaching Staff (individually) 2. 2nd Offense : Meeting with the coaches and conditioning (individually)

3. 3rd Offense : Indefinite 1 game suspension 4. 4th Offense : Possibly dismissal from the team

TARDINESS regarding turning in various individual items such as uniforms, paperwork, schedules, and practice clothes will result in the following: 1. The late individual will condition by themselves 2. Multiple offenses will be dealt with by the coaching staff CLASS ATTENDANCE is mandatory. 1. You do not practice/play if you do not attend class. (Doctors note exempt) 2. Not attending class will result in suspension from practice that day. (Will require attendance note) 3. Coaches will perform random attendance checks PRACTICE ATTENDANCE ● Softball is an athletic activity in which the success of the group depends on the presence of everyone on the team. ● If you have to miss practice for an academic function that is ok just let the coaches know as much in advance as possible (preferably days in advance). ● If you have to miss practice for a non academic reason it is at the coaches discretion whether or not it will be excused or unexcused. ● An unexcused missed practice the day before a game will result in not starting the following day. Missing a game will result in a 1 Game Suspension. ● Missing practice (unexcused) will result in conditioning of that individual and possibly affect playing time.

ARRIVING LATE OR LEAVING EARLY POLICY ● If you have to leave early or arrive late to practice or pre arranged excuse,

you need to make sure to ask the coach if it is necessary to make up what you missed either the following day or before the missed practice, it is your responsibility to communicate with the coaching staff. This rule pertains to lessons,weights, pitching and catching practice and conditioning.

CELL PHONE POLICY ● Absolutely no phones at practice, study hall, team meetings, and all other mandatory team functions (Turn them off, silence them, or leave them in your locker)

● If we are on the road, between games you may use your cell phone once the coach says yes (please make sure you are away from crowds and people when you are talking on cell phones between games) ● Phones may be used in hotel rooms on overnight trips. But we have a team meeting. They are to be turned in before the meeting starts. ● Texting is allowed on van/bus rides; make sure your phone is on silent. When we begin to approach the field make sure phones are put away in your bag and attention focused to the game. Do NOT take out until we are back on the bus. ● Failure to comply with cell phone policy will result in 3 Fergies. PDAPOLICY ● Showing affection for your family or hugging friends who have come to watch you is acceptable but please save all PDA for your significant others for when you are away from the ballpark (both home and away contests) ● Absolutely no PDA during school hours on campus. OFFENSES will be handled by the coaching staff. PRACTICE GEAR DRESSCODE ● Assigned attire for practice and games is required. ● Failure to wear appropriate clothing for all activities that it is assigned will result in conditioning of that individual. ● Practice/game clothes will be team issued and a requirement at practices. If you do not match that day 3 fergies will be issued. EQUIPMENT POLICY ● Always be prepared to play, forgetting equipment is not an excuse for making mistakes ● All players are accountable for bringing and using appropriate game/ practice equipment (cleats, gloves, helmets, hats/visors, sunglasses, bats and sliding shorts/ pads) ● Pitchers are responsible to bring plates to pitching practice ● Players must show respect for equipment at all times whether it is theirs or the teams. ● Any player caught throwing or disrespecting gear will condition individually INJURY GUIDELINES ● If you sustain an injury notify a coach immediately and appropriate action will be taken from there. ● We have a long season and it is your responsibility to take care of your body. Utilize the training room both before and after practice for treatment ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE GUIDELINES ● We will leave and depart on time. If you are not on the bus at the assigned departure time you will be left behind ● If you are not early, you are late! ● You are REQUIRED to ride the bus to and from games… ● If there is a dress code for travel, all players will be required to wear the appropriate attire before departure. Neglecting dress code will affect playing time and possibly the

privilege of traveling with the team on that particular trip.

STUDY HALL POLICY(if needed) ● Review handout

DRESS CODE/SCHOOL ● Follow guidelines of school policy. ● No Hoods inside the building. ● Any dress code write ups will require coaches' punishment.

DRESS CODE/ PRACTICE ● No cutoff shirts or tanks at practice. Tank tops at weight training or conditioning is fine. ● No offensive/vulgar words on shirts. DRESS CODE/ TRAVEL ● If we have travel gear that is assigned that must be worn. ● Jeans cannot have holes. ● You are representing VRHS and should wear clothes that respect yourselves and the Program FIELD MAINTENANCE ● It will be required that after each practice and game the field, dugouts, bleacher, cages and bull pen’s are raked/cleaned. See list posted at the field for details STRIKEOUT LOOKING (SOL) ● Consequence for this is 3 fergies for each SOL (this applies to both games and practice scrimmages) UNPROFESSIONAL CONDUCT ● We will have a zero tolerance for all of the following in both practice and games and public appearances where you represent VRHS ● Slamming helmet/ bats/etc., lack of effort (jogging down the line), visibly poor attitude . Consequence for this is 3 fergies ● Multiple offenses will be dealt with by the coaching staff in an alternative manner

MISSED BUNT ● Failure to execute a bunt (pop-up, 2 strikes, failure to advance runner)

● Consequence for this is 3 poles (down and back is one) ● This applies to both games and practice scrimmages

ERRORS (PHYSICAL/ MENTAL) ● During practice if you make an error (regardless of drill unless told otherwise) finish the play then drop and immediately do 5 pushups. If the coach has to remind you the

the entire team will do 10 burpees. This rule applies to every single defensive drill we do and can include multiple people in one play. *******All poles, fergies and conditioning punishment are to be done at the end of practice or scrimmage, or at the beginning of the following practice (before practice starts).

WILDCAT STUDY HALL GUIDELINES

Study Hall is a mandatory function for all team members if your grades have begun to struggle.. We will meet twice a week to discuss improvements. Following the fall semester, if you are a returning player and your cumulative GPA is a 3.0 or above you will be excused from study hall. If your cumulative GPA drops below a 3.0 at any time you will be required to attend study hall for that particular quarter until you raise your GPA back to a 3.0. 1. RULES BE ON TIME..showing up late to study hall is like showing up late to practice. 2. Absolutely NO talking 3. NO CELL PHONES. 4. Do not pack up early, the coach will tell you when you can leave. 5. You may use your personal laptop or computers if we are in the library. 6. You may listen to music with headphones but make sure it is not distracting others. 7. If study hall takes place individually in the softball office the same rules apply.

*****Study hall is an opportunity for you as student athletes to stay ahead of your class work. Please respect your teammates by being courteous and following the guidelines above. Violations of the guidelines will be noted at study hall and appropriate action will be taken at the following practice. *****

BEING PART OF A TEAM

BY: Richard Stratton, Ph.D. What does it mean to be part of a team? It means you are part of a group who have come together to achieve the same goals. You are a piece of a puzzle. All of the pieces: you, your teammates, your coaches, and maybe even the parents of the team members must fit together to make the whole puzzle which is the team. While some coaches try to emphasize teamwork with the slogan “There is no I in Team” you should understand what they are trying to say. It is important that each member of the team have their own individual goals that they hope to achieve while playing the sport. But there are also goals the team as a group wants to achieve. All team members must be willing to adjust their personal goals to fit in with the team goals. Not everyone can be the MVP. There are starters and there are substitutes. I once coached a middle school basketball team that had seven players who were essentially equally skilled and could all be starters. Of course, only five could be starters in any one game. After the first game, one of the boys came up to me and said he was quitting the team because he did not get to start. I explained to him that only five of the seven best players could be starters in each game but that as the season went on, all seven would get to start the same number of games. I also pointed out that if he looked at how much playing time each of the seven was getting, he would realize that they all played about the same amount of time during the game. My point was that each member

of the team has an important contribution to make and that the team would only be as good as how hard everyone on the team did their particular job. Being part of a team means helping your

teammates whenever you can. Cooperation among all members of the team is very important. Jealousy of teammates has no place in sports. No matter how good you are there will always be someone who is better than you. You should admire those who are better than you and work even harder to bring your skills up to their level. You should see this as a challenge rather than something to be angry about. Being angry at a teammate will hurt your performance and will hurt the team’s performance. Finally, being part of a team means giving 100% all of the time. When people are part of a group they sometimes do what is called social loafing. This is where you give 100% when you play alone but less than 100% when you are part of a group. In essence, you slack off and expect others in the group to pick up part of your responsibilities. What would happen if everyone on the team did this? The team probably would not do too well. You are an equal partner on the team and must contribute your fair share of the effort, take your fair share of the credit for team successes, and your fair share of the blame for team failures. This is what it means to be part of a team. THE 6 INCH PLAYING FIELD THE 6-INCH PLAYING FIELD - is the part of the ball field that is between the player's ears...the brain. Arguably, about 90-95% of the game takes place in this relatively small area, yet it is the most difficult part of this game to master. This is THEKEY component of this game. The only thing a player can control in this game is how they are going to respond to a situation. Everything else is at least partially up to chance. Knowing, expecting and recognizing The situation is where the 6-inch playing field comes into play. Mastery of this 6-inch playing field is the single most important fundamental of the game and is often left out completely. Mastering this small area includes, but is not limited to, knowing what to do with the ball, admitting mistakes/errors and shaking them off, concentrating not on hits, but Quality At-Bats, visualizing success, focusing and playing this game ONE PITCH AT A TIME . ONE PITCH AT A TIME - Softball, like baseball, is one of the few games in the world that is designed for failure. After all, the best hitters in baseball hope to fail only 7 of 10 times at the plate. Constantly dealing with failure, be it offense or defense is frustrating. The only way to combat the feeling of failure is to focus on the positive. Quality-At-Bats will generate hits. Concentration on the current situation coupled with visualization and focus will generate the necessary defense. This game is played ONE PITCH AT A TIME no matter what else happens.

WILDCAT TEAM OFFENSIVE PHILOSOPHY 1. See the ball well: “Yes,Yes,Yes….NO” at the plate no second guessing yourself.

2. Be aggressive at bat; “I’ll see the ball well, I’ll get my pitch to hit, and I’ll hit the ball hard.” 3. Control the bat with your eyes. 4. Use positive thoughts and positive self talk. 5. Self coaching; make adjustments. 6. Know YOUR optimal energy level and maintain it; relaxation vs. tension. 7. Concentration –the most powerful performance skill. 8. See the big picture – perspective. 9. Be responsible and accountable. 10. Use batting practice or it will use you! 11. Results, “stats,” cannot be controlled, trust in your preparation and talent. 12. Work at being confident: discipline and body language. “Risks make you rise, fear will make you fall.” 13. Be an athlete! Hitting: PlateApproach, swinging in the different counts Hitting isn't all about the mechanics. Yes, the mechanics are extremely important and will dictate our success in how well we make contact. Hitting can be a meticulous skill to develop. There are numerous methods and strategies, variations on teaching and an overload of available information. Regardless of the mechanics in a swing, one strategy remains constant through all of this and that is how to approach an at-bat. This is not limited to just being in the box, but the mental preparation happening before the game, during the game, in-the-hole and on-deck. An aspect equal to the importance of mechanics of a hitter, is the mental side. This mental side comes in many forms. As we all come to realize, and love about softball, the game's greatest hitters failed to reach safely in 7 of 10 at bats. Softball is a game of failure. As such, softball players require the unique ability to accept this failure each time to the ballpark and not let it affect them the next time up. Understanding this, hitters need to take advantage of every situation in which they come to the plate. This starts by possessing basic mechanics of a swing. The next phase of becoming a successful hitter is the mental approach. Far too often, especially at the amateur and younger ages, players step up to their approach not utilizing the information available to them from the hitter before them - watching counts, understanding the pitchers plan or strategy. This serves as asking yourself "what is the pitcher's out pitch?", "What are the similarities of the pitches seen with the batters before me?", "How is the pitcher setting up off-speed pitches?", and this list goes on. Good hitters have a thorough understanding of not just the mechanics but also an understanding of the different counts and the possible pitch types (off-speed, outside, inside, high, etc.) they will use in these different counts. Good hitters don't just study hitting literature, they study the pitcher on the mound that day. They look for tendencies and cues, these inevitability help them understand the probabilities of what pitch type they will see in what count. This is done through a variety of methods; from watching each pitch, identifying what pitches are thrown in what counts, soliciting information from hitters ahead, ● So what defines a good hitter? Are good hitters naturally good? Can they be produced or replicated? What are the common attributes of a good hitter?

listening to your coaches, and also understanding what fundamentals are taught to pitchers about approaching hitters in different counts.

Using all the resources available to a hitter can be the difference between a quality at-bat (a hard hit ball) vs. chasing a curve ball in the dirt for a strikeout.

Let's explore some of the strategies hitters can utilize to help better position themselves to be successful in their plate appearances. In theHole ● This player is two players away from their at-bat. This provides the opportunity to decompose the information they have observed about the pitcher and begin to formulate strategy. This player should remove themselves from the distractions of the bench and prepare their equipment. They should then be anticipating what the field will look like when they step into the box (runners on, how many outs, score, where the opposing pitcher is in the duration of their start/inning). They should also be (and have been) paying attention to each pitch type, location and the counts in which the pitch was thrown. On-Deck 1. This player is up to the plate next. This player has requirements outside of plate approach (information that should have been collected prior to this point). They need to ensure they complete a warm-up of core muscles, then move on to practice swings and timing these swings with the pitcher's release and the ball entering the hitting zone. Swinging in the Different Counts As mentioned earlier, although there are numerous ways to teach the mechanics of hitting, the one skill that remains constant is anticipating a pitch based on the current count of an at-bat. This starts by a hitter identifying which pitch they hit best; Fastball? Curve ball? Change-Up? Screwball? Riseball? etc. Most common answer to this question? Fastball. Knowing that we have identified we want to hit the Fastball, we need to better anticipate when we will see this pitch during the at-bat. So we ask ourselves; In what counts will I, more than other pitches, see a Fastball?

To answer this question, we need to be introduced to Fastball counts. There are likely six counts in which we can anticipate a Fastball over other pitches;

0-0 1-0 2-0 2-1 3-0 3-1

Why are these counts considered Fastball counts?

These are Fastball counts due to the pitcher being "behind' in the count, or not being able to get "even" in the count on one pitch. These counts give importance to the pitcher throwing a strike next pitch. What is a pitcher's typical high percentage strike pitch? A Fastball! A Fastball is the type of pitch most pitchers rely on for throwing a strike. Usually it is their most accurate and controllable pitch. Pitchers tend to practice throwing more Fastballs than any other pitch and thus, feel most comfortable and confident in throwing this pitch for a strike.

Let's go into more detail and breakdown each of the above counts listed. Individual Counts ● 0-0

Players may have heard at one time or another, their coaches telling pitchers to "throw a strike first pitch" to "get ahead of the batter". Pitching coaches have been using this mantra for many years "first pitch strike". We see it at the beginning of every game, most innings and most at bats. Therefore, in a 0-0 count, you can anticipate a Fastball over other pitches. Hitting Approach (0-0) count ● Power Swing - Depending on the situation inside the game (score, inning, batting order, etc.) hitters have the opportunity to drive this pitch. This is a count in which a hitter can unleash their power swing. It is early in the count and we have more opportunity to see another Fastball (if that is what we are looking for) if we miss this pitch.

● 1-0

In this count, the pitcher is behind early and has lost the advantage for the time being. It is reasonable to expect to see a Fastball in this count, regardless of the pitch type prior to this.

Hitting Approach (1-0) count

● Power Swing - Expect a Fastball in this count. You can be selective with this pitch. Hitters do not have to chase the pitch. This is a count in which we want to "hurt" the ball, hit it hard.

● 2-0

The pitcher is behind in the count and one pitch will not bring it back to even. This count provides a high probability that a hitter will see a Fastball as the next pitch. Hitting Approach (2-0) count ● Power Swing - Expect a Fastball in this count. This is a great count to barrel a ball. It is one of two counts in which hitters can concentrate on using their most aggressive swing. ● 2-1 In this count the pitcher can throw one pitch to even the count and then be one pitch from ending the at-bat. In this count, we can expect to see a Fastball but in a location that would require a hitter to chase or change their swing (eg. a pitch that is low and outside or high and inside). Hitting Approach (2-1) count

● Contact Swing - Hitter wants to hit this ball hard, but in control. This is our Fastball count to hit a hard line drive.

● 3-0 The highest probability of a Fastball is the 3-0 count. It is at the coaches discretion if a hitter can swing at this next pitch. More often than not, hitters take this pitch regardless. The pitcher needs to get back into the at-bat and has most likely been trained to understand the hitter is not going to swing at this pitch. Similar to the 0-0 count, the pitcher is going to throw a Fastball down the middle. Hitting Approach (3-0) count ● If your coach has given you the "green light" (permission to swing) and there is one out or LESS, a Power Swing is what a hitter should be thinking.

● If your coach has given you the "green light" (permission to swing) and there is one out or MORE, a Contact Swing is what a hitter should be thinking.

In this count we distinguish between different swing types based on the situation (one out or LESS and one out or MORE). This is explained as the individual hitter will need to distinguish that type of swing will be most effective - Power vs. Contact. This is decided through the hitter managing the past at-bats in the game or the days prior. Hitters need to understand how they are currently swinging; ● How have I been swinging lately? Have I been successful at the plate this game? Am I "on" today? What is the score? What does my team need most of me right now?

● 3-1

You can again expect to see a Fastball in this count. One pitch will not even the count out and one pitch would walk the batter. A pitcher does not want to have an uncontested Base Runner.

Hitting Approach (3-1) count

We want to take a similar hitting approach as we did in the 3-0 count, ● If your coach has given you the "green light" (permission to swing) and there is one out or LESS, a Power Swing is what a hitter should be thinking.

● If your coach has given you the "green light" (permission to swing) and there is one out or MORE, a Contact Swing is what a hitter should be thinking.

In this count we distinguish between different swing types based on the situation (one out or LESS and one out or MORE). This is explained as the individual hitter will need to distinguish that type of swing will be most effective - Power vs. Contact. This is decided through the hitter managing the past at-bats in the game or the days prior. Hitters need to understand how they are currently swinging; ● How have I been swinging lately? Have I been successful at the plate this game? Am I "on" today? What is the score? What does my team need most of me right now? Aside from building the correct muscle memory and spending the required time practicing a swing, players can further increase their chances of success at the plate by always being aware of a pitcher's habits and tendencies. A good way to start to develop this, is by asking yourself the following questions during a game; ● What pitch does a pitcher throw in each count? ● What types of pitches does this pitcher throw (FB, CB, SB, RB, etc.) ● Does the Fastball have movement? ● What off-speed pitch does the pitcher rely on over the others? ● Is the off-speed pitch landing for a strike or are the hitters chasing this ball out of the zone?

● What is the pitcher's "out" pitch? ● Is the pitcher "tipping" pitches? ● Does the pitcher's arm action (speed of arm) change depending on the pitch thrown? ● ANY 2 Strike Counts

You can expect to see the pitcher’s best OUT pitch or the SETUP pitch. So what does this mean for us as a hitter?

Hitting Approach (?-2 count) We want to do 3 things in this count: 1. Slide up on the plate and be able to cover both corners and the “Rivers” 2. Choke up on the bat, this will allow more bat control through the zone… “Contact Swing” 3. Widen our base slightly to have better balance in our swing.

***We will go by this Philosophy at the plate. If you choose to do your own thing, YOU will find yourself enjoying the bench. Learn this MEMORIZE this and live by this when you become the batter waiting in the HOLE!!!!

WILDCAT TEAM DEFENSIVE PHILOSOPHY “WORK HARDER THAN THE SOFTBALL”

WORK game speed and you will PERFORM at game speed

Take advantage of every opportunity to LEARN the playing surface

Anticipate & communicate your OPTIONS before the pitch

Step-in to every contact, “get something in the ground,” and ATTACK

Put PRESSURE on runners, hitters, coaches.” (MAKE YOUR PRESENT FELT)

Ask yourself, “How far can I get AROUND/ BEHIND the softball?” (Rhythm=Momentum)

Be a VOCAL leader. (Options, positioning, “Ball” calls, relays and reinforcement)

1. Make the routine play. 2. Anticipate a play before it happens, know your options. 3. To be great on defense you must work hard at it in practice. 4. Catchers are the puppet masters of this game. Without catchers controlling what Chaos can occur. 5. Championships are won with defense EFFORT!

This game is won and lost in the dirt and in the grass. Winning or losing a game often comes down to a play or two ‘in the dirt’ or ‘in the grass.’ Once you reach a certain age group, Everyone can catch a ball thrown or hit right to them. The game-breakers are the tough-to handle balls..the balls hit or thrown in the dirt that have to be stopped….the hits that cause the outfield or infield to get dirty and give the additional effort to keep the ball from getting by. Those are the plays that win games. Those are the plays that stop losses. Those are the plays that make uniforms dirty. We want to see dirty uniforms and smiling faces... satisfied with a job well done!

WILDCAT SOFTBALL PRE-PITCH ROUTINE Most fielders believe that you simply play to the hitter. In reality, you are playing FOUR main Factors:

1. The Pitcher Each pitcher is different. Know your pitchers better than anyone else, and learn their “stuff.” Just like scouting an opposing pitcher, you should know if your pitcher has her stuff working today or not. 2. The Hitter We play teams in our league multiple times. Know their lineup: who’s hot, who’s not, who can run, who’s a bunt threat, who pulls, who goes the other way, etc. Don’t hesitate to check out the spray chart, or to look up stats online. Learn the other team’s hitting philosophy: 1st pitch hitters; contact with 2 strikes; hit and ‘Communicate plays before they happen.’ Talking to your defense will help you get in the right spot at the right time. The situation consists of runners on base, inning, and score. Know the speed of the runners, and recognize the possibility of a bunt, hit and run, or what depth to play at. 4. The Pitch Make sure to be checking your wristband for the pitch call. Find out what they’ll be doing with a runner on 2nd. Your ‘cheat step’ will always be based on the pitch, but your positioning is already determined by the pitcher, hitter and situation. run aggressively. 3. The Situation

THE PITCHER + THE HITTER + THE SITUATION + THE PITCH = ANTICIPATION

WILDCAT SOFTBALL GROUNDBALL ESSENTIALS

‘FIND THE ANGLE’ The 1st step we take is the most important. It determines the aggressive angle that is needed to properly field a ground ball and puts us in a position to eventually gain momentum towards our target. Recognizing the right angle once contact is made crucial to get into a fielding position. Think of your 1st step as a trigger. Crucial on a glove side ground ball. ‘WORK HARDER THAN THE SOFTBALL’ Your success with fielding ground balls relies entirely on how hard you want to work between the 1st step and fielding the ball. Working harder than the softball means attacking, getting around, and finding the ‘focus’ point. If we allow the ball too much time, it becomes the enemy. ‘GAINING GROUND’ Your hands are the trigger for gaining ground. Once your hands have made contact with the ball, cross step towards the target. Fundamentally, we want to step in front with our right leg on a cross step, but the big thing is getting comfortable with gaining ground. ‘PUSH VS. GIVE’ Any ball we get, should involve a push. Any ball that gets us on our heels, or the one we have to defend should involve some give. Remember, whether performing a push or a give, we are only talking a split second of glove movement. Anything longer results in too much time spent with the ball in your glove. Long hops/ in-between hops require some give, whereas any short hop in any situation must be pushed.

WILDCATS SOFT BALL (Defensive Drills)

12:1PICKS “For every 12 picks in practice, you get 1 in the game”

12 picks from all possible directions at your position Need: Partner, 1 ball per group, softball

BUCKET PICKS “Catch the short hop” 1x10 barehand 1x10 with glove Need: Partner, softball

G.B. REACTION Round 1: 60 ft Round 2: 50 ft Round 3: 30 ft Round 4: 20 ft Round 5: 10 ft Need: Bucket of balls, bat, cones for line distance

POSITION CATCH INDOOR/OUTDOOR Position-specific catch w/ partner; think of 4 different ways you throw from your position. Example: double play feeds, on the run, field a bunt

4 rounds of 8 throws Need: partner, softball

THROWING ARM LONG TOSS Walk towards partner, throw off throwing arm foot, quick arm reaction with precision

10-20 throws at 40-60 ft Need: Partner, softball

GROUND BALL CATCH Dry field a ground ball, throw to a partner with accuracy, 1 set of 5 for each round Round 1: Routine

Round 2: Backhand Round 3: Forehand Round 4: Do-or-die

FOUR CORNER THROWING Split evenly between Home, 1st, 2nd and 3rd base. Thrower follows throw running Home>2nd 2nd>1st 1st >3rd 3rd>Home Need 1-2 balls, approximately 10 players, all four bases NO LEGS; GROUND BALLS Infield on the grass, start on your knees Round 1: Field it Round 2: Get to your feet Round 3: Get to your feet, gain ground

Round 4: Get to your feet, gain ground, throw Need: softballs, person to roll and hit grounders

FIGHT TO YOUR RIGHT (BACKHANDS) “If you can’t overstep” the softball, then backhand it

Round 1: Easily get around Round 2: Fight to overstep Round 3: Backhand

Need: Partner, softball

GLOVE SIDE ANGLE “Your 1st step is the most important in fielding a glove side ground ball” Round 1: 45 in

Round 2: Lateral Round 3: 45 back Need: Partner, softball

PICKLE DRILL “Ball-call with momentum forward; person receiving ball calls ‘BALL’ Round 1: Bare hand, wrist flick (arm up, no fake) Round 2: Glove Round 3: Glove w/ runner Need: at least 6 players, Softball, runner 5-SQUARE Similar to 4-square, except you rotate to the spot you threw/flipped to. X4 per throw Round 1: Shoulder-Shoulder flip Round 2: Elbow flip

Round 3: Right knee drop Round 4: Left knee drop

WILDCAT PITCHING PHILOSOPHY

Pitchers and catchers control the game. Our pitchers are aggressive, throw strikes and gets ahead. Get ahead early (first or second pitch strikes), change speeds/ locations, and hit your spots. Your goal is to locate pitches, change

speeds and force soft contact when the batter swings at any pitch thrown.

1. Elite pitchers are consummate competitors! 2. Pitchers must love practice as much or more than the game. 3. Control, Control, Control. 4. Get ahead.

5. Be mentally tough, your emotions can control the game. 6. Practice is where the wins and losses will come from. 7. Know that you have an amazing defense behind you working for you every pitch.

Villa Rica Pre-Game Pitching Routine

● Whether a pitcher is throwing short toss, long toss, or on the mound, he is always focusing on his command and throwing to a location.

● Whenever a pitcher is using his full set of mechanics he should be throwing to a catcher who is squatting down. Play catch (without full mechanics) with the catcher standing but when you are pitching (using mechanics) he gets down. This gets the body used to throwing downhill in the lower part of the strike zone. Pitching to a standing catcher promotes a pitch that is chest high which is a BALL in every high school league on Earth. ● The routine above allows pitchers to work on multiple things at the same time which saves pitches and energy. You are never just throwing. When you throw you are loosening your arm, focusing on location and command, reminding your body of the proper mechanics and release point. Only focusing on one of those things at a time considerably lengthens the warm-up process. ● Finally, wrap up your routine with NO MORE THAN 5 -10 minutes before game time. Anything more and the pitcher's arm and body starts to cool down too much. This is especially true if he is on the away team that bats first. Proper timing is a must PART1 Below is a pre-game schedule for a starting pitcher in a game that starts at 5:55pm (our start times). A pitcher certainly can adjust the times to fit any game time if needed. Below the schedule are some additional thoughts on the process.

5:05 - 5:15

● Jog to centerfield and back ● Sprints – start with some short sprints (2-60 ft) and finish with a couple long ones (2-100') ● Dynamic stretching of the arm and legs

5:15–5:25

● Short toss – play catch to loosen the arm ● Long toss – Gradually move back to about 90-100 feet (all line-drive throws, no big arcs)

5:25–5:40

● Warm Up all pitches with flips, work on tight spin and movement ● 30' toss – catcher down. Working on location using full mechanics ● 43' toss – gradually work back to 75' toss, still with catcher down, working on location, full mechanics ● On mound – throwing routine

5:40 - 5:45

● Go to the bench, drink some water, rest, and focus

PART2 This is a pitch-by-pitch routine when pitchers are actually in the bullpen practicing their pitches. This too can be tweaked to fit the needs of individual pitchers. Below the chart are some additional explanations of things that appear in the chart.

1. FB 2. FB 3. FB 4. FB 5. FB

21. DB 22. DB 23. DB 24. DB 25. RB 26. RB 27. RB 28. SB-I 29. SB-O 30. SB-I 31. CB-O 32. CB-I 33. CB-O 34. CH-O 35. CH-O 36. DB-O 37. DB-I 38. DB-O

6. FB-I 7. FB-I 8. FB-O 9. FB-O

10. SB-CB 11. SB-CB 12. SB-CB 13. SB-CB 14. SB-CB

15. CH 16. CH 17. CH 18. CH 19. CH 20. DB

39. RB 40. RB

Totals

%strikes FB % strikes SB/CB % strikes

CH % strikes DB % strikes RB % strikes

● After the first few fast balls it is important to alternate pitches frequently. This is what pitchers will do in a game so it's important to get used to it in the bullpen as well. ● You'll notice that every pitch has a targeted location. This process has a dual purpose. It allows the pitcher to get his arm loose and work location at the same time. When pitchers are able to do multiple things at the same time during their bullpen sessions, they are able to save on the number of pitches thrown. In turn, these saved pitches can be reserved for later in the game when the pitcher may need them the most. ● You'll notice that all the change-ups are located down the middle. I'm a firm believer that pitchers should aim for the center of the plate with their change-ups. You want the batter to think it's a mistake fastball down the middle so he is encouraged to swing. If you get a batter thinking this, he will be way out in front of the pitch. If that is the case, the last thing I want is for him to miss it. If he hits it, it's probably an easy out. If he misses it, unless he strikes out he gets at least one more pitch to swing at.

Catchers, I hope you all are enjoying your summer! Before you know it, it will be the first day of fall practice. I’m really looking forward to this upcoming season. I have high expectations for you

and for this team. With that said, you need to turn out in the fall prepared. I cannot emphasize enough, the importance of getting your legs under you and your arm conditioned before the a new season begins. As of now, we have only three catchers and we are expecting 6-7 pitchers this fall, which means that catchers are going to be pulling double duties. Take the initiative this summer to get yourself in game-ready form. Don’t show up in the fall thinking you should have done more to prepare. Step up and do what you need to do. This is the year we prove to our conference and our region that we belong back in Columbus. Summer Workout Follow through with the team work out and take extra time to emphasize on the following. Lower Body: ● Stamina: Jogging, running, and biking. Weak legs make a weak catcher. ● Power and Explosiveness: Various squat routines, box jumps, stair workouts, sprint work, plyometric exercises. Throwing: ● We are jumping right into full speed practice, so conditioning your arm is vital for you to stay competitive and healthy. Warm up before you throw full and cool down and ice after. I’m not looking for catchers with rocket arms; I’m looking for catchers with accurate and consistent throws. ● Work on ALL throws; steals to 2nd, steals to 3rd, picks to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Execute throws from your squat up into your throwing position. This is a new part of our catching program. My expectations for this catching staff are outlined below. The Wildcat Catchers’ Code consists of five separate points of emphasis that can be achieved with effort, dedication, and focus. It takes no physical ability or athletic talent to follow these guidelines.

Wildcat Catchers’ Code As a catcher, I will… Work harder and put in more time than any other position player. Be a student of the game. I will study my situations, pitchers, teammates, and opponents; and communicate what I know effectively. Sacrifice my body to keep the ball in front, get the out, and to pick up my teammates. Be accountable for myself, my actions, and my teammates. Be tough!

Pre-Game/Pre-Practice Catching “Everyday”

● Bands!!!!! ● Extra arm/leg stretching ● Dry blocking- 5 to each side ● 1 2 3 Drill- 5 ● Glove Transfers- 10 ● Throw

This is to be done everyday at practice and before a game! Being a catcher is hard work and I have very high expectations for each of you.

WILDCAT WANTS Self Evaluation and Goal Sheet 1. Why are you here, why have you decided to play softball for VRHS this year, what do you want to get out of this experience?

2. What do you fear the most about this season?

3. What short term goals do you have for the fall season? In other words, what specific areas do you feel you need to improve or work on to be game ready? Offensive goals

1. 2. 3. Defensive goals

1. 2. 3.

(Short Term Goal Example: I will keep my front shoulder in when I hit and generate my swing from my back side. I will have my hitting partner watch my mechanics and tell coach to come watch me.)

4. What long term goals do you have for this season, what do you want to have accomplished individually by the time it’s over. Make at least 3 of these!

A. B. C.

You should post both short term and long term goals so that they are in front of your face on a daily basis, where will you have your goals so that you can see them every morning before your day begins or before practice begins. You should change your goals as you achieve them, keeping them updated for that portion of the season. Goals should be very specific and the the outcome of them should be measurable. In other words you need to have a way in which you can evaluate when, how you have accomplished them. When you have finished this worksheet Please arrange a time to sit down with Coach Skinner to discuss goals. As each portion of our season approaches meetings will be set with players to set new goals. WILDCAT SOFTBALL TEAM GOALS “The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don't play together, the club won't be worth a dime.” BABERUTH

Offensive Team Goals

Defensive Team Goals

Pitching and Catching Goals

Team Cohesion Goals

Academic Goals

Misc. Goals

FIELD MAINTENANCE Field Maintenance is to be done after every practice by the assigned group. Each group is responsible for the same task the entire week and move to the next maintenance task the following week. After home games, it is the responsibility of the entire team to help pick up the field. The following are the duties that need to be completed by each group. RAKING o All infield positions

o Fill in batters boxes, catcher's box, and umpire area o On deck circles o Home and visitors bullpens

TRASH PICK UP o Both dugouts, cages, bullpens o Field and warning track o Bleachers (above and below) oPress box

LOCKER ROOM o All equipment needs to be picked up and in the appropriate spot. Shelves need to stay organized.

SWEEPING o Both dugouts o Bleacher walkway

Below is a list of groups. At the first meeting you will be assigned a group, make sure you know all group members, this will stay for the entire season.

Group1

Group2

Group3

Group4

WILDCAT SOFTBALL TEAM CREED We exist outside this room as individuals, unique in the universe, each pursuing our own path. We recognize that These paths sometimes lead in very different directions.

Some among us are highly acclaimed in the athletic community; others are recognized for our academic endeavors; some are still searching out their niche in this world. Our motivations for being here may differ greatly, but each of us CHOSE to be here, and each of us WAS CHOSEN to be here. We know what a team is: ● A team consists of people who respect themselves and their teammates ● A team trusts ● A team pulls together no matter what ● A team shares victory as a unit, without egomania; conversely a team shares defeat without blame or excuses ● A team understands that only their best effort is good enough ● A team works at each practice as they will in actual contests ● A team prepares mentally, as well as physically ● A team understands that diversity is strength ● A team knows that there is no success in fragmentation, only in unity We must be a TEAM, for if we do not, success will elude us,and our efforts will be in vain.

VILLA RICA SOFTBALL PHILOSOPHY The statement "Playing time is earned, not given" is the foundation of our coaching philosophy. Most teams have starters and role players. However, starters should and will not receive special treatment. Everyone is expected to put the best interest of the team first, before any thought of individual accomplishments. No individual, coach or player is more important than the team. What specifically does "Playing time is earned, not given" mean?

The amount of playing time each player receives will depend on attitude, skill level, commitment, absences, injuries and game/tournament situations. Teampride is another cornerstone of our competitive athletic program. Winning builds pride, but so does hard work and commitment to individual and team goals. We instill in each player the belief that hard work pays off, and the harder we work, the more WE will achieve. While winning is a goal for everyone, each player should focus on their effort - not the outcome. A team can always control its effort, but seldom the outcome of a game. Teaching and repetition are two tools to prepare each player to be the best WE can be. WE will start with fundamentals, work on techniques and individual skills and teach team defense in depth. Take every opportunity to teach and demonstrate teamwork, sportsmanship and respect for everyone, starting with the coaches, players, umpires, opposing teams, and the GAME. Believing that "Perfect practice makes perfect," players should properly practice the skills being taught, on a repetitive basis, so that these skills become as natural as walking and talking. Team members will set goals for themselves and the team. Our goals will be challenging enough to require each player to extend beyond present skill level. Each player will have the opportunity to achieve success and/or failure in game situations. When they succeed, you will receive positive feedback in terms of recognition and approval. When you do not succeed, you will receive feedback in terms of advice or instruction. TeamGoals Individual Goals 1. 1. 2. 2. 3. 3. 4. 4. 5. 5. Mental preparation is as much a part of our philosophy as physical preparation. Try to accomplish through mental preparation: I ntensity - Exceptional focus and concentration. C omposure - Cool under pressure. E nthusiasm - Have fun, enjoy softball. Finally, our philosophy includes the fact that playing competitive softball should be FUN . Strive to make practices and games enjoyable experiences that will both develop skills and provide positive life long memories for every player. #T.E.A.M.

Practice Defensive Drills

Flip Series

The purpose of this series is to work in game feeds on flips. Players must use good footwork, and utilize a variety of flips. Work through flips, and provide good feeds. Infielders work different situations, and constantly work on communication between the initiator of the flip, and the receiver. Intensity is key to a good flip.

Bucket at EveryBase

SETUP

The focus is on the flip. Good footwork, setting up behind the baseball, and step and follow through flip.

FOCUS

DRILL Defensive Flip Series

3mins

1st Round 6-4 & 3-1 & 5-2 squeeze

4-6 & 1-3 & 2-5 Passed Ball (third base stand at home for PB)

3mins

2ndRound

6-4/4-6 Athletic Plays & 1-2/3-2/5-2 Squeeze tag play

3mins

3rdRound

Throws to First Fungo Setup includes 3 buckets, one behind every base. Players look at the routine and see the progression of the rounds in order to rotate quickly. The drills will be done for 3-5 minutes continuously. Athletes are expected to rotate and move quickly through the drill. Quality reps are expected. Less than 4 seconds per play is the focus. Players make sure to work different footwork, and different angles to make throws across the field. Middle infielders work double play footwork, and place the ball in the bucket during rounds you are not throwing to first base.

SETUP

Bucket at every base

Quality throws across the diamond with less than 4 seconds per play. Good Footwork, and quality feeds on all reps.

FOCUS

DRILL Balls at you, to the right, to the left

1st Round: 5-3 & 6-4

3mins