How to Coach High School Softball

Softball has moved from the realm of bar leagues and intramural teams to a legitimate sport at the high school level. The success of the USA softball team has led to a growth in sustainable high school programs. To help your team along, you'll need to coach high school softball players on basic skills, and act as a mentor for students interested in leadership positions on the team.

Instructions

  1. Develop a Strong High School Softball Team

    • 1

      Allow different players to pitch batting practice before each game. You may have decided on a pitching staff in the early part of the season, but position players can prevent wear and tear on starters. These practices might yield a relief pitcher that you did not discover in the preseason.

    • 2

      Call for a bunt during a game in order to move runners into scoring position. In a bunt, the batter holds the bat in front of the plate and lightly taps the ball. A bunt down the foul lines can help base runners advance, with the possibility of the bunter making it to first base.

    • 3

      Simulate common game situations before a game. You can coach players on their specific responsibilities when the bases are loaded or the outfield is shifted for a left-handed batter. Incorporate at least one simulation at the end of each practice to properly coach players on necessary softball knowledge.

    • 4

      Groom a group of outfielders and infielders who can play multiple positions. These utility players can come off of the bench during a game to relieve injured or fatigued players. It is important to have versatile reserves to avoid late-inning errors and poor performance at the plate.

    • 5

      Work with local businesses to sponsor your softball field and scoreboard. Many schools solicit sponsorship dollars from companies in the community. These companies receive banner advertisements on the outfield fence or small spots on the scoreboard.

    • 6

      Help your pitchers avoid long-term arm damage by teaching them proper pitching techniques. There are a variety of viable pitching techniques that protect young throwers from excessive torsion on shoulders and elbows. Websites like PitchSoftball.com show these techniques in a step-by-step format (see Resources below).