Tips for Pitch Coaching for the Girls' Little League

Little League Softball has leagues for girls as young as 5 years old, and many leagues include children pitching starting at age 7. It is imperative to ensure success and health that young girls are taught the proper pitching techniques as they begin to throw. There are a number of subjects you can teach on as a coach in order to help Little League girls become effective pitchers.

  1. Windmill

    • Windmill pitching features a full range of shoulder motion.

      The windmill style of pitching involves the pitcher taking the ball back in one hand and performing a full rotation before releasing the softball underhand toward the plate. Children can begin this style at a young age, but you need to be aware of some key points. Girls who want to pitch in Little League should receive one-on-one training. Not only will this keep the children safe from arm injuries, but it will also provide a higher quality of play. If girls are not ready for this technique, do not force it. Let them ease into it by trying more basic pitching styles.

    Hard, Straight Arm

    • If you decide that the windmill technique is appropriate, ensure that the girl's pitching motion is correct and is repeated continuously. This involves using a hard, straight arm that reduces arc and increases pitch speed. Girls will sometimes bend their pitching arm, which reduces speed, in order to throw strikes. But it is best to discourage this. The proper technique for girls to deliver pitches is with a firm, straight arm.

    Adding Pitches

    • A change-up surprises hitters who are expecting a much faster pitch.

      Once Little League girls have mastered the basics of pitching, you can begin to incorporate alternate pitches to keep hitters off balance. The best pitch to do so is a change-up. A change-up features the same pitch motion and arm speed but uses a different hand grip --- frequently, a backhand grip --- that slows the ball down. The change-up is a good first pitch to learn because of its effectiveness and ease to throw. It also does not involve the wrist snap of breaking pitches --- cutting down on injuries to inexperienced pitchers.

    Overhand

    • Some girls prefer baseball, which involves an overhand pitching delivery.

      In some cases, girls choose to play in Little League baseball which is primarily made up of boys. The pitching technique is quite different in baseball, instead featuring an overhand delivery. Girls pitching in Little League baseball should be taught the same way boys are. Strengthening the arm is key to increase velocity and stamina. You will want to preach mechanics to ensure control and health. You should also make sure girls pitching in a boys' league are comfortable and stay composed. The mental side of pitching is sometimes overlooked for all children.