Good Softball Drills

Softball is a derivative of baseball played with a larger, softer ball. Played on a smaller field with an underhand pitch, softball is popularly played by men and women. Just like in baseball, there are drills to improve fundamental softball fielding skills, such as throwing and pitching.

  1. Throwing Drill

    • Twenty-one is a softball throwing drill to improve accuracy. All players pair up and stand 60 feet apart. The thrower aims at the head, chest or waist of the receiver. The thrower throws the ball to the receiver. If the receiver can catch the ball without moving her feet, they get a point. The players take turns until a player reaches 21. A player must win by two points.

    Line Drive Drill

    • This drill helps players work on fielding line drives. Players stand 40 feet out in the field in a single file. Hit line drives to the players using a tennis ball and racket. Each player attempts to catch three in a row. By using a tennis ball, getting in front of a line drive is not as scary. Plus it is necessary to squeeze the ball tighter in the glove.

    Diving Drill

    • Performing a diving drill gives players confidence to dive for balls. Have the kids stand in single file. The first player in line starts on her knees. Bounce the ball to the player on her right side, so she has to dive for the ball. She must then immediately stand up and throw the ball back. Practice several times to the left, then have her practice diving to the right. This drill eliminates fear of injury and teaches a quick transition to the throwing position.

    Team Infield Drills

    • Have players work with a partner to learn infield fundamentals. Roll the softball back and forth to each other with each person staying in the crouching position. Progress to rolling the ball back and forth starting from the standing position. Next, roll the ball back and forth, except circle the ball from the left and right.

    Team Outfield Drills

    • Outfield drills are also improved by drill repetition. Begin with one group of players in left field, another in center and another in right field. Two players stand at second base. From home plate, hit balls out to the fielders with specific play instructions. For example, hit a hard ground ball and have the player crouch down, block the ball and throw to second. Change the instructions so players receive practice on fielding the ball.