Catchers, make a pact with yourself. If you’re going to be an effective catcher, a promise to follow these commandments is necessary:
I, __________________________________ Promise myself, my pitcher, my teammates and my coaches to abide by these commandments every time I strap on my gear.
1. I WILL BE SELFLESS!
This position is not about me. It is about making my pitcher feel and perform her best. It is about leading my defense and my team to victory! It is about being vocal and confident in my team and their abilities!
2. I WILL HAVE A HIGH PAIN THRESHOLD!
No matter how many balls in the dirt hit my arms or legs. No matter how many fouls ball I take off my mask. No matter how many times I get run over by a runner. No matter how many times I dive for a ball. I WILL NEVER LET MY TEAM SEE THAT I AM HURT! I am their backbone, their leader and their captain.
3. I WILL KNOW EVERY SITUATION!
My defense will know where to throw the ball in every situation. I will be vocal and confident and prepare them for the next play.
4. I WILL KNOW THE LINEUP!
I will be sure that my pitcher and my defense are aware of the types of hitters they face, their strengths, weaknesses and tendencies. I will insure that they are positioned to increase our likelihood for success on every play.
5. I WILL NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO TOUCH HOME (without a fight)!
I will block the plate each and every chance I get! No runner will reach home safely while I’m behind the plate. I will sacrifice my body for the team and the out.
6. I WILL BE SELECTIVELY AGGRESSIVE!
I will keep runners at bay on the bases. I will throw when they become too aggressive and try to take a base. I will not make a throw in an unnecessary situation.
7. I WILL BE CONFIDENT IN MYSELF AND MY TEAM!
I will always speak words of positivity! I only speak words of encouragement. Most importantly, I will always be there for my pitcher, my team and my coaches.
About the Author: Claudia Cooper,played at North Carolina State from 2006–10. She had the second highest OBP for the Wolfpack during her Junior season and rounded out that year with a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage. After graduation, she spent the 2010–11 season as a student assistant at her alma mater. Since leaving NC State, Coop has been a staff instructor at Elite Training Academy, coaching individuals, small groups and teams. Book her here.
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