Colorado has become the hub of all things softball for a couple of weeks because so many players and parents are hoping to be seen by college coaches, who come out in great numbers to evaluate and find the players who will make up their future rosters.
Over the years, I’ve done dozens of recruiting seminars and have tried to share some of what I have learned with softball players and their families as they embark on this process.
There are many things that I hope these players and families will take away from these sessions but none is more important that what I call the “14 Commandments.”
What are the Commandments supposed to accomplish? To help the next wave of potential softball players avoid making the same mistakes others have made.
No. 7: Infield and outfield warm-up throws count!
When the first baseman throws a ground ball to the shortstop between innings, and she fields the ball, it’s another opportunity for the shortstop to show off her throwing ability. When the outfielders throw between each other in between innings, it’s another opportunity to show off their throwing ability.
These chances should never be wasted.
Throw, field and catch the ball like you would if this was happening during a play in the game. You’ll show all the college coaches in attendance that you’re serious about your game.
Remember, many games do not allow you that many chances to handle the ball. If your pitcher is on fire, as a position player, you get shortchanged in the recruiting process because you might not get very many balls. Use the practice throws in between innings to make the impression you want to make!
Lazy here is just as bad as lazy anywhere else on the field. It sends a very negative message to any coach that is there to see you play.
About The Author: Tory Acheson brings a wealth of knowledge to the Fastpitch Prep staff. He has coached at all levels of the game, including the last 25 years at the college level at the University of Wisconsin – Parkside, Tennessee Tech and Kennesaw State. He began his coaching career at the high school level spending 9 years Whitnall High School in Greenfield, Wisconsin and is now working as a professional softball instructor.
