When you are struggling with your game. When you can’t seem to buy a hit. When it seems like every other pitch you throw is getting crushed. You are a mess and your game is bringing you more sorrow than happiness.
There is an old saying that goes something like, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”.
Now this is great advice, but when you are really in a slump it is very difficult to even know how to make something positive out of the negativity you are experiencing. You just don’t know where to start and you are afraid that this funk is never going to end.
When in doubt…work!
Work on what? You might ask. Well, sometimes it doesn’t matter what you work on as much as the fact that you are working on anything. Too many players turn a setback into something much bigger than it really is.
Most problems with your game can be traced back to very simple, very fundamental issues. And even though many players want to put their heads in the hands, the truth is they often know the answers to their problems.
If something feels wrong, try something to make it feel better! If you feel off-balance, work on your footwork and foundation. If you feel weak work on your foundation and your load. If the ball seems to be getting to you too fast to react, work on getting your front foot down earlier.
Rocket science? Not even close. Work on something, if it makes you feel better then you are already on the right path. If that something doesn’t solve your issue, you know that wasn’t the answer and you can try something else. You still took a step in the right direction.
If you don’t work you don’t take any steps.
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, Wis. and is now working as a professional softball instructor.
