Throw Softball

How to Set It Up

• Set up Catch:
  Have players play catch in pairs.
• Stop one pair at a time:
  Test players in pairs using the ball they are catching with.
  

How to Run the Drill

• Check glove stamp:
  Inspect the size etched on the palm or thumb
  • 6U: 8-10.5 inches
  • 8U: 10.5-12 inches
  • 10U: 11-12 inches
• Verify hand fit:
  Ensure finger tips reach near the top of the stalls without forcing the wrist out of the back opening.
• Perform squeeze test:
  Place a ball in the pocket and have the player open and close the glove five times.
  Ask if it is easy or a struggle, look to see if the glove wraps the ball.
• Perform shake test:
  Have the player turn the glove upside down with a ball inside to test pocket retention.
• Run catch test:
  Toss three soft underhand balls from six feet away to observe if the glove stays firm on impact.

Coaching Tips

• Monitor finger placement:
  Ensure the player is not slipping their wrist out of the glove when squeezing the pocket shut.
• Adjust wrist straps:
  Tighten velcro straps so the heel of the glove stays snug against the wrist.

Talking to Parents

• Break in Gloves:
  Some gloves are stiff, ask them to store a ball in the glove in between practices.
• Avoid growth purchasing:
  Advise parents against buying oversized gloves for players to grow into over future seasons.
• Recommend game-ready leather:
  Suggest soft leather or broke-in synthetic materials instead of stiff, heavy leather.