Fundamental Fastpitch

Turn a bad thing (wild pitch or passed ball) into a good thing (an out!). This is why catchers have to be athletes above all else.

The dropped third strike rule can be confusing! Make sure you know the rule and are confident in the rule so you can make good, quick decisions.

Making a tag at the plate is fairly easy when a good throw is made. A catcher's job changes a bit when a bad throw is made to the plate. Much like blocking, the focus shifts to controlling the ball and preventing runners from taking extra bases.

Catchers give up on plays at the plate too often. Give yourself extra time by putting yourself in a position to quickly make a tag on the back side of the plate.

Tag plays are fun! Practice correct footwork and timing so when the runner comes barrelling toward you, you have the confidence to stand your ground.

Bases loaded with less than 2 outs? Be greedy and go for a double play. Quick feet, an efficient transfer, and a hard throw are key.

Bases loaded situations are high stress. Look at it as an opportunity to make big outs and reset momentum in the game.

Catching a foul ball down the base lines isn't much different from catching any pop up. Move quickly, tuck your glove, use two hands. It's fundamental softball but with the difficulty turned up because of the gear we wear and the squat we're in.

Foul balls can be huge outs. They can also be some of the most difficult plays to make as a catcher. Perception of a ball hit straight up can be nearly impossible. There are things we can do to increase our chances of catching these tricky freebies.

The usual approach to bunts doesn't work as well when the ball is placed down the third base line. In order to increase efficiency, the right side of the ball should be approached. Make sure to stay in an athletic stance as you pivot to first base for the throw.