No doubt pitching is a very big part of the game in Fastpitch Softball. In over 37 years of coaching I have had the opportunity to coach players from 8U all the way up to one player who reached the NPF.
I think we do a good job of teaching mechanics at the younger ages, but I think we can do a better job teaching the mental side of the game. I see too many coaches and parents allow their star pitchers to prance around and act like a princess with bad body language. When I see this, I feel sorry for these pitchers. At some point this will hurt them and will put them out of favor with teammates, umpires, and coaches. Here are some situations you’ll likely come across. These are just my personal opinions.
Situation #1 The umpire has an extremely small zone.
The natural reaction is to complain about it, and make comments. Most coaches and parents would complain. This doesn’t help the pitcher. The umpires rarely change their zone. Teach the pitcher that the ump is in charge of the zone and it’s our job to find their zone. I would also try to get more chases by the other team. I would add more changeups to keep them off balance. Also teach your offense to take advantage of the small zone. Keeping them calm is much better than complaining about it.
Situation #2 The pitcher isn’t on, and is getting hit hard and the team is making errors behind her.
Most coaches and/or parents are going to point to the defense and blame them. Yes, it’s true a lot of times the defense is struggling and deserve some of the blame. However, if the pitcher is doing their job and hitting their corners and mixing speeds the ball won’t be be hit nearly as hard and they will generally have much easier time making plays. Having the pitcher look in mirror will help them be mentally tough.
Situation #3 Coach makes some questionable pitch calls and the ball gets hit hard.
Most parents are probably going to blame the coach. I personally don’t call pitches often but a few years ago I called a change-up. It got roped over the left fielders head. After the game (which we still won) I was joking with the pitcher and her dad. I said sorry about the change-up call that was a bad call on my part. The dad immediately said “NOT if she throws it where she is supposed to.” There is no surprise to me that this player was one of the most mentally tough players I have ever coached. Her parents didn’t look to give her excuses.
Situation #4 Umpire calls illegal pitch even though you’ve played 30 games and it has never been called for it.
Most parents and coaches are going to voice their concern and maybe freak out. The best thing to do is figure out why the ump is calling it illegal and calmly explain to the pitcher what she needs to change. If you freak out on the ump then she probably will get excited and now you’re making it into a big deal.
Situation #5 Shortstop drops easy pop up.
Many pitchers would roll their eyes, shake their head or maybe make a smart remark. Some would say nothing. But that TRUE LEADER is going to pick that player up and say something positive. The team will always play so much harder for a pitcher that they love playing behind. Having their backs will pay big dividends down the line.
I know having a positive attitude all the time isn’t easy but I truly think your daughter will be mentally tough if you can start working on these things at a young age. Sometimes you need to build their confidence. Try to do so without blaming others. It’s a delicate balancing act.