Coaching fastpitch softball can be a grueling grind at times. But whether you're a pro or an amateur volunteer remember it's also an opportunity to make a difference. ctt.ac/AVq5m

For better or for worse, cheering from the dugout is often a big part of softball games. And that's fine if it's positive FOR your team. But when it turns negative and nasty you're setting a tone that can have a big impact later in life. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

There are lots of ways to demonstrate being a good teammate. But it's rare that a player who has never played catcher would volunteer to fill in at such an important position. Here's the story of a pitcher who did. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

Running up the score against an obviously weaker opponent isn't fun for anyone. It also demonstrates either a lack of awareness or a lack of class. But there are ways to continue playing while keeping the score more under control. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

A very common complaint these days, especially from "traditionalists." is that all the focus on data and statistics is ruining baseball and softball. But the reality is they can be your best friends - if you know how to use them. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

There's nothing like watching (or coaching) players with an unquenchable desire to win. But is that an intrinsic personality trait some people just have or something that can be coached? fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

While every coach and organization likes to proclaim they're "in it for the girls" we all know that's not always true. At least not for all the girls. So if you have a player or two you don't really like, here are some ideas on how to make them look bad. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

Teens in general, and teenage girls in particular, are experiencing more sadness and hopelessness than ever according to a CDC report. Softball players are not immune. That's why it's important for every coach to be prepared to deal with these issues. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

A great drop ball can be a powerful weapon in a pitcher's arsenal. It also tends to be "safer" than other movement pitches. But getting dynamic movement isn't always easy. Here's a drill that can help pitchers find the right position and release point. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

It's easy to assume that great coaches tend to believe they already know it all. But the reality is the opposite. If you want to be a great coach, one of the most important things you can do is be curious about what you don't know. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

It sure would be nice if every practice session or every private lesson resulted in a huge jump in performance. But the reality is most improvement in fastpitch softball skills is measured in inches, not miles. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

Being loose and fluid is important to maximizing athletic performance. But how do you get players who are having trouble loosening up to draw a mental picture of how they should look and feel? Two characters in the Wizard of Oz offer some handy clues. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

When performance is lagging in fastpitch softball the automatic reaction is to think players need to increase their input through things like weight training to drive up their output. But the reality is improving efficiency is the real secret sauce. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

Often times achieving success isn't a smooth road. There can be plenty of downs and disappointments no matter how much ability you have. Those who make it are the ones who find a way to keep plugging away, and who believe the goal is worth the effort. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

Ask any fastpitch coach what's in their coaching bag and they'll probably tell you things like balls, gloves, maybe some first aid materials and things like that. But the one thing they ought to be sure is in there these days is a magic wand. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

When pitchers are having trouble throwing strikes, you'll often hear well-meaning coaches yell "Just slow it down." Here's why that is not only advice generally but actually counter-productive (applies to baseball too). fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

It's always interesting to see that young player who is head and shoulders above the rest. But there may also be a lot of hidden gems out there who can be great - if given the time and opportunity to develop. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

The longer you see the ball as it comes in the better chance you have of hitting it. But how do you train hitters to make a habit of watching the ball longer? Sometimes serendipity plays a role. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…

It's important to set goals. But how often do you evaluate your goals to determine if they're still your goals? The new year presents a perfect time for fastpitch softball players, coaches, and parents to do just that. fastpitchlane.softballsucces…