Skills, Drills, Strategy, and Tournament Play
| Month | Topic / Skill Focus | Key Activities & Goals |
|---|---|---|
| June | Introduction & Safety | History of softball, basic rules, field layout. Emphasis on safety: proper footwear, no swinging bats near others, correct glove fit. |
| July | Throwing & Catching | Mastering the fundamental overhand throw (grip, step, turn, follow-through). Two-handed catching and using the glove correctly. |
| August | Fielding Fundamentals | Ready position for fielding. Fielding ground balls (forehand and backhand). Catching fly balls with two hands above the head. |
| September | Hitting Mechanics - Part 1 | Proper grip, stance, and bat selection. "Dry swings" without a ball. Hitting from a stationary tee. |
| October | Hitting Mechanics - Part 2 | Tracking a live (but slow) pitched ball. Focus on timing and weight transfer. Soft toss drills. |
| November | Base Running | Running through first base. Proper turns at second and third. Introduction to leading off and sliding. |
| December | Game Positions | Understanding the role of each position (infield, outfield, pitcher, catcher). Basic defensive plays: force outs and tag outs. |
| January | Pitching & Catching | Basic pitching mechanics (wind-up, delivery). The catcher's role: receiving, framing, and throwing to bases. |
| February | Game Strategy | Introduction to bunting for a hit or sacrifice. Defensive strategy: cutoffs and relays, and the basics of a double play. |
| March | Tournament | Review of all skills. Organization of an intra-class tournament. Focus on sportsmanship and applying learned skills in a competitive setting. |