Ground Ball Technique
Taking the time to understand the preliminary steps on fielding a ground ball is critical before game time. Learning these steps can protect you from getting hurt and prevent any errors in the field. The key to winning a softball games is to make these easy outs.
Preparation
Before getting down into your defensive stance, you must keep yourself moving in order to have good reaction to the ball that may be coming your way. Most softball players including myself have transitioned into the walk-in approach because it keeps you light on your feet, constantly moving, and alert. This approach is synchronized with the pitcher’s motion.
Start two steps behind you defensive position.
As the pitcher begins her motion step forward with your throwing hand side towards your defensive position, and then another step forward with your glove side.
Right after you have finish your two steps immediately get down into your defensive stance.
Stance
Having a proper stance is crucial to cleanly fielding a ground ball. This stance should be used for any defensive position in order to be ready for a hit ball.
Your feet should be shoulder width apart and staggered. Keep your weight should be on the balls of your feet
Bend your knees into a squatting position.
Your body is bent approximately 45 degrees from you knees, with your back straight.
The tip of your glove should be on the ground while your other hand is hovering over your glove to stop any bad bounced ground balls.
Tip: Your feet and glove hand should make a triangle pointed towards the catcher.
Receiving the Ball
The key on receiving the ball is to take away as many hops as possible. There is a greater chance of bad bounces the longer time the ball is on the ground. Taking away the bad hops allows you to cleanly field the ball and to provide yourself more time to make a good throw. Be aggressive, force your hands to go to the ball rather than the ball play you.
Receive the ball in front of your body and use soft hands.
Use two hands! Simultaneously, your non-glove hand should be on top of the ball.
Once the ball is in your glove, guide the ball into your stomach
Note: If the ball takes a bad bounce, your other hand should be there to stop it. Don’t worry, it will along sting for a second.
Be Fearless
I know fielding a hard hit ground ball can be scary but you cannot be afraid of it. Staying aggressive will prevent any errors and good defense will help you win the game.
Video: Isport (2012). "Youtube." Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ccta-HWnXis.