What Are the Basic Skills of Softball?
The basic skills of softball are hitting, throwing, catching, fielding and base running. Players with these skills can operate well in both offense and defense.
Softball is a team sport similar to baseball but played on a smaller field. Softball players need to have basic skills that allow them to hit, throw, catch and field a ball, as well as the ability to move from one base to another, according to Softball New South Wales.
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Hitting
In order to hit a ball well, a batsman needs to have good hand-eye coordination and be capable of responding quickly. Once players develop these skills, they can begin to choose the area that they want the ball to land to avoid the fielders.
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Throwing
Underarm pitching is mandatory in softball, but players still need to be capable of throwing the ball with speed and accuracy. This helps to prevent the opposing team from scoring runs.
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Catching
Catching is an important defensive skill. Fielders can get a batsman out by catching the ball, provided it does not bounce first.
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Fielding
Good fielders support the pitcher and respond quickly whether the ball comes to them from the air or rolling along the ground. They need to have an idea of what their next move is after getting the ball, for example, knowing exactly which base to throw the ball to in order to get the batsman out.
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Moving between bases
Moving between bases swiftly is the only way the team can score runs. As the batsman moves, he or she needs to be aware of what else is going on in the game and the location of the other team’s fielders.
