The most useful softball fielding tips for young players are simple: get into a low, ready position before every pitch, move your feet to the ball, field it out in front with the glove open, bring it to the middle of your body, and throw to a clear target. Master those basics and the rest of fielding gets much easier.
Defence is a regular part of our softball lessons for young players, and many families combine fielding with hitting in the same session.
Start with the ready position
Good fielding starts before the ball is hit. As the pitch is delivered, the fielder should be in an athletic stance: feet a little wider than the shoulders, knees bent, weight on the balls of the feet and the glove out in front. From there, the player can move quickly in any direction. A player standing straight up with the glove at her side is already a step behind.
The 6 F’s of a great infielder
Coach Cinz teaches fielding through a simple framework called the 6 F’s. It works for young softball players just as well as for baseball players.
- Feet. Move the feet first. Good fielders get their bodies in front of the ball instead of reaching.
- Field. Get low with the glove open and out in front, so the ball can be seen into the glove.
- Funnel. Bring the ball and glove to the middle of the body, toward the belly button, to secure it and start the throw.
- Footwork. Step toward the target to line the body up for an accurate throw.
- Fire. Make a strong, controlled throw to the chest of the receiver.
- Follow. Follow the throw toward the target and stay ready for the next play.
Simple fielding drills for young players
Rolled ground balls
A parent or coach kneels a short distance away and rolls ground balls. The player works on the ready position, moving the feet and fielding out in front. Keep it slow at first and use a softer training ball for younger players who are still building confidence.
Wall ball
Throwing a ball against a sturdy wall and fielding the rebound builds quick hands and footwork. Change the distance and speed to make it harder as the player improves.
Glove-side and backhand rolls
Once the player can field balls hit right at them, roll balls to each side. Teach them to move the feet first and only reach when there is no time to get in front.
Field-and-throw to a target
Put a target on a net or have a partner hold up a glove. The player fields a roll, funnels, steps and throws. This connects all 6 F’s into one smooth movement.
Common mistakes and quick fixes
- Glove starts on the ground. A glove that is already on the dirt cannot move. Start it out in front and let it drop to the ball.
- Fielding off to the side. Remind the player to move the feet and get the body behind the ball whenever possible.
- Rushing the throw. Secure the ball first. A clean catch and a slightly slower throw beats a rushed error.
- Fear of the ball. Use softer balls and slower rolls until confidence grows. Confidence is part of the game, and it takes patience to build.
How to build a short practice routine
Ten to fifteen minutes of focused fielding a few times a week is plenty for most young players. Start with a quick warm-up and easy catch, then move through rolled ground balls, side-to-side rolls and field-and-throw reps. Finish with a fun challenge, such as counting clean plays in a row, so practice ends on a confident note. Short, regular sessions build habits faster than one long practice.
Take care of the throwing arm
Young players should warm up before throwing and build throwing volume gradually. If the arm is sore, rest it. For any pain or injury, see a doctor or athletic trainer before throwing again.
Balance defence with offence
Most young players want to work on hitting too. Our softball hitting drills for beginners pair well with this fielding plan, and players who also play baseball should read about the fastpitch vs baseball swing. For more on defence from the baseball side, see our fielding and infield training page.
Ready to build a better glove?
Learn more about our softball lessons in Naperville and the western suburbs, or start the free Benchmark Process so we can build a plan around your player’s goals.
