volume 8:2013 Fueled MOUTH COACH’S FROM THE STRAIGHT RECRUIT TOP by Passion NFCA’s campmagazine YOUR WORDS DO YOURACTINS FOR TRYOUTS TUNE P PARENTS TIPS F OR BACK UP 12 QUIZ: ?

Media Relations, Wisconsin Media Relations, SalisburySID(p.24). Photos Courtesyof: Dina Kwit/D Kwit Photography (cover, p.39,41);NCSA Athletic Recruiting(p. 13) ;Mattie Fowler(p.22);SaltLake CCSID,OU SUMMER 2013 20 Are yourparents costing youchances? 12tips 18 Whattoworkon...Tipsstraight from the peoplewho matter 17 EarlystartThe process isstarting earlier, sobeready 16 Lights, camera, action! Tipsfor abetter skillsvideo 14 No idea where tostart?Followthisroadmap 13 Tired of the madness Recruiting’s getting easier 35 Headed off inAugust? Make sure you’re physically ready 32 Nervous aboutmaking the team?Tune upfor tryouts 30 Thinkyouknow yourABCs?Doesn’tmatter -youneed DEFs 38 The Hate of Losing CaitlinLowe’spassion for the game 37 What’sinitfor you?Awards! 29 Mind Muscle Memory You’ve got tobestrong mentally 11 Don’tbethatwrinkledoldlady Tipstobeatthe sun 10 Doubleheader DayTipstokeep youenergized 9 Sore Shoulder? We canhelp 26 They Should Know FourUpperclassmen want youtobeready 24 IfIHad OnlyKnown... Fourcollege freshmen share 22 AllinaDay’sWork 24Hours of Pictures 45 Word Find Test yourquickness 7 Technology Top 10Twitter feedsyouneed tobefollowing 4 QuizDoyouractions backupyourwords? THE MENTALGA COLLEGE LIF INSTRUCTION RECRUITING PLAYERS Extras HEALTH NFCA

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Top Recruit Top information, contact the NFCAat502.409.4600 ornfca.org VOLUME 8:2013 MOUTH COACH’S FROM THE STRAIGHT Fueled

RECRUIT Caitlin Lowe

TOP by goals of playing college Make sure youractions are inline withyour QUIZ: DOYOUR ACTIONS BACK UPYOUR WORDS? TUNE UPFORTRYOUTS Her loveof the game isinspiring CAITLIN LOWE–FUELEDBY PASSION looking tomake the team Learn whatcoaches are looking for whileyou’re working oneveryday Position byposition, whatyoushould be STRAIGHT FROMTHECOACH’S MOUTH next step Don’t letyourparents get inthe wayof your 12 TIPSFORPARENTS ispublished yearlyfor NFCAmembers and their camps. Formore Passion contents on thecover NFCA’s campmagazine YOUR WORDS DO YOURACTIONS FOR TRYOUTS TUNE UP PARENTS TIPS FOR BACK UP 12 QUIZ: ? Do your your actions backUP words? You say you want to play college softball. But are you doing the right things to get you there? Making sure your priorities and actions are in line to lead you in the right direction is important. Take this quiz to find out how you are doing. by jamie hazel, nfca

1 My team is very competitive and is on a seven-game winning 6 I am about to step in the batter’s box in the first game of streak. We are in pre-game warm-up for an obviously weaker the state tournament. My teammate is on second; there are no opponent. My concentration is on: outs in a tied game. The opposing is throwing meatballs. a Friends in the stands My coach gives me the sacrifice bunt sign. I: b Preparing myself for competition A Pop up the bunt and walk off the field c Fulfilling my responsibilities as a team leader B Intentionally miss two bunts so that I will get the sign d Watching my teammates as they goof off during warm-ups C Enthusiastically attempt the bunt D Don’t even look at the coach in this situation 2 I am a high school junior who plays on a competitive travel ball team. I want to attend college and play softball, but need a 7 I have played ball every summer since the eighth grade and scholarship to make college affordable. I: am now a junior. My friends suggest that I am missing out on A Send letters with a softball resume to 20 of my target colleges lots of fun by choosing to play summer ball. I: B Think that if it is meant to be, the coach will find me A Decide to play recreational ball so that I can stay home and C Concentrate on showcasing my skills on the field and hope to be available to party with them be spotted B Understand that showcasing my softball skills this summer is D Send a letter to the only school I will consider playing for crucial so I will forego some fun with friends to help ensure a college softball opportunity C Choose not to play ball at all so that I can have a fun-filled 3 After sending my recruiting letters, I: summer with no distractions A Use call screening and don’t answer coaches’ calls because D Continue to play on a travel ball team, but choose one that they intimidate me doesn’t travel so often B Assume the responsibility of calling all schools on my list C Talk to coaches when they call me 8 My best practice includes: D Ask my mother to make follow-up calls for me A More water breaks than practice B One that focuses on what I need to improve on 4 Since attending a four-year college is a priority, I: C A mix of team situations and fundamentals A Work to maintain a B average D Three hours of team practice plus an extra two hours of B Worry about college later individual work C Continually work to improve my B’s, do volunteer work and accept leadership roles in clubs 9 I am usually in the starting line-up. When d Make sure that I maintain a C average not starting, I: A Ask my mom to get me a coke from the 5 My statistics support the fact that I am the best player on concession stand the team. My primary concern during the season is: B Cry A Having fun C Give my teammates the silent treatment B Keeping my batting average above .400 D Assist my team in any way that I can C Winning D Receiving individual awards that will highlight my skills QUIZ your extras words? 10 I have been hanging out with some friends who are not as serious about attending college as I am. I can tell that their influence is beginning to change my Score Yourself focus, study habits and time management skills. I will: A Continue to hang out with them because we have fun 1 a=1 b=3 c=4 d=2 7 a=2 b=4 c=1 d=3 together 2 a=4 b=1 c=3 d=2 8 a=1 b=2 c=4 d=3 B Say no to invitations when I know I should be 3 a=1 b=4 c=3 d=2 9 a=1 b=2 c=3 d=4 concentrating on other priorities 4 a=3 b=1 c=4 d=2 10 a=1 b=3 c=2 d=4 5 a=1 b=2 c=4 d=3 11 a=3 b=4 c=1 d=2 C Hang out with them but will try to get home early 6 a=3 b=2 c=4 d=1 12 a=4 b=1 c=2 d=3 D Find other friends that share my focus and goals 12 to 20 Points 11 I have practice at 4PM when school is out at 3PM. Out of Whack! What is the first thing I do: You need to take a serious look at the choices you are A Get ready for practice while talking to my teammates making and decide where you want your life to go from here. You tend to choose the easiest path, regardless of B Work on my homework in the spare time before the consequences. Your selfishness will cost you in the practice future if you do not change your ways soon. C Veg out in front of the TV and eat junk food D Call my friends to gossip about the day 21 to 29 Points ON THE BORDER 12 I have a term paper due in one week. The paper While it seems you do have your future in mind, you are requires research that I just have not done because of a easily strayed off of the path. When it comes to doing bad habit of procrastination. I will: the right thing, more often than not you take the easy A Put in the extra hours to get it done route. It is time to get your priorities in order and begin to think about your future as well as how your actions B Find and copy a paper from the internet and hope I impact others. am not caught C Turn in a poor paper without doing the required research 30 to 40 Points D Ask my grown sister for a little help on the Getting there It is obvious that you try to do the right thing research and buckle down to write the paper most of the time, but there are instances when your priorities are mixed up. Continue to look ahead to the promising future that you are building, and remember to always keep others in mind when making decisions that impact your life. 40 to 48 Points RIGHT ON TARGET You have a good idea of where you are trying to go in life, and that is reflected in your choices. You know how important each of the decisions you make on and off the field are when it comes to your future. Make sure you don’t get too caught up in perfection though; take time to enjoy your social life now.

top recruit 5 ®

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“WITHOUT A DOUBT, THE BEST TRAINING TOOL 4 I HAVE EVER USED.” 5 SARAH PAULY FOUR TIME ALL-PRO PITCHER 6 7

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@NFCAorg The National Fastpitch Coaches 3 Association is the premier professional growth 1 organization for fastpitch softball coaches. @ProFastpitch (NPF) 2 is the only professional women’s fastpitch softball league in the U.S. 4 @ASAUSASoftball Founded in 1933, the Amateur Softball Association is the U.S. 3 National Governing Body of softball. USA Softball is a brand that links the USA national 5 teams. “WITHOUT A DOUBT, @CollSoftball360 College softball coverage (recent initial website launch) ... affiliated THE BEST TRAINING TOOL 4 with CollegeBaseball360 and other 360 college sports sites (founder – Pete LaFleur). 6 I HAVE EVER USED.” @NCAASoftball The official NCAA Softball 5 Twitter account covering all things #d1softball. SARAH PAULY Follow us on the road to the WCWS! 7 @thesoftballnews Be forewarned, we tweet FOUR TIME ALL-PRO PITCHER a LOT about all things softball: fastpitch, 6 slowpitch, tourneys, stats, schedules, news! @softballscoresn SoftballScoresNow.com is 8 7 your exclusive home for wall-to-wall coverage of Division I softball @FastpitchTV Videos, podcasts, blogs, 8 magazines, and other tools for fastpitch softball. 9 @PlayBall2020 Official Twitter Account of the 9 World Baseball Softball Confederation bid for the 2020 @cindybristow Owner of Softball Excellence, 10 10 the premier online education site for the softball coach, player & parent. EXTRAS top recruit 7

Health

A proper warm-up cannot be overlooked for all positions. It is never a good idea to throw hard, fast or far without This is something so simple and yet warming up first. This does not have to be a lengthy often overlooked, especially with process, but it should take at least 15 minutes. field players. Ice is a vasoconstrictor; this means it helps decrease inflammation in the area that is often associated with soreness and helps the body to both flush the area and to recover faster. For best results, ice as soon as possible after activity (in less than an hour’s time) and for 20 minutes. If you are returning to throwing/practice and a coach is fine-tuning your throw to use a proper grip, release point or any number of other things, you may experience shoulder soreness that you have never had before. This is okay! In the long it is much better to utilize the correct throwing mechanics so as not to injure yourself in If soreness becomes pain, chronic, pinpoint or the future. progressive in nature, stop throwing! Refer to your Sports Medicine Doctor/PT/AT for a diagnosis and treatment.

The easiest step is to progress into throwing, don’t go out on the field for the first practice and pick up where you left off from the previous season, that is These have become a major part of if you have not continued to throw on a weekly basis rehabilitation/maintenance programs for since your last competition. You will need to condition athletes with a variety of shoulder conditions. your shoulder to get back into “throwing shape.” This They involve an assortment of exercises that means start with a set number of throws during your increase the strength in your shoulder and first practice and continually increase that number. If help build proper mechanics for throwing. you do choose to take significant time off from softball/ Consult your Sports Medicine team before throwing altogether, it is important to continue with getting started as proper technique is key for activities that maintain your shoulder strength; rowing, these exercises. swimming or land paddling are excellent ways to keep up your strength.

top recruit 9 Staying by Steve Hartman, s&C coach, Bellarmine Univ. Early preparation is essential to maximizing the potential of an athlete. Softball, for energized instance, has many demands on the athlete at each position. Typically, teams between games play multiple games each day and the greatest danger that comes with this is incomplete recovery. This can result in becoming glycogen depleted, which before increases fatigue in the body. Once When it comes to playing multiple games fatigue sets in, the body is unable to react in one day, the key is to plan ahead. Break down your day into segments quickly for a play and mental capacity is and think about what your body will decreased. So what is the most effective need before competition, during, and and efficient way to avoid this and stay after the games are over. To start energized between games? There is no off, fuel your body up with a protein secret formula, but there are a few steps (eggs, chicken, yogurt, turkey, etc.) and carbohydrate-rich (oatmeal, wheat that you can take to give yourself the bread, etc.) breakfast paired with water. inside edge against your competition. These are some of the most nutrient A long day of playing 3-5 games can dense foods on the planet, loaded with surely fatigue you, but by following vitamins and minerals. This will help these guidelines they can help you stay repair muscles and restore glycogen levels. The complex carbohydrates are competitive throughout the day and also high in fiber which causes them to maximize your performance. Take full be released at a slower rate, resulting in advantage of breaks between games sustained energy. Adding water into your and your body will preserve the energy it system from the start will decrease the needs to keep you in the game! chances of dehydration. after Once the game has ended, your work isn’t done. Eat during immediately following each game. Breaks are the best During your game, you’ll need to continue the time to regenerate and refuel your body. You want to get previous steps listed. With a long day ahead of you, nutrients into your system, but you don’t want to eat refueling with food and drinking water regularly is anything that will make you feel sluggish or bloated. essential. Bring a cooler full of power bars, fresh Softball requires you to be diving, sliding, and running fruit (apples, bananas, watermelon, oranges, etc.) around for an extended period of time. The last thing your favorite sports drink (Gatorade, Powerade, etc.) you want to do is put something heavy into your body. and plenty of water. You never want to get into A recovery drink or sports drink is much better for you the “I’m thirsty” stage. As soon as your body starts at this time than one that is high in carbonation and telling you it is thirsty, you are already showing sugar, like soda. Don’t reach for the processed foods at signs of dehydration. This is what contributes to concession stands. Replace a pizza or cheeseburger with reduced energy levels. The body is about two-thirds some yogurt, fruit, or a sandwich. Have real food readily water, give it what it needs! As you play the game available to you for the long lasting energy sources you’ll you will start to sweat and expend calories. Drink need as an athlete. As mentioned previously, bringing a water and snack regularly to keep up with the cooler with you will help accomplish this. calories you’re burning off while playing.

HEALTH our BEST FRIEND You should always use at Sunscreen is y least SPF 30 sunscreen when spending all day on the ball field. Even on cloudy overcast days, the UV Rays will burn you.

Visors and Eyewear Not only do they shade the sun but also provide protection on your face. Nobody wants wrinkles. • I can’t get burned on cloudy days. • Lip-gloss provides the same Y sunscreen Playing softball in the high heat causes protection as sunscreen? RE-APPL The higher SPF I apply, athletes to sweat. By reapplying sunscreen, you limit UV ray • the less times I have to reapply. exposure to your sun-exposed areas. our PUCKER Lip cancer is • Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the . tect y More than 76,000 people are diagnosed each year with How about SLEEVES Certain companies like Under •

Pro melanoma, the deadliest forms of skin cancer. 1F, 2F, 3F, 4T, 5T 4T, 3F, 2F, 1F, Armour make specialized gear for the heat.on Trythe riseHeat for Gear!women, protect your lips with SPF chapstick. See answers bottom left of this page top recruit 11

Interested In Playing Softball In College? Want College Coaches To See You In Action? NEXT YEAR, HAVE YOUR TEAM ATTEND The BUCKEYE SHOWDOWN RECRUITFEST Columbus, Ohio July 11-13, 2O14 • Largest Recruiting Tournament East of the Mississippi • Preceded by an Administered NFCA CAMP • Over 200 Teams At 14U, 16U and 18U • All Star Games Immediately Following NFCA Camp • Over 120 College Coaches in Attendance in 2012 • Top Recruit Tournament Format • Over 15 States and Canada Represented in Teams • Skills Demonstrations Before Each Pool Game • All Games At One Complex - The Largest Softball • Scrimmage Games Available Before the Tournament Complex in the United States with 31 Fields • “University Athlete” Available for College Coaches • Recruiting Bibs for All Eligible Student-Athletes

For More Information: www.FastpitchShowdowns.com 2013 NATIONAL PRO FASTPITCH BROADCAST PACKAGE

June 10 5:35 p.m. NY/NJ Comets at USSSA Pride June 10 8:35 p.m. NY/NJ Comets at USSSA Pride June 15 2:30 p.m. at USSSA Pride (CST) June 15 5:30 p.m. Akron Racers at USSSA Pride (CST) June 29 1:00 p.m. at Akron Racers June 29 8:00 p.m. Chicago Bandits at Akron Racers June 29 5:35 p.m. NY/NJ Comets at USSSA Pride June 29 8:35 p.m. NY/NJ Comets at USSSA Pride July 20 2:00 p.m. USSSA Pride at NY/NJ Comets July 21 3:00 p.m. USSSA Pride at NY/NJ Comets July 25 5:35 p.m. Akron Racers at USSSA Pride July 25 8:35 p.m. Akron Racers at USSSA Pride July 30 5:35 p.m. Chicago Bandits at USSSA Pride July 30 8:35 p.m. Chicago Bandits at USSSA Pride August 23 5:00 p.m. NPF Championship Series August 24 5:00 p.m. NPF Championship Series

All times are EST (Eastern Standard Times)

Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and Pintrest. The Recruiting Process is about to get recruiting etc., along with contact information on the person or group that did the testing. In the future, the plan is to have free combines around the country where these measurables can EASIER be taken by NFCA-certified combine operators. This fall, the NFCA and NCSA Athletic Recruiting will launch In addition, education will be a key element offered in the a new mobile phone application to make it easier for future free app. The NCSA and NFCA, in their recruit-education collegiate players to get their information to college coaches. partnership, are both providing great educational pieces And, it’s free! for softball players from middle school-age through high school. The recruiting process is ever-changing, and this app The new technology was heavily influenced by college coaches will help recruits and their parents stay ahead of the game. and provides a user-friendly platform for recruits to enter their Olympian Jessica Mendoza, All-American Garland Cooper and information. College coaches will have access to it and will Hall of Fame Coach Sue Enquist are just some of the experts be able to track players they are interested in. In addition, that provide advice for the future college player. coaches will have access to player tournament information, including game times and locations. To download the app, visit the Recruits will also be able to add video free of charge, as well as NFCA web site in September 2013 — “softball measurables,” such as running speed, throwing speed, nfca.org — and make it easy for college coaches to find you!

A player PROFILE 

Educational CONTENT 

top recruit 13 BY CATHI ARADI FINALLY... AUTHOR, PREPARING TO PLAY A ROAD MAP SOFTBALL AT THE COLLEGIATE LEVEL DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START MAKING YOUR DREAMS OF PLAYING COLLEGE BALL A REALITY? YOU DO NOW...

Freshman Year 1 Get a copy of the NCAA’s Guide for the College Bound Student- Athlete.* 2 Plan your academic course load so that you’re taking required NCAA core courses. This will include at least 2-3 years of math; 4 years of English; Science/Lab Science; History/Government; Language; and so on. 3 Play the most competitive travel ball you can. 4 Whenever you have the opportunity, visit college campuses to see what the collegiate experience is all about. 5 Optional: Attend college camps or clinics. *If you graduate in 2016 or beyond, you will need to be prepared to meet the new NCAA Div. I Initial Eligibility Standards. See my book (below) or www. eligibilitycenter.org/ for more information.

SOPHOMORE Year 1 Continue to take the required NCAA core courses. 2 Track your core course GPA to ensure you are getting the very best grades you can! 3 Review the NCAA’s Guide for the College Bound Student Athlete to be sure you understand what recruiting guidelines apply to you. 4 Continue to play competitive travel ball. 5 Begin to research schools and teams to find out what sort of collegiate experience will be right for you. 6 Consider purchasing a copy of Preparing to Play Softball at the Collegiate Level from the National Fastpitch Coaches Association. 7 Begin taking unofficial visits to colleges. 8 Optional: Attend college camps or clinics. 9 ELITE PLAYERS: Make a skills video and upload it to YouTube. Put together introductory packets to send to college coaches. Target all sorts of teams, not just the big name programs. Plan on writing at least 30 to 40 colleges.** 10 ALL PLAYERS: Consider sending out introductory postcards with your grad year, contact information, travel team and upcoming travel ball schedule.

To purchase Aradi’s book, Preparing to Play Softball at the Collegiate Level, go to nfca.org/index.php/store RECRUITING junior Year 1 Continue to take the required NCAA core courses. 2 Track your core course GPA to ensure you are getting the very best grades you can! 3 Review the NCAA’s Guide for the College Bound Student-Athlete to be sure you understand what recruiting guidelines apply to you. 4 Continue to play competitive travel ball. 5 Register with the NCAA and the NAIA Eligibility Centers. 6 Schedule and take the SAT and ACT at least once. 7 Make a skills video or update your existing video and upload it to YouTube. 8 Put together introductory packets (or updates) to send to college coaches. Target all sorts of teams, not just the big name programs. Plan on writing at least 40 to 50 colleges. 9 Begin taking unofficial visits to colleges.

SENIOR Year 1 Continue to take the required NCAA core courses. 2 Track your core course GPA to ensure you are getting the very best grades you can! 3 Review the NCAA’s Guide for the College Bound Student- Athlete to be sure you understand what recruiting guidelines apply to you. 4 Take the SAT and ACT again at least once. 5 Check with the NCAA and the NAIA Eligibility Centers to make sure your certification is current. 6 Continue to play competitive travel ball. 7 Follow up (by phone) with schools you’ve contacted or who have contacted you. 8 Begin/continue taking visits to colleges, particularly the schools that are recruiting you. 9 Begin applying to colleges. 10 Make sure your parents apply for financial aid in January by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

**Recruiting timelines vary tremendously from Division I to Division III and NAIA schools. NCAA eligibilitycenter.org Since 75 percent of all players will compete at the NCAA Division II, Division III or NAIA level, keep in mind that while coaches at Top 25 Division I schools may be scouting freshmen and NAIA playnaia.org sophomores, (as well as juniors), the majority of college coaches are more likely to be focusing NJCAA njcaa.org on juniors and seniors. For most athletes, this process is a marathon, not a sprint, and you may FAFSA fafsa.ed.gov have to continue to contact coaches into the fall or even the winter of your senior year. By stay- ing on track from the beginning to end of your high school career, you will hopefully find the NFCA nfca.org school that can offer you the collegiate experience you’ve been dreaming of! top recruit 15 lights! Camera! action! tips for making a successful skills video... by Cathi Aradi

Almost all college coaches agree that a good skills video is a very important recruiting tool. Many coaches will want to see your video before they’ll make an effort to watch you play in person or consider you a serious candidate for their teams. Chapter Six of my book, Preparing to Play Softball at the Collegiate Level, provides an in-depth description of how to plan and shoot your skills video. But here are a few quick tips to ensure it shows you at your best!

PLAN AHEAD EDIT ON PAPER BEFORE YOU EDIT FOR REAL Read my book and learn what you need to include for your specific Go through your raw footage several times, keeping in mind that your position(s). Test your equipment in advance, makes sure the field will finished product should be no more than 5-8 minutes long. Your finished be in playing condition, and arrange to have teammates or friends come product should show 2-3 reps of each element of fielding, 5-6 reps of each out and help. pitch, 7-10 reps of hitting, so look for “groups” of shots that will work. You ALLOW PLENTY OF TIME don’t need 7 perfect swings or pitches in a row. But you also don’t want to Don’t try to shoot your video after a team practice or late in the day when have single shots of everything. Lay out your finished product on paper, you’re tired and the sun is setting. If you need to film in increments over so that when you or an editor put it all together, it will flow smoothly. two or three days, that’s fine. You want to look refreshed and happy to be FINISHING TOUCHES there, not exhausted and in a hurry to go home. Whether or not you use music is your call. (Personally, I prefer ambient TRACK WHAT YOU SHOOT AS YOU GO noise like the bat hitting the ball and the ball hitting the glove. But if If possible, have someone take notes of what you shoot as you film. If you don’t use music, be sure the people around you stay quiet when you’re you’re shooting hitting, for example, once you have a total of 8-10 good filming. It’s okay to use editing techniques such as dissolves, slow motion, swings from the side view and 8-10 good hits from the rear view, you and freeze frames, but a successful video isn’t dependent on these things. can stop and move onto the next component. Since you’ll be editing out Unless you’re a Hollywood whiz kid, you can’t hide mechanics or create missed balls or weak hits, you might end up hitting 20 or 25 balls in order spin on a pitch or bat speed that doesn’t exist. (Note: I don’t care for to get the combination you want—e.g., 2 good hits, then 3 good hits, split screen videos because I’ve never mastered the art of watching two then 2 good hits, then 2 more great hits for a total of 9 hits. (The same things at once and being able to focus on them both.) thing applies to fielding.) UPLOAD THE FINISHED PRODUCT TO THE WEB PLAN YOUR INTRODUCTION For the most part, videos posted on YouTube have replaced DVD’s (although It’s always nice to include an on-camera introduction. You can shoot this you may still find a coach here and there who requests you send a DVD.) before or after the rest of your video, and it doesn’t have to be done at Internet posting of your video is free, and it eliminates both reproduction the ball field. However, you do want to write out a script and practice and mailing costs. Coaches can simply go to YouTube and search for your what you’re going to say. Too many players mumble awkwardly, look name. Here are a few things to remember, however. uncomfortable, and speak too quickly and/or too quietly. Remember, you’re Don’t include your address on your video. Email and/or phone should supposed to want to play in college! Smile and show that you are happy • be enough. to be doing this. Do as many takes as you need to get it right. While you want to send coaches your direct video link, it’s also a good SHOWCASE YOUR SKILLS • idea to “walk” them through the process of finding it. For example, you My book identifies specific shots to include, but essentially you want to might type the link onto your resume and then add, “Or you can go to provide several examples of all aspects of your position. So would www..com and search for Mary Jones – Softball Skills Video.” do several repetitions of each pitch they throw, ideally shot from both Once your college search is completed, take down your skills video. behind the catcher and behind the pitcher. Catchers would catch various • Otherwise, it may be out there for your kids to find ten or fifteen years types of pitches and show throws to all bases as well as how they field from now. pop ups and bunts. Infielders would show several examples of fielding at FINAL THOUGHTS their position as well as demonstrating their range, turning plays, Editing forgives mistakes, dead time, balls in the dirt, and the 10 minutes showing bunt coverage, and so on. Outfielders need to catch fly balls, your dad spent screaming in pain after you nailed him in the shin with a ground balls and line drives and show how they move to each side as line drive. But editing cannot put a smile on your face, nor can it make well as back and forward. A few throws from the outfield to home plate you hustle or show coaches how much this game means to you. That has are always a good idea too! Here is a small, but important tip for when to come from within. If I could give you one piece of advice on how to filming hitting from behind the batter. Don’t have the players helping make your video stick with a coach long after he turns off the computer, you anywhere in sight. Let them take a break while you hit a bucket of it would be to play with 100 percent of your heart. If you can’t enjoy balls. They can retrieve the balls after the hitting session is complete. Let making your video as much you would playing in the big game, maybe coaches see how you drive the ball through the infield or into the outfield you should wait and do it on another day. Or maybe you don’t really want without the distraction of players running down balls! to be doing this at all. Remember, your love of the game should be your best marketing tool! RECRUITING The Process Starts EARLY. Find THE RIGHT FIT by Andrew Phillips, NFCA Every year, thousands of high school player playing softball has an softball players enter the recruiting opportunity to go on and play process looking to earn the right to play at the next level. It’s about softball at the next level. But how do you finding a level of play that know what coaches to contact or what matches your skill set and schools will be interested in you? Are athletic ability.” you a Division I caliber player? Should Drohan recommends you look at NAIA, Division II or III, or that players be consider a junior college first? straightforward with their “The recruiting process is all about athletic and academic abilities. It’s The recruiting process can and should finding the right fit for the prospective important for student-athletes to reach be a positive experience for student- recruit,” Northwestern University head out to coaches at the different camps athletes looking to continue their softball coach and NFCA Second Vice President they attend and ask for an evaluation. career at the next level. Ensure you have Kate Drohan said. “Recruits have to do “That could be a really simple a great experience by seeking out the their homework and understand what conversation with the coach holding a opportunity that is right for you. Every each softball program has to offer. I specific camp,” Drohan said. “I think softball player is different and there is also think an important piece of the coaches are excited to give this kind of an institution out there that will fit the process is understanding the culture of feedback and there are times during the needs of each player. the university as well and spend an equal camps when it is ok to ask those hard amount of time learning about both, questions.” because the academic piece and the social At the end of the day and the end of 5 QUESTIONS piece is really important to their overall the recruiting process, it comes down to to ask yourself experience. With that being said, because finding the right fit for you. There are recruiting is happening at a younger age, thousands of opportunities out there to often times younger players don’t know continue playing softball at the next level 1) What size institution are you what they want yet.” while receiving an education to benefit looking to attend? Do you Over the last several years the you down the road and into the career want a large student-body or recruiting process has accelerated. Across path you desire. Make yourself a list, talk a more intimate setting? the board, coaches are taking a look at about your education with your parents prospective recruits at a younger age and coaches and find the right scenario 2) What academic strengths do through camps and by watching games. and setting for you. you want the institution to This creates a great opportunity for young There are materials available to help have? players to get noticed and start the in this process. The NFCA endorses and recruiting process from their first year in sells the book “Preparing to Play Softball 3) How far from home do you high school. at the Collegiate Level,” to guide softball want to be? Everything a potential recruit does players through the recruiting process. from day one of their freshman year of If you want to make sure you’re on track 4) What kind of time commit- high school, in the classroom and on the academically as well as athletically, this ment are you looking to give softball field, can have an impact on their book will provide you with a detailed to softball and academics? future playing career. It is important for road map. High school and junior college Can you balance both suc- student-athletes to understand this but student-athletes will learn how to meet cessfully? also to look at themselves honestly in the academic and recruiting guidelines, how recruiting process. and when to contact college coaches, 5) Does the softball program “It’s about finding the right fit,” said what to put in a skills video, where to benefit your strengths and Drohan. “I believe that every young find financial aid and much more. weaknesses?

top recruit 17 STRAIGHT FROM THE Coach’s Mouth Recruiting for a student-athlete can be overwhelming and confusing. What are coaches looking for in an SS athlete? What should I be working • Good first step • Reading/cutting off angles on in practice to improve and become • Change of direction/transition more desirable in the recruiting • Strong/accurate arm process? NCSA Athletic Recruiting “I always wanted to see if the shortstop could interviewed a pool of college control the infield. Are they calling the outs, are they coaches from all divisions and alerting their teammates to anticipate certain plays? levels of competition to get insight I always like to see if they are able to conduct traffic into their recruiting game plans and throughout the game and if they are engaged with what standards they look for when the outfield.” recruiting student-athletes. by Garland Cooper, NCSA Dir. of Softball p • 60+ MPH – DI Standard • Two pitches in a different zone • Fields her position 3B • Pitch combinations • Quick reflexes • Mastery of the strike zone • Quick first step • Bunt coverage “Confidence, spot, spin, speed – in that order. She can be the best pitcher in the world but if she has no idea “I want to see if she has the confidence to be closer and still react, but not be who she is as a pitcher and has any self-doubt, I’m not vulnerable to the miss hit or the bunt. I love to see if the third baseman has sure how effective she will be. Pitchers become special the confidence and the reaction time to be aggressive playing close when she when they can intentionally hit spots in and out of the needs to and can react quickly enough to protect from getting hurt.” zone with movement. If they have all of those things and speed, those are the All-Americans.” HITTING • Timing C • Type of Hitter • Accurate/Strong Throw • Discipline • 1.8 Pop Time – National Team standard • Command of the plate • Lateral movement • Lower body strength “The first thing we look at with hitters is their work • Hand-eye coordination ethic and how committed they are to developing their “Catchers have to have a quarterback mentality. They have to be able to anticipate swing. We are looking for overall strength and ability plays before they ever happen.” to drive the ball.” “A catcher needs to be tough; tough physically, mentally and emotionally. The “We look for the kid who seems to be salivating when relationship they are able to build with a pitcher is critical, and their ability to they have the opportunity to make an impact at a make the pitcher look great with the way they receive the ball, block the ball, and crucial point in the game. We want the kid that wants get rid of the ball are all contributing factors to what makes a great catcher.” to be at the plate when the game is on the line.”

RECRUITING OF • First step/angle 2B • Body Awareness/knowing the defenSe • Cognitive awareness • Arm strength/accuracy • Base coverage/anticipation • Instinct “I estimated in a game, 85% of all outs are catches in the outfield. In • Range/transition our first 32 games we have had only 3 outs that were generated from • Drop step outfielders throwing to a base. I focus on foot speed obviously, but also someone who can read and react to a ball in the air. If she has a “The second base position in my opinion is one big arm, that’s a bonus.” of the most underrated. In general everyone on defense is able to move in the direction of where the ball is hit, but the second baseman often needs a more cognitive skill because The 5 Myths of Softball Standards many times the ball may be moving towards in Recruiting the left side of the infield but she has to be moving in the opposite direction.” 1 Size matters Whether it be a pitcher, first baseman or hitter, success comes in all shapes and sizes. While being a bigger athlete might make being a power hitter or a power pitcher easier, it does not mean that smaller athletes cannot generate just as much power, or even more! 2 College coaches recruit speed based on home to 1st time 1b This is an important standard in softball, but the problem is that there • 60+ MPH – DI Standard • Feet manipulation/base • Two pitches in a different zone coverage are so many ways it is measured. When indicating your home to first • Fields her position • Hand-eye coordination time, make sure to also include how it was measured and by whom so the • Pitch combinations college coaches know it is verified information. • Mastery of the strike zone “First basemen need to have a good glove in order to 3 A strong arm is a MUST “Confidence, spot, spin, speed – in that order. She can receive balls on the ground be the best pitcher in the world but if she has no idea We heard from college coaches that while having a strong arm in the and maintain their foot on the outfield or at shortstop is a bonus, there are other tangibles that are who she is as a pitcher and has any self-doubt, I’m not base.” sure how effective she will be. Pitchers become special more important in recruiting. For example, to some coaches it is more when they can intentionally hit spots in and out of the important for an outfielder to be able to track down fly balls, as many of zone with movement. If they have all of those things their outs are generated that way. Similarly, accuracy in a shortstop’s arm and speed, those are the All-Americans.” is more important than arm strength to ensure routine outs are always made. 4 As long as I get to the ball that’s all that matters When you get to college, the game moves at a quicker pace. In general, college coaches look for athletes that are explosive. Our game is played in three-second spurts, so the emphasis is not necessarily just getting to the ball, it is HOW you get to the ball that matters most. 5 If I am a great athlete and I meet physical standards I’ll be recruited “Catchers have to have a quarterback mentality. They have to be able to anticipate Across the board, every coach we interviewed and polled agreed that the plays before they ever happen.” intangibles an athlete possesses are more important than the tangible “A catcher needs to be tough; tough physically, mentally and emotionally. The things. Confidence, passion, work ethic and a team mindset all were more relationship they are able to build with a pitcher is critical, and their ability to important than the tangible things a student-athlete possessed. While make the pitcher look great with the way they receive the ball, block the ball, and it is clear that there are certain physical traits that college coaches look get rid of the ball are all contributing factors to what makes a great catcher.” for in a prospect, there are also many intangibles they recruit as well.

top recruit 19 Tips FOR PARENTS... they brought you into this world. they’ve stood by you. you owe everything to them. BUT are they going to cost you your chance to play college softball? 12 compiled from various college coaches Whether they know it or not, parents play a large role and can have a big impact on the outcome of the recruiting process for their children. Sometimes a player may not be recruited because of how their parents interact with fellow parents, coaches, umpires and even the coaches during the recruiting of their child. To help you keep a cool head and not hurt your children’s chance at getting recruited to play softball at the collegiate level, we’ve compiled a list of 12 tips for parents to keep in mind during the recruiting process. 1 2 3

Remember that coaches coach, Understand the rules of Teach your children how to answer and players play, umpires umpire recruiting before you start the speak on the phone. It’s not good to and fans are supposed to cheer. process. have voicemails returned immediately with a text saying, “who is this?” 4 5 6

Be cognizant of the coach’s time and Do not talk to a Division I college Let your daughter do the talking when attention. In public, at showcases coach at any tournament unless meeting the college coach. A few or camps, they have lots of kids the tournament is complete, it is questions are fine but please let your to see, so be nice, straight to after July 1st of your daughter’s daughter dominate the conversation. the point and quick. See No. 5 junior year and the coach has asked We’re recruiting the player, not the regarding Division I rules that to speak with you or your family. parent. Encourage your daughter to preclude contact at these types of The NCAA has rules regarding this write her own e-mail correspondence. tournaments. for Division I softball.

7 8 9

No coach can see every player and Be friendly if the coach looks Understand the process, and know that no coach can sign every player. So open to conversation, but do not each coach is only signing four to six understand that your child’s first introduce yourself as Sally’s dad players a year out of the hundreds choice and the coach’s first choice unless the coach wants to know that contact him or her. Know that not will not always be the same. who you are or has asked about recruiting your child is not personal. Sally.

RECRUITING 10

Don’t bring up scholarship money during the very first meeting. 11

Interfering with coaches and not respecting their decisions is a bad sign of things to come. Teaching that life is not always fair and it is how you respond is a good sign your daughter will be an asset to the team, regardless of her talent level. 12 Try hard, unless the circumstances require otherwise, to not let the scholarship offer/percentage be the deciding factor. We understand money is a big part of the decision, however, we hope it is as important as the academics, the softball program, the location, the players and coaches, etc. Remember, there is only “so much” money to go around and we have to field a solid team in all areas with limited dollars. ANY scholarship offer means the coach really wants you to be a part of their program.

top recruit 21 Just Another Day (in the life of a college softball player)

We asked Nebraska sophomore first baseman Mattie Fowler to MattieFowler lead us through a typical day for her. Spoiler alert... it’s busy.

wake up 6:30 am breakfast and leave 7:15 am business law 7:30 am

business communication 8:30 am rehab in training room 9:30 am weight training 10:30 am

home for lunch & friends 11:30 am hang out in clubhouse 12:30 pm college life

voluntary hitting practice 1:30 pm team practice 2:30 pm dinner with all athletes 5:30 pm

study & write paper 6:30 pm challenge roomie to ping pong 10 pm catch up on TV 10:30 pm

laundry & shower 11:30 pm finally, bed time! 12 am start it all again tomorrow 6:30 am

top recruit 23 things We asked FOUR freshmen in their first I wish I knew a college season across the country for the top five things they wish they knew 5 year ago... entering college last fall Kailey Christensen, P Whitney Ellis, C Salt Lake Community College (NJCAA) University of Oklahoma (NCAA DI) • One of the biggest differences for me was realizing how responsible you really have to be. Your parents can’t always be • As an incoming freshman, make sure you have practiced your there to bail you out so you have to remember everything on time management and know how to keep your time organized. your own. My best advice would be to get a planner! • College is fun because you only have to go to school for a few • Make sure you do your homework. Homework will your hours every day, but you also have to realize that you have to life when it comes to classes in college! spend that extra time studying. You spend much less time in • You need to know how to work a washer and dryer. Luckily for school but much more time studying. me, my parents taught me at a young age, but I • The game is much quicker in college. You think you are good definitely had to teach a few of my freshman in high school and then you play in a college game and real- teammates how to do laundry properly. ize that you weren’t so good. College is the best of the best • Make sure you know how to use a microwave and the game moves much faster. – it’s your best friend in the dorms. • It’s easy to get distracted in college because you don’t have • Keep track of your eating habits. You need your parents there to get on you to clean your room, or do three solid meals a day and it’s very easy to your homework. You have to be responsible enough to tell forget meals as a busy student-athlete! your friends that you can’t hang out when you have homework Make sure you EAT! to do. • Learn how to make quick easy meals before you move out. When you get home from Paige Knussman, 3B/UT practice you will be hungry and not want to Salisbury University (NCAA DIII) spend the time to cook. You’ll want to eat • Sometimes less is more, with everything. No need to pack things that are fast and convenient, which up your whole closet and house. I guarantee it won’t all fit can also mean unhealthy. Planning and in your car or dorm and you probably won’t even use three- time management can help you prevent quarters of your closet. Pack simply and you can swap out as this. the seasons change. • Practice good eating habits. When you go to college, you have easy access to food all the time. Eat what you want for meals, but control your portions and try to eat as healthy as you can. Stefanni LaJeuesse, 3B/UT You’ll be happier, healthier and have more energy. University of Wisconsin (NCAA DI) • Manage your time wisely. I heard this at least once a week • How homesick I would be. before I left home. It’s pretty solid advice. Set aside enough • What a huge help my teammates would be – they’ve been time for writing papers and studying for exams. That way it there before and have great advice; they’re my family and isn’t overwhelming and you can really understand and remem- support system. ber what you have learned. • How easy it is to get behind academically. There’s so much • Make sure you choose the school for the school, and not just more free time, and no one is looking over your shoulder 24 for softball. Ask yourself, “If I were to get hurt (God forbid) hours a day. You have to be organized. and not be able to play anymore, would I still like the school? • I wish I would have focused more on my field- Is softball the only reason I’m looking here? Do they have the ing fundamentals prior to coming to college. best program for what I want to do? or, If I have no idea what • The most important thing I’ve learned is I want to do, do they have a variety of options?” that you have to focus on the opportunity in and so on. You have to be happy either way. front of you. You can’t help solve problems • Enjoy every moment. Softball isn’t forever. at home when you’re away. This is Be thankful that you have the opportunity to my time, and I need to focus on the play a sport in college because there are oth- things I can control, and let go of ers who are not as fortunate as you are. Love what I can’t control. every second you spend playing the sport you love and work hard. COLLEGE LIFE top recruit 24

Are you TO PLAY COLLEGE BALL? READY (ACCORDING TO YOUR SOON-TO-BE TEAMMATES) YOU’VE GOT THE SKILLS, YOU’VE GOT THE SCHOLARSHIP, AND YOU’RE ALL SET TO LEAVE IN AUGUST. BUT WHAT ABOUT ONCE YOU GET THERE? HOW DO YOU MAKE SURE THAT YOU’RE READY TO MAKE THE ADJUSTMENT? FOUR UPPERCLASSMEN ARE GONNA CLUE YOU IN... Kelsi Kettler, Senior, 3B/1B/C, Baylor Jenna Stark, Junior, UT 1 Manage time effectively. Time management is critical in Texas A & M college. School alone can get hectic, but add practice, 1 The first thing you can do when arriving on workouts, and games and hectic is an understatement. I do campus is to prove that you are a hard worker not say this to worry incoming freshman, but more to prepare and are willing to do whatever it takes to make them. It’s simple; great time management = less stress. the team better. 2 Give it all you got, all the time. Showing up every day and 2 Secondly and equally important would be to leaving it all on the field shows your commitment to your be open-minded and willing to try whatever team. Giving all you got not only earns respect from your coaches, trainers, or teammates are suggesting. teammates, but your coaches as well. 3 The last piece of advice I would give to an 3 Lastly, be themselves. I found that the more true I was to incoming freshman would be to be resilient; myself, the more accepted I became by my teammates. Do there are going to be ups and downs in your not be afraid to be who you are truly meant to be. Laugh at first year, but continuing to be positive yourself or be a little silly. The team is your family and they everyday will significantly help an athlete be will love you for who you are. successful on campus. COLLEGE LIFE Jo Clair, Junior, Catcher Tufts University 1 Look to and respect the upperclassmen and coaches from day one because these are the people that you will look to for advice regarding the delicate balance between excelling as a student and as an athlete. 2 Be proactive! Show your dedication to the team by being punctual to practice, workout groups and lift, displaying a positive attitude during practice, picking up extra equipment, and accepting the little jobs that upperclassman may ask of you. 3 Learn,learn, learn! The college game is completely different from the high school game so it is in your best interest as a freshman to learn and absorb as much as you can from a new coaching staff and many experienced upperclass players – they are excited to have you as a part of the team!

Alexandria Hill, Junior, Pitcher Montclair State 1 As an incoming freshman athlete, you can facilitate acceptance on your new team by being willing to accept the new role on the team. Whether it is a starting position with the added pressure that puts on you, taking an upperclassmen’s position, or waiting for your turn to contribute to the team, it is important to be willing to take on the assigned role. It is important that you keep in mind that you are part of a team. Even if you do not get an opportunity to make a great difference for the team in your first year, you will have many opportunities in the future and you should not get down on yourself or give up on the team and your possible role on the team. 2 Remembering that your team is there to back you up helps you with your confidence. Upperclassmen will show you the reigns of time management, college competition, and having fun while doing it all. Fellow freshman athletes will have similar experiences and you should be willing to share your thoughts and challenges with them. 3 If you have questions or problems in school, or with your sport, talking with your teammates can be extremely enlightening for all involved. Teammates can help you by relating their own personal experiences, or can help you get in touch with someone who can help in a more professional capacity.

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“The only radar gun we use for coaching and scouting.” , Head Coach University of (8-Time D1 National Champions) “Help your team get better - be better.” Clint Myers, Head Coach Arizona State University (2008 and 2011 D1 National Champions) “Great product for all coaches.” Kelly Inouye-Perez, Head Coach UCLA (2010 D1 National Champions) “Achieve a level of performance that was not possible before.” , Head Coach (4 Straight D1 WCWS Appearances 2008-2011) “I recommend it for all levels of softball.” Ken Eriksen, Head Coach University of South Florida (Current Head Coach of USA National Team) the mental game ind by Tori Nyberg uscle Tori Nyberg Pitching, LLC Memory Elevate Performance Counseling, LLC In order to be successful in the sport of softball, you need to be strong in four areas: tactical, technical, physical, and mental. That means you have to work hard to train yourself in strategy, good fundamentals, get in good shape physically, and train your mind to be tough. Most athletes understand the importance of the first three areas and commit a large amount of time and effort to them. However, many athletes put their mental strength on the back burner, thinking it is an area they don’t really need to think about until something is going wrong (such as choking in games too often). But the truth is, if you commit to preparing your mental game like you do your physical game, you will be more consistent, more resilient, you will enjoy the game more, and overall you will be more successful. The best players in softball are at least as strong mentally as they are physically, and here are some ways you can be too.

First, most players are not completely aware of what Many players know that they should play one pitch at a time and have they say to themselves throughout the course of a positive self-talk, but after a mistake, it can be hard to calm down game. Often when things get hard, players start to have and let go of negativity and the last play. The key to being resilient is negative self-talk, which causes them to become anxious, knowing how to let go of that last play so that you are free to focus unsure and tight. For example, with the bases loaded and all of your energy and attention on this play, right now. The best way two outs, the hitter might find herself saying, “You have to let go of the last play is to use a release, that is, a physical or to get a hit, don’t get out!” As soon as you tell yourself verbal cue to help you dispose of negative thoughts or emotions. One not to do something, you make it more likely to happen. example of an effective release is imagining your negative thoughts Great players use self-talk that is positive, present tense, and emotions flushing down a toilet, and once they are flushed your brief and specific. Keeping your self-talk present tense focus is on the next play. You are going to helps keep your energy and attention on yourself and make mistakes in this game, but the best this play, which is all you can control. Keeping your self- players forget about them fast, and free talk positive, brief and specific helps you to control your themselves up to focus and attitude and emotions. Good self-talk will help you feel succeed on the next play. relaxed, focused and confident, allowing you to perform your best on the next play.1 An example of good self-talk 2You must practice these skills on a in the prior situation would be, “See the ball deep daily basis with commitment and and drive it. I’ve got this.” focused repetition. These skills will not magically become natural to you, just as making Finally, when you are feeling nervous, stuck on a a change in your swing doesn’t mistake, or otherwise distracted, you can always happen instantaneously. It will rely on your breath. Much of the time when things take at least 30 days of practice are going wrong, you are forgetting to breathe. Just until these mental skills become habit, taking one or two slow, deep breaths when you are feeling but if you commit to training your tight or anxious will help your muscles relax, slow your mental game as much as you train your heart rate down, clear your mind, and bring you back to fundamentals, it will give you a huge the moment so that you can focus on the next play. edge over your competition, and the 3 time and effort will be well worth it.

top recruit 29 by SCOTT WHITLOCK, DON’T NEGLECT Kennesaw State THE

After coaching collegiate softball for 28 years, I retired at the conclusion of the 2013 season. I cannot begin to explain how much the game has given me. It was indeed a great ride. One afternoon, near the end of the season, a younger coach asked me, “If you had a chance, what would you say to the young players WHO will become the next generation of players?” I thought a moment and recalled something that I had shared with some coaches a few years ago; and today, I find that same information relevant to players. On that day, not so long ago, I told the group of coaches to whom I was speaking not to get so hung up on teaching the players the “A-B-Cs of the game”that you neglect to teach them their “D-E-Fs. So, after remembering that day, I can honestly say that if I had only one chance to give some insight to young players, that advice would be: Do not neglect to learn your “D-E-Fs. The D-E-Fs of which I speak are: Determination, Enthusiasm and Fundamentals.”

Determination A determined person rarely fails. If you want to achieve; if you dare to step into the arena and compete; if you are committed to strive for success - you must be determined. You must be in it for the long haul. You must realize that there will be ups and downs. Success does not come easy; therefore, you must be willing to never give up.

Enthusiasm There is no substitute for enthusiasm (remember it is contagious). Players should be genuinely excited about “being there” to play, practice or any other team activity. There is something special about being on a team and being called a teammate should be looked at as an honor. Play and practice excited and enthused.

Players need to remember that softball is a game, not a punishment. It is perfectly acceptable for coaches to see their players having fun, joking, and laughing. A player performs better when relaxed. A player’s enthusiasm can, and will, inspire their teammates (and coaches) towards having pride and enthusiasm of their own.

Fundamentals Dedication and Enthusiasm are both very important elements in a player’s and team’s success. However, neither will get you very far if you do not take the time to learn how to properly play. In order to REALLY play the game of softball, young players must commit themselves to learning the sport from the ground up. The fundamentals of the game are the very cornerstone of everything that we as players and coaches hope to accomplish. Players need to start each day of their softball journey committed to improving their fundamentals. This is the hard part. Some of this is not glamorous; a lot of it is just plain old hard work. Fundamentals are a must. For players, practice should be about learning. On game-day there will be no Thrills if you do not have the Skills. Getting the most out of each learning opportunity is essential if a player is to reach her potential. This is where “determination” and “enthusiasm” can come into play. Keeping a good attitude and being determined, whether during a hitting lesson or an infield practice, will go a long way in helping a player gain ground on a weakness or improve on strength. When at practice, be totally focused on what’s

INSTRUCTION instruction

going on there. Learn as much as you can about each aspect of the game. Once you learn a skill, reinforce it at each and every opportunity. Bad habits can show up unannounced at any point and time. You must continuously evaluate yourself and always take the time to correct improper mechanics. Next, we will cover in depth some of the fundamentals that are essential and sometimes overlooked.

Other Fundamentals Needed In addition to “Hit, Catch, Run, Throw” there are other types of fundamentals needed if one is to become a complete player. These fundamentals are perhaps a bit abstract, but I see them as vital to long-term, consistent performance. Here are some examples:

Knowledge of Everyone’s Function In order to maximize your fundamentals, it is important that you learn as much as you can about every phase of, and every position played, in the game. You will be a better player if you have an understanding of every position on the field and an idea of each person’s role on the team.

Self Discipline The word “discipline” usually scares players. It shouldn’t. Seemingly since the beginning of time, players have listened to coaches talk about “discipline.” It has been my experience that the type of “discipline” needed within a team is SELF DISCIPLINE - players, coaches and all support personnel must have it. If each individual can condition him/herself to be willing to do whatever is necessary and appropriate at a given time, the organization stands a better chance of success. “Team Discipline” can only come after “Self Discipline,” and “Team Discipline” is totally dependent upon the presence of “Self Discipline” within the players. Coaches must recognize that great patience must be used when attempting to instill discipline into an individual or a team; players must be committed to becoming disciplined as to how they approach the game. A half-hearted approach will only get sporadic success. Coaches try on a daily basis to break bad habits and instill proper ones. This is a hopeless task if the players are not committed to “sticking with it,” “keeping on searching,” “never quitting” - and that takes self-discipline!

COMMUNICATION This is such an easy concept to explain and it is so important, yet it is often overlooked. COMMUNICATE with everyone. Talk to your coaches, ask questions. Do not try to read their minds. Talk to your teammates, talk about the game to your teammates. Everyone must be kept in the loop. Everyone needs to be on the same page. Coaches need to talk to players; players need to talk to coaches; and players must talk to each other. THIS CANNOT BE STRESSED ENOUGH. Everyone will function at a higher level when they are not walking around worrying and wondering. It just makes sense to COMMUNICATE!

Good Memory; Never Forget Learn and improve from everything that you experience as a player. Whether it is successes or failures, wins or losses; let anything that you experience teach you something. Players and coaches are quick to talk about what they learned in a loss. However, I think I have learned more on those days when things went well for our team than on those days when we faltered. There is much to be said about players “feeling success,” experiencing it, and seeing what it looks like. When players (or coaches) approach “lessons learned” only from the perspective of learning from losses, we are inadvertently reminding ourselves how we failed. I would challenge young players to approach learning based upon their successes. Do not beat yourself up all the time. Always take moments to remind (and reinforce to) yourself what went right and how it helped lead to success. That exercise will allow you to easily encourage yourself and teammates; and will help lead everyone towards repeating or continuing what they are doing right.

Well, there you have it … no smoke, no mirrors. The one tip that I would give young players is just that simple: Do not neglect to learn your D-E-F’s.

top recruit 31 As a former high school coach and college assistant, TUNE UP I’m in the unique position of having seen the tryout process FOR from many angles. Because of this, I get a lot of questions as tryouts near. These questions TRY-OUTS can be summarized as “What are coaches looking for?”

First and foremost, the one absolute tied to tryouts is ANXIETY. Parents have nerves, some genuinely concerned about their kid and some self-interested. Coaches are on edge – this is an incredibly stressful time for two reasons: the concern that the wrong players were picked to reach program goals, and the reality that their deci- sion is the end of the road for some players. But more than anyone, the players have nerves: “Everybody is so good…” and, “I don’t want to let others down,” and sometimes, “If I don’t make it and my friends do, then what?” So what I offer are some pointers to players and clarity for parents.

The only guarantee besides nerves is that each coach is different. In my opinion, the majority look for these things… Can the coach envision working with you? No one is a finished product, so rather than pretending you’re All-World (if you are, it’ll be clear anyway), show that you are someone who is a great teammate and coachable player. Do this by keeping in mind some of the following:

Respect the Hold eye-contact When asked a question, an- hierarchy: when listening: Catch swer with a statement. Be clear, Which assistant has the his/her eye with your level of atten- be confident, be on topic. Don’t force this one, but IF you head coach’s ear? Who tion, add a reassuring nod when you ask questions be sure they show an understanding of the are the captains? Who agree or to show that, “I got it/you game and prove you were listening. For example, rather are the seniors? – we’re on the same page.” than asking, “Coach, how many reps do we take?,” you should already know the answer and instead ask some- thing like, “Should this tee work be down the middle, or Is there an can I work on inside and outside pitches too?” Be playful – it’s a game, opportuni- so show that you love it by having a ty to come playful, energetic attitude. People are early, stay Do you know what you con- drawn to this sort of energy and want late, help trol? The game is filled with “failure;” redefine it it in their organization. set up, help as opportunity. Your coaches don’t expect perfection, but tear down, they do need to see you bounce back and do the next aid a team- thing right. Some other things you control… Energy, en- mate? Hustle: an expectation. thusiasm, talk/chatter – these are minimums.

Take advantage of the opportunity to be first to volunteer or first in line without disturbing the hierarchy of seniors/captains. Coaches typi- cally have leeway on the first player in line because they understand it takes guts to jump up there, and that the activity/drill may be new to you. That patience does not apply to anyone else in line. Self-starters realize there are no little things. Doing the first two things on this list means nothing if your actions don’t back it up.

INSTRUCTION By Jeremy Ekeler, Coaching Director The Driven Academy, Lincoln, Nebraska

So we’ve covered the intangibles. Here are some little things that I pay a lot of attention to and think other coaches do too…

Playing Catch: Don’t do it to “get loose,” do it to get better: show it off, play quick catch, pay attention to how you receive the ball (it’s rarely ideal in our game to catch a ball outside your shoulders, so don’t be lazy during catch), ask for short-hops with your partner, etc. Don’t just fling it around and chat it up.

Hitting Stations: This is where the posers come out. Everybody wants to be a pro when they get their moment against live pitching, but I guarantee you’re being watched by coaches when you’re on a tee or soft-toss station. I used to assign very basic station work during tryouts to see who was a self-starter and who was lazy.

Defense/Baserunning/Bunting/Footwork: Be a stickler for detail and technique. Mess up? Make it right. Not sure? Ask, then make it right.

Equipment: Be organized (you don’t want mom walking into tryouts holding your brother’s glove above her head yelling, “Honey, I think I found it!”). Don’t ever throw or abuse equipment, and do not leave anything at practice. Also, wear an appropriate shirt: your school’s name or something generic with basic colors. Stand out for the right reasons.

Be conducive to groups: Help organize players, take on the odd- numbered player, notice a group out of whack and straighten them out. The exception to this is next…

Covet your reps: While the tip above this is important, it’s not as important as this one. You never want to lose a rep — each is a chance to improve a skill, and it’s also a chance to show that you LOVE to work at getting better.

Are you afraid of work? Nothing replaces work ethic. I’ve never met a person with a strong work ethic who didn’t have a great attitude. I’ve never seen a person with a great work ethic who either wasn’t talented or showed potential. I’ve never known a person with a great work ethic others didn’t respect. All of the above could be sum- marized as “DISPLAY A GREAT WORK ETHIC.”

Don’t Be Dumb! I’m stealing this mini-speech from my coaching mentor: “A kid can come in here and do everything right, be No. 1 on every coach’s list. But if we see them acting dumb in the hallways, it’s all gone. If we hear from a teacher that they’re being disrespectful in class, see ya. If they drink, ignore their grades, are idiots on Facebook and with their cell phones, disrespect adults, use inappropriate language or do anything else like that, they’re done. In other words: “don’t be dumb.” I think this “don’t be dumb” policy speaks for itself, and is a pretty good rule of thumb for a lot of things in life.

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Box 191 ZIP CODE 50525 Eagle Grove, IA 50533

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The University of Tennessee You may be a freshman when you arrive, but there is no reason for you to take a backseat to anyone. Karen & Ralph Weekly – Co Head Coaches Make a statement with your preparation – ­in the Division I College World Series weight room and on the field. Excel on the team performance testing, compete confidently with 2005, 2006, 2007 (3rd, 3rd, 2nd) your teammates – ­show them you are serious about being great. Buy into everything your Before you head off to join your new college strength coach is selling. He or she can often Ralph & Karen Weeklyteammat eshave commit transformed to the items below the to prep Ladyare Vols be your greatest ally. Bring a great attitude to yourself for maximum success –­ on and off the field each workout and you will get your into a formidable Southeastern Conference college career off to a great start. and national contender. 7 year record at Univ. of Tennessee: 376-117-1 Ralph wa an OlympicBy mid- GoldMay­ you Medal should haveCoach in 1994-2000. His internationalreceived a summer record: training 130 - 15, program from your new strength includingcoach. If not,13 reachgold out medals. to him or her to request a comprehensive plan to follow. Sending an introductory note and taking the initiative will not be One of the biggest forgotten. mistakes young athletes “Coach Nemo is an excellent teacher and innovator. He thoroughly understands the entire hit- make is failing to commit to living like an elite ting process and has developed outstanding hitting aides that will make you a much better hitter. athlete every hour of the Ralph & Karen Weekly Have Transformed The Lady Vols Into A day. Training hard and working on We use his products daily on our hitting circuits at the University of Tennessee.” your skills an hour or more each day is Formidable Southeastern Conference And National Contender Once received, read your program from beginning to end. not enough. Maximize the benefits of Make sure you are – clear Coach on everything Ralph that is Weeklyexpected of you, Career Record: University Of Tennessee: 1,067 – 343 – 2 training by making every decision count. including all testing that will be conducted once you arrive on Eat like a champion. Choose nutrient-­ nemO’S Speed Hicampus.TTing Ask p forr Ospecificgram testing iS THprotocolse re andC ipienstandardsT if these dense foods and eat at regular intervals “Coach Nemo is an excellent teacher and innovator. He thoroughly understands the entire hitting are not included in your program. You should also ask about process and nhas developedemO’ Soutstanding mul hittingTi-H aidesiTT thating will make T youee a much better hitter. throughout the day. Hydrate effectively. We use his products daily on our hitting circuits at the University of Tennessee.” Of THe #1 newexercise pr videosOdu thatCT may O fbe THavailablee year as a supplement award to. Sleep adequately (8-9­ hours each night), your program. Many programs now put exercise videos ear He wiSH f He– Coach Ralph Weekly soundly and on a consistent schedule. H T S O T online or create DVDs to send out with summer These items will impact your health, This includesprograms. Nemo’s Speed Training Bat, three Nemo’s Speed Hitting Program BaT Off THe innOvaTive performance, and recovery is the recipient of the # l new Nemo’s instructional videos and his new Triple Hitting Tee. between workouts. product of the year award. BruSH Tee! Triple-HittingThis Tee is a complete training program following a speed circuit This includes Nemo’s Speed Training Bat, Single Handed This multiple innovativeThis innovative hitting tee Bat, Triple Hitting Tee and now his fifth instructional DVD. training format usingIf you have underloading limited experience drills with to increase bat will allow the batter to have In the words of Dr. McDowell and Dr. Noebe of B&N Sports hitting tee with unique speed and reaction time.resistance In theand movement words trainingof Dr. and/or McDowell and “Your product is one of the few products that can truly bebrush design allowsover you18 hitting to drills. My your summer program includes a number used for baseball and softball, It really does work!” Dr. Noebe at B&N Sports,of new exercises, “Your work product with a certified is one of the few As you begin following hit the inside, outside,favorite andis short to the ball In addition to following your strength coach or personal trainer for your summer program, products that can truly be used for baseball and softball. It summer training program, spend middle pitch withand one long simple thru the zone. This at least one week. This way you can send short email updates additional time working on your is a great teaching tool to make sure you are doing exercisesreally with does work!” on your progress to your adjustment, giving you instant personal weaknesses. If your conditioning proper technique and are reading new strength coach (and cc muscle feedback. giveThe you hitting immediate feedback level is not where it needs to be, add 1-­2 extra your workouts appropriately. your softball coaching staff). running workouts each week. If flexibility is practice possibilitiesto hitting are faults. Every day is an Ask questions to make sure you an issue, spend an extra 10-15­ minutes post-­ opportunity to are on track and covering all your Coach Ralphunlimited. Weekly states: “I think you have a great softball mind. I really like workout each day to stretch and foam roll (self-­ the triple tee. It really helps the players stay on the swing path longer.” improve your bases. Building a relationship over massage). Likewise, if you have specific softball Coach Weekly states: “You may tell anyone that we use them athleticism, the summer and demonstrating your skills that need to be refined, make time to so do not waste commitment to becoming a better www.speedbat.com(Multi-Hitting Tee) daily and really believe in them. 1-503-848-7889 I think work on those multiple times each week as well. time doing things athlete will pay dividends. you have a great softball mind. I really like the triple tee. It incorrectly! Champions do more than they are asked to do. really helps the players stay on the swing path longer.” Begin acting like the champion you want to be! INSTRUCTION top recruit 35 www.speedbat.com Increase Your Batspeed & reactIon tIme HIllsBoro, or 1-503-848-7889 What’s in it for

show your coach what he or she is missing. Your coach’s The National Fastpitch Coaches membership in the NFCA can: Association (NFCA) is a non-profit professional growth organization ✔ Help you become a better player by providing drills, educational ✔ for fastpitch softball coaches at all coaching articles and coaching class discounts to your coach competitive levels of play. Its purposes ✔✔Help you find the right college team include education, promotion, and general ✔✔Earn honors for your on-the-field play and your hard work in the betterment of the sport of fastpitch classroom softball. More than 4,800 members already ✔✔And , much, much more! belong to the NFCA, including high school, HS & TB MEMBERSHIP PRICE: $70 travel ball and college coaches, and Name E-Mail parents and players.

School/Team/Business Affiliation Head/Asst. Circle one Address City State Zip

Work Phone Other Phone Referred by Check Money Order Credit Card Card # Expiration Date Signature Join online at nfca.org or mail or fax this application to: NFCA, 100 GT Thames, Suite D, Starkville, MS 39759, fax 662.320.2283 For more information or to join, contact the NFCA at 502.409.4600 or [email protected]. What’s in NFCA it forME? The NFCA has some great benefits to offer youth players and their coaches, including some very prestigious awards. You want to get noticed by college coaches? Let them know you're an NFCA All- American or Scholar-Athlete Award Winner. Have you had an outstanding season? Did you hEY STUDENTS make your all-region or all-state team? You de- Be sure that your coach is a member so that you can be honored serve recognition for your achievements. for all of your hard work both in the classroom and on the softball Open to all high school players whose coaches field. The NFCA offers Scholar-Athlete Awards to those students who are NFCA members, the All-American program maintain better than a 3.5 GPA for the school year. This award is will give you the chance to join the ranks of given every year, so if your coach isn’t a member, have him or her past high school All-Americans Natasha Wat- sign up so that you can receive this award and wow recruiters with ley and Jessica Mendoza. For more informa- your academic as well as athletic prowess. For more details, have tion, have your coach check out the NFCA your coach check out the NFCA website at nfca.org, or have him or website at nfca.org, or he or she can call her call us at us at 502.409.4600. The nomination pro- Olympian and ESPN 502. Announcer Jessica cess happens in the early summer, so 409. Mendoza got her have your coach join the NFCA today! 4600. start as an NFCA High School All-American in 1998. Want more info on the nfca? Visit nfca.org top recruit 37

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CHSoftball_Qtr-Pg-Ad_100812.indd 1 10/9/12 1:35 PM caitlin lowe's LOVE OF THE THE GAME HAS ALWAYS BEEN THE BIGGEST MOTIVATING FACTOR IN ARGUABLY ONE OF THE GREATEST SOFTBALL CAREERS OF ALL TIME

Fueledby Passion by Brian Davis, NFCA players

I really doN't Think that you teach "the hate of losing, the hate of failing, I JUST HATE IT.

" top recruit 39 herE'S an old saying that states if you love what you do for a living, yoU'll never work Ta day in your life. If that is indeed the truth, it’s pretty safe to say that Caitlin Lowe hasn’t worked a day in her life.

For Lowe, a four-time NFCA First Team All-American at the , a 2008 Olympian and a current standout centerfielder and reigning league Most Valuable Player for the National Pro Fastpitch’s USSSA Pride, an overwhelming passion for both competition and the game of softball began to foster at a very young age and has continued on through what’s now become a two-plus decade career as arguably one of the best ever to play the sport.

“I started t-ball when I was six years old, and when I played my first game, I absolutely I'M LUCKY ENOUGH TO STILL KEEP LEARNING...THE GAME "DOESN'T BECOME BORING BECAUSE YOU CAN NEVER MASTER IT.

fell in love with it,” Lowe said. “My dad played baseball and football growing up. He’s a huge New York Yankees fan and was actually born in New York, so we grew up around baseball and as extremely avid baseball fans. My mom ran track and sort of "did a lot of everything growing up, so we already had sports around the house. I had three sisters and a little brother, so he played baseball and the rest of us played softball. It was sort of in the family.

“We always had sports-related stuff around the house, so we were always throwing the wiffle ball around, but never a real ball in the house because me and my four siblings would have ruined some stuff. I actually didn’t play any other sports besides softball, because living in California we’re very blessed with the weather, so I got to play pretty much year round. For me it was just falling in love with softball from six years old and kind of continuing on. My dad played baseball, and my mom actually played a little baseball with her brother growing up. They didn’t really have softball, so she was able to live a little vicariously through us.”

It was a career that began in a manner similar to so many of those who get involved in softball at a young age, with the support and guidance of her family.

“When my older sister and I got involved in softball, my dad took it upon himself to coach our team so he could learn about it,” Lowe said. “The really cool thing was that he realized that once we hit the age of 12 or 13, he needed to pass us along to coaches who he felt not only knew better about the game, but also knew about how players you get recruited in order to go to college. He knew that he didn’t really have all the answers. It’s tough for some parents; they have a hard time letting go the time, and I wanted to be like her as an outfielder. It’s so funny because of that control of coaching, but my dad was great I don’t know if anyone ever wants to grow up to be an outfielder, but it was at separating the whole parent from the coaching my dream from the get-go. I finally got to play with Laura on the national aspect.” team. She’s one of my idols, so it was great to be able to pick her brain and to share the outfield grass with her. That separation was key in helping foster Lowe’s overall growth as a player, allowing “I just think my love of softball has to do with it her the opportunity to learn along the way featuring so many different kinds of skills. I love from some of the very best coaches the the fact that you can be a really well-rounded sport has to offer at each stop of her player. I love the fact that I get illustrious career. to take pride in

“I have been extremely lucky to have really great coaches,” Lowe said. “I can’t say one bad thing about any of the ones I had growing up. They were never the yellers or screamers. They were always motivators. My coaches at Foothill High School, Joe and Mike Gonzales – they were great at working with me. I had a great hitting coach, Doug Myers, from when I was little all the way up until I left for college. Obviously, my college coaches at Arizona, Mike Candrea, Larry Ray and Nancy Evans, all played a huge, huge role in my development. Coaches continue to play those roles for me, such as Beth Torina and Tim Walton who have coached my pro team.“ " And that learning process is something that continues to this day, helping Lowe expand her knowledge base and overall passion for the sport. That’s absolutely vital when citing the complexity my defense every single day of the game as perhaps the top reason for loving or I get to work on my short softball. game and my slapping. My running is an entirely different “I’m lucky enough to still keep learning,” Lowe said. part of the game that I focus “The crazy thing is that I’m 28 and I’m still learning on separately. I just think that about the game that I love. Learning is what there are so many different facets makes the game so fun. It doesn’t become boring involved. I just love softball to because you can never master it. You’re constantly be honest. That’s basically what it developing and changing yourself, because if you comes down to.” ever get predictable, that’s a problem. One facet of the game that came “I was fortunate enough to play on the national natural to Lowe, however, was her team, and, to be honest that’s when I learned the competitive nature. It has long most, not necessarily from coaches but by playing been the driving force behind the with other players who were so skilled at their craft. fearlessness she often exhibits I grew up watching (former Olympian) all in the outfield to attempt to make any play she can

top recruit 41 regardless of circumstance or consequence.

“I have a strong competitive spirit,” Lowe said. “I really don’t think that you teach the hate of losing, the hate of failing. I just hate it. If there’s something in the air that I think I can catch or there’s something I know I can do, I just think why not. So there’s a wall there, so what? You might get hurt, but all that’s in my mind when the ball gets hit into the air is the ball, to be honest. Everything else kind of disappears and it’s just the ball and me. I know it sounds kind of funny, but that’s basically all that goes through my mind in that instance.”

Her pre-pitch routine proves virtually the same every single time. The process starts with a series of quick situational thoughts: where are runners stationed, what batter is up to the plate, what pitch will be thrown, which way should I be leaning. From there she enters her “circle,” a place to focus on the task ahead where noise, distractions and extraneous thought disappear. Her body weight shifts to her right foot, and then as the pitch is thrown, there’s a quick tap of her left foot behind the right before coming to a squared defensive stance over both feet. At the same time her glove drifts over the front of her coiled frame, giving the appearance of someone perhaps skating over a sheet of ice. When there’s contact, instinct takes over. The game slows down and nothing enters her mind except the ball and reaching it to make a play for her team.

It’s a process that has proven highly effective in helping Lowe remain focused no matter how long a contest progresses.

“I think the mental game helps me take things one pitch at a time,” Lowe said. “The biggest struggle of the sport of softball is that we play for two hours or maybe even four, and you have to be focused on the fact that every single pitch might get hit into the gap. Because I’ve been fortunate to play with great pitchers, I’ve gotten used to the fact that I might get one ball hit to me during a game. It’s really tough to stay in that mentally aware zone where the thought is that I’m going to get the ball hit to me every single time. The routine I use helps keep me in check for every single pitch. It helps me focus.”

Focus is just one part of an equation that has helped make Lowe one of the best outfielders and slap-hitters ever to play the game. When asked what she’d tell young athletes about getting started in softball, she quickly cites other intangibles that often make the difference between success and failure in any undertaking.

“I just think once you fall in love with the game and understand what your dreams are, whether your goal is to go to college or play on the national team, it all just comes down to working your butt off,” Lowe said. “Once you start doing that and people begin to see your passion for the game, I think that you get noticed.

“Those sorts of things are intangibles. Your hustle in the field, the attitude you have about the game, the never-say-die attitude, all of those things are what coaches are looking for, what national team scouts are looking for. If you have the talent, that’s great, but you can’t be satisfied with just having the talent. I think that’s the huge thing. You see so many players sort of coast by on the ability they have, and they don’t really work hard. I think one of the greatest things that my coaches and parents instilled in me was that you’re never good enough. My dad was the first one, and not in a bad way, to tell me that I’d had a bad game, and let’s pick it up. Just him saying ‘let’s go back and work on things again and keep trying to get better every day.’”

That’s advice that would serve anyone well regardless of what they’re attempting. For Lowe, she fully expects that trying to get better in her own life will always include the sport of softball in some fashion whether from a playing or a coaching standpoint. players “I would love to coach eventually,” Lowe said. “I’ve kind of gotten that bug right now. The job (Director career. If someone had told me when I was six that playing softball after of Softball Operations at the University of Arizona) I college was an option, there’s no way I’d rather have done anything else. have right now allows me to have my summers free, I would have worked my butt off to be that professional softball player. which is fantastic. As far as how long I keep playing That’s the coolest thing. I get to play the game I love for a living now. I is an excellent question that I don’t really know the have to have another job in the offseason, and I actually like having my answer to. As long as my body holds up, and it’s the job in the offseason. I want to make the pro option available so everyone right thing for me to do to keep playing, I’m going can have that dream, and not just play for three months out of the year, to keep playing. but play a full baseball-length season. Hopefully, we can build it up to that point. “For me the NPF has just been a godsend. The Olympics are great, but only 18 people get to play “I just can’t see myself not being a part of the game of softball, and that’s on that national team. If we can develop (the pro what my decision will come down to. Whether it’s playing or coaching league) so that all of these great athletes have a or even just giving lessons to help players out, the game of softball will chance to play after college, that would be incredible. never be gone from my life. I can’t imagine going into a field that’s It’s crazy to me how many amazing seniors probably completely different, or doing something that I don’t have a passion for. won’t continue to play after their college careers. I I just think you’re way more valuable to the job you have if you have an want to be able to make the pro league a great thing, extreme passion like I do for the sport of softball.” not just for me and my teammates, but I want to be able to build something for the future where I can go At the end of the day, everyone would be as fortunate to exhibit the type up to a little girl at one of my clinics and say you can of passion about something as strong as Lowe does about softball. As they aspire to be not just a doctor or dentist or teacher say, if you enjoy what you’re doing, you’ll never work a day in your life. but a professional softball player. That can be your

top recruit 43

-11 WE HAVE YOUR PERFECT FIT -10

-10

SCAN TO SEE HOW TO GET THE RIGHT FIT -9

The Game We Love S B G I O R H D M M P R A C T I C E Z S D U G Y L B O V K A U J U C I I E F A S Q X D Y R D F E I I A L R I G X I R W K E S A B D R I H T I V B X Q O C F X V S W I N B A P F H V Z P I H S N O I P M A H C T O Q U P I B S S O V S R O S T R I K E O U T Y E M R B E N D S N E N U O U T A U E R R X S W P Z O B W R B J W L D R V W D I G A E T N D N P P D I J Y I B V A I R C G B B B P R J A A C A K A H T S A W P E W L T T Y P N M Q U A T P W C L M Y A J I V N Q C R E G O H E L X M Z Z X O S M W D S H L E A T H R Q K I R A I S M U K U U R Z P D E P F Z G Q A I N L C K T C D M E T V E W K L O X B Z S Q V R V W W S N D T P H M S T I I E I T S I O Y F D R I G H T F I E L D G E A E Y B D X T Z N O H V L Y V K D B E H O M E R U N Q E C L L K D R T Z U S N G C D Q D L E I F T F E L D G B S K W S P P S I O A N H V I I P S W I T C H H I T T E R B Q U Y V I K Z H P P O G C R N I R J W P N E W N Y E U Y P Y P S A R E X T S C Q Z S S I T U G J W R Q D D I A M O N D R U T T S W P T I R U T G H C C S B P F A G B B D X N Z Q U O F S L V O E A T X A T T H M T U I X C E N T E R F I E L D U S Z M R E Y A D E M K W R W R N O E N O S L I W O F L A N G V U D W C F C L Q K W L Q R C O Z W E S A B T S R I F T W E H K S N K A C H Y E S L E H Y I N T E N S I T Y D O W N T H E L I N E Z A X A I N H R I K N V J F Y Q W P J L D U N O T S A E E F P P P Z M C U F D R A C P U E N I L S H C H H U S T L E V J L B O O T N V U N L O U I S V I L L E S L U G G E R F C U L F G B A N N E P L L U B K U C H C T I P L A G E L L I V Hope you like a challenge! G Z F G C E C O N F I D E N C E T R O R R E H C T I P Y I Words may appear horizontally, vertically, D Q P B X R A U T D T I X P I R Z D U W P O T S T R O H S diagonally, forwards and G P X V S Z W K Q E W T U O E C R O F P P B R B R N P L O backwards...

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For THE solution, go to recruiting info at nfca.org EXTRAS top recruit 45 SUMMER 2013 QUICKIES If you only have 5 minutes, here’s the place to go...

PAGE 9 HEALTH PAGE 7 EXTRAS Caring for a Sore Shoulder The 10 Twitter feeds You should be following... Stay ahead of the game…or never quit. Progress into throwing, don’t go out on the field for the first practice 1 @NFCAorg The NFCA is the premier and pick up where you left off from the previous season. professional growth organization for Proper warm-up. It is never a good idea to throw hard, fastpitch softball coaches. fast or far without warming up first. 2 @ProFastpitch Only pro women’s fastpitch league in the U.S. Mechanics. If a coach is fine-tuning your throw, you may experience shoulder soreness that you have never had 3 @ASAUSASoftball The ASA is the U.S. National Governing Body before. This is okay! of softball. USA Softball is the national team. Ice, ice, ice! Something so simple and yet often 4 @CollSoftball360 College softball coverage. overlooked, especially with field players. Scapular stabilization exercises. An assortment of 5 @NCAASoftball Official NCAA Softball Twitter account covering exercises that increase the strength in your shoulder and all things #d1softball. help build proper mechanics for throwing. 6 @thesoftballnews All things softball: fastpitch, slowpitch, Listen to your body. If soreness becomes pain, chronic, tourneys, stats, schedules, news. pinpoint or progressive in nature, stop throwing! Get a diagnosis and treatment. 7 @softballscoresn Wall-to-wall coverage of Division I softball. 8 @FastpitchTV Videos, podcasts, blogs, magazines, and other tools for fastpitch softball. PAGE 20 RECRUITING 9 @PlayBall2020 Official Twitter of the WBSC bid for 2020 Olympics. Tips FOR PARENTS 10 @cindybristow Online education site for the softball coach, 12 player & parent. 1 Don’t bring up money during the very first meeting. 2 Coaches coach, players play, umpires umpire, fans cheer. PAGE 38 3 Interfering with coaches and not respecting their PLAYERS decisions is a bad sign of things to come. On the intangibles: 4 Understand the rules of recruiting before you start. 5 Be cognizant of the coach’s time and attention. “Your hustle in the field, the attitude 6 Know that each coach is only signing four to six players you have about the game, the never- a year. Not recruiting your child is not personal. 7 Try to not let the scholarship offer be the deciding say-die attitude, all of those things are factor. what coaches are looking for... 8 No coach can see every player and no coach can sign every player. If you have the talent, 9 Let your daughter do the talking when meeting the that’s great, college coach. 10 Be friendly if the coach looks open to conversation, but you can’t be but do not introduce yourself unless the coach wants satisfied with just to know who you are. 11 Teach your children how to answer and speak on the having the talent.” phone. -Olympian 12 Don’t talk to a DI coach at any tournament unless it’s over, is after July 1st of the junior year and the coach Caitlin Lowe has asked to speak with you or your family. demarinidemarini.com.com demarini.com demarini.com

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