Throwing happens after Warm Up and immediately before Quick Defense. The term throwing can vary wildly depending on athlete age and ability, but the importance of catch-play can NEVER be minimized. Use this time to truly teach playing catch, which includes both throwing and receiving.

EXECUTION – Divide the athletes with one group on the foul line and throwing partners extending into the outfield as appropriate. Depending on age and ability, execute a structured game of catch (see DC drill of that name) with the goal of Long Toss. Take this important time seriously, promoting athlete focus with your leadership, pace, and structure.

DC KEYS

1. Fill Pockets With Baseballs – Any extra parents, siblings, or canines can walk behind the atheltes and pick up balls. Coaches should fill their pockets and be prepared to help so athletes don’t waste excessive time chasing baseballs.
2. Group Size Goal @ 4:1 – Roughly 12 atheltes and 3 coaches… that means each coach can work with TWO sets of throwing pairs.  Awesome opportunity to improve throwing and receiving skills.
3. Involve Long Toss – Can you get to an extended distance and stay there for a determined amount of time?  Then, work to increase that distance and keep an eye on the clock – you are building arm speed, arm strength, and arm health!

EQUIPMENT LIST