ULTIMATE SOFTBALL HPWB

Ultimate Softball The goal is to practice skills and strategies necessary to participate in a game of modified softball. Activities will culminate in a team tournament amongst classmates. Rules and strategies are similar to that of softball and baseball. Use of a limited flight ball larger than a regulation softball. No gloves for this activity. Know the standard player positions. Teacher will determine team members.

Standard Positions Extra players will typically play in outfield to avoid crowding.

Catching Skill- Ball hit in air: Always “track” the path of the ball. Catch using fingers and hands, usually away from body. Catch above waist area- fingers up, “diamond to the sky.” Catch below waist area- fingers down. Be in a body position to throw the ball. Know where to throw.

Fielding Skill- Ball hit on the ground: Always “track” the path of the ball. Use 2 hands to field (usually away from body). “Triangle” position- not turned sideways. Be in a body position to throw the ball. Know where to throw the ball.

Striking/ Batting: Always “track” the path of the ball the entire way. Comfortable batting stance with feet square to the plate. Ready position (elbows and hands ready) to strike the ball. Dominant hand on top of the other (Right vs. Left) Transfer weight and momentum during swing. “Follow through” after contacting the ball. Foul vs. Fair ball. Observe safety (ex. avoid dropping the bat, firm grip, aware of others).

Typical Bat Swing: Track the ball, front foot steps to target, make contact, pivot on back foot, forceful swing, and “follow through” your swing path.

Throwing: Step with “opposition” Eyes on target. Point with foot, shoulder, hands, elbow. Be able to judge the distance to target. Overhand throw (circular motion above shoulder). Sidearm throw (motion that starts at the side and away from body). Underhand throw (toss starts below the waistline area). Use proper grip to hold the ball.

Strategy: Baserunning (try to safely advance as many bases). Getting the lead runner to prevent scoring. Play your position (don’t wander unless…). Tagging up on fly ball (only when less than 2 outs). Able to overrun 1st base and Home. No overrun on 2nd and 3rd base. Ball positioning (hitting away from defense). Force Out (tag base or player) Non Force Out (must tag player).

Modified rules: No gloves. Pitcher pitches to his/ her team. Every player bats in order. Batter gets 5 pitches max to hit fair ball (out on 5th pitch that’s foul, strike, or ball). Only 4 runs maximum per inning. No sliding at all. Player must safely drop bat (throwing bat is automatic out). 3 outs switch sides. Officiate your own game and keep score. Captain and Co-Captain are responsible for batting order and defense positions to rotate. No intentionally overrunning bases to cause defense confusion (“pickle”) Call the play to avoid any unwanted collisions.

SAFETY PRINCIPLES: Be alert and aware of action. Only 1 batter on field, others behind fence. Absolutely no sliding or diving. Drop bat after swing (NO THROWING BAT). Communicate the play with teammates. Avoid collisions with others. Be socially responsible!!!