Turn the Pressure OFF!

New situations breed pressure. Recurring situations without results allow pressure to multiply.

Great players have an incredible ability to perform in situations that are entirely new to them in many cases. They also don't let failure in small amounts in areas they normally succeed in effect their confidence level. Their confidence level is so high that they don't need direct proof that they had success performing an action, they draw from such a wide range of positive experiences that they know this new challenge is just another one they'll over come. Pressure seems to elevate their game, but what about the other 99% of players who struggle when the pressure is on?

Teaching players to excel in new situations is simple in hitting. Let's say the new situation is hitting a drop ball. A player may face a pitcher who has a drop ball unlike one they have ever seen before, but this doesn't excuse a hitter from success at the plate. The player should identify that the drop ball is tough to hit based on it's downward movement. The challenge is, "How do I get to the drop ball?" A player can draw on the work they've put into becoming ready for this challenge. Have they worked in their Airplane Drill ? How can they apply the Airplane Drill to this new situation? Now they're on the road to a solution, which distracts them from feeling pressure. The pressure becomes: "Repeat an action you have performed hundreds of times" instead of "Do something entirely new when the game is on the line."

Old challenges are the same but with a different twist. If the hitter has failed at hitting the drop ball in the past, then they must face their fear. Most young hitters will walk to the plate hoping to avoid the drop ball. A smaller percentage of hitters will want to see the benefit of their hard work and want the challenge of the drop ball. These hitters will walk to the plate begging the pitcher to throw the pitch so that they can finally over come this old challenge. Coaches must encourage players to face their fear, or in this case the pitch they might rather avoid.

In all situations, there is relevant experience that will help a player draw on their ability to meet a new or old challenge. Coaches should use drills in practice and communicate the specific situation the drill is working towards. Let your players know they'll be able to tap back into their hard work and find confidence in a tough situation.

If you struggle with a drop ball, then I suggest using the Airplane Drill. On the other hand if you struggle with the Rise Ball, I suggest the Lag & Stop Drill.

The SoftballHittingOnline.com library of resources has a wide variety of drills, lessons and videos that will help your players become more equipped to meet the vast number of challenges they meet every day with the swing.