Thread: New Style of not closing?

Sorry, I didn't go into major detail on that part, was more focusing on the arms/hips because that's where my question started out at. The girls I have right now are 8 and 9. I initially teach the step ... then after they get that good and down pact then we extend it out the leap and drag. They tend to adjust quickly as in within that session. I've noticed if and when I went to the leap first they didn't understand the concept of the pitch itself and ended up pitching illegally because they were more focused on the "leap" than anything else. They ened up with both feet off the ground.

Originally Posted by Screwball

Saying 'slam the arms down' makes the kid muscle the pitch rather than letting gravity and whip take over, so please don't say it.

There is no need to hit yourself to pitch. Ask yourself what that accomplishes? Timing is a matter of other things not an arbitrary slap.

I notice no emphasis on the leap (and drag) or stride in your description and that should be foremost. Closing the door was initially done with the step style.

So what where could I find more information on the new to me stuff?

Thanks, the slamming the arms down was clarified in an earlier post. It's the arm whip leading with the elbow coming down ... just the wording i've used.

Originally Posted by sluggers

Arm speed is good.

I have no idea what you mean.

I think you are referring to the "hello elbow"--hand up, palm facing pitcher. Read about IR (internal rotation). Basically, the forearm rotates at release, resulting in increased speed.

This is meaningless.


This has been out for at least 10 years.

Again...the "hello elbow". Read about IR.

I'm in North East Texas. Pretty much smack dab inbetween Shreveport La and Dallas Tx

Originally Posted by Amy in AZ.

What area of the country are you in? It is good that you ate willing to search out information.

this is the way I teach 2nd... I'm trying to find one from the first way

I'm always willing to learn. I NEVER want to be content with what I "know". I'm not one to think I know everything there is to know because there is always room for more knowledge. Just as I was taught when I was 5 to take a big step and squash the bug to bat... by no means is that the correct way now. There are always new ways and better techniques coming out. If I'm going to teach this I want to give the girls the best info I can. As soon as I heard about this way of pitching I quickly began researching and I'm very glad I've found this site.

Originally Posted by meg.w.stev

I'm in North East Texas. Pretty much smack dab inbetween Shreveport La and Dallas Tx

Stepping vs. Leap-and-Drag Great softball pitching hints and recommendations for girl softball pitchers

this site pretty much explains it.

Although, I've used the step to introduce it then once they get the idea of it then we swtich the leap and drag

OK... I can see what you mean... Pitcure says a thousand words, and video says a million... Just keep looking for the simplest :{)