- Feb 3, 2011
- 1,880
- 48
One thing I have noticed is that many former HS or college players who coach in rec say the ball should be facing the target. As I have said before, though, most of the ones I know do not necessarily believe in the concept of continuing education. Whatever they learned 30 years ago is exactly what they feel should be taught today. What they do not take into consideration is that they themselves may have been strong throwers naturally, while the average beginning rec player most likely is not a strong natural thrower.Yes. If I get a chance, I will look for the info that we have discussed on here about that. We sometimes look at videos of Coach Candrea teaching it the way you do, and then, his players don't do it. Also, the founder of this site (if I recall) says that facing the ball backwards, isn't necessary.
The coach who taught me how to TEACH young rec players to throw was on the U.S. National Team and gave to me the same skills training we see with Coach Candrea.
Once a player is more advanced, then it becomes a matter of preferred style. Of course there's more than one way to skin a cat, but for teaching those less experienced players, I think that having the ball facing away from the target helps them to develop more of a whip in the wrist at the point of release. When those same players are taught to have the ball face the target, too many will have a tendency to cup the ball which leads to very poor technique during the rest of the motion.
So, I'm not saying it's necessary, but I am agreeing with Coach Candrea that this is a better way to help those naturally weaker throwers to develop a very good overhand throw.