Softball Coaching Philosophy

A Coaching Philosophy (for a competitive team)

The statement "Playing time is earned, not given" is the foundation of this coaching philosophy. Most teams have starters and role players. However, starters should not receive special treatment. Everyone is expected to put the best interest of the team first, before any thought of individual accomplishments. No individual, coach or player is more important than the team.

What specifically does "Playing time is earned, not given" mean? The amount of playing time each player receives will depend on attitude, skill level, commitment, absences, injuries and game/tournament situations.

Team pride is another cornerstone of a competitive athletic program. Winning builds pride, but so does hard work and commitment to individual and team goals. Coaches should instill in each player the belief that hard work pays off, and the harder he/she works, the more they will achieve. While winning is a goal for everyone, each player should focus on his/her effort - not the outcome. A team can always control its effort, but seldom the outcome of a game.

Teaching and repetition are two tools to prepare each player to be the best he/she can be. Start with fundamentals, work on techniques and individual skills and teach team defense in depth. Take every opportunity to teach and demonstrate teamwork, sportsmanship and respect for everyone, starting with the coaches. Believing that "Perfect practice makes perfect," players should properly practice the skills being taught, on a repetitive basis, so that these skills become as natural as walking and talking.

Team members should set goals for themselves and the team. Goals should be challenging enough to require each player to extend beyond present skill level. Each player should have the opportunity to achieve success and/or failure in game situations. When they succeed, give positive feedback in terms of recognition and approval. When they do not succeed, give feedback in terms of advice or instruction.

Each player’s primary competition should be on their team, not the opposing team. Strive for constant competition among pitchers, catchers, infielders and outfielders. By practicing often with excellent players, each player will have the opportunity to become the best he/she can be. The underlying philosophy is ---- players compete with other players or teams rather than against other players or teams.

Mental preparation is as much a part of a coaching philosophy as physical preparation. Try to accomplish through mental preparation:

Intensity -  Exceptional focus and concentration.
Composure -  Cool under pressure.
Enthusiasm -  Have fun, enjoy softball.

Finally, a coaching philosophy should include the fact that playing competitive softball should be FUN. Strive to make practices and games enjoyable experiences that will both develop skills and provide positive life long memories for every player.

Pete Sprenkle has 25 years of fast pitch softball coaching experience with girls aged 12 through 18. This article appeared in his Softball Coaches Tool Kit and was reprinted with permission.