Okay here is another tale of my adventure into the FP world. Worked another couple of games today in the 10u tournament and everything went swell BUT when I am behind the plate I have a problem flinching mostly on those high inside pitches. If any of you have gone through this or when working with other rookies any advice on how to stop flinching would be appreciated. Also any good tips on what you go through thought wise as your getting in the set position when calling behind the plate


All suggestions are appreciated

Don

Well, you could try some catcher drills. Get your gear on and get someone to toss softballs at you until you are comfortable trusting your equipment.

Fortunately, I've never had that problem. Too hardheaded, I guess.

Don,
That's pretty much a normal reaction. Here's what I've found works for me. When I see the pitch will be high & inside - right at my face mask - I'll open my eyes as wide as I can. This keeps me from blinking and helps me avoid ducking.

Aside from that is the knowledge that if I get hit, I want to behit in the front, 'cuz that's where all the gear is.

Steve M

Don,

Just close your eyes and ask the catcher where it was :)

It's a natural reaction when one is not use to having balls thrown at you. Dakota and Steve both made good points. You need to trust your equipment and whatever you do, never turn your head.

AS FAR AS GETTING READY BEFORE THE PITCH, I QUICKLY GO OVER THE CURRENT GAME SITUATION; RUNNERS, OUTS, POSSIBLE INFIELD FLY, WHERE MY PARTNER IS, ETC. ALSO QUICKLY SIZE UP THE BATTER FOR MY STRIKE ZONE; KNEES, UPPER STRIKE ZONE AND WHERE THE CATCHER IS SETTING UP. HOPE THIS HELPS.

Don........

I was a catcher.........so flinching is not as big as a problem........

I also catch high caliber 14-18 yo pitchers on a regular basis........

Maybe if you know someone who has a daughter who is a pitcher........you can get your mask........sit on a bucket and let them throw bullets to you.........grin

Only reason I can think of that I don't flinch very often.........

Joel

Don,

I did two 10U games Sat. morning and I am still "ducking"
I think everyone ducks in 10U....just natural...most of
the catchers have the missies......grin

glen