Catching and Catchers discussion Catcher drills???

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Does anyone know of any drills that help assist catchers from turning or lifting their heads when blocking balls in the dirt whether the balls are in front of them or to either side?

Thanks

 

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On the lighter side, I've always tied them to the backstop and had the team throw balls at her. After the first dozen balls, it doesn't hurt anymore.

Really though, try tennis balls first. Then work up to softballs. It appears that at one time, this catcher got hit in the face with a ball (not while playing catcher). You've got to get her to trust her mask and equipment. Tennis balls are soft and she knows that they will not hurt her. After she gets comfortable with tennis balls, make the move to regular softballs.

 

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Check this URL below it has about 147 dills.. Also if you have any good drills please foraward them se we can post them..


http://www.game-ex.com/drills/index.shtml

 

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I'm a catcher, and I have some problems with that too. It'd be nice to work some drills that help me stop. It's just a reflex that I can't really control all that well.

 

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I do it so I don't get dirt in my face...I know my mask is there but I cant stop.

 

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i am also a catcher...this is a problem i had as well....

you get take tennis balls or any soft ball and pretty much just throw it left side, right side,and the middle...once they get used to that you can try a regular softball....and if dirt is a problem i usually use sunglasses and they work well

another problem may be that the catcher doesn't know how to block properly

good luck with the catching...it is a great position...and work hard

 

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Of course it is a reflex, just as it is a reflex to flinch the first time you are behind the plate and someone swings at a pitch. One of the things that you have to work on and convince yourself is that you are safer following the ball then turning your head. If you pull your chin down to follow the ball (not just your eyes) your gear will protect your face chest and throat. Certainly your legs arms and hands are exposed, and those areas will get hit and bruised, but a hit to the throat can be serious. As mentioned work on blocking with balls that won't hurt, another good drill to work on technique is to block with your hands behind your back. Too often catchers want to catch that ball in the dirt instead of preventing the ball from getting by