It may look like they’re not doing much on the field, but catchers have an important role in softball. Along with the pitcher, the catcher is one of the main operators of the defensive aspect of the game.

So if you want to be a softball catcher, congratulations, first of all, for wanting to take on this very challenging position. That said, let me share with you some of the essential qualities that you need to imbibe in order to become a good softball catcher.

Here they are:

Have Good Leadership Skills. Being behind the home plate gives you a complete view of the field. With this view, you can see whether someone will attempt to steal the base, where the ball is going, and what you’re probably doing wrong in your defense if your team’s experiencing a slump.

Because of this, you need to be able to gather your team together in coming up with an overall strategy in playing the game. That includes directing the pitcher in what type of pitch to throw at a particular situation, alert the pitcher that a baserunner looks like she’s going to steal the base, among other things.

Have Good Legs

When you look at the stance of a catcher, you can only begin to imagine how difficult it is to be in that kind of position.

Most of the time, catchers are squatting while waiting for the pitch. And when they catch the ball, they usually need to quickly rise from their position to throw the ball to other defensive players on the field.

That is why you also need to strengthen your legs if you want to be a good catcher. Squatting for most of the 7 innings is no fun at all if you can’t support your body and are unable to get up from your position quickly.

There are specific drills that will help you do this. Ask your training coach for these drills to help you play this position.

Have a Good Throwing Arm

As I mentioned earlier, being a catcher also involves a good amount of throwing the ball to other defensive players. Because of this, you might have to throw the ball to the 2nd base which is pretty far if your throwing arm is weak.

That’s why you also need to strengthen your throwing arm to play this position. As with being able to endure squatting while on the field, you should also ask your coach for recommendations on drills and exercises that will help you in this aspect of your game.

But What If You’re Inexperienced?

Every one of us has to start somewhere. So, if you really want to be a catcher, make every effort to become one. That will include doing the drills and exercises you need to become a good catcher.

But you also have to keep in mind not to rush things at first. For one, it will take time before your body is accustomed to the squatting position. So, try to limit your games in this position until you can already play it confidently.

To be a good softball catcher is definitely not easy as it takes a lot of time, dedication and skills to become one.  But if you are able to follow the softball tips I gave you above, you would be a good one in no time.