Foreword: Kathy Strahan Focused for Fastpitch combines the best qualities of a drill book and a softball-specific guide to sport psychology, ensuring that come game time everyone will play at peak performance. Informative yet easy to read, mastering the Focused for Fastpitch training principles requires no prior experience, and each chapter includes interactive exercises and charts to help monitor progress. Each drill clearly specifies the mental and physical skills targeted, the goal, proper execution, coaching tips, and variations for increasing or decreasing difficulty. And for additional insight into successful skill building, some favorite drills are included from these top coaches: Gayle Blevins, University of Iowa 0736050841 Tami Brown, All-American Softball School’s College Prep Program Connie Clark, University of Texas Michelle Gromacki, California State University, Fullerton Jacquie Joseph, Michigan State University Brian Kolze, University of the Pacific Patrick Murphy, University of Alabama Coaching staff, University of California, Davis John Reeves, University of California Kathy Strahan, California State University, Sacramento Integrating concentration, confidence, mental imagery, and energy regulation at practice with softball-specific drills will result in players reaching their potential far sooner than practicing any of these aspects alone. Applying the information in Focused for Fastpitch is the best way to gain the advantage. Table of Contents Chapter 1 Mentaphysical Training Train the mind to improve the body’s performance. Chapter 2 Thinking the Game Utilize constructive attitudes and routines to gain the edge. Chapter 3 Hitting Relax and regroup to stay in the zone. Chapter 4 Bunting Execute the short game with patience and precision. Chapter 5 Baserunning Build awareness and confidence to score runs. Chapter 6 Infield Defense Read, react, and respond with better results. Chapter 7 Outfield Defense Sustain focus to save the game. Chapter 8 Pitching Shape the game from the circle. Chapter 9 Catching Manage the game from behind the plate. Chapter 10 Team Building Enhance cohesion through communication.