Duties of a Catcher

Submitted by
Darren Mueller
Softball Coach
North Dakota State University

1. Before taking the field, check with the scorer for the information what batters are up and where they hit and what they did if on base.
2. Alert players as each batter comes up as to what happened last.
3. Remember it is better to hold the ball when a runner has started to take a base. Run toward her first and make her commit herself.
4. Check positions of runners before returning the ball to the pitcher.
5. With runners on base, be up in a more mobile position to make a throw.
6. Throw to the base not to the fielder moving to the base.
7. Back up 1st base with no baserunners on.

Qualities of a good catcher:

• Is a team leader
• Has a positive attitude
• Is an enthusiastic player every day
• Is tough, durable and dependable
• Works well with her pitchers
• Has a good relationshp with her coach
• Gets along well with umpires
• Has a professional appoach to the game