Skill Guidance
Want to know what skills your child should master at each age level to safely and successfully move up to the next level? See below for a list of skills that SFSA recommends each player know and master before moving up.
6U
- Names of defensive positions and where they are located
- How to execute a throw (proper grip)
- Proper fielding position (down and ready)
- Consistently catch a ball on glove side
- How to hold a bat properly
- How to properly wear or use all softball equipment
- What to do after the ball is hit (as a batter and a runner)
- Knows how, why and when to run to the next base
- Number of outs per inning
8U
- The ball is always "LIVE"
- Fielding techniques (proper down and ready position)
- Uses both hands to catch the ball vs. one handed or trapped catches
- Understands where to make the defensive play
- Proper batting position
- Proper base running (on the ground vs. in the air)
- Communication (calling for a fly ball)
- Difference between a Force Play and a Must Tag
- Backing up plays
- Relaying the ball from the outfield to the infield
- Introduction to player pitching
10U+
- Pitching and catching mechanics
- Bunting
- Infield fly rule
- Competence in batter's box positioning
- Determining ball vs. strike
- Proper base running techniques including:
- Stealing
- When to tag up
- How and when to slide
- Proper footwork to field and throw quickly
- How to go back on a fly ball
- How to rundown a base runner (pickle)
- Covering bases and backing up positions after a hit