Customer Reviews

An Introduction to Softball Pitching Mechanics: Including How to Throw Six Different Pitches : A Basic Description for Girls and Womens Fast Pitch

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1 star:		(3)

 

 

I have been playing, coaching girls softball for over 25 years. I purchased this book with the intent to help girls pitch softball, hoping to get ideas on drills, practice etc. I guess, I was expecting more when I received less. In my opinion, it could of took less time to write than to read, (within the hour). If you're wealthy and wanting to spend a lot of money on terms, than this pamplet may be for you, If your looking for specifics and details, and a good buy. Search elsewhere.....

Before adhering to the techniques offered in this book, my sister was a sufficient recreation softball pitcher who utilized the "slingshot" delivery. After switching to the windmill delivery, diligently practicing the methods taught in this book, and adopting Coach Ford's philosophy, she was able to secure a full-ride scholarship to the University of Nebraska as a starting pitcher. This book provides straight-forward descriptions of the tools and techniques necessary to become a successful competitive softball pitcher, and I would recommend it to any pitcher, parent or coach.

This is an over priced pamplet that will do little to "teach" someone to begin to pitch. I have been involved in ASA softball for 8 years and, my daughter has been pitching for 2 years now. I bought this book to try to teach her different pitches. The book lacks a glossery to define some of her terms. In addition sequential drawings or photos would be very helpful to show what is trying to be explained. The book frequently references you to other chapters to try to explain what the current chapter is trying to explain. (example when attempting to understand what is being explained in "The Change Up" the sub heading "Feet" says "you should have the same feet positions as in other pitches" Say what????, which other pitches, why not type another two or three lines to explain it in this chapter. This happens repeatedly throughout this book (Pamplet)Save your money and invest in a trainer.

Along with hard practice, the guidance of this book helped my daughter and myself understand the basics of the pitches she now throws. Why should you throw a pitch, what the pitch should do and how the ball spins should be known before it's thrown. Mr. Ford's book tells of every aspect of the basic pitches to be a competitive pitcher and pitching coach. Very easy to comprehend and to the point gives a no nonsense approach to the basics. The small paper back is easy to carry and a quick reference when on the practice field. This is great for the coach who can not remember every aspect all the time (Dennis did that for us). I have owned three books and will buy another, because everone that borrows it from me likes it and still uses it till this day. Thank you Dennis for making my daughter a 1996 Pony National Champion.

Compared to all other books and videos, Mr. Ford teaches a different set of mechanics. Since all others are different I must assume that Mr. Ford is incorrect and teaching it wrong. There are only a few pictures to demonstrate what he is writing about and this book is NOT recommended for starting pitchers. ANY other book or video would be better.

My daughter, Lindsey Kontra, has been exclusively using Dennis Ford's pitching technique for 6 years. At age 16, she has come in first in ASA national championships 3 times, and finished in second and fourth as well. Her dedication to this style of pitching has brought her great success and a promising future. His book easily details the techniques needed to throw 5 pitches and a wealth of information on practices, expectations, and correcting problems. I consider this book required reading for any girl wanting to be the best in the circle.