How to improve catcher communication in softball

Melissa Gentile shares her coaching philosophy, emphasizing the catcher as the lead communicator on the softball field. Coach Gentile shares how her catcher originally struggled with vocal communication. To address this, Gentile implemented a practice restriction, allowing only the catcher to speak for several days of practice. This approach significantly improved the catcher’s vocal skills and sense of responsibility. Gentile acknowledges that not all teams may have the personnel for the catcher-centric communication system and discusses an alternative perspective where only the people receiving and delivering the ball communicate. She underscores the importance of adapting communication strategies based on the team’s personality and skill set, highlighting that as players graduate you constantly need to evaluate your team’s evolving dynamic.