Outfield tempo drill for efficiently fielding ground balls

Purpose: To teach outfielders to adjust their speed and get in proper position when fielding ground balls.

How it works: An outfielder and coach stand about 10 yards apart. The coach rolls a ball toward the player. As the ball approaches, the player bends down with her glove side leg back, picks up the ball with her glove and rolls it back to the coach. To progress, have the player start further back. As the ball approaches this time, she meets the ball, fields it, and rolls it back to the coach. Next, move the player back a few more steps. As soon as the coach releases the ball, the player sprints toward it to close the distance, then decelerates as she bends to field the ball. She then rolls the ball back to the coach. Once players are comfortable with this movement, they should be able to close on a hit ball at full speed, slow down as they get into fielding position, field the ball, and accelerate through.

Requirements: One or more players, a glove, a coach, balls and about 20 yards of space