By: Lu Harris-Champer; Head Softball Coach at the University of Georgia

Everyone has heard the very accurate phrase “Defense Wins Championships”. For our program it is imperative that we simulate the speed and pressure of the game every time we get the opportunity to train on defense. All of our drills have a purpose and if executed properly in practice when the situation happens in the game the athlete will be prepared.

The three line drill is one of the most basic drills that we do everyday. We have three different lines in the infield. For example; one line of short ground balls with a flat hands glove, one line of long ground balls with a flat hands glove and one line of backhands with their real glove. The drill becomes competitive because the athletes must field a certain number “10 in a row” cleanly, throw included, before they can move to the next line.

During the drill the athletes “call for the ball”. While fielding ground balls they holler statements such as “Bring it on coach!”, or they holler for their teammates “Here we go DAWGS!” It becomes a very loud and chaotic competitive environment.

After they field the ground ball they throw it to the catcher who is next to the hitter. Then the catcher yells out loudly which ever number the fielder has completed. You can bet when the fielder gets to numbers 8, 9, and 10 they are learning how to overcome doubt and develop their bring it on mentality.

Once a player fields her 10 in a row clean from each line she then moves to the winners circle. The players who have finished continue to holler for their teammates. The drill does not end until every player has completed her series.

The best part of the drill is when the last player is on her last 10 and everyone else on the team is circled around her rooting for her to get it done. When she finishes everyone gives her high fives and statements of a job well done.

This drill takes about 20 minutes, but it is time well spent. When the game is one the line you want your defenders to want the ball. If you do this drill everyday in practice it will help your players develop that “Hit it to me!” attitude you want them to have when the game is on the line!