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DR3 Fastpitch Blog

Stop Telling Athletes to “Calm Down”: What to Say Instead Jan 30, 2026

“Calm down.”

It’s one of the most common phrases said to athletes — and one of the most misunderstood.

While it’s usually said with good intentions, many athletes don’t experience it as calming at all. Instead, they hear:

  • “You’re overreacting”

  • “You shouldn’t feel this way”

  • “You’re d

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Game-Day Nerves Are Normal (And They Don’t Mean Your Athlete Isn’t Ready) Jan 27, 2026

 If your daughter feels nervous before games, take a breath.

That feeling doesn’t mean she’s unprepared.
It doesn’t mean she lacks confidence.
It doesn’t mean something is wrong.

It means her body is getting ready to perform.

As the season approaches, many parents notice the same signs:
Tighter s...

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Why Preseason Should Feel Hard (And Why That’s a Good Thing for Your Athlete) Jan 25, 2026

If preseason feels uncomfortable right now, you’re not doing it wrong.

In fact—if it feels hard, messy, and a little frustrating… you’re probably doing it exactly right.

Every year, as softball preseason ramps up, I hear the same quiet worries from parents:

  • “She’s striking out more than usual

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Why So Many Young Players Want to Pitch or Catch Dec 21, 2025

Pitcher and catcher are often called the power positions — and for good reason.

Pitchers control the pace, speed, and movement of the game. Catchers manage the defense, call pitches, and lead communication. These roles naturally attract young athletes who want responsibility, challenge, and leaders...

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How Often Should a Beginner Pitcher Practice? Dec 19, 2025

One of the biggest mistakes parents make is thinking more throwing equals faster results.

It doesn’t.

For beginners, the goal is consistency without burnout. Pitchers should aim to get 1% better every day, but that doesn’t mean throwing a ball 7 days a week.

Improvement can look like:

  • Spin w

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Pitching Is a Privilege, Not a Position Dec 17, 2025

Everyone wants to be the pitcher.

But very few understand what that actually means.

Pitching is not just throwing strikes — it’s responsibility, discipline, and consistency. It’s showing up on the days motivation is low and choosing growth over comfort.

This journey is a marathon, not a sprint.
C...

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Pitching Starts Here: Slowing Down to Speed Up May 05, 2025

She took a deep breath… and threw a strike.

Then the next girl did the same.
And the next.
And the next.

One by one, these little pitchers were dialed in — calm, focused, smooth… and throwing absolute strikes.

This was one of my favorite clinics from the fall, hosted in Louisiana with the amazing...

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Stepping Up to the Plate: Overcoming Softball Hitting Challenges Feb 25, 2025

As a softball player, you know that success at the plate requires more than just raw talent—it demands determination, focus, and the ability to overcome obstacles. If you've ever felt stuck in a hitting rut, unable to capitalize on your potential, it's time to identify what's holding you back and ta...

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Mastering Softball Pitching: The Importance of Self-Care Aug 09, 2024

Softball pitching demands not only physical prowess but also mental and emotional resilience. Just as taking care of ourselves is crucial in daily life, it's equally essential on the pitcher's mound. Here's how self-care can elevate your game:

  1. Voice Your Feelings: Like expressing emotions abroa

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The Importance of Physical Conditioning for Softball Pitchers May 19, 2024

Physical conditioning is a cornerstone of success for any athlete, and softball pitchers are no exception. In this post, we'll explore why physical conditioning is crucial for enhancing pitching performance and preventing injury on the mound.

Softball pitching requires more than arm strength; it re...

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