A catcher can focus on the ball only when mask, chest protection, leg guards and mitt fit correctly.
SESSION 02
Quiet Target, Active Eyes
A still, visible target gives pitchers feedback and makes short easy tosses simpler to receive.
SESSION 03
Receive and Recover
A caught pitch is followed by organizing the ball and preparing for the next play, not lingering in one position.
SESSION 04
Catching Baseline
A good baseline covers readiness, equipment, receiving and communication rather than raw throwing speed.
WEEK 02
Protect and transfer
SESSION 05
Get Behind the Ball
Beginners need an early safe move into the path of a slow, controlled bounced ball before learning game-speed blocks.
SESSION 06
Secure the Missed Pitch
Not every ball will be caught cleanly; quickly finding and safely securing it matters.
SESSION 07
Footwork to Second—Dry
Catch-and-throw timing begins with feet and a clear receiving lane, not full-effort throws.
SESSION 08
Midpoint Gear and Transfer Check
A developing catcher repeats safety checks even when drills become familiar.
WEEK 03
Direct the defense
SESSION 09
Call Your Infield
Catchers can help younger infielders know where the play will go before contact.
SESSION 10
Know the Runner
Catchers should know runners and outs, then make one simple decision rather than rushed guesses.
SESSION 11
Pitcher Partnership
Calm communication builds trust and gives a young pitcher a useful reset.
SESSION 12
Pop-Up Find and Call
Removing a mask, locating a high ball and staying safe around the plate require a careful progression.
WEEK 04
Lead in competition
SESSION 13
Safe Tag at the Plate
Positioning should protect both runner and catcher; dangerous collisions and base-path obstruction must be avoided.
SESSION 14
Catcher Under Pressure
Thinking clearly with runners on base builds confidence and prevents unnecessary rushed throws.
SESSION 15
Full-Inning Leadership
Catcher has to coordinate pitcher and defense across several changes in game state.
SESSION 16
Final Receiver and Leader Check
Graduation includes safe habits, comfort, receiving control and game understanding.
READY WHEN THEY ARE
Next level starts with confidence.
There is no required seven-day streak, no need to log a child's identifying details, and no promise that practice guarantees performance. These sessions are designed for a parent or coach to lead at an appropriate pace.
46/60 Academy builds the complete young baseball or softball player. When a hitter is ready for deeper swing development, strength and explosiveness, pitch recognition or mental training, progress to AHD's specialist programs. AHD is not a Level 3 pitching, catching or fielding academy.
