46/60 SKILL PATH · AGES 7–12
Throwing for young baseball & softball players.
Catch, move, point and throw with safe repeatable mechanics.
BUILD A THROWING PRACTICE →THE FIRST SKILL TO OWN
Partner target toss
Turn toward the target, step naturally and throw under control; accuracy before max effort.
Partners throw at comfortable distances, naming the target before each controlled toss.
Make reps easy enough for athletes to feel successful before increasing complexity. Coach positively and celebrate smart decisions.
Progression by age
Start slowly with controlled, simple demonstrations and short games.
Add movement and a choice after the basic skill becomes consistent.
Use realistic situations, verbal communication and changing conditions.
Use smaller/softer balls for younger players; never force distance or throw through discomfort.
MAKE IT A PRACTICE
Use it today, not someday.
Put throwing into a complete age-appropriate practice with warm-up, station rotation and game-like finish.
PARENT & COACH QUESTIONS
Get the fundamentals right.
What is the best way to teach throwing to 8U players?
Begin with slow, successful repetitions and one memorable cue. Move to a simple challenge after players show control.
How long should youth players practice this skill?
Use short, supervised blocks with breaks and a game. Follow each athlete’s age, attention, ability and overall practice workload.
Can this work for baseball and softball?
Yes, adapt ball size, field dimensions, pitching distances and game rules to your league and sport. Never assume the rules are identical.