“I’ll start training three months before the season in January. I’m only 10 and have other sports. I’m not trying to be Monica Abbott.”

I hear you! But remember Misconception #3? The chart we shared there applies to every athlete—regardless of age, talent, or how many activities they juggle. Whether she plays piano, basketball, or is acing her schoolwork, improvement takes consistent reps. Ideally, 4 days per week.

That said, it’s totally fine to pitch part-time, as long as your expectations match your effort. Pitching is one of the few sports that can be practiced solo—10 minutes a day throwing socks into a wall can add up. I often say, “Pitching is her other number one sport.” Even on a busy day, there’s something she can do.

The word “hitting” often emphasizes the physical side of the game: stance, mechanics, timing, and power. But the term “batting” encompasses more. Batting includes the entire mental process that leads up to, and supports, the act of hitting; that shift in language AND mindset can change everything.  In simple Practice Pro Pitching terminology- it’s the difference in becoming a pitcher from a thrower, just on the offensive side of the ball.

I’m Coach Marisa, and I just couldn’t be happier about being the newest addition to the Practice Pro team! I’m super excited to have the opportunity to work with young players on their journeys to greatness within the sport of softball. I look forward to getting to know each of you as I put forth my best efforts to aid and empower you into becoming great batters and confident women.  

I’m sure some of you noticed that I used the word “batters” instead of “hitters”- very astute if you did! I firmly believe that there is a distinction that can be made, and for those of you who join my offensive classes, you are going to learn, execute, and dominate because of those important nuances.