Fastpitch News

The USA Softball Women’s National Team (WNT) has been selected as a finalist for the Best Women’s Team for the inaugural Panam Sports Award. Following a Gold Medal performance at the 2019 Lima Pan American Games, the U.S. captured the program’s ninth Pan American Games title while going 7-1 and outscoring opponents 45-6.

ICYMI: On our latest episode of Inner Circle TV Kelsey and Claudia take a closer look at the controversy surrounding Kristen Butler. Here's how it all breaks down! 0:00 3:00 Former Toledo player not surprised by recent allegations 3:00 4:25 Why treat your players poorly? 4:25 5:20 Are programs doing enough research in hiring? ... 5:20 6:30 Similair stories likely to surface at other programs 6:30 7:55 Where’s the line? 7:55 11:00 What are Athletic Directors looking for in a new hire? 11:00 -13:40 The other side of the story 13:40 -16:25 NPF announces the addition of a new team 16:25 17:57 Tips for the incoming class See more

It's time, 18Us let's close it out

BREAKING: Ole Miss head coach Mike Smith has been suspended indefinitely.

This week on the Inner Circle, Kelsey and Claudia take a closer look at the controversy surrounding Kristen Butler! Here's how it all breaks down: 0:00 3:00 Former Toledo player not surprised by recent allegations 3:00 4:25 Why treat your players poorly? 4:25 5:20 Are programs doing enough research in hiring? ... 5:20 6:30 Similair stories likely to surface at other programs 6:30 7:55 Where’s the line? 7:55 11:00 What are Athletic Directors looking for in a new hire? 11:00 -13:40 The other side of the story 13:40 -16:25 NPF announces the addition of a new team 16:25 17:57 Tips for the incoming class See more

ICYMI: Our latest episode of Inner Circle TV discusses the situation unfolding at Rutgers, catch up on this loaded episode here: https://buff.ly/2NNuzJp 0:00 3:30 Former Players allege mistreatment by softball staff 3:30 4:15 History of transfers a cause for concern 4:15 7:25 Hit by pitch practice ... 7:25 -10:30 The other side of the story 10:30 13:45 Changing with the times 13:45 -16:20 A lesson for recruits 16:20 17:20 How do elite programs treat their players? 17:20 20:23 No comment from Rutgers Administrators See more

NBD! Just a few dozen new schedules updated on our "one stop shop" for all your schedule needs!

ICYMI: 8 of the games greats are now members of the National Softball Hall of Fame!

The NPF has a new team

When I tweeted about this project, I had some pushback on some of the data and it is troubling that people in our sport still argue with data. That does explain, however, why we still have many coaches that believe a sacrifice bunt is a productive outcome there is data that proves it is not but that is a topic for another day.

"Next, we have the disgruntled parent(s). This comes as a less of a positive, but could also be beneficial. To be beneficial the reason is important. Did this happen because the people running the previous organization were not doing a good job? Was that organization ran by parents who only had a small groups interest in mind? Was it just local Daddy Ball? Leaving one organization for another for any of the reasons stated would make sense and could lead to the creation of a better ran organization."

On Friday, November 8th, UTEP and softball head coach, Tobin Echo-Hawk have parted ways just months before the 2020 NCAA Softball season.

Another stop added to the "Stand Beside Her Tour" and we couldn't be more excited!

Next up, the Pac-12!

LSU and Liberty have released their 2020 schedules! And Liberty's is EYE POPPING http://bit.ly/32kwA3Q

Hip hip hooray for a number of programs releasing their 2020 schedules! Take a peek at our updates here: https://fastpitchnews.com/colleg/2020-ncaa-schedules/367101

On this edition of In The Circle, Eric Lopez talks with Cal State Northridge’s Head Coach Tairia Flowers who discusses being inducted into the UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame this past weekend where Flowers was a 2-time All-American and a National Champion. Flowers talks about her time as a player with U.S. National team, being part of gold medal team in 2004 Summer Olympics and silver in 2008 Olympics in Beijing, and comparing it to her current time being on the U.S. Coaching st...aff as an assistant coach. Flowers also discusses her time in coaching that led her to CSUN. Also on this episode, Eric and Victor look at some storylines and marquee games from the 2nd annual Clearwater Elite Invitational. Listen here or download wherever you find your favorite podcasts: https://bit.ly/33hIxZj

This week on the Inner Circle, Kelsey and Claudia sit down with the Director of Softball Operations at HitTrax. What is HitTrax? Well, we've got you covered on everything you need to know about it, what it can offer pitchers, tips and tricks, how it can be utilized in recruiting, and their partnership with Amanda Chidester.

Make a choice that feeds you academically, athletically, and spiritually if that is important to you. Find a place that allows you to serve and give back if you are passionate about that. Find a place that will allow you to succeed on the field in the ways that are most important to you. Find a place that sets you up to attend the best graduate schools in the country if that is on your horizon.

In the #Halloween spirit check out a few of the scariest pitchers in the club game right now https://fastpitchnews.com//the-scariest-in-the-game/367983

"Infielders and outfielders should learn how to take reps from their position when the infield and outfield grass gets torn up and balls on the ground become unpredictable. Softball fields get worn out with use, especially on tournament days, and the field may not be as smooth by the end of the weekend as it was when it started." https://fastpitchnews.com//become-comfortable-uncom/350258

We realize it isn't softball but it's still a "stick and ball" sport and really exciting! Who are you taking tonight?!

Since we had such a great conversation going last week, we want to make this a "thing". We'll have a new topic for you weekly starting with today's question: should fastpitch begin requiring bats be less "hot" again? Let us know what you think!

"Keep in mind that every single time you step on the softball field you are representing not only yourself, but your teammates, coaches, parents, family members, and community. You don’t want to be labeled as the player or team who exhibits poor sportsmanship. The softball community is small, and word gets around fast."

Our excitement cannot be contained! ... : NCAA Softball

We heard it's head coach Gerry Glasco's birthday! Drop him a and give our latest episode of In The Circle SB a listen to hear what he says about Ragin’ Cajuns Softball in 2020. Could this be the best offensive team Glasco has ever coached? Spoiler alert: he thinks so Listen here or download wherever you get your podcast fix: https://buff.ly/2PzR321

We are thrilled to feature this in-depth look at defensive outcomes/probability courtesy of NIACC Softball's Deven Boland. Boland utilized a subset of 2019 NCAA DI Regional contests and broke everything down as follows. Read up and share your thoughts below: http://bit.ly/2pY8wX8

"It is common for lower level teams to be seeded into the higher divisions if they win pool play games. It is also common coaches to throw games away in order to be seeded into a lower tier. This second scenario doesn’t sit right with me for several reasons."

"The more you know, the better. Number one way to get into playing college athletics at a high level is to make yourself eligible for academic scholarships."

"Softball should never be all about business. If you get to the point where you as a coach, parent, or player are taking everything too seriously, take a step back and catch yourself. It’s okay to be upset about a loss, but try to follow a 24-hour rule. You have 24 hours after a loss to be angry or upset, but once the 24 hours run out, you have to find a way to get over it."

"Fall ball is an excellent opportunity for coaches to use players at multiple positions. When a coach asks you what position you play, try not to specialize. You may have a favorite position in mind, but it’s best to lead with, 'wherever you need me to play, coach.'"

With rain outs across the country (sorry everyone ) this could be a great time for some team bonding! We have some ideas here:

On the latest episode of #InnerCircleTV the ladies are discussing strategies and solid goals players can utilize to make the most of their offseason months. http://bit.ly/345FR0V

Next up we look into the Big 12 and the movements that may impact the conference this coming season. Lot of athletes moving out this past summer https://fastpitchnews.com/co/transfer-impacts-big-12/367791

Are YOU a #Super60 club?! We've released our 14 and 16U lists, catch up here: 14U: https://bit.ly/2PiU0Ul 16U: https://bit.ly/2JmMjc2

"So the point is, showcases are not inherently bad, they just are not always what they seem. They are everywhere and have become cash cows for tournaments. Often time at the expense of quality. On the surface, it appears that what was once a team sport is becoming far more about the individual." Read Up: https://buff.ly/2JjDRtT

A LOT goes into making these high performance Easton Fastpitch bats. More on Inner Circle: https://bit.ly/31KzlLB

Who did Easton Fastpitch design the Ghost bat for? Kelsey Lunn sits down with Easton on Inner Circle. Watch the entire episode: https://bit.ly/3658L2S

On this edition of In The Circle, Eric Lopez talks with Kyla Holas about leading the United States U-17 team to the gold medal at the recent Pan American Championships held in Colombia. Holas spoke about how she got the position and the keys to the teams’ success. She also reflects on her playing career at Louisiana, where she was three-time All-American, and about her time coaching at Houston. Eric and Victor Anderson then discuss news around the game and dive into some fan mail. Listen here or wherever you download your podcasts: https://bit.ly/2MHgA7m

Hey 16Us! We have announced our full #Super60 rankings. This is an incredibly talented division that made this a difficult challenge. So many deserving teams! Find out No. 1-60 NOW http://bit.ly/2BEXOaA

"Your recruiting and collegiate journey is yours and yours alone. Take the time to really understand what is most important to you. Enjoy all of your experiences but try to look through all the pomp and circumstance, pretty gear, bright lights, and TV cameras to make a choice that is best for you as a whole person, in all aspects of your life."

Here we go! We are still moving the final pieces around but find out who the TOP 10 #SUPER60 16U programs are here These programs made it extremely difficult to say the least! http://bit.ly/2BBKV0Y

Psssst: don't know who needs to hear this but.... ...16U #Super60 rankings are coming out later today

Let’s debate! How much time away from softball should athletes take to help ensure burnout is avoided, injuries can heal, lifestyle balance, etc?! Ready, set, go!

Go inside our next grouping of #Super60 14U teams headlined by the incredibly talented Nor Cal Firecrackers - Mettler No. 50-54: http://bit.ly/33OXUZ5 No. 55-60: http://bit.ly/2W2nszt FULL SUPER 60 RANKING: http://bit.ly/2o6N01N

New week, new commitments! Check in on some of the recent announcements as well as our database which is quickly approach 500 names! You can help us grow this too, you'll find the link within this post to submit your athlete's, your own, or players from your program's commitments! https://fastpitchnews.com//10-21-19-commitment-upda/367633

Now on In the Circle, we are joined by Valerie Arioto to talk Team USA, Cal, and More. Also, no 3rd coach in DI and an early look at the 2020 Mary Nutter Classic! https://wp.me/p3xSE1-1xDv

"Teams must always respect the game. It’s important for teams to stay consistent or balanced. Never too high and never too low is the mentality a successful team needs to buy into to succeed. Respecting the game means respecting every single one of your teammates, coaches, opponents, umpires, fans and spectators, and also yourself. Teams who stay humble and give back to the game will go further together than those who only focus on themselves."

That's another for USA Softball! https://fastpitchnews.com//u-17-claims-u-17-womens-/367624

running databases are live on FPN! Keep tabs on NCAA Softball schedules as they are released as well as collegiate commitments! Also, please submit your commitments to us so we can get you included. Catch up here: Schedules: https://bit.ly/2VUjb0G Commitment: https://bit.ly/31rhj0M

We've rolled out previews throughout the day covering some of the major events happening this weekend - it's a big one, folks! We'll have more tomorrow but for now, check in on: Top Gun MSP: https://bit.ly/2J39AQ4... Finesse Fall Showcase: https://bit.ly/31qv13J PGF Surf City: https://fastpitchnews.com//pgf-surf-city-october-sh/367519

We all LOVE that bat that makes you feel like you could hit off Monica Abbott! That bat that feels just right in your hands and has a whole lotta pop! But what exactly do you know about the amazing technology that is present day #softball bats?! Easton Fastpitch's Category Manager of Bats, John Loeffler, joins the show to drop a bunch of knowledge about everything "composite bats". And even if you swing something other than Easton, you should still give this a ... http://bit.ly/2qrqm50

Check out these beauts https://fastpitchnews.com//seven-programs-earn-2019/367514

Last weekend's PGF Shootout delivered! It was a stellar weekend of competition with teams competing for paid entries to the PGF Nationals 2020! Find out who finished on top and hear from a handful of coaches from those programs. https://fastpitchnews.com/high-school-club-softball//367460

Looks like the USA is a softball country \_()_/ U17 is on fire and utterly unstoppable thus far in Colombia. Read up about their exciting 17-7 victory over Canada.

Catch the Latest Episode of "In the Circle" featuring Mississippi State Head Coach Samantha Ricketts https://wp.me/p3xSE1-1xAI

The Nebraska School Activities Association softball state tourney is underway! There has already been a huge upset as No. 8 Seward downed No. 1 Skutt Catholic in Class B. We are keeping on Papillion La Vista High School , South Dakota State University Softball commit Tori Kniesche, & many more. Read up about the three tournaments, here: A: http://bit.ly/2nPMswX... B: http://bit.ly/2MPDJ6z C: http://bit.ly/2MOvhnY See more

It's gorgeous, isn't it Easton Fastpitch x Jen Schro's #THEVERYBEST catcher's gear definitely lives up to its name. Have you picked up your set? Let us know what you think below! ... If not, you can learn more about this incredible gear & purchase a set of your own here: http://bit.ly/2ORfac6 #sponsored

Moving right along on our in-depth look at the impacts of transfers on the upcoming 2020 season let's take a peek inside the Big Ten Conference. One school was hit particularly hard, while another picked up some pieces that could assist in their rebuild, and much more!

Another fall weekend, another round of new commitments to add to the database! https://fastpitchnews.com//10-14-19-commitment-upda/367257

We will be diving into the Big Ten this week but before then, read up about the ACC and the impacts transfers may have on the conference in 2020.

How many of you have thought about really cleaning your gear? Do you know you could be at risk for infection? Pure&Clean Sports Disinfectant is effective against labelled bacteria, viruses and pathogens. Pure&Clean is all about sports and also has a "Give-Back program" that helps sports teams raise money for equipment and other expenses.... Check them out here http://bit.ly/2IRRoJ3, protect your athletes! #sponsored

It's Monday and of course, we have a new episode of In the Circle. We are joined by Kendall Rogers of D1baseball.com to discuss the revote on a third coach in Baseball and Softball. We also talk about CA passing the "Fair Pay to Play" Act: https://wp.me/p3xSE1-1xxi

USWNT held it down this summer. USWNT U-19 did the same. Now it's U-17's time to shine! https://fastpitchnews.com//u-17-national-team-earns/367240

SOUND BITE 1: Ever wonder what it would be like to find out you've made an Olympic roster?! Listen up! Find this episode of In The Circle SB here or anywhere you download your podcasts: http://bit.ly/2oCddWa

Our latest episode of Inner Circle TV has dropped! Kelsey and Claudia our joined by In The Circle SB's Eric Lopez to discuss all things Team USA roster including college players who will miss the 2020 season, how the Olympics will effect the NPF, how power hitting and utility players are a top priority, the number of catchers on the roster, and so much more!

Get the quick low down on this weekend's PGF Fall Shootout event that is underway *RIGHT NOW*. This event is stacked especially in the 18U Division, we cannot wait to get an early look at these teams.

High school softball is in full swing for a handful of states across the country. Let's check in on the ".700" and "Sub 0.50" club! https://fastpitchnews.com//fall-high-school-softbal/367123

On #WorldMentalHealthDay, there's no better time to think about and discuss athlete "burn out" and fatigue. https://fastpitchnews.com/core-soft/managing-fatigue/355192