How to do the drill
- 1
Stand 5–8 steps (10–15 feet) from your tosser, facing them.
- 2
They point to one side and toss a high ball over that shoulder.
- 3
Open your hip, step back with that foot and run to the spot without backpedaling.
- 4
Get under it and catch it above your throwing shoulder, with two hands if you can. Count every catch.
- 5
Toss it back and go the other way. Do 10 each side and log your catches out of 20.
Coaching cues
- Turn and run.
- Get there, then catch.
- Two hands up high.
What good looks like
An open first step, getting under the ball early, and a calm catch without a last-second reach.
Safety
Check the running lane for fences, trees and sprinkler heads.
Why this drill
Tennis balls take the fear out for young outfielders while they learn the first step.
Next fielding drillOutfield Ground Balls: Block or Charge →
