Infield Footwork Lecture Notes

Key Concepts

1. Attacking the Ball

   • Importance of getting the ball off the ground quickly.
   • Young infielders often don't attack the ball aggressively enough.
   • Goal: Recognize where the ball is being hit and move to get it off the ground quickly.
   • Take good angles and play through the ball rapidly.
   • As players advance, the game speeds up, requiring faster footwork.
   • Avoid having 'dead feet' by actively attacking the ball.

2. Controlling Aggressive Play

   • Balance between aggressive play and control.
   • Take big strides initially, then smaller strides as you approach the ball.
   • Standard footwork sequence: Right foot, left foot, field the ball for right-handers (opposite for left-handers).

Techniques and Drills

1. Footwork Breakdown

   • Transition from big steps to choppy steps as approaching the ball.
   • Establish a brace with the right foot to maintain stability.
   • Timing the left foot placement for consistent rhythm.

2. Timing with Footwork

   • Field the ball as the left toe hits the ground.
   • Players should delay at times: left heel may be down, and toe waits until the ball is caught.
   • Drill Practice: Balance on the right leg, roll a ball, time the left foot placement with catching.

3. Flamingo Drill

   • Used for developing timing and rhythm.
   • Balance on the right leg, time the left toe hitting the ground with catching.
   • Practice altering timing to simulate game scenarios.

4. Rolling Drills

   • Work on transferring from big to small strides and bracing with the right leg.
   • Players practice delaying their left foot placement until the right moment.
   • Variations: Sometimes roll quickly, other times incorporate pauses.

Conclusion

• The key to effective infield footwork is mastering timing and rhythm.
• Use the drills to improve transitioning from big to small strides effectively.
• Practice and repetition are essential for developing 'great feet' and rhythm.
• Open for questions and feedback.
• Note on personal fitness: Importance of staying in shape for effectiveness.