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Just as a basketball player goes through a regular, consistent routine prior to every free throw shot he/she take, softball players should also develop “routines” they go through before games or before executing a particular skill.

[ismember]Do your players use pre-performance routines?
If not, help them develop their own. Pre-performance routines help place your players in a consistent state of mind prior to competition. Remember, the more consistent their approach, the easier they can get themselves into a consistently calm, confident state, the better they will perform on a more consistent basis.

This week, observe your players.

• Do they use a routine during their at bats?
• Do your pitchers use a particular routine before each pitch?
• Do your defensive players go through a certain set up before each pitch?
• Does your team go through a consistent pre-game warm-up?

These routines help your players stay in control of their mindset during the, a huge asset to any athlete![/ismember]

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What’s your WHY?
Why do you love this sport?
Why do you come out to the field and do this every day?
[ismember]What are your big goals and dreams for your season? Your team? Yourself?
What is it that you really, really, really want out of your experience in fastpitch softball?

Get clear on your WHY.

This is what will help you through the tough times, through the “grind,” and through times when adversity strikes.

Take Action NOW
If you haven’t done so already (or if it’s been a while since you’ve thought about these questions), get out a piece of paper and start writing down what comes to mind when you think through these questions.

Don’t hold back, just start jotting things down.

Then go back through the list and refine what you’ve written down. Add details, but also “simplify” at the same time. Be as concise as you can while also being as clear as you can about what you really want.[/ismember]

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Know your big picture goals/vision, but remember to stay present in THIS moment.