Step off the diamond and into the stories where the spirit of softball is masterfully captured.
From inspirational journeys to tactical masterclasses, this selection of must-read books is your all-access pass to the triumphs, strategies, and soul of the sport.
Ready to slide into the best Softball books ever pitched?
Best Softball Books:
- Throw Like a Girl – How to Dream Big & Believe in Yourself
- Fastpitch – The Untold History of Softball and the Women Who Made the Game
- The Softball Coaching Bible – The Ultimate Guide for Coaches
- Coaching Fastpitch Softball Successfully – Strategies from a Championship Coach
- Softball Skills & Drills – A Comprehensive Resource for Coaches and Players
- The Softball Drill Book – Practice Drills for Improved Skills
- Softball Fundamentals – Essential Techniques for Players and Coaches
Table of Contents
- #1 Throw Like a Girl – How to Dream Big & Believe in Yourself
- #2 Fastpitch – The Untold History of Softball and the Women Who Made the Game
- #3 The Softball Coaching Bible – The Ultimate Guide for Coaches
- #4 Coaching Fastpitch Softball Successfully – Strategies from a Championship Coach
- #5 Softball Skills & Drills – A Comprehensive Resource for Coaches and Players
- #6 The Softball Drill Book – Practice Drills for Improved Skills
- #7 Softball Fundamentals – Essential Techniques for Players and Coaches
- FAQ
#1 Throw Like a Girl – How to Dream Big & Believe in Yourself
- ✍️ Author: Jennie Finch with Ann Killion
- 📆 Year Published: 2011
- 📘 Genre: Biographies and Autobiographies, Strategy and Coaching, Youth and High School Softball
Empowering and inspirational, “Throw Like a Girl” is a motivational gem from softball superstar Jennie Finch. Co-authored with Ann Killion, this book encourages young athletes to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
Finch shares her journey from youth leagues to the Olympic stage, offering insights on overcoming challenges, developing leadership skills, and the importance of self-belief. With practical advice and heartfelt stories, it’s a must-read for anyone aspiring to excel, not only on the softball field but in all areas of life.
#2 Fastpitch – The Untold History of Softball and the Women Who Made the Game
- ✍️ Author: Erica Westly
- 📆 Year Published: 2016
- 📘 Genre: History, Biographies and Autobiographies
In “Fastpitch,” Erica Westly unveils the rich and often overlooked history of softball and the incredible women who have shaped the game. This book provides a fascinating narrative, from the inception of the sport to its evolution, and the gender barriers that were shattered along the way.
It celebrates the resilience and achievements of female athletes in softball, weaving together their personal stories with the cultural and historical contexts that impacted their journeys. A compelling read for anyone interested in the legacy and progression of women’s sports.
#3 The Softball Coaching Bible – The Ultimate Guide for Coaches
- ✍️ Author: National Fastpitch Coaches Association
- 📆 Year Published: 2002
- 📘 Genre: Strategy and Coaching
“The Softball Coaching Bible,” presented by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association, stands as an essential resource for coaches at all levels. This comprehensive guide covers every aspect of coaching, from fundamentals and strategy to team management and player development.
The combined expertise of the NFCA’s top coaches delivers practical knowledge, drills, and advice that is invaluable for building a winning softball program. This tome is a testament to the art of coaching, offering wisdom that extends well beyond the diamond.
#4 Coaching Fastpitch Softball Successfully – Strategies from a Championship Coach
- ✍️ Author: Kathy Veroni and Roanna Brazier
- 📆 Year Published: 1998
- 📘 Genre: Strategy and Coaching, Youth and High School Softball
In “Coaching Fastpitch Softball Successfully,” Kathy Veroni and Roanna Brazier lay out a detailed roadmap for coaches aspiring to reach new heights. This book shares the strategies employed by championship-winning coaches, delivering all the tools necessary for building a top-tier softball program.
From organizing effective practices to in-game management and everything in between, it serves as a guidebook for fostering talent and teamwork. A cherished text for those devoted to the craft of coaching, it helps in nurturing the next generation of softball standouts.
#5 Softball Skills & Drills – A Comprehensive Resource for Coaches and Players
- ✍️ Author: Judi Garman and Michelle Gromacki
- 📆 Year Published: 2011
- 📘 Genre: Strategy and Coaching, Youth and High School Softball
“Softball Skills & Drills” by Judi Garman and Michelle Gromacki is an indispensable guide for anyone looking to master the game. It offers an extensive array of drills that target every aspect of softball, from hitting and fielding to pitching and base running.
With step-by-step instructions and detailed illustrations, this book is perfect for players striving to enhance their skills and for coaches seeking to provide well-rounded training. Its clear, concise format makes it easy to implement these techniques and elevate performance on the field.
#6 The Softball Drill Book – Practice Drills for Improved Skills
- ✍️ Author: Kirk Walker
- 📆 Year Published: 2007
- 📘 Genre: Strategy and Coaching, Youth and High School Softball
Filled with over 175 drills, “The Softball Drill Book” by Kirk Walker is the ultimate collection to refine and progress a player’s abilities in all areas of the game. Whether it is for batting, pitching, fielding, or base running, Walker’s practical exercises cater to both individual and team development.
This guide is a treasure trove for players looking to improve their game and for coaches seeking to elevate their team’s performance, ensuring every practice session is challenging and effective.
#7 Softball Fundamentals – Essential Techniques for Players and Coaches
- ✍️ Author: Human Kinetics
- 📆 Year Published: 2005
- 📘 Genre: Strategy and Coaching, Youth and High School Softball
“Softball Fundamentals” by Human Kinetics serves as a go-to guide for grasping the core techniques of softball. This book breaks down the vital components of the game into easily understood instructions and exercises.
It’s an excellent resource for new players learning the ropes and for coaches reinforcing the basics. With clear explanations and expert tips, the book ensures that the fundamental skills of softball are taught correctly from the start, forming the foundation of a skilled and knowledgeable player or team.
After reading about softball’s greatest athletes, get inspired by the best softball movies, shows, and documentaries.
FAQ
What are the best Softball books of all time?
“Throw Like a Girl” by Jennie Finch, “The Softball Coaching Bible,” “Fastpitch: The Untold History of Softball and the Women Who Made the Game,” “A Softball Coach’s Tool Kit,” and “Mind of a Superior Hitter: The Art, Science and Philosophy” are the best Softball books of all time. These books cover a range of topics from playing techniques, the history of the sport, to personal growth and mental approach.
What is the best Softball book for adults?
“Throw Like a Girl” by Jennie Finch is the best Softball book for adults as it provides inspiration and practical tips, blending personal anecdotes with professional advice.
What are the best books for Softball fundamentals and strategy?
“The Softball Coaching Bible” and “Mind of a Superior Hitter: The Art, Science and Philosophy” are the best books for Softball fundamentals and strategy, offering extensive knowledge from coaching strategies to improving batting skills and mental prep.
