Catching the ball is arguably one of the most important elements of flag football, but that’s not where it ends. A catcher’s role is extremely versatile; therefore, teaching proper catching techniques, especially for younger or less experienced players, will help them to become reliable receivers that will help achieve your desired result, each and every time.

Stances

The most important aspect of a squat is that it is comfortable and works for your players. There are, however, a number of elements that will ensure they are more likely to catch the ball successfully:

• Body Alignment: It’s essential that they align their body with the ball’s path and pitcher as much as possible.
• Hand Position: For balls thrown above the waist, it is recommended that players form a diamond shape with their thumbs and index fingers, whereas for lower passes, instruct them to cup their hands with their pinky fingers together. These techniques allow for better ball control.
• Absorb Impact: Ensure players catch with bent elbows and soft hands to absorb the impact of the ball, rather than letting it bounce off their palms.

Receiving

Receiving the ball is the most important role of a catcher. Here are some tips on how to catch effectively:

• Hand Movements: Encourage your player to have a loose hand by resting his left arm on his left leg when squatted. Loose hands result in quick hands, and that’s what you need to win!
• Pass Locations: Make sure your players practice catches at different heights, including high, low, and chest throws, so they can adapt to different throws more easily.

Blocking

Blocking is a skill that requires a lot of practice to be performed appropriately but is a valuable tool once perfected. Here’s how it’s done:

• Anticipation: Your catcher must keep their wits about them and be prepared to block at any moment.
• Become a Soft Target: A ball will fly off a hard, tense body. Therefore, ensure your player exhales when he goes down to block, and this will make the body soft enough to absorb the ball effectively.
• Fast Responses: Once the ball is down, the catcher must find the ball quickly to prevent a base runner from advancing.

Throwing

• Body Position: Make sure your catcher’s front shoulder is facing the same direction as the base he is going to.
• Fast Feet: Quick footwork will enable the catcher to rise from his squat and into the correct position to throw much more efficiently.
• Low to high throws

Rather than waiting to stand upright to throw, throwing low to high is far quicker and eliminates the risk of a spike throw.

Catching 101 Drills That Work

Catching drills are essential for developing confident and competent flag football players. It would be wise to give your players time to focus on these techniques by providing time for consistent practice, so you can really give your competitors something to think about!

To get to those drills earlier, the Flag Football with Coach D complete coach bootcamp includes 35 printable drills and much more including hundreds of plays to up your game.