Monica Abbott set the record for the fastest recorded women’s softball pitch on June 16, 2012. She pitched at 77 mph or 123.9 km/h for the Chicago Bandits during a game against the Carolina Diamonds.
If your child is showing interest in softball, they might just be the one to break Abbott’s record someday, so support their athletic endeavor. Familiarize yourself with the average softball throwing speed by age so you’re aware of what your child can do and how much further they can go. These speeds can be measured by radar guns and improved by continuous training and proper coaching.
What’s the average softball throwing speed by age?
Kids usually get introduced to softball through tee ball, which is designed for four- to seven-year-olds. This is when they start to develop their strength and hand-eye coordination along with teamwork and sportsmanship.
Once they start getting the hang of it, softball players who are 10 years and younger can have an average throwing speed of 38 to 44 miles per hour. They can move up to 42 to 46 mph at 11 to 12 years old.
The average throwing speed of 13- and 14 year-olds ranges from 46 to 50 mph. Meanwhile, 15- and 16-year-olds can usually throw between 50 and 54 mph, while 17- and 18-year-olds have an average throwing velocity of 54 to 57 mph.
Keep in mind, however, that this is for players who are serious about softball. Casual players typically throw 3 to 4 miles slower than those who consistently train and practice their throwing skills.
What affects softball throwing velocities?
Many factors contribute to why some softball players throw harder and faster than others. The main factors that affect a player’s pitching speed and stride length include the individual’s physical maturity and size, overall body strength, and athleticism.
Of course, we have to consider the player’s throwing mechanics, arm conditioning, and training schedule. Genetic factors, such as fast-twitch muscle fiber composition, also affect how players throw.
Ultimately, softball players can increase their throwing velocity with time and practice. Their body will eventually get stronger and more fluid, so their speeds will naturally increase.
How can an individual throw faster?
The best way to increase softball throwing velocity is to participate in strength training and regular pitching sessions. These would help players accelerate speeds and have better control over their throwing angles.
It’s also important to have an experienced coach correct the player’s mechanics for a healthy balance of speed and safety.
Finally, softball players should be willing to regularly put in hours to improve their pitching speed and strength. Training three to four times a week, including up to 100 pitches per session for high school players, would definitely contribute to faster throwing speeds.
Measure Softball Throwing Speed with Radar Guns
Radar Sports, LLC features highly accurate radar guns that can measure softball throwing velocities. With these radar devices, you can track the gradual improvement of your child’s throwing speed. We also feature speed pitch cages and other essential gear that make training easier and more convenient.
For more information, call us at (800) 914-4008 or email us at sales@radargunsales.com.