April 22, 2002

Question from Alex Smolka:How many high quality pitchers does a team need to make a serious run at the NCAA World Series title?

A:Two

Question from Tammy DiGrazia: Joan, why aren't we hosting the conference tournament again this year? Will we be able to see it on T.V.?

A:Troy State out bid us. They must have wanted it more. It will not be on T.V. but you can follow it on the website.

Question from Tom Glucksmann:I notice you pitch Myers a lot, and now your freshman Freel. Do you worry about them tiring towards the end of the season?

A:I don't worry about them tiring, just injuries. The more they pitch the better pitchers they become.

Question from Nanette Cavanaugh: Does Connecticut have any softball teams to reckon with?

A:Yes, the Stratford Brackettes!! In college the University of Connecticut is the only college team to reckon with. Currently they are not having a stellar year.

Question from Sascha Lucius: Dear Coach: My name is Sascha and I am 10 years old. I have been moved up to play with the 12 and under league I softball and the faster the pitching the better I seem to hit. I love to hit. What drills can I use to get me ready of the next level of pitching.

A:1. Quick hand drills to develop faster explosion or acceleration to the ball 2. Hand-eye coordination drills-dropping ball from the top of a bucket (timing factor) 3. Closing eyes for the soft toss-the tosser letting the hitter know when to open and swing.

Question from Stuart Reinfeld: I have twin daughters who are 8 yrs. Old and play travel fastpitch. They are beginning to fastpitch pitching and are doing quite well. It is difficult in Broward and Palm Beach Co. to find qualified fastpitch instructors I pitching, fielding, and hitting. I greatly respect your opinion and if you have and suggestions for good instructors and camps in the area it will be most appreciated.

A:FAU will be hosting a couple of camps this summer. Also PBCC-Linda Dirk puts on a great camp. USF in Tampa holds a good camp-but it is a bit of a drive. We will definitely be holding camps and clinics this summer so be on the lookout. The info will be posted on our website and in the local papers.

Question from Lynne Myers:How important is high school sports? What if the athlete also plays on a separate summer travel team-is that more important? Regarding softball, the high school and college season coincide, therefore, college scouts cannot watch high school games but they can watch summer travel team games. Which is more important? What if the high school does not compile stats nor report them to the paper, does it matter?

A:Summer and travel ball are more important. Usually the competition in travel ball is much more extensive and advanced. If the high schools do not compile stats-it will be difficult for the players to send out info-unless they do play summer ball. Otherwise videotapes will suffice.

Question from Alex Smolka:As far as FAU softball has come, what do you think are the 3 key elements that are still needed to make us serious contenders to win it all?

A:1. Better hitting 2. Better defense 3. Executing plays