Pioneer softball to host youth pitching clinic on January 18

Dec. 4, 2008
MARIETTA, Ohio — Marietta College Softball will once again be hosting its annual Pioneer Pitching Clinic on Sunday (Jan. 18) afternoon inside the Dyson Baudo Recreation Center. [Register today (.pdf)] [Directions to clinic (.pdf)]

The cost is $40 and includes a t-shirt. Kate Ross, who has pitched professionally and currently serves as the head coach at Olentangy Liberty High School is the featured clinician. Marietta head coach Jeanne Arbuckle, pitching coach Sally Friend and former and current Pioneer players will also assist with the clinic.

A session for beginners in grades 4-8 is scheduled from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. This session is designed for the player interested in learning the basic mechanics of pitching. The motion will be broken down into basic steps with drills appropriate for sound fundamental development. This session is ideal for beginners and anyone who needs to brush up on the basics of pitching. The change-up will also be introduced.

The intermediate/advanced session for grades 9-12 is scheduled from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. This session will include a brief overview of basic mechanics followed by an introduction to the change-up, drop ball, rise ball, curve ball and screw ball. Players who select this session should have mastered the basic pitching motion. This session is most appropriate for players who have good command of the fastball and are ready to learn advanced pitches.

Ross is in her fifth season coaching at Olentangy Liberty High School, where she has been the head coach for two seasons. She graduated from Kent State University in 2004, earning four varsity letters as a pitcher and serving as team captain during her senior year. While at Kent State, Ross helped lead the Golden Flashes to a 2004 MAC East championship and set the career strikeout record. She played professionally in the Netherlands for the Oosterhaut Twins during the summer of 2004.

For more information or to register contact Pioneer Head Coach Jeanne Arbuckle at 376-4668. Registration will be limited to 30 participants per session.