Rating tryout players

Question
I just recently got selected to help out in scoring girls for tryouts for a team next year. What I wonted to know is if there is something I can read on how to rate girls when trying out?
Also my daughter will be trying out as well, how can I get her prepared for the tryouts?
Thanks you for your time.

Answer
Hello Chad

I'm not aware of a book or website on how to rate softball players. Coaches usually rate players based on their opinion and game knowledge. Generally I would rate the player on these skills:

昑he overall ability to field, throw, and hit the softball
昍unning speed and the ability to run bases effectively
昑he ability and knowledge to play more than one position
昑he overall range of motion, speed, and agility

Obviously if the player is a pitcher or catcher you would review the player at these skills.

I always looked and picked players that were 揷oachable? not necessary the player that scored highest on the skills.  I would keep mental notes on the player抯 attitude and dedication, in other words did they demonstrate the ability to listen and follow the instructions? Did they get along with the other players and demonstrate knowledge of softball situations in areas of hitting, pitching, base running and defense?

Here is a simple tryout chart that can be used where you can rate the player 1 to 5 (5 being the best)

Warm-ups; running, stretch, warm up throws          
Fielding ground balls, throws to1B                         
Accuracy of throws to 1B                               
Catching fly balls, throwing to infield                          
Accuracy of throws to infield                            
Swinging at pitches and bunting skills                                    
Sprint times to 1B, then from 1B to 2B, maybe home to home                  
Range of motion in agility drills                         
Attitude during tryout period                           
Knowledge of softball situations                        

Pitchers (speed, accuracy, movement)                    
Catchers (position, throws to bases)                     

Infielders (movement, throws)                          
Outfielders (speed, throws)