Fun Drill: Defend the Castle (Baseball & Softball)
Players defend a central target from coaches rolling balls from all sides. A high-energy team version of Defend the Castle that keeps more players active at once.
How to Run This Drill
- Place a bucket or cone target in the center of the playing area, this is the castle
- Position a coach on each of the four sides of the castle, each with soft balls
- Split the team into groups of four - one group starts on defense around the castle
- The remaining players wait as the next team up
- On the coach's call, all four coaches roll balls toward the castle simultaneously
- The four defenders field ground balls from all directions, trying to prevent any ball from hitting the castle
- Play for 60 seconds, then count how many balls got through
- Rotate the next group of four in and challenge them to beat the previous team's score
Coaching Points
- Keep feet moving and stay in athletic position — balls come from every direction
- Communication between the four defenders is critical
- This drill teaches peripheral awareness and quick reactions
- Coaches can vary the pace and mix in forehand and backhand opportunities
- Be careful to ensure players don't run into each other and get injured
Quick Actions
At a Glance
Equipment Needed
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