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