Pitcher's Dream Store

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MY PITCHING DVD & RECRUITING BOOK

"Pitching My Way"

 DVD by

Rita Lynn Gilman

$25

Preparing to Play Softball at the Collegiate Level

GONE

 

Check this out!  After tons of requests for my own video, it's finally done! "Pitching My Way" is 2 hours 19 minutes long with 63 chapters.  You've never seen a pitching video quite like this!  All the other videos on the market skim the surface, giving you little information and little humor.  Drawing from 23 years teaching experience, I share tons of teaching tricks as I cover detailed pitching mechanics, corrections and drills with easy-to-understand explanations.  Brittany Blankenship (right-handed pitcher) and Casey Clarke (left-handed pitcher) are my student demonstrators.  You're sure to be pleased with the amount of detail in this gold mine of information!  Start teaching and training better today!  By late summer look for my DVD of the advanced pitches!!!

Click here for my DVD brochure

Here's what you'll get

Here's a sample clip from the DVD

Here's what they're saying

Want to play softball in college?  So does everyone else.  Learn how to give yourself the competitive advantage during this confusing process.  Catharine Aradi's 2007 book is considered the Bible of Fastpitch recruiting.  Know what all the divisions mean?  How about the NCAA Clearinghouse?  The book is a must for high school and travel ball coaches to teach them how to guide their athletes through the recruiting process.   The book includes coach names and contact info at over 1000 colleges as well as sample letters to coaches and recommendations for filming your skills video.  The book also helps you do some soul searching as you ask yourself what level of commitment you really have now and in your college years.

Click here for flyer

NEW PITCHING TOOL & T-SHIRT

 

Double Ball

  Click on picture for larger image

$20

Spin, spin, spin.  We must teach spin!  Think the Spin Right Spinner is tough?  Wait until you try to spin and pitch your movement pitches with the double ball!  Go through each pitch and keep the top ball spinning smoothly with no wobble.  Definitely challenging!  If your pitcher can create the correct spin with the double ball, she's more likely to be able to do it in the actual pitch.  We must train our fingers to create correct spins!!!

Click arrow for double ball workout video clip

 

Front Graphic

 

Back Graphic

Be A Shark - RLG Logo Shirt

 Youth Large

$12

Only 1 size left!

Arizona State's Katie Burkhart quoted the "Be A Shark" mantra during the 2008 College World Series as she pitched them to the national championship.

"Be A Shark On the Mound" is on the back of this cool pitcher's purple t-shirt reminding us to attack the batters!!

On the front is my logo in the center surrounded by a shark-toothed font saying:  Never Be Satisfied, Train To Be The Best.

A new shirt is coming out soon!  Check back!

   

SPIN SPEED: CALCULATE WITH REV FIRE AND INCREASE!

RevFire Softball Package

$400

Tight Spin Trainer

$40

I've been preaching tight spin to students for years, but now I finally have a way to measure it and monitor their progress between lessons.  The RevFire softball is the first and only tool to measure spin rate and it's easier to use than a radar gun.  The tool displays spin rate and pitch speed after each toss.  It accurately measures spin from 4 to 40 rps (revolutions per second) with a degree of accuracy of +/-0.25.  My students have ranged from 8 rps to 35 rps.  We can test which type of drop  you spin faster, which grips on each pitch work better for you, if your spin fades as your arm tires during your workout and much more to make our training more effective!  Greater spin equals greater movement!

The Softball Package includes the following:
 
  • Sports bag carrying case with monitor compartment
  • RevFire monitor with lanyard
  • 2 RevFire 12 "softballs
  • 2 AA monitor batteries
  • Users manual

The sports bag holds up to 3 RevFire softballs and has a protective compartment for the monitor. The RevFire monitor can be used with RevFire baseballs and softballs.  The leather 12" optic yellow RevFire balls have the tacky surface feel which many pitchers expect and are official size and weight.  The AA batteries will provide many hours of use and may require replacement only once or twice a season when the low battery indicator appears.  RevFire balls are not for hitting or game play.  Send me an email after placing your order if you'd like one of the balls in your kit to be an 11" RevFire.

Click here for Flyer Manual or Guide

Click here for graph of spin speeds

Click on arrow twice to watch video

"How To Increase Spin Speed"

My number one recommendation for increasing your spin speed (which we record by pitching the RevFire ball) is the 7-pitch workout with the Tight Spin Trainer. A resistance exercise device, it develops sport-specific range of motion (muscle memory of the release) while building strength in forearm, wrist and fingers.  Two things make a pitch move:  direction of spin and speed of that correct spin.  Increase your spin, you're movement will increase and so will your strikeouts!!!  Adjust the brake for tension and spin 30 times for each pitch.  Take all the tension off and do 15 super fast spins of each pitch.  Do this workout 3 times a week!  The Tight Spin Trainer is used by over 300 college softball programs including almost all of the top-ranked programs in the nation!  It is endorsed by world-renowned pitching instructors Ernie Parker and Worth Club K's Cheri Kempf and is used by the US Jr Olympic team pitching coach.

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 
 

 

Tight Spin Trainer Instructional DVD

 

$8

The DVD is essential to understanding how the Tight Spin Trainer works and also to instruct on how to properly use the device.

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
       
 

5-PIECE BEGINNING PITCHING KIT

click for larger picture

1- Weighted &
1 - Light Ball

$20

click for larger picture

1 - Wrist Snapper

$25

The weighted ball routine is one of my favorite speed builders!  The heavy ball adds extra resistance making the pitcher work harder throughout the arm circle.  When followed with the light weight ball, she under-loads the arm, allowing for greater arm speed and increased ball speed.  I incorporate the weighted ball into many other drills (knee drills, long distance, pitch under right leg, and behind the back snaps) for added resistance.  Print out "Speed Building Strategies" from my Tips and Drills page for the weighted ball routine I recommend.

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

Created by Ernie Parker, the wrist snapper is a fun, simple tool that helps a pitcher feel her wrist bend.  The wrist has a separate role from the rest of the arm.  We need to learn to hold the natural, cocked position on the downswing and snap at "one moment in time" at the hip. The pitcher holds the snapper in the cocked wrist position and begins the downswing.  Upon contact with the hip, she snaps her wrist and makes the clicking noise as loud as possible.  Follow immediately with glove snaps!  Use daily in your practice routine and learn to feel the same action in the pitch!!!  See my video demonstration.

Video Demonstration (click here) (Please wait for the video to load, do not click on it multiple times)

"How to Improve Arm Whip"
Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

 

Ball on a Stick

$10

click for larger picture

Spin Right Spinner With Training DVD

$25

It is difficult for a young pitcher to feel a ball rolling off her fingertips.  Instead of a roll and snap, she too often pushes the ball out of her hand, resulting in a lack of speed and accuracy.  The ball on a stick is a simple way to help develop the actual roll sensation.  I use it 3 ways:  see video
1. pitcher holds stick in her glove hand, grips the ball correctly with pitching hand palm up, and bends only her wrist making the ball spin quickly.
2. catcher holds stick on power line while pitcher grips ball, rolls off fingers and snaps wrist as forearm makes contact with hip; pitcher should immediately follow with a glove snap mimicking the roll she felt with the stick

3. pitcher is in stationary drill position; catcher holds stick low; pitcher rolls, snaps and follows through; follow immediately with stationary drill!

Video Instruction ( 1 )  (Please wait for the video to load, do not click on it multiple times)
 

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

My #1 favorite tool, the Spin Right Spinner is the absolute best teaching tool and is a must for all pitchers whether beginning or advanced.  Developed by Cheri Kempf of Club K, the disc provides instant feedback to the pitcher and instructor.  Two things make a pitch move:  direction of spin and the speed of that spin.  The Spin Right lets you work on both.  Grip it one way to work on proper topspin, backspin or sidespin, depending on the pitch.  Grip it another way to work on the speed of the spin.  It comes with a booklet and DVD demonstrating the different pitches and overhand techniques.  I use it thousands of ways:  see my video instruction
- self tosses
- 10 feet away doing half tosses to catcher
- from the stationary drill position 25 feet from the catcher, 75% speed working up to 100%
- full motion from the full distance

Video Instruction ( 1 )  ( 2 )  ( 3 ) ( 4 )  (Please wait for the video to load, do not click on it multiple times)

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

 

Chinese Jump Rope

$5

All 5 Above Items!

Kit of 5 Pitching Tools

$80

Every pitch should have movement, even the fast ball! This colorful, flexible jump rope is great because it will not deflect the ball into your catcher's shins!  Set it up between two batting tees 5-8 feet in front of the plate at knee height.  Have your pitcher aim at it.  For beginners it helps develop the release point for strikes low in the zone.  Once that's done,  then we learn to make the ball cross the rope and drop at the plate.  Fastballs, change-ups, off-speeds, drop balls and drop-curves all have this action.  Don't practice without it!! 

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

What's in the starter kit?  All the essential tools your pitcher needs to develop solid mechanics.  The Spin Right Spinner for correct spins...the wrist snapper for wrist bend...the stick for finger roll......the weighted ball set for strength and speed building... rope for accuracy.  Happy pitching!!!

PLATES

 

Schutt Extended Strike Zone Home Plate

Out of Stock

$25

Measuring Plate

$50

After we finally get beginners to throw strikes in the middle of the plate, we get them out of there fast!  Red means stop, don't throw there (the hardest hit balls you've ever seen are pitched down the red)!  Yellow means use with caution.  Green means throw here!!!  This extended plate teaches the pitcher to use the four inches of dirt between the plate and batter's box.  If the batter will swing at pitches here, why throw it over the plate??  Don't train without it.  Durable rubber and regulation size. Take my challenge and "Paint The Colors."  Use the chart below to document your scores.

Click here for training chart

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

I can't believe the number of times students have told me they pitched in a game where the mound was set at an incorrect distance.  With the Measuring Plate, it's no longer an issue!  Featuring a 60'6" adjustable fiberglass tape, the Measuring Plate is a great way to quickly mark the precise pitching distance for practice or games.  U/V weather resistant, rugged HDPE plastic construction, lightweight patented double wall design.  Voted "Best in Show" at 2007 ABCA American Baseball Coaches Association meeting.

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

PITCHING TARGETS

 

Zone-In  Pitching Target

$189

 

 

EZ Pitcher  Pitching Target

$39

 


This is THE BEST target on the market!Zone-In is the lightweight, portable solution for pitcher/fielder training in softball and baseball. Assembly and disassembly is easy.  The Zone-In is perfect for practicing at home and for taking to team practice.  I am impressed by how well-made it is - the heavy duty vinyl coated polyester tarp will last for years.  Two attachments make it easy to isolate different areas of the strike zone.

Click here for the flyer!

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

This portable pitching target can easily be clipped onto a net or fence for a convenient way to practice.  Create accuracy games for your pitchers by having them pitch to the different numbers.

 

 

 

TRAINING AIDS

ThrowMax

 Small

 Medium

 Large

$40

Club K's PowerLine Mat

$220

The ThrowMAX Flexible Arm Brace is designed to keep players from using incorrect arm motions in both underhand pitching and overhand throwing.

For fastpitch pitching, the ThrowMax prevents a bent arm at the top of the circle helping to train the arm to stay on plane with the target.  More importantly, it prevents elbow snaps (allowing the correct wrist snap) at release, a very common mistake I see every day with pitchers of all experience levels!

Secondly, for overhand throwing, the ThrowMax does not allow the elbow to bend beyond approximately 90 degrees. By not allowing the arm to bend much beyond 90 degrees, players will automatically compensate by raising their elbow to shoulder height or higher. This is the start of a mechanically correct over-hand movement. Repetition with the Throwmax aids an athlete's "muscle memory" of the correct throwing mechanics.

I have 3 sizes:  small (5'2" & shorter), medium (5'3" - 5'8"), and large (5'9" & taller).  In addition to height, consider her bicep size when selecting your Throwmax size preference.  If in doubt, I find a medium fits most everyone!!!

Click here for Throwmax flyer

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

Shipping is taking 1-2 weeks.  The sooner you order, the sooner you're on the list for shipment. 

You'll love it!  The PowerLineTM Club K® Fastpitch mat was designed and patented by Cheri Kempf, premier pitching instructor and owner of Club K®, the world’s largest training facility devoted exclusively to fastpitch softball. It is the ultimate training tool for athletes learning fastpitch softball pitching. I feel lost when I'm not at my shop with a PowerLine to train on!!  Designed to withstand extremely heavy training schedules, the PowerLineTM Club K® mat is ideal for indoor facilities and gyms, and is also intended for outdoor use. The PowerLineTM Club K® Fastpitch mat features:

  • Unique triple guideline system. The two outside lines comply with association regulations. The center line is the actual "power line" or line of force which indicates optimal foot placement and balance during the pitching motion.
  • Permanent lines, which will not rub off. Proper use of these lines will actually promote an increase in the power and speed of the pitch.
  • 1/2" thick pitching rubber that replicates the actual conditions on the pitchers mound.
  • Softer pitching surface that protects leg muscles and joints from continuous stress.
  • Non-marking vinyl base designed to protect the gym floors from damage.

Size: 3’ x 9’
Color: Black with white lines
Thickness: 3/16" thick
Weight: 45 lbs.

Click here for PowerLine flyer

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

 

Whiffle Ball

$1

Elite Kold Shoulder & Elbow Ice Wrap

 $45

Pitch whiffle balls from the knee drill position and full motion to develop fingertip control and an exact release point.  The ball is so light that its flight will reflect any error in the windmiller's release.  Very entertaining to watch!

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

Physicians recommend a pitcher ice her arm 10 minutes after each workout and game to help prevent injuries.  Don't wait until you feel pain!  Prevent it!  This re-freezable wrap makes it easy and convenient to follow the doctor's orders!  If your arm isn't healthy, you're of no use on the mound!!!!  Protect your "money"!!!!  Elite Kold wraps provide up to 2 hours of cold treatment at a safe temperature. Two layers of "ice pillows" contain non-toxic, purified water as the freezing agent. When frozen the ice pillows remain flexible to ensure a comfortable fit and excellent application of cold to injury site. The outside velvet loop fabric allows desired compression and fit for all sizes.

TRAINING BALLS

 

 

Cannonball

$25

JUGS Lite Flite

$3.50

One of my favorite training tools!  Never throw it full speed!  Use the cannonball for the workout featured on the video.  My students love this tool!  It's great for warming up, arm strengthening and shoulder rehab.    Throw overhand slowly 10-15 times.  This heavy, solid rubber training ball is too heavy to do the windmill motion at full speed so do lots of snapping drills:  sit & snap as high as you can from under your leg, sideways snaps, line drive flicks, pendulum snaps, slow windmills...see video of the workout below.  Cannonballs are great for rise ball and drop ball spins.

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

Use for practice with any of your breaking pitches.  Because it's so light, this 1-ounce ball will react and break dramatically if spun correctly and tightly.  This ball can also be thrown safely into a mirror while you observe and correct your mechanics.

 

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

 

14" Ball

$15

Incrediball 12"

$5

Incrediball 11"

Also one of my favorite training tools, this larger 14" training ball enhances a pitcher's grip.  With more mass, she has to work harder to spin it correctly and tightly. The 14" makes it easier to spin the 12" ball.  A must for fastball topspin and backspin  work with the rise ball!

Click on arrow twice to watch video

 

When I do clinics in gyms, I only use Incrediballs to protect the gym floor/walls and to protect the pitchers from one another.  Great for throwing into brick walls and much nicer on your catcher's shins than a normal ball!  Great for teaching skills to inexperienced fielders, too.  The seams have the feel of a normal, outdoor ball.

For your catcher:  Help out Mom or Dad or your team catcher.  They have the thankless job of catching (hopefully not on the shin) thousands of your pitches.  Make their job a little easier with this aid:

 

 

 

PalmGard X-tra

 Youth Medium

 Youth Large

 Youth Xtra Large

 Adult Small

 Adult Medium

$20

 

Now that you're throwing heat, your catcher will need some extra padding on that glove hand.  The Palmgard X-tra has padding on the index finger, middle finger and thumb to help prevent bone bruises and tissue damage.  It also lessens the sting and discomfort of impact.  That's especially nice in cold weather!  Who first called a softball soft??  AstraSoft (TM) cabretta leather palm and two-way spandex and finger gussets provide a snug, flexible fit.  Left hand only and black only.

FUN STUFF

RLG Logo Bracelet

$10

Pitcher Christmas Ornament

$7

Stylish bracelet that is made of a yellow softball and red seams.  A glass bead painted like a softball loops through the end to form the clasp.  My RLG softball logo looks cool in the middle!!!

Don’t blink or you’ll miss her lightening fast pitch! Artfully crafted from resin with a realistic design and exceptional details, this 5” softball pitcher hopes to join the league of Christmas ornaments on your tree!
Comes ready-to-hang with a red cord.

 

 

RLG Logo Key Chain

GONE!

Pitcher Balance Beam

$40

Show your softball pride with this miniature softball key ring with my logo on it!

Balance in pitching is essential.  The balance beam challenges pitchers to  perform a series of drills as well as their full motion at full speed while staying on the beam.  Aim the beam to either side of the powerline to work corners.  Especially good for the body control required for change-ups!  Your fingers spin the ball, not the body.  Your body's job is to stay out of the way of the arm and hand.  Pitchers stand on the beam to isolate the arm and work on spins without overdoing the body mechanics.    Beams will not be shipped and are for in-store pick up only!!!!

Click on arrow twice to watch video


 

SUGGESTED READING

 

 

Cheri Kempf teaches you how to throw faster, improve your technique, learn new pitches, lower your ERA, and experience the thrill of winning more often. This book offers an in-depth look into the art and science of softball pitching that will help you develop elite-level fastpitch skills through drills and expert technical advice. As the owner and pitching instructor at Worth Club K, author Cheri Kempf has been teaching and training thousands of fastpitch softball players since 1987 and is widely recognized as one of the best softball pitching coaches in the country.

By H.A. Dorfman The Mental ABC’s of Pitching is a comprehensive examination on the mental side of pitching. It is a guide on what should go through a pitcher’s mind. This book will help pitchers dedicate themselves to the mental aspect of the game. The Mental ABC’s of Pitching provides sound advice and concrete guidelines for any pitcher, whether an amateur or professional. Included are insights and instruction on how to pitch to peak performance at every level of the game. 2000. 272 pages.
 

 
Confidence is a skill, not a genetic gift.  We can improve at it!  Executing under pressure requires more than physical skills, it requires mental skills as well.  Winning State Softball shows players how to develop a confident game mode mindset to take their play to a winning level.  Click the image above to see this great video about all this product has to offer!  

 

 

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