It might be the hardest thing in sports; hitting a softball with a fastpitch bat. With only 43 feet separating the pitcher’s rubber from home plate, hitters need quick reactions to have any chance of success. To bolster your odds, we have called upon the expertise of former players, current coaches, and a team of softball enthusiasts to compile a list of the top hitting tips for fastpitch players.  Hitting Tips For Fastpitch Softball If you are going to have any success in this game, you have to be mentally strong. Hitting is hard for everyone. Understand that and use your past experiences to prepare yourself for the future. The following tips will help you build confidence in your swing and allow you to be the best player you can be. Use the on-deck circle to prepare your mind Control your breathing and slow the game down. Focus on what your goal during your at-bat will be. It could be to advance the runners, see many pitches, or just hit the ball hard. Take the time in the on-deck circle to set yourself up for success. Split the plate in half and focus on a zone Some like the ball in, some like it away, some like it low, some like it high. Early in the count, determine a “GO” area in the zone. If the pitch is in this area, you will take a full swing to drive the ball. Swinging at your pitches early in the count will improve your power and lead to more extra-base hits and home runs.