Video:How to Catch a Fly Ball

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Transcript:How to Catch a Fly Ball

Hi, my name is Keith Stephens for About.com Parenting. Today I'm going to show you how to teach your young athlete the proper way to catch a fly ball. Let's get started.

Equipment Needed to Catch a Fly Ball

Before we begin, here's what you will need:

• a baseball
• a baseball glove
• a safe area to throw and catch
• someone to throw and catch with

Get Into the Proper Position

First, let's look at the proper position to catch a fly ball. When the ball is hit directly at you, you will center yourself on the approaching ball.

If you are right-handed, you will want your left foot to be in front and the right foot will be back.

See Where the Ball is Coming Down

The natural tendency when the ball is hit is to immediately run in. Mistake.

Until you have a lot of experience, you need to hesitate just a moment before you move to see for sure where the ball will be coming down.

You will want to align yourself a step or two back further than where you believe the ball will come down, and then step forward and catch the ball.

Catch the Ball With Two Hands

As you catch the ball, you will use both hands. Your gloved hand will catch the ball, your other hand will protect it from coming out of your glove before you are ready to throw.

Throw the Ball to the Target

After you catch the ball, you will grab the ball with your throwing hand. As you step forward, you'll do what's called a crow hop. You begin the motion to throw the ball to the intended target.

If the ball is hit to either side, you will have to catch it backhanded or forehanded. Then you must begin your motion to throw to your intended target.

Thanks for watching. To learn more, visit us on the Web at parenting.about.com.