Coaches' Corner

Watch & Learn

Resources from
the pros

Curated coaching resources, drill libraries, training videos, and organizations that our coaches use and recommend. Take your players to a local college game. Watch the high school teams play. The best way to learn the game is to see it live.

Coach reflecting

Field setup

Mike Talbott

Mike Talbott

League Vice President & Field Coordinator

How to line and set up a softball field for game day.

Featured Resource

Dominate the Diamond

A coaching education platform built by former professional players who are active youth coaches. Over 1,000 short, value-packed drill videos, 60+ practice plans, and position-specific training modules. They offer a free mobile app with pre-made practice plans, and their Grand Slam Membership unlocks the full library.

1000+ Drills60+ Practice PlansFree AppSoftball Courses

Coaching organizations

Official

USA Softball

Official coaching resources, certification programs, and rules from the national governing body for softball.

Philosophy

Positive Coaching Alliance

Research-backed tools for creating a positive youth sports culture. Their Double-Goal Coach framework is excellent.

Rules

NFHS Softball Rules

Official high school softball rules from the National Federation of State High School Associations.

Drills

Dominate the Diamond

Free coaching app, drill videos, practice plans, and online courses for youth baseball and softball coaches.

Watch local softball

Take your players to see the game at the next level. Nothing inspires a young player like watching college athletes play the same sport they are learning.

UConn Huskies
CCSU Blue Devils
Hartford Hawks
USJ Blue Jays

High School Schedules (CIAC)

Hall High School
Conard High School

Downloads

WHGSL 2025 Rules & Coaches Manual

PDF

Full 42-page rulebook with division-specific rules, pitching rules, and league policies.

Skill Milestones by Division (2024)

PDF

Progressive skill development chart from Rookies through Juniors.

Softball Fundamentals Guide

PDF

Comprehensive coaching philosophy and skill development guide by Coach Duke Baxter & Coach Steve Nikorak.

Top 10 Volunteer Coaching Cheat Sheet

PDF

Quick-reference one-pager for first-time coaches. Print it and keep it in your bag.

Ready to get on the field?

No experience needed. We will help you get ready.

Volunteer to Coach

WHGSL is not affiliated with Dominate the Diamond, USA Softball, Positive Coaching Alliance, NFHS, UConn, CCSU, Hartford, USJ, or any third-party resource linked on this page. We share these resources because our coaches find them valuable. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.