How To Get Down And Dirty.

Question
Well see I have just gotten over a bad ankle sprain. But I have been  back to playing softball for quite some time and it doesn't hurt any more, at all. But how i sprained my ankle was from trying to slide. And so i was pretty scared at first but now I'm not scared at all and i want to slide i really do, and i think i have the form down and i could do it good, but there is still a little butterfly in my stomach and i just don't know how to throw my body down. I mean i have the form ( my legs positions and stuff) but i just don't know how to get down there to do my form.AHHHHHHHHHHHHH Help PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!
      p.s I'm a serious Softball player did you happen to see my e-mail adress? hehe! Thanks  

Answer
Hello Ariel,

You have to come in with no hesitation when sliding.  Hesitation and getting down late, are the main reasons for injury.  You will in all likelihood roll an ankle if you don't come in low, hard, and aggressive.  The best advice I can give is to practice sliding alot.  Start out on a mat specifically designed for sliding practice or in a gym sliding on a blanket.  You can also purchase a slip-n-slide very cheap at most stores like Walmart.  The only way you will get your confidence back is by sliding.  Another thing you may want to consider is learning to use a head first slide if everything else fails.  If you are a serious player, Ariel, sliding is a huge part of our game, and the sooner you overcome these fears, the more confident you'll be running the bases.

Sorry, but we don't have access to e-mail addresses.  Allexperts only passes your name and question on to us.
Good luck and I'm sure you'll be fine.

Coach Mike