size of catcher glove

Question
My daughter is wanting to learn to be a catcher for fastpitch softball. She just turned 12 yrs old. What size of youth catcher glove do you recommend? She is 4'9".
Thanks

Answer
Hello Sue,

At the age of twelve, she will be playing with a twelve inch glove for the remainder of her career, so I wouldn't go and invest in a "youth" catcher glove.  Catchers Mitts are measured differently than other regular gloves.  I would recommend you get a mitt that has between a 32-34 inch circumference.  Take her to a sporting goods store and have her try them on for fit and comfort before buying.  Make sure the mitt has "bruise guard" padding for extra protection of the palm and also has narrower fingerstalls and a smaller wrist opening.  This will provide a snug fit and added control.  Good luck and make sure she understands that this is the toughest position on the field and if your going to make this investment she understands how much work is involved in getting good at it.

Coach Mike