Slowpitch to Fastpitch

Question
Dear Larry,        
    I am currently playing slowpitch softball, and wanted to join fastpitch softball.  I would be playing for the 12U age group. I was wondering if you had any suggestions, and what would change.  My slowpitch league is somewhat competitive.
Thank you!!  

Answer
Hello Amy

Both slow pitch and fast pitch require good athletes to be competitive and for the softball athlete many of the skill sets are the same for both games. I would say the major difference is that fast pitch softball is a pitcher抯 oriented game whereas slow pitch softball is a more of a hitter抯 game. Thus the strategies used on offense and defense between the two games are often much different.   

As a batter-base runner you are allowed to be more aggressive in fastpitch in opposition to slow pitch. The fast pitch game batter is allowed to bunt, slap, drag-bunt, and even attempt to run to first base on a dropped third strike. As a fast pitch base runner you can take a lead off a base or attempt to steal bases after the pitcher releases the ball or on a ball that gets past the catcher ?all things that are not allowed in slow pitch softball.

Unlike slow pitch in fast pitch the ball is live at all times and runners are free to advance or be off base until the pitcher has control of the ball within the pitching circle. The catcher on a fast pitch team usually calls the pitches and must be quick, smart, and mobile with a strong, accurate throw to control the runners. Essentially the catcher on a fast pitch team is usually one of the best players whereas coaches on slow pitch team usually put one of the less athletic players as catcher.

Besides several rule differences and the more aggressive base running - batting and bunting skills will be your biggest adjustment when switching from slow pitch  to fast pitch softball so my recommendation is for your to find a good fast pitch hitting coach and start working on adjusting your hitting skills now.