The Softball Pitcher Sisterhood
There is something special about the relationship between softball pitchers. Whether they are on the same team or not, pitchers share a unique bond. Next time you find yourself at a college or professional game, watch the interaction between the pitchers on the field and in the dugout. The role of a pitcher is different than any other position on the field. The bond between a pitcher and a catcher is a special one, but when a pitcher is able to connect with another pitcher on an intellectual level, magic happens and the sisterhood is established.
When a pitcher takes the mound she is going to battle for her team. The circle can at times be a lonely position, especially when the pressure is on and the enemy is in the batter’s box. There is no better feeling in the world as a pitcher than knowing your teammates, coaches, and fans have your back. Pitchers have a whole team behind them on the field as they deliver each pitch, but almost more importantly, they have an army with them in the dugout and in the pen.
There is nothing more special than a pitcher sisterhood in softball. These pitchers are connected during the games at all times. When one is pitching, the others are the first ones out of the dugout after each inning to give the first high fives. They are the loudest voices from the dugout and often times they are the only voice the pitcher on the field hears. Pitchers are connected with each other for every single pitch in every single game.
Pitchers are often times removed from the team during practices and workouts. Sometimes they are all each other has on the tough pitching workout and conditioning days and they learn how to survive together. When pitchers are pushed physically and mentally off the field together, the bond thickens and the sisterhood grows stronger. They get to the point where they won’t be able to survive in the game without one another.
Being a part of a pitcher sisterhood is extremely special and actually very rare. Not every softball pitcher will be a part of one in their career. But the lucky ones who do, will know exactly what I am trying to describe in words.
The position brings them together and the bond is held tight by several different things. Pitchers share similar personality characteristics. Pitchers are loyal, humble, and pride themselves on being part of the team. Pitchers are at the center of every battle when they step onto the mound. They will get knocked down from time to time, but their sisters in the bullpen will be the first ones to pick up them up. The role of a pitcher is to throw strikes and to get her team off the field each inning as quickly and efficiently as possible.
When pitchers are locked into their role and buy into the game plan, watch out. Even if the opposing team gets to one pitcher, you haven’t won. Chances are her sister will step in soon enough and she will fight for her team and do everything it takes to back up her sister.
