What I've Learned So Far

1) During this project I have learned the different focuses of the hitting technique, specifically extension of the arms and rotation of the hands.

3)

• Rubinoff, Martin. "The Art and the Science of Softball Hitting." Softball│Softball Drills│ Softball Tips │ Softball Hitting │ Softball Pitching │ Coaching Softball. Web. 15 Sept. 2011. <http://www.softballperformance.com/softball-hitting/art-and-science-of-hitting.html>.

This article broke down the swing and I asked my hitting coach what he thought was most important and what I needed to work on. He told me that my arms were in too tight and I wasn't following through properly. The article states "The arms will be at maximum extension, followed by the shoulders still rotating. To allow for a state of balance in the follow through these factors must be in place. After maximizing extension, the arms should be broken down.", which is what I was trying to accomplish in the video.

Independent Component 1 Plan Approval

1) For my independent component I plan to play softball at least twice a week in practice and tournaments.

2) On Tuesdays I have a batting lesson with a hitting coach for an hour, on Sundays I practice softball for four hours, and some weekends I have tournaments. This is a minimum of five hours a week guaranteed which will easily exceed the 30 hour requirement.

3) My EQ is "What is most essential in winning a softball game?" By participating and playing on a team I can acquire the information and possibly an answer through experience and observation.

Defining the Essential Question

1) What is most essential to winning a softball game?
2) essential: key factor/vital
     winning: defeating the opposing team
3)

• practicing long hours
• conditioning
• mental preparation
• studying of the game
• building a strong offense
• good coaching skills

4) My interview with Emily Almeida was my most important source because she explained to me my options were in the exploration of the different aspects of the sport. She brought to my attention that coaching is an excellent side to study because not all athletes get to see that side of their sport. She gave me advice based on her experience going through this project and ultimately helped me make my decision as to where I want to guide my studies.

Second Interview Questions

1) How long have you been involved in softball?
2) What experience do you in have in playing and/ or coaching?
3) Why did you choose to be involved in softball and why?
4) What do you hope to accomplish in the future in your position?
5) How did you get to where you are today?