More advice... please

[toquin]

The fear that you're going to fail leads you to paralysis by analysis, inability to recognize things you know well under pressure, etc. You start thinking that you need to make up for one mistake by doing something extraordinary, and when that doesn't work you try even harder, etc. If your DD can get to the point where she forgets about the competition, takes every AB and fielding chance seriously but not like her life depends on whether she excels in the moment, she will be the kid you see in games.

Elk, I think this is exactly what's going on in her head. She puts pressure on herself to succeed knowing that she needs to perform in order for coaches to properly evaluate her. This doesn't seem to exist for her during games because she just goes out there and plays. It's the fear of failure without a doubt.

 

[Elk Grove Hurricane]

She can get this, Toquin. Looking forward to hearing when she puts it all together.

 

[sluggers]

I could be wrong, but if it was "fear of failure", the fear would be greater during the game with 50 or 60 people watching than at a practice.

Her failure to perform at practice might have more to do with immaturity and lack of focus than fear.

 

[Coach JV]

getting back to OP. At the younger ages it is more common than the older (16-18U) ages
that players are 'gamers'. Once girls begin playing with and against college bound players,
we do not afford them the luxury of 'dogging it' in practice in hopes that they perform well in games.
I like to see them practice well at 'game speed' to earn playing time when games matter.

 

[Chezaré Sievers]

Try listening to this podcast with Brian Cain on dealing with failure and some mental exercises that could help alleviate some of her stresses. It's free and useful. I hope this helps. Best of luck.

The Smart Softball Podcast 003: Brian Cain on How to Deal with Failure | Smart Softball