Fun games keep young softball players moving, laughing and learning at the same time. The best ones sneak in real skills like catching, throwing, base running and hitting, give every player plenty of turns instead of long lines, and finish before anyone gets bored. Classics such as 500, around the horn, base running relays, target hitting and pickle work well for most youth teams because they are simple to explain and easy to adapt for different ages. This guide explains how to run each game, what it teaches, how to adjust it for younger or older players and how to fit games into a practice plan.
Health note: This article is general information, not medical advice. Warm players up before active games, use age-appropriate balls (softer balls help younger or less experienced players), make sure players wear helmets when running bases or hitting where rules require, and keep water breaks frequent, especially in the heat.
Games and what they teach
| Game | Main skill | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 500 | Catching fly balls and grounders | All ages |
| Around the horn | Quick throws and catches around the bases | Ages 8 and up |
| Base running relay | Rounding bases and running hard | All ages |
| Target hitting | Placing the ball to targets on the field | All ages, off a tee for younger players |
| Pickle (rundown) | Tagging, throwing and running between bases | Ages 8 and up |
| Hot potato | Quick glove-to-hand transfers | All ages |
| Sharks and minnows with gloves | Fielding and agility | Younger players |
| Tee derby | Hitting mechanics and power | Younger players |
500
A coach hits or throws balls to a group of fielders. Each ball has a point value, such as 100 for a fly ball caught in the air, 75 for one caught on one bounce, 50 for a ground ball fielded cleanly, and some coaches subtract points for errors. The first player to reach 500 points wins and often becomes the next thrower or earns a small reward. The game teaches catching, reading the ball and calling for it. To keep it safe, remind players to call for the ball and avoid collisions, and consider splitting large groups into smaller ones so everyone gets chances.
Around the horn
Players stand at each base and the catcher at home. The ball is thrown around the bases in a set order, such as home to third, third to second, second to first and back home, as quickly as possible. Time each round and challenge the team to beat its record. The game builds quick transfers, accurate throws and footwork around the bag. For younger players, shorten the distances by placing players inside the bases. For older players, add a rule that a dropped ball or bad throw restarts the clock.
Base running relay
Split the team into two groups, one at home plate and one at second base. On the coach’s signal, the first runner in each group runs a full lap of the bases and tags the next runner, like a relay race. The first team to finish wins. Players learn to run hard, touch every base and round bases efficiently. Add variations such as requiring players to touch the inside corner of each base or to run from first to third on a single.
Target hitting
Place cones, hoops or buckets in different areas of the field. Hitters try to hit the ball into or near a target, earning points for each hit. Younger players can hit off a tee, while older players can take soft toss or live pitching. The game teaches hitters to control where the ball goes, such as hitting up the middle or to the opposite field. Keep groups small so players get more swings, and rotate fielders who collect the balls.
Pickle (rundown)
Place two bases about 40 to 60 feet apart, depending on age. Two fielders stand at the bases, and a runner starts between them. The fielders throw the ball back and forth, trying to tag the runner, while the runner tries to reach a base safely. Rotate players through each role. Pickle teaches fielders how to run down a runner with few throws, and it teaches runners to stay alive and read throws. Use soft balls for younger players, and remind fielders to throw to the chest and avoid throwing at the runner.
Hot potato
Players stand in a circle or line and pass the ball quickly from glove to hand to the next player, trying not to drop it. Add a timer or music, and whoever holds the ball when it stops is out or does a fun challenge. This builds quick hands and the glove-to-hand transfer used in every throw. For older players, require them to catch the ball and throw it rather than hand it off.
Sharks and minnows with gloves
Minnows try to run across a marked area while sharks, holding gloves or foam balls, try to tag them. Tagged minnows become sharks. For a softball version, sharks can roll ground balls at the minnows’ feet, and minnows must field them to stay safe. This game builds agility and fielding with lots of movement and fun.
Tee derby
Players hit off a tee, trying to hit the ball past certain distance markers, such as the infield dirt or a cone in the outfield. Each hit past a marker earns points. This is a great game for younger players learning to swing. Keep safety in mind by making sure other players stand well away from the hitter.
Step-by-step: fitting games into practice
- Plan the skill of the day, such as fielding ground balls or base running.
- Warm up with light running and throwing.
- Teach the skill with short, focused drills.
- Play a related game that uses the skill.
- Rotate players often so everyone stays involved.
- Finish with a favorite game as a reward.
- End with a quick team talk about what went well.
Tips for coaches
- Keep teams small so every player is involved.
- Explain rules briefly and start playing quickly.
- Rotate leaders and winners so the same players do not always shine.
- Tie each game to the skill you worked on that day.
- Keep score light-hearted for the youngest players.
- Watch for safety, especially in games with running and throwing.
- Praise effort, not only results.
Adjusting games for age
For players around ages 6 to 8, focus on simple games with lots of movement, soft balls and short distances. Use tees for hitting and keep games short. For ages 9 to 12, add more structure, competition and game-like situations, such as pickle and around the horn with timers. Older youth players can handle more complex versions, such as situational games that combine fielding, throwing and base running.
Common mistakes
- Long lines that leave players standing around.
- Games unrelated to the skills being taught.
- Too much competition for young players, which can discourage some.
- Ignoring safety, such as players standing near hitters.
- Complicated rules that take too long to explain.
- Playing games too long, so players lose interest.
Frequently asked questions
What is the game 500 in softball?
A coach hits or throws balls to fielders, who earn points for catches and clean fielding. The first player to 500 points wins.
How do you make softball practice fun for kids?
Use short drills, lots of games, small groups, plenty of turns and praise for effort.
What age should kids play pickle in softball?
Many players can start around age 8 or older, using soft balls and short distances.
