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Mental Toughness for P's: Episode 1

That pressure you feel before a big pitch isn't a problem. It's a privilege — and proof your team trusts you with the ball.

Allie Walljasper Softball

Alright P’s, let’s get real. Standing on the mound isn’t just about throwing strikes or spinning nasty pitches. It’s about having the mental toughness to handle the spotlight when the game is on your shoulders.

And guess what? That pressure you feel? It’s not a problem. It’s a privilege.

Butterflies = Boss Energy

That stomach-flipping, sweaty-palms, “oh-my-gosh-why-am-I-nervous” feeling? That’s not weakness. That’s proof you’re in the spotlight. Proof your teammates trust YOU with the ball.

Pressure doesn’t mean “what if I mess up?” Pressure means “I get this moment.”

So when the butterflies hit, don’t say “I’m nervous.” Say: “I’m ready.”

Because queens don’t hide from the moment — they own it.

Feel Your Feelings (Then Take the Wheel)

Being a P doesn’t mean you’re a robot. You’re human. You’ll feel nervous. You’ll feel frustrated. You might even want to roll your eyes at an ump who thinks the strike zone is the size of a shoebox.

Feel it. Then flip it.

Your mound is YOUR stage, and you’re the queen up there. Queens don’t let one bad pitch or one bad call overthrow them. They breathe, reset, and take back control.

You’re in Charge

Here’s the secret: you control the game more than you think.

  • You control your breath. (One deep inhale = instant calm.)
  • You control your body language. (Shoulders back, chin up = “I’m locked in.”)
  • You control the tempo. (Work quick? Hitters panic. Slow it down? They squirm. Either way — you’re the one calling the shots.)

When you control yourself, you control the game. Period.

Building Mental Muscles

Just like lifting in the gym, mental toughness takes reps. Try these drills:

  • Reset Routine: After every pitch, do something small — fix your ponytail, wipe the ball, step off — to reset your mind.
  • Power Phrase: Find your go-to line like “Next pitch is mine” or “I’m built for this.” (Say it until your brain believes it.)
  • Visualization: Before bed, close your eyes and picture yourself striking out the last batter of the game. Make your brain practice success.

Final Word

Pressure isn’t something to run from — it’s proof you’re trusted to do something important.

So the next time the game is in your hands, remember: Pressure is a privilege. You’re the queen of the mound. And when you control your mind, you control the game.

Now go flex that mental muscle, P’s.

Allie Walljasper
Former LSU All-American and D1 pitching coach. Teaching pitchers in Columbia, SC — and everywhere through the AW25 app.