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707-LEAGUE4Pitching Speeds by Age in Fastpitch Softball (10U–18U Guide)
Home / Resources / Pitching Speeds by Age in Fastpitch Softball (10U–18U Guide)
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What does “pitching speed by age” actually mean?
“Pitching speed by age” refers to typical in-game fastball velocity ranges for each youth division (10U, 12U, 14U, 16U, 18U). It isn’t a rule; players develop at different rates, ball size and pitching distance change by level, and competition context (rec vs travel vs varsity) matters. Use ranges to set expectations, guide training, and communicate with families.
Direct answer: In general: mid-30s mph (10U); low-to-mid-40s (12U); upper-40s to mid-50s (14U); low-to-mid-50s (16U); mid-50s on average for 18U, with elite arms reaching 60–64+ mph.
Quick Reference: In-Game Fastball Velocity by Age (mph)
| Division (Ball • Distance) | Typical Game Range | Competitive/Elite Range | Coaching Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10U (11″ • 35′) | ~35–39 mph | Up to ~40–43 mph | Mechanics & control; introduce change-up later |
| 12U (12″ • 40′) | ~41–48 mph | ~49–53+ mph | Refine mechanics; start 1–2 movement pitches with sound form |
| 14U (12″ • 43′) | ~46–54 mph | Mid-50s; occasional ~60 mph outliers | Movement first; build strength safely |
| 16U (12″ • 43′) | ~51–55 mph | ~56–60+ mph | 3–4 pitch mix; polish command; recruit-ready habits |
| 18U (12″ • 43′) | ~53–58 mph | ~60–64+ mph | College-level execution, spin quality, sequencing |
Benchmarks reflect game (not bullpen) speeds at standard distances/balls.
Source: USA Softball rules & distances (see PDFs below) and widely used coaching benchmarks.
Why do pitching distance and ball size change—and how does that affect speed?
Division rules scale the game to the athlete. 10U uses 11″ balls at 35′ to support control and safety. Between 12U and 14U, players move to 12″ balls and longer rubbers (40′ → 43′), which increases skill demands and slightly reduces perceived velocity at the plate unless pitchers develop more leg drive and efficient spin.
Direct answer: As distance increases and the ball changes, maintaining or gaining speed requires better mechanics, strength, and timing. Expect a short adjustment period when moving to 43′.
Standard Fastpitch Specs by Youth/HS Levels
| Level | Ball Size | Pitching Distance | What It Means for Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10U | 11″ | 35′ | Shorter distance + smaller ball aid control; typical mid-30s mph |
| 12U | 12″ | 40′ | Transition phase; velocity rises with strength/mechanics |
| 14U–18U | 12″ | 43′ | Full HS/college distance; average varsity mid-50s; elite into 60s |
Sources: USA Softball Official Rulebook · USA Softball – Slow Pitch vs Fast Pitch (Rule Differences PDF)
What pitching speeds do college coaches look for?
Velocity is a signal, not the whole story. Recruiters want pitchers who miss barrels: command to the edges, a real change-up (15–20 mph slower) and at least one movement pitch with late break. You’ll find successful D2/D3 pitchers sitting upper-50s with elite spin and location, and D1 arms in the 60s who pair speed with movement.
Direct answer: As a simple guide, many D1 prospects target ~63+ mph; D2 often upper-50s; D3/NAIA mid-50s can compete with pitchability and movement.
How should coaches build velocity safely at each age?
Think “mechanics → consistency → strength → speed.” Younger ages prioritise repeatable motion and strike-throwing; add strength and plyometrics progressively; introduce movement pitches only when the arm can support the spin without compensations. Use sensible weekly pitch totals and schedule rest.
Direct answer: A practical upper guardrail for older teens is roughly 500–700 total pitches per week (games + practice) with rest days; stay lower for younger groups and when mechanics drift.
Age-by-Age Velocity & Health Checklist
| Division | Do This | Avoid This | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10U | Repeatable mechanics; light strength (bodyweight); basic change-up timing | Chasing radar; early breaking balls without form | Good form compounds; prevents bad habits |
| 12U | Leg-drive drills; core strength; introduce one movement pitch if form is stable | Rise/screw before mid-50s speed & healthy spin | Adds safe mph while protecting the arm |
| 14U | Strength & mobility blocks; prioritise movement over pure heaters | Over-reliance on fastball at 43′ | Movement wins as hitters catch up |
| 16U–18U | 3–5 pitch mix; arm-care routines; enforce rest days | Throwing hurt; back-to-back high-volume days | Sustains velocity gains and availability |
Source: coaching and injury-prevention best practices (rule PDFs below for distances).
Which uniform items help pitchers stay comfortable through long outings?
Comfort equals consistency. Lightweight, breathable jerseys, stretch team pants, and moisture-wicking caps help pitchers keep a steady feel and repeat mechanics—especially in summer tournaments. If your club is outfitting a new roster, align colours and decoration early so players can focus on the circle, not the kit.
Direct answer: Outfit the staff with coordinated jerseys, pants, and hats that move with the motion. Explore live collections: Softball · Fastpitch Softball · Hats
FAQ
What is a good fastball speed at each age?
10U mid-30s; 12U low-to-mid-40s (low-50s elite); 14U upper-40s to mid-50s; 16U low-to-mid-50s; 18U mid-50s with elites 60–64+.
How fast do college pitchers throw?
Across levels, ~58–65 mph is typical; top D1 aces often average above ~63 mph.
When should a pitcher learn a rise ball?
Generally not until mid-50s velocity and solid spin mechanics; otherwise the athlete may compensate and create poor habits.
How much slower should a change-up be?
Roughly 15–20 mph off the fastball, thrown with identical arm speed and release.
Are there official pitch counts in softball?
No universal national limits exist; many coaches use ~500–700 total pitches/week (games + practice) as an upper guardrail for older teens, with rest days.