May 31, 2013

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The first camps hosted in the $8 million Carolina Softball Stadium at Beckham Field start soon, and space is filling up for some of the best softball instruction available in South Carolina.

The Bev Smith Softball Camps have five sessions scheduled during the summer vacation and are designed for players at different stages of their development who want to improve their game this summer. Smith, the three-year head coach at South Carolina, and her camp staff will teach the same lessons they have used to get the Gamecocks to their 16th NCAA Tournament this past spring and improve the team by 23 wins since Smith’s takeover.

The Next Level camp starts the summer on June 11-12, and is designed for players who look to be challenged with the mental aspects of the game as well as wanting work on advanced skill development. Open to grades 9-12, the day camp costs $325 per person.

On June 17-18, pitchers and catchers can come together to work on the specifics of their position both as individuals as well as a tandem, teaching both how to work together better on communication and pitchouts, among other skills. Also at $325 per person, it is a day camp.

Another advanced camp will be held on July 9-10. Techniques of the game will be taught, including hitting, bunting, pitching, catching, base running, game competition and infield and outfield play. At $225, this day camp is open to players of all skill levels.

Also on July 9-10, the Lil’ Gamecocks Camp will take place. Designed for ages 5-8 that want to learn the game, this morning camp will cover the basics of throwing, fielding, hitting and base running for $95.

The final camp is the Advanced Elite Hitting two-day event on July 16-17. Teaching some of the same drills and techniques that have helped the Gamecocks set 10 team school records over the past three seasons, this camp is $325 per participant.

For more details or to sign up for any of these, go to BevSmithSoftball.com and register. All camps are open to any and all entrants, limited only by age, grade level, gender and/or space available. Early registration is encouraged to ensure your spot in the camps.