Fastpitch Quick Links

Bookmark this site!

Maximize your
Athletic Potential!
Get personalized training at
SportsWorkout.com

Fastpitch Interview
Denise Dahlberg

Presenting Ms. Denise Dahlberg...
Catcher with the Texas Thunder Professional Softball Team. Here's what she had to say about softball and catching.

What is your favorite thing about being involved with fastpitch softball?
eeting people from all over the country

How old were you when you started playing softball?
13

Did you play travel ball? If so, for what team?
Yes, I played for the L'il Saints.

Mr. Rick Pauly told me that you caught for his daughter Sarah who played with the Brakettes this past year. How many years did you two play together?
We started playing together pretty much since we started getting serious about softball, we played together for about 5 years.

I know you're just getting started, but how has your experience with the professional league been so far?
It's been great. I'm hoping the league will be able to pick up and take-off for future opportunities for softball players.

What's the biggest difference from college softball?
Everyone here is the best from their schools so it's a higher level of competition.

What was it like playing for a championship pro team?
I love it. This team is great.

From what I understand, you communicate very well with teammates. As a coach, that's something I look for in a catcher. I want my catcher to be a leader on the field and be able to talk to the other players out there. Is that something you developed along the way, or is talking just something that came naturally to you?
That's something that my dad instilled in me. It's just the way I was brought up.

When did you start catching?
13

At what age did you first begin calling pitches?
Some time in high school. I don't know exactly when, but I've been calling my own games since high school with some help from Rick Pauly along the way.

How important is it for catchers to know the opposing batters?
It's very important. You have to pay attention to a lot of different things while batters are preparing to step into the box and taking free swings and remember their at bats.

Do you have some tips for young catchers out there?
Hustle, always hustle.

Making it to the professional level is awesome! Do you have any tips or advice to other young players out there who want to get to where you are?
Work hard and have confidence in yourself.

I know your dad is a special person to you. What has he done to help you be the person you are today?
Everything. He raised me and gave me the tools on and off the field to make me the person I am today. He was my dad, my coach, and my best friend.