What is a crow hop? A crow hop is when an athlete takes TWO quick steps towards their target in order to throw the ball. It’s a great technique for quick fielding however it is ILLEGAL to do this during a pitch. Why? Because the pitching plate marks the starting point for ALL pitchers creating an even competition. Which is why in ALL 5 major governing bodies of softball (NSA, NFHS, NCAA, USA, USSSA) crow hopping (taking 2 steps towards the batter) is illegal. Sometimes umpires don’t call it…. Be