In the first-of-its-kind event for top club age players, the Canadian Elite Softball Camp began on Tuesday in the Ontario, Toronto area with 100 players from all over the country attending.

Incorporating position-specific drills for pitchers, catchers, infielders and outfielders as well as player testing, the Mizuno – sponsored camp got off to a great start in the first of its three days according to Event Director Tyler Johnstone.

“Day 1 was everything we hoped this camp would be and more,” he said last night.

“We had so many incredible moments and had the opportunity to meet an amazing group of athletes, not only talented players, but great personalities who came ready to work. The focus, determination and willingness to learn from these athletes was incredible to see.”

“Our instructors poured everything they had into every session, sharing their knowledge, experience and passion for the game, and the athletes embraced every opportunity to get better.”

“We couldn’t have asked for a better first day, and we’re incredibly excited for what the next two days will bring.”

Here’s Ryan speaking to the camp attendees on Day 1 about different stations they’d be attending:

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Player/Parent Feedback

The feedback from the players and their parents was equally positive. Here are some of the comments from parents regarding their athletes’ first day at the Canadian Elite Softball Camp:

“Harper absolutely LOVED it today!!! She loved everyone she worked with.”

“Chloe told me today this is the best camp she’s ever been too (hockey camps included). It is so well organized and such a great experience for the girls!”

“Ayla is pretty quiet, it’s her character but she honestly has been so chatty tonight about the instructions, what she did today and what she took away from the day. I was very impressed as it obviously had a massive impact on her.”

“My daughter Ella had the best day today!” She came home sharing new skills, an abundance of knowledge, made new friends and has a full heart. She’s pumped for Day 2 tomorrow.”

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Camp Sponsor Mizuno… On Being Involved

Mizuno, which has its Canadian headquarters in the Toronto area, was onsite showing some of the company’s new products as well as having fun with the attendees who could spin a wheel listing prizes they could win.

Megan Wiedekowsky, the Field Marketing Manager at Mizuno Canada, explains in this video clip why the global leader in manufacturing sports equipment and sportswear is sponsoring the camp:

A clip of players interacting with Megan at the Mizuno booth:

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Campers in Action

Tuesday was a day for the 100 players of high school age in attendance from all over Canada to get introduced to the staff as well as get going in position-specific drills.

Here are some examples of the stations the players were involved in:

Pitchers being timed for velocity.

Infield flip drill.

Jen Johnstone leading outfield drills.

Pitchers at the Canadian Elite Softball Camp getting instruction on striding