One of the biggest softball annual gatherings in softball—the 2024 NFCA Convention which runs for three days this week from Wednesday through Saturday, Dec. 4-7, 2024—kicks off this week at The Hyatt Regency in Dallas, Texas

Line Drive Softball will have daily recaps at the convention.

Here is this year’s NFCA’s promo video previewing this week’s activities:

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Here are some of the key things to look for in the Lone Star State starting in just a couple days…

COMPLETE 2024 NFCA CONVENTION SCHEDULE: 

Note: ($) = Additional Fee

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Tuesday, December 3, 2024

8:00 AM-5:00 PM ($) 

• FastPitch Level 1 Seminar • Reverchon AB | View Details
• Registration: 7:30-8:00 AM

This two-day live seminar hosted by OnBaseU at the NFCA Convention allows students to learn and interact with instructors as they guide attendees through a detailed analysis of how to evaluate pitchers, from technique to physical screening. Instructors will highlight the most common pitching characteristics that limit performance and show how physical limitations can be the root cause of each. Attendees will learn how to physically assess players using OnBaseU’s Fastpitch physical screen.

*** For more information and to sign up click HERE

8:00 AM-6:00 PM ($)

• NFCC 403: Position Play & Individual Defensive Skills • Pegasus AB | View Details
• Registration: 8-9:00 AM

Instructors: Joanna Hardin (Virginia), Lauren Lappin (Arizona), Taylor Smartt (UAB)

If defense wins championships, then this course will point you in the right direction. The emphasis of this course is placed on how to analyze, teach, and drill all the defensive skills required to play fastpitch softball at a high level.

*** For more information and to sign up click HERE

8:00 AM-6:00 PM ($)

• $ NFCC 405: Explosive Team Offense & Strategy Reunion A-D | View Details
• Registration: 8-9:00 AM

Instructors: Bobby Buchanan (Ole Miss), Bryce Neal (LSU), Taylor Wike (Duke)

You have to score to win. As offenses throughout the country are putting more and more big numbers on the board you can come learn the strategies integral to offensive success. Learn how to read your opponent and coordinate the actions of your individual players in order to score and manufacture runs.

*** For more information and to sign up click HERE

*This course qualifies for one credit towards an NFCA hitting endorsement

Noon-4:00 PM

• Convention Registration & Merchandise Trinity AB | View Details

Make sure you stop by the registration desk to pick up your credential and event information. Visit our merchandise desk to receive attendee gift from the NFCA, play games to win prizes, and look through our inventory of new swag.

• • Access into any and all NFCA Convention sessions requires a credential and lanyard.
  • Credentials must be worn at all times during the annual Convention and may be obtained on-site at the NFCA Convention registration desk.
  • Please note, security will monitor entry into all of the Convention sessions and access will not be permitted without the appropriate accreditation.

*** For more information and to register click HERE

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Wednesday, December 4, 2024

8:00 AM-Noon ($)

• NFCC 403: Position Play & Individual Defensive Skills Pegasus AB | View Details

Instructors: Joanna Hardin (Virginia), Lauren Lappin (Arizona), Taylor Smartt (UAB)

If defense wins championships, then this course will point you in the right direction. The emphasis of this course is placed on how to analyze, teach, and drill all the defensive skills required to play fastpitch softball at a high level.

For more information and to sign up click HERE

8:00 AM-Noon ($)

• NFCC 405: Explosive Team Offense & Strategy Reunion A-D | View Details
• Instructors: Bobby Buchanan (Ole Miss), Bryce Neal (LSU), Taylor Wike (Duke)

You have to score to win. As offenses throughout the country are putting more and more big numbers on the board you can come learn the strategies integral to offensive success. Learn how to read your opponent and coordinate the actions of your individual players in order to score and manufacture runs.

*** For more information and to sign up click HERE

*This course qualifies for one credit towards an NFCA hitting endorsement

9:00 AM-Noon ($)

• FastPitch Level 1 Seminar  Reverchon AB | View Details

This two-day live seminar hosted by OnBaseU at the NFCA Convention allows students to learn and interact with instructors as they guide attendees through a detailed analysis of how to evaluate pitchers, from technique to physical screening. Instructors will highlight the most common pitching characteristics that limit performance and show how physical limitations can be the root cause of each. Attendees will learn how to physically assess players using OnBaseU’s Fastpitch physical screen.

*** For more information and to sign up click HERE

9:00 AM-9:00 PM

• Convention Registration & Merchandise Trinity AB | View Details

Make sure you stop by the registration desk to pick up your credential and event information.

Visit our merchandise desk to receive attendee gift from the NFCA, play games to win prizes, and look through our inventory of new swag.

• • Access into any and all NFCA Convention sessions requires a credential and lanyard.
  • Credentials must be worn at all times during the annual Convention and may be obtained on-site at the NFCA Convention registration desk.
  • Please note, security will monitor entry into all of the Convention sessions and access will not be permitted without the appropriate accreditation.

*** For more information and to register click HERE

1:00-4:00 PM ($)

• Pre-Con: The Next Level of Pitching Reunion A-D | View Details
• Panelists: Denise Davis (Planet Fastpitch), Dr. Kaila Holtz (Sport Physiatrist), Josh Johnson (Virginia Tech),Dana Sorenson (Sorenson Elite Softball Pitching)
• Special Guest Speaker: Dr. Gretchen Oliver (Biomechanist/Auburn)

Join leaders in pitching technology, player development, strength & conditioning, biomechanics, and winning to learn how when all facets of pitching are trained together, the next level of pitching can be unlocked.

***For more information and to sign up click HERE

*This course qualifies for one credit towards an NFCA pitching endorsement

1:00-4:00 PM ($)

• Pre-Con: Paying Attention to YOUR Mental Game: Building a coach’s toolbox for success Pegasus AB | View Details

Speaker: Julie Jones (SSB Performance)

Coaches often find themselves overlooked and lacking support regarding opportunities for growth and mental health. This seminar will provide practical tools and strategies to respond effectively to the unique pressures, challenges, and opportunities coaches face. Enhance your coaching effectiveness by adding tools to your mental game and increase your well-being while elevating your program to new heights.

For more information and to sign up click HERE

3:30-5:00 PM 

• Division I Head Coaches Committee Meeting Gaston AB | View Details

Invitation-only meeting for representatives of the Head Coaches Committee to discuss relevant Division I topics and to prepare for the Division I Caucus presented by GoRout.

3:30-5:00 PM 

• Division II Head Coaches Committee Meeting Moreno AB | View Details

Invitation-only meeting for representatives of the Head Coaches Committee to discuss relevant Division II topics and to prepare for the Division II Caucus presented by Chattanooga Sports.

3:30-5:00 PM 

• Division III Head Coaches Committee Meeting Sanger AB | View Details

Invitation-only meeting for representatives of the Head Coaches Committee to discuss relevant Division III topics and to prepare for the Division III Caucus presented by Go Rout.

4:00-4:50 PM 

• Rookie Orientation presented by Triple Crown Sports (First-Time Attendees) Reunion E-H | View Details

Is this your first time attending the NFCA Convention? Join other “rookies” as this panel of veteran coaches takes you through the jam-packed schedule and highlights must-attend events. Meet a new friend or two at the Rookie Orientation presented by Triple Crown Sports.

5:30-6:50 PM 

• “First Pitch” Opening Welcome with Keynote Kim Ng| Landmark Ballroom | View Details
• Credential and lanyard required.

There is nothing more exciting than the first pitch of a ballgame. The same is true for our “First Pitch” opening session! You’ll hear from NFCA Executive Director Carol Bruggeman and NFCA President Larissa Anderson, followed by Kim Ng’s keynote address “Everyday’s a Battle.” Ng is the senior advisor with Athletes Unlimited Pro Softball and former general manager of the Florida Marlins.

7:00-9:00 PM 

• NFCA Opening Reception presented by SportsRecruits Landmark Foyer | View Details

Come join us at our NFCA Opening Reception presented by SportsRecruits! A two-hour event filled with networking, complimentary food and drinks! Credential and lanyard required.

7:30-8:30 PM — Conference Meetings 

8:30-9:30 PM — Committee Meetings (Click View Details for Rooms) | View Details

• Awards • Gaston A
• DEI • Reverchon A
• Ethics • KesslerOnly elected NFCA Ethics Committee members may attend
• Events • Gaston B
• Mentoring • Sanger A
• Playing Rules • Sanger B
• Publications • Moreno A

8:30-9:30 PM

• AUSL Reception Pegasus AB | View Details

Join Kim Ng and recently announced AUSL General Managers and Head Coaches to learn more about the league.

9:00-10:00 PM

• Equality Coaches Alliance: LGBTQ Pegasus AB | View Details

Join other LGBTQ and ally coaches to discuss various topics on diversity and inclusion. It’s a great forum to ask questions, share information, or just listen to best practices for helping student-athletes thrive as valued members of their teams. Discussion on university and athletic department policies and resources for staff, coaches, and administrators along with training for athletic teams and staff will be addressed.

9:00-10:00 PM 

• Fireside Chat (Hitting) Reunion E-H | View Details

Can’t get enough when it comes to hitting? We understand and lucky for you, you’re not alone. Join your peers and keep the conversation going for new ideas.

9:00-10:00 PM

• Fireside Chat (Pitching) Reunion A-D | View Details

Can’t get enough when it comes to pitching? We understand and lucky for you, you’re not alone. Join your peers and keep the conversation going for new ideas.

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Thursday, December 5, 2024

7:00 AM-8:00 PM

• Convention Registration & Merchandise Trinity AB | View Details

Make sure you stop by the registration desk to pick up your credential and event information.

Visit our merchandise desk to receive attendee gift from the NFCA, play games to win prizes, and look through our inventory of new swag.

• • Access into any and all NFCA Convention sessions requires a credential and lanyard.
  • Credentials must be worn at all times during the annual Convention and may be obtained on-site at the NFCA Convention registration desk.
  • Please note, security will monitor entry into all of the Convention sessions and access will not be permitted without the appropriate accreditation.

*** For more information and to register click HERE

7:00-8:00 AM

• Resume Building Pegasus AB | View Details

Does your resume need a refresh? Do you need to brush up on your interviewing skills? Would you like to talk in a safe space with someone about climbing the ladder and job mobility? Registered attendees can sign up for a time to visit with experienced industry leaders for a one-on-one session to help prepare you for the next step in your career.

*** Register HERE

7:00-8:30 AM

• NFCA Breakfast Reunion Foyer | View Details

Grab a bite to eat at the NFCA Breakfast before your morning meetings.

8:30-11:30 AM 

• NCAA Division I Caucus presented by GoRout Landmark Ballroom | View Details

Only NCAA Division I NFCA members may attend and propose items for consideration by the group and have a voice/vote during the caucus.

The premier business event of the Convention, the NCAA Division I Caucus presented by GoRout brings together the membership group to discuss current issues, review and discuss pending legislation, create action plans for future changes to the game and collaboratively shape the sport for the future.

8:30-11:30 AM 

• NCAA Division II Caucus presented by Chattanooga Sports Reunion EF | View Details

Only NCAA Division II NFCA members may attend and propose items for consideration by the group and have a voice/vote during the caucus.

The premier business event of the Convention, the NCAA Division II Caucus presented by Chattanooga Sports brings together the membership group to discuss current issues, review and discuss pending legislation, create action plans for future changes to the game and collaboratively shape the sport for the future.

8:30-11:30 AM 

• NCAA Division III Caucus presented by GoRout Reunion GH | View Details

Only NCAA Division III NFCA members may attend and propose items for consideration by the group and have a voice/vote during the caucus.

The premier business event of the Convention, the NCAA Division III Caucus presented by GoRout brings together the membership group to discuss current issues, review and discuss pending legislation, create action plans for future changes to the game and collaboratively shape the sport for the future.

8:30-11:30 AM 

• NAIA Caucus Sanger AB | View Details

Only NAIA NFCA members may attend and propose items for consideration by the group and have a voice/vote during the caucus.

The premier business event of the Convention, the NAIA Caucus brings together the membership group to discuss current issues, review and discuss pending legislation, create action plans for future changes to the game and collaboratively shape the sport for the future.

8:30-11:30 AM 

• NJCAA Caucus Gaston AB | View Details

Only NJCAA NFCA members may attend and propose items for consideration by the group and have a voice/vote during the caucus.

The premier business event of the Convention, the NJCAA Caucus brings together the membership group to discuss current issues, review and discuss pending legislation, create action plans for future changes to the game and collaboratively shape the sport of the future.

8:30-11:30 AM 

• Cal JC Caucus Cockrell | View Details

Only Cal JC NFCA members may attend and propose items for consideration by the group and have a voice/vote during the caucus.

The premier business event of the Convention, the Cal JC Caucus brings together the membership group to discuss current issues, review and discuss pending legislation, create action plans for future changes to the game and collaboratively shape the sport of the future.

8:30-11:30 AM 

• High School/Travel Ball Caucus & Triple Play Classroom Series presented by ATEC Reunion A-D | View Details

Only Travel Ball and High School NFCA members may attend and propose items for consideration by the group and have voice / vote during the caucus.

The Triple Play Classroom Series presented by ATEC will precede the joint caucus and includes two presentations from grassroots coaches.

• Jodi Hermanek (SuperPowerUCoaching with Coach Herm LLC) and Iyhia McMichael (Frisco Emerson HS)
  When private instructors work closely with travel and high school coaches, a lot can get lost in translation for a student-athlete. Join Jodi Hermanek and Iyhia McMichael as they share not only tips and best practices for private instructors but also how to get all the coaches in a student-athlete’s life on the same page.
• Kevin Bednoski (Riverside HS/Virginia Glory)
  Recruiting is a family affair and that means the softball family, too. Learn best practices for travel and high school coaches as well as instructors when it comes to assisting (and collaborating) in the recruiting process for prospective student-athletes.

8:30-11:30 AM

• International Softball Gathering Moreno A | View Details
• Session Details

Interested in softball on an international level? This is the place! Join fellow coaches from across the globe in an informal setting to discuss opportunities, challenges, and best practices for growing the sport. Be prepared to share high-fives to celebrate softball being back in the Olympics in 2028!

11:00 AM-6:30 PM

• Visit the Exhibit Hall!
• Marsalis Hall/Cumberland | View Details

The Exhibit Hall opens its doors to attendees at 11:00 a.m. It’s your opportunity to discover innovative products, apparel and services from over 150 companies! Stop by to build relationships that may benefit your team in the future.

11:30 AM-1:30 PM 

• Grab & Go Lunch | View Details
• Attendees can purchase lunch from an a la carte menu.

1:30-2:50 PM 

• Drills, Drills, Drills
• Landmark Ballroom | View Details
• Quick Pitch by FieldTurf

Get in on the action with three unique 25-minute sessions jam-packed with drills you can implement right away. Reminder: you will get a recording of this session so don’t worry about rapid-fire note-taking. No videotaping, please.

• Pitching • Kyla Holas (More Than a Game)
• Catching • Whitney Wyly (UT Tyler)
• Hitting • Steve Singleton (Texas)

2:00-2:50 PM

• HEAD COACH TRACK • Changes in Collegiate Athletics: A panel discussion
• Reunion A-F | View Details

Panelists: Sarah Baumgartner (Texas); Shane Drahota (Minnesota State); Keisha Dunlap (Conference USA); Samantha Ekstrand (NFCA Legal Counsel); Kurt McGuffin (UT Martin); Jody Sykes (Oregon)

3:00-3:50 PM 

• HEAD COACH TRACK • Head Coach to GM: What’s Next in Program Management Reunion GH | View Details
• Quick Pitch by TRUMEDIA

Panelists: Sarah Baumgartner (Texas); Kenny Gajewski (Oklahoma State); Kurt McGuffin (UT Martin); Kim Ng (Athletes Unlimited)

If it feels like your role as a head coach is changing to more of a general manager, this is the session for you. Learn lessons of effective management from within the field as you take-away tips to be the most impactful leader for your team.

3:00-3:50 PM

• Pitching 101: An inside look at all facets of pitcher development from three elite programs Landmark Ballroom | View Details
• Quick Pitch by Rip-It

Back by popular demand this “live” session on the main stage will showcase three pitching minds answering YOUR inquiries on how they create, plan, and execute everything from recruiting to scouting and bullpens to in-game decisions. Bring your questions!

Panelists: Trisha Ford (Texas A&M), Britni Newman (Baylor), Beth Torina (LSU)

• 3:00-3:50 PM— Scoring Strategies to Ignite Your Offense • James Landreneau (McNeese State) Reunion A-F | View Details
• Quick Pitch by HitTrax

Dynamic offenses do many things well. Learn how facets of hitting, base running, situational execution, and more all work together to create scoring opportunities in droves.

3:00-3:50 PM

• Other Duties as Assigned: Winning the social media game for your program • Keena Lynch (Big 12) Pegasus AB | View Details

Community involvement, social media best practices, increasing engagement with your fans, and creating a brand are just a few things that may not fall under your job description, yet you likely find yourself thinking about their strategies and implementation. In this session, Keena Lynch from the BIG 12 CONFERENCE office will take you through different ways you can get the most out of your digital content.

3:00-5:00 PM

• Resume Building Gaston AB | View Details

Does your resume need a refresh? Do you need to brush up on your interviewing skills? Would you like to talk in a safe space with someone about climbing the ladder and job mobility? Registered attendees can sign up for a time to visit with experienced industry leaders for a one on one session to help prepare you for the next step in your career.

Register HERE

4-4:50 PM

• HEAD COACH TRACK • TRUST: Keys to building the most important commodity in your program • Travis Wyckoff (Kingdom Coaching) Reunion GH | View Details
• Quick Pitch by Xplosion Bats

When looking for the separating factor for your team, look no further than the trust factor. Former baseball coach and current leadership coach Travis Wyckoff will teach you how to invest in the most important part of your program.

4:00-4:50 PM

• Infield IQ for Today’s Game Speed • Jordan Clark (FAU) Reunion A-F | View Details
• Quick Pitch by Aquatrols

Today’s game is faster than ever. Exit velocity. Foot speed. Arm strength. With these components raising the speed of the game, your infield IQ has to be sharper than ever. Elevate your defensive play with this session.

4:00-4:50 PM

• Creating Personalization in Hitting Bobby Tewksbary (Pelotero) • Landmark Ballroom | View Details
• Quick Pitch by Hudl

Offensive results come from maximizing each athlete’s unique skill set. Join hitting instructor Bobby Tewksbary to learn how you can identify the separating factors of each individual hitter to get the most out of their competitive performance.

4:00-4:50 PM

• Other Duties as Assigned: From Travel to Camps: Logistic hacks to create more efficient program operations • Elizabeth Benn (MLB) Pegasus AB | View Details

Whether you are a Director of Operations or a coach who wears many different hats, this programming will help you become more efficient when it comes to event management, travel planning, and more. Join Elizabeth Benn, a veteran in logistics for Major League Baseball and start working smarter today!

4:30-6:30 PM 

• Grab & Go Dinner | View Details

Attendees can purchase dinner from an a la carte menu. Location and menu coming soon!

5:00-6:00 PM

• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Gathering presented by Major League Baseball featuring Dr. Jen Fry  Reunion GH | View Details
• Special Guest Speaker: Jen Fry (JenFryTalks)

Using Conflict as a Catalyst for Building a Culture of Inclusion

At the DEI Gathering presented by MLB, join coaches to discuss various topics on diversity and inclusion. It’s a great forum to ask questions, share information, or just listen to best practices for helping student-athletes thrive as valued members of their teams. Discussion on university and athletic department policies and resources for staff, coaches, and administrators along with training for athletic teams and staff will be addressed.

5:00-6:30 PM

• Happy Hour presented by Discover Lake County Marsalis Hall/Cumberland | View Details

Continue your exploration of the exhibit hall with a beer or soft drink in hand for the NFCA Convention Happy Hour presented by Discover Lake County.

7:00-9:00 PM

• Mentoring Workshop presented by SixFour3 Landmark Ballroom | View Details

One of the most anticipated events of the week, the Mentoring Workshop presented by SixFour3! Grab a seat next to some of the best and the brightest in the game! This event pairs coaches from all membership categories for conversation and promotes professional growth and networking between coaches at all levels of the game.

Our unique “Pay It Forward” end to the session is something you won’t soon forget.

9:00-10:00 PM

• Fireside Chat: Coaching With Authenticity Reunion GH | View Details
• Chat led by Kris Herman (Williams).

Have you heard the advice that to succeed in coaching you have to be “authentic?” We all know it’s true BUT how do you know what that looks like? Join coach Kris Herman and others to explore your coaching identity and learn how to communicate it to your team and staff.

9:00-10:00 PM

• Fireside Chat: Catching Reunion A-F | View Details
• Chat led by Kate Malveaux (Auburn)

Can’t get enough when it comes to catching? We understand and lucky for you, you’re not alone. Join your peers and keep the conversation going for new ideas.

9:00-11:00 PM

• PGF Social Landmark Foyer | View Details

Lace up your dancing boots and show off your line dancing skills at this year’s PGF Social. With PGF running the show, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.

Complimentary food, beer and wine will be on hand.

**Credential and lanyard required.

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Friday, December 6, 2024

7:00 AM-1:00 PM

• Convention Registration & Merchandise Trinity AB | View

Make sure you stop by the registration desk to pick up your credential and event information.

Visit our merchandise desk to receive attendee gift from the NFCA, play games to win prizes, and look through our inventory of new swag.

• • Access into any and all NFCA Convention sessions requires a credential and lanyard.
  • Credentials must be worn at all times during the annual Convention and may be obtained on-site at the NFCA Convention registration desk.
  • Please note, security will monitor entry into all of the Convention sessions and access will not be permitted without the appropriate accreditation.

For more information and to register click HERE

7:00-8:30 AM

• FCA Breakfast Reverchon AB | View Details

Get your day started off right as you join coaches in fellowship over breakfast.

7:30-9:00 AM

• NFCA Breakfast presented by Turface Athletics Reunion Foyer | View Details

Grab a bite to eat and fuel yourself before a full day of education at breakfast presented by Turface Athletics.

7:30-9:00 AM

• Coaching & Coping with Cancer Gaston AB | View Details

Grab a bagel and come share stories, have open dialogue, and trade tips of how to go through your season while battling this disease. Open for anyone who wants to help themselves, a player or a loved one. Come hear stories from two survivors that made it through their seasons, while on chemotherapy, radiation and having surgeries.

7:30-9:00 AM

• Coaches for Coaches Sanger AB | View Details

While the coaching profession is rewarding, it is also tumultuous and sometimes it can lead to the most challenging moments of your life. Grab some breakfast and come listen and share as colleagues who have gone through the most difficult moments in the profession, from student-athlete complaints to investigations, provide insights and ideas on how to process these events and come out on the other side.

7:30-9:00 AM

• Best practices to build your student-athlete’s mental performance  Moreno AB | View Details
• Featuring Julie Jones from SSB Performance.

8:00-9:30 AM

• High School Caucus presented by RIP-IT Reunion GH | View Details

Only High School NFCA members may attend and propose items for consideration by the group and have a voice/vote during the caucus.

The premier business event of the Convention, the High School Caucus presented by RIP-IT brings together the membership group to discuss current issues, review and discuss pending legislation, create action plans for future changes to the game and collaboratively shape the sport for the future.

8:00-9:30 AM

• Travel Ball Caucus presented by RIP-IT Reunion EF | View Details

Only Travel Ball NFCA members may attend and propose items for consideration by the group and have a voice/vote during the caucus.

The premier business event of the Convention, the Travel Ball Caucus presented by RIP-IT brings together the membership group to discuss current issues, review and discuss pending legislation, create action plans for future changes to the game and collaboratively shape the sport for the future.

9:00 AM-3:00 PM

• Visit the Exhibit Hall! Marsalis Hall/Cumberland | View Details

The Exhibit Hall opens its doors to attendees at 9:00 a.m. With over 160 companies on hand, it’s your opportunity to discover innovative products, apparel and services! Stop by to build relationships that may benefit your team in the future.

9:00-9:50 AM

• Building a Program Through Connection • Rick Fremin (Southeastern Louisiana)  Landmark Ballroom | View Details
• Quick Pitch by Rip-It

You may be surprised how the connection with student-athletes allows for on-field success. Join Coach Rick Fremin as he discusses the ways he has built the Southeastern Louisiana program into a consistent postseason team.

9:00-9:50 AM

• NCAA Playing Rules • NCAA Staff Pegasus AB | View Details

Join NCAA Staff and fellow coaches to discuss rules changes for the 2025 season, concepts in consideration for future rules changes, and conversation surrounding the future of NCAA softball playing rules.

10:00-10:50 AM

• Missing Barrels by Diversifying Your Pitching Staff • Ashley Sunshine (OGX) Landmark Ballroom | View Details
• Quick Pitch by HitTrax

We know some metrics can help determine the likelihood for a pitcher to generate a swing and a miss, but how do you use that data to determine the ways your pitching staff can be better together? Krista Stoker and Ashley Sunshine of OGX will go in-depth to explain how you can deploy a staff approach for optimal results.

10:00-10:50 AM 

• Designing Creative and Efficient Practice Plans • Ricci Woodard (Texas State) Reunion E-H | View Details
• Quick Pitch by GoRout

Your practice plans are as unique as your fingerprints. From roster size to facility, coaching staff composition to time constraints, there is no magic potion for putting the best practice plans into action. There are however best practices and new ideas to ensure you’re putting your team in a position to get better every day and you can learn about them in this session.

10:00-10:50 AM

• Making Adjustments – presented by Morgan Stanley Pegasus AB | View Details
• Panelists: Victoria Hayward (Nevada); Chris Malveaux (Auburn); Kate Malveaux (Auburn); Katie Repole (Clemson)

In the ever-changing world of college coaching, the ability to adapt is key to long-term success. This rockstar panel will explore the landscape of college coaching, offering invaluable advice on how to navigate job changes, build resilience, and set yourself apart in the competitive world of collegiate coaching. Whether you’re aspiring to land your dream role or looking to take the next big step in your career, this session will cover the tools and inspiration to help you be successful at every level.

10:00-11:50 AM

• Director of Ops Program Sanger AB | View Details
• Panelists: Shane Drahota (Minnesota State); Jane Wagner (Northwestern)

These informal sessions are designed to bring Director of Operations professionals together in a setting where they can share best practices, discuss current trends in the profession, and be able to grow as colleagues.

10:00-10:50 AM

• ASSISTANT COACH TRACK • Assistant Coach Panel Reunion A-D | View Details
• Panelists: Melissa Gentile (WASHU); Justin Lewis (Kansas); Laura Trout (Illinois)

Bring your questions and curiosity to this year’s assistant coach panel. You can help guide the conversation on topics that assistant coaches deal with every day such as conflict resolution, networking, career advancement, on-field strategy, recruiting, and more.

10:00 AM-1:00 PM

• Emeriti Luncheon & Meeting Gaston AB | View Details

Invitation-only event for Coach Emeriti members to enjoy fellowship, discuss relevant topics within the sport, and to engage our Coach Emeriti members in NFCA educational offerings.

11:00-11:50 AM

• ASSISTANT COACH TRACK • Coaching Development Isn’t Always Obvious • Travis Wyckoff (Kingdom Coaching)  Reunion A-D | View Details

Growth for assistant coaches happens in a variety of ways. Leadership, communication, and relationship building are just a few of the areas where assistant coaches develop along their career path. But, what about the non-obvious ways, are you ready to embrace those as well? Jump into the unknown with Travis Wyckoff and learn how to build your confidence and success.

11:00-11:50 AM

• Building a Year-Round Hitting Program • Amber Freeman (Arizona) Landmark Ballroom | View Details
• Quick Pitch by FieldTurf

From pre-season workouts through game-day adjustments get the insight on how you can build a year-round hitting program for championship results.

• 11:00-11:50 AM — Elevating Your Team’s Outfield Play • Kayla Braud (Alabama) Reunion E-H | View Details

From NFCA All-American to ESPN Analyst and back to the coaching ranks, Kayla Braud breaks down outfield instruction and shares the impact player development can have on your last line of defense.

11:00 AM-1:00 PM

• Grab & Go Lunch | View Details

Attendees can purchase lunch from an a la carte menu. Location and menu coming soon!

12:30 PM 

• Netting Professionals Raffle Exhibit Hall | View Details

NFCA Official Sponsor Netting Professionals will raffle off one FREE Red Powder Coated Lowboy Ball Cart and on FREE 4×6 Pro Flip Screen to be shipped straight to your door post-Convention. Stop by booths 611, 613, 712 to enter!

1:00 PM

• Sports Attack Raffle Exhibit Hall | View Details

NFCA Official Sponsor Sports Attack will raffle off a special item to be shipped straight to your door post-Convention. Stop by booths 105, 106, 107 to enter!

1:30-2:50 PM

• Softball Summit presented by USA Softball  Landmark Ballroom | View Details

The Softball Summit presented by USA Softball is a ‘must-attend’ event. It affords attendees the opportunity to hear relevant issues surrounding the sport from various softball dignitaries.

3:00-3:50 PM

• Creating Championship-Caliber Pitchers • Clarisa Crowell & Alexis Gallagher (Penn State) Reunion E-H | View Details
• Quick Pitch by Aquatrols

We’ve got drill work, mobility and conditioning workouts, managing workload, and creating a training plan for your pitching staff on the agenda for this session. Proper programming is crucial in ensuring pitchers are ready for competition from game one until the final out of the year. Learn how to best prepare your pitchers for the unknowns of a season with Clarisa Crowell & Alexis Gallagher.

3:00-3:50 PM

• HEAD COACH TRACK • Head Coach Q&A Panel Pegasus AB | View Details

Panelists: Renae Hartl (Luther); Mike Candrea (Arizona); Les Stuedeman (UAH); Kiki Stokes O’Connor (UMKC); Robert Iamurri (FloridaSouthwestern)
Moderator: Dr. Megan Brown (Longwood)

These coaches have been in the game for a while and have the stories to prove it. Join this open Q & A panel to gain insights on everything from end-of-season meetings, crucial conversations, and effective planning.

3:00-5:00 PM 

• Grassroots Summit presented by ATEC Reunion A-D | View Details

Programming during the Grassroots Summit presented by ATEC is designed specifically for the travel ball, high school and youth coach.

3:00-3:40 PM

• College Coach Panel
• Panelists:Chris Berry (McLennan CC); Eric Oakley (UDallas); Rhonda Revelle (Nebraska); Tori Tyson (Howard); George Wares (Central)

3:45-4:25 PM

• Practice Planning on a Budget • Benet Higgs (New Mexico State)
• No big nets? Limited staff? Non-existent field space? No problem. Use your imagination and create high-level practice plans with the bare minimum of equipment, space, and staff.

4:30-4:55 PM

• Hitting Hodgepodge • Lindsay Diehl (Drake University)

3:00-5:00 PM

• Director of Ops Program Sanger AB | View Details

These informal sessions are designed to bring Director of Operations professionals together in a setting where they can share best practices, discuss current trends in the profession, and be able to grow as colleagues.

3:00-5:00 PM

• Resume Building Gaston AB | View Details

Does your resume need a refresh? Do you need to brush up on your interviewing skills? Would you like to talk in a safe space with someone about climbing the ladder and job mobility? Registered attendees can sign up for a time to visit with experienced industry leaders for a one on one session to help prepare you for the next step in your career.

Register HERE

4:00-4:50 PM

• Training an Elite Catcher • Karavin Dew (Lafayette) & Anna Kimbrell (USA Baseball / AK9) Reunion E-H | View Details

Don’t leave the development of your catchers up to chance. Building intentionality of catching skill progression into your practices and bullpens can help elevate one of the most important positions on the field.

6:30-7:00 PM

• NFCA Hall of Fame Reception Landmark Pre-Function | View Details

Come join us and mingle with friends over drinks before we celebrate the NFCA’s Hall of Fame Class of 2024.

*** Credential and lanyard required.

7:00-10:00 PM

• NFCA Hall of Fame Banquet Landmark Ballroom A-C | View Details

Join us for a special night as we induct Connie Clark (Texas ret.), Gretta Melsted (Augustana) & Tim Walton (Florida) as the NFCA’s Hall of Fame Class of 2024.

*** Credential and lanyard required.

*** Formal attire required for admission.

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Saturday, December 7, 2024

8:00 AM-Noon

• Convention Registration & Merchandise Trinity AB | View Details

Make sure you stop by the registration desk to pick up your credential and event information.

Visit our merchandise desk to receive attendee gift from the NFCA, play games to win prizes, and look through our inventory of new swag.

• • Access into any and all NFCA Convention sessions requires a credential and lanyard.
  • Credentials must be worn at all times during the annual Convention and may be obtained on-site at the NFCA Convention registration desk.
  • Please note, security will monitor entry into all of the Convention sessions and access will not be permitted without the appropriate accreditation.

For more information and to register click HERE

8:00-8:50 AM

• Grab a Coffee with Emeriti Coffee’s Post

8:00-8:50 AM

• NFCA All-America Meetings(Click View Details for Rooms) | View Details

The NFCA’s All-America meetings are invitation only.

• Division I • Windsor
• Division II • Cockrell
• Division III • Baker
• NAIA • Bryan Beeman A
• NJCAA • Bryan Beeman B
• High School Steering • McMillan

9:00-10:30 AM

• Drills, Drills, Drills Reunion Ballroom | View Details
• Quick Pitch by Xplosion Bats

Get in on the action with three unique 25-minute sessions jam-packed with drills you can implement right away. Reminder: you will get a recording of this session so don’t worry about rapid-fire note-taking. No videotaping, please.

• Short Game • Kevin Shelton (Texas Glory)
• Defense • Hunter Veach (Texas Tech)
• Pitching • Dr. Megan Brown (Longwood)

10:45 AM-12:30 PM

• NFCA Awards Brunch Landmark Ballroom | View Details

Come join us for brunch as we celebrate the accomplishments of fellow coaches, honoring our:

• Outgoing NFCA Board of Directors
• Easton/NFCA Top 10 Academic Teams
• NFCC Four-Star Awards
• StrikeOut Cancer winners
• Netting Professionals/NFCA Field of the Year
• NFCA Victory Club
• ATEC/NFCA Regional and National Coaching Staffs of the Year
• Easton/NFCA Assistant Coaches of the Year
• Melinda Fischer Distinguished Service Award
• Donna Newberry “Perseverance” Award
• Humanitarian Award

1:00-1:50 PM

• Infield Fundamentals • Michael Shehorn (Wilmington) • Reunion E-H | View Details

Building on the basic fundamental skills of infield defense will help your team become more sound on the dirt, and provide a basic skill set that will progress into elite game play.

1:00-1:50 PM

• DP/Flex Strategies  Pegasus AB | View Details

Panelists: Cindy Ball-Malone (UCF), Cara Clark (Dayton), Rachel Lawson (Kentucky)

Looking for ways to maximize the DP/Flex options on your lineup card? Come learn from the masters as Rachel Lawson, Cara Clark, and Cindy Ball-Malone explain how they get the most out of every situation.

1:00-1:50 PM

• Hitting: The 2-Strike Approach • Janae Shirley (ETBU) Reunion A-D | View Details

Choke up? No stride? Timing hit? How do you teach a 2-strike approach? Or do you? 2024 National Champion ETBU saw their two strike approach change the way they owned the batter’s box in 2024 and now Coach Shirley is going to share it with you.

1:00-3:00 PM

• Resume Building McMillan | View Details

Does your resume need a refresh? Do you need to brush up on your interviewing skills? Would you like to talk in a safe space with someone about climbing the ladder and job mobility? Registered attendees can sign up for a time to visit with experienced industry leaders for a one on one session to help prepare you for the next step in your career.

* Register HERE

2:00-2:50 PM

• DP/Flex Strategies • Rachel Lawson (Kentucky), Cara Clark (Dayton), Cindy Ball-Malone (UCF) Pegasus AB | View Details

Looking for ways to maximize the DP/Flex options on your lineup card? Come learn from the maters as Rachel Lawson, Cara Clark, and Cindy Ball-Malone explain how they get the most out of every situation.

2:00-2:50 PM

• Building Accountability in Pitchers • Christa Williams (Kingswood HS) Reunion A-D | View Details

Discover the strategies that will allow you to build accountability and buy-in from your pitching staff during games, practices, and everyday interactions. The more you know about your pitchers, the better coach you will be for them and the better they will be for your team.

2:00-2:50 PM

• Short-Game Defense • Aubrey Leach & Karen Weekly (Tennessee) Reunion E-H | View Details

Short game defense: Tighten up your defense against the triple-threat athlete with the help of Aubrey Leach & Karen Weekly from the University of Tennessee. Learn how shifts and other defensive alignments can improve your chances for converting hits to outs and keeping runs off the board.

3:00-3:50 PM

• All About That Base • Jason Gwyn (North Texas) Reunion E-H | View Details

There is a lot of action that occurs around the 15″ of a base during a softball game. This session will cover positioning, receiving, tagging, and more to ensure that your defenders are ready to make the play when it counts the most.

3:00-3:50 PM

• Competition Based Bullpens • Carson Owens (Itawamba CC) Reunion A-D | View Details

If you want a competitive pitcher, build them in the bullpen. If you want a competitive staff, foster the competition in a way that is collaborative and conducive to high-stakes success. Carson Owens shares his strategies for building the ultimate competitors in the circle in this session.

3:00-3:50 PM

• Umpire Panel • NCAA Staff Pegasus AB | View Details

From appealing a call to asking for balls and strikes consideration, there are many ways to talk to an umpire that will help you get what you want (and keep you in the game). Join this umpire panel to learn more about the people in blue and how you can ask the right questions to build a better relationship.

5:00-10:00 PM ($)

• NFCC 410: The Role of Technology in Hitting Pegasus AB | View Details
• Registration: 5-6:00 PM

Instructors: Ronnie Gajownik (Arizona Diamondbacks [AA Sod Poodles]), JT Gasso (Oklahoma), Lea Wodach (Louisiana Monroe)

The impact technology has on a team’s offensive production continues to grow at all levels. From individual metrics to the way a coach scouts and prepares for an opponent, technology is in everything we do. It doesn’t have to be expensive and it doesn’t have to be confusing. Register today to learn more about the ways you can implement and harness technology throughout your program to achieve major gains on the field.

For more information and to sign up click HERE

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Sunday, December 8, 2024

8:00 AM-4:00 PM ($)

• NFCC 410: The Role of Technology in Hitting Pegasus AB | View Details