The National Fastpitch Coaches Association continued its 2004 national convention Sunday at the Las Vegas Hilton, where the day was highlighted by a pair of gold medal speakers and the individual group caucuses. 

Three-time gold medalist Lisa Fernandez spoke to convention attendees on building mental toughness in practice. Her teammate at the 2004 Olympic Games, Jessica Mendoza presented a seminar entitled "Advanced Outfield Play." 

UCLA head coach Sue Enquist shared some of her secrets to success, speaking about the digital breakdown of the swing. The LSU coaching staff spoke on relating competitive success in practice, while Performance Training Specialist Jackie Ansley delivered a seminar on strength and conditioning for softball.

Convention attendees were given a look inside the popular National Fastpitch Coaches College, as NFCC director Sharon Drysdale, St. Thomas head coach John Tschida and Arizona State coach Linda Wells delivered a 50-minute NFCC preview -- "Advanced Tips Relative To Team Defense, Hitting and Pitching." 

The individual group caucuses met to discuss issues relative to their respective division. NCAA Divisions I, II and III, NAIA, NJCAA, NWAACC, Cal JC, High School and Travel Ball met following the adidas caucus lunch. 

Many conferences held meetings in the afternoon and early evening, and the night was capped off with Diamond Sports hosting its Vegas Style hospitality following the speaker sessions. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes hosted a fellowship session, and with the early finish, convention attendees were given an opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of Las Vegas. 

The convention concludes on Monday with the roundtable sessions, the Easton Victory Club Awards Luncheon and the General Business Meeting.