LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The NFCA connected with over 500 travel ball coaches during the USSSA coaches luncheon prior to the USA Elite Select World Fastpitch Championships in Kansas City, Mo.

Grateful for its opportunity to meet and address the travel ball community, the NFCA values the partnership with USSSA, an annual convention sponsor and host of our Leadoff Reception. The USA Elite Select is the “elite” division of the USSSA’s youth fastpitch market.

“The travel ball community is very special to the NFCA,” said executive director Carol Bruggeman. “Coaches at the grass roots level have a great deal of influence on student-athletes and ultimately the growth of the game.  The NFCA is committed to serving travel ball coaches in their quest for excellence.  A special thank you to NFCA official convention sponsor USSSA for providing us the opportunity to visit with this valued group."

NFCA Travel Ball liaison Emily Allard participated in the “Stay in the Game” panel, which included Lauren Chamberlain, Sierra Romero, Sue Enquist, Megan Willis and Francesca Enea with Jami Lobpries serving as the moderator. The panel discussed their softball backgrounds, lessons learned from the sport and advice to young players, along with the growth of the sport and the many opportunities that now exist for young women to continue their careers in softball on the field and in the business world.

Additionally, Allard met with coaches at the luncheon and had several coaches join the NFCA on-site. The association will wrap up its travel ball tournament tour this upcoming weekend.

“It was an honor to be a part of the USA Elite Select World Fastpitch Championships this week where the NFCA was able to be at the forefront of young player’s and coach’s minds,” said Allard. “Thank you to USSSA. It’s exciting to be around those working to further the growth of our sport.”