The Greatest Time of Year ... Convention!

The NFCA Convention

There's no denying the NFCA Convention is a special event. Coaches from all divisions, all over the world, meet in one place to talk softball, network and grow. There's no better experience than being in the same location - for four full days - with thousands of your colleagues. If you've never been to Convention, we're going to try and give you a glimpse of the magic, and if you've been before, hopefully this re-ignites your fire to join us again (and again, and again).

One of the NFCA's newest team members, Director of Innovation, Lyndsey Talbot, is going to share her perspective having recently made the transition from attendee to NFCA staff. Come along!

The Planning

There's a lot of planning that goes into Convention before attendees even arrive, but there's a lot of planning that goes into getting to Convention as well: will you drive or fly? Did you book your room? Do you need to share a room with anyone? Have you registered to attend? Is your membership up-to-date (Not a member? You save $125 if you are!)? Will you rent a car or Uber to the hotel? Do you know anyone else going? Have you built out your plan of attack from the schedule?

So many questions, we know - it's almost like you're headed on vacation but for softball only. Thankfully you're a coach and you organize your whole team for a living! Plus, we have all of the resources you need to help you make your Convention experience as smooth as possible.

Lyndsey says, "The NFCA staff does not cut any corners when it comes to planning and making this event special. They are quick to answer questions and always do it with a smile. Definitely recommend staying in the host hotel so you don't miss out on anything!"

The Arrival

There are several windows to check-in at Convention and you can find those on the schedule. There's a 95% chance you will see someone (or even multiple people!) you know before you even check-in, but make sure you do check-in because your lanyard and credential are required for entry into all events - don't lose it! Once you're settled, head to the lobby to mingle and network. If you want to make the most of your time at Convention, or you're just one class away from becoming a Four Star Master Coach, be sure to check out the additional Pre-Convention seminars and/or NFCC classes that are available (for an added cost). If this is your first-time attending Convention (welcome!), you won't want to miss the Rookie Orientation, presented by Triple Crown Sports. You'll be greeted by veteran coaches - and veteran Convention attendees - and they'll give you a lay of the land, along with any "can't miss" opportunities (which is everything, really).

Lyndsey shares the "feeling" on the first day of Convention, "Registration on the first day sets the tone for the Convention as lots of coaches start to gather. It's always one of my favorites, from getting your attendee gift, seeing lots of familiar faces, listening to the keynote speaker, and attending the opening night social; Day one starts with a bang!"

The Schedule

The Convention schedule can definitely feel a bit overwhelming. There is programming almost every hour starting on Wednesday and taking you all the way to Saturday afternoon. There are speaker sessions, a digital auction, divisional caucus meetings, the Exhibit Show and multiple receptions to get your networking on! Back for a second year, you can also choose an educational track you'd like to follow (playing rules, anyone?) as this will ensure you won't miss a single session in your chosen area of growth and expertise.

Lyndsey says, "The schedule is definitely something I always look at before the event and plan out what sessions I want to make sure to attend. I always make sure that myself, or my assistants, are able to 'hit all the sessions.' The new Head Coach, Assistant Coach, and Instructor Tracks have been a great addition to the programming. There is education happening at all hours, and if you're not in a session, the Exhibit Show is a must-see."

The Mentoring (is a Must)

Is this your first year coaching? Or maybe you are a long-time travel ball coach? Have you been an assistant for 5 years and just took your first head coaching gig? Do you just want to become a better softball coach? The Mentoring Workshop is your place to be. For two hours you'll be in small groups, led by a veteran coach, who will share their thoughts on selected topics, and open up the discussion for questions, too. Bring your notepad - you won't want to miss this one.

"This is a must-attend event, no matter how many years you've been coaching. There is so much positive energy in the room that is contagious. All of the mentors are eager to share their knowledge and experiences. There is no telling who will end up at your table… Patrick Murphy, Hutch, Dot Richardson, just to name a few that I have been lucky enough to chat with."

The Business

Are there changes you'd like to see in our game? Do you want your voice to be heard? Then don't miss the caucus meetings. Each division holds a business meeting to discuss hot topics, rule change proposals, schedules and more. If you want a say in your division, be an agent for change and show up for your division. And don't miss the big event, the Softball Summit, where all divisions come together and discuss the latest in the softball world.

The Exhibit Show

The NFCA's Exhibit Show is the largest gathering of softball exhibitors in the world. For two full days you can check out the latest and greatest in softball equipment, technology, services and more. You'll also have the opportunity to network with coaches at the Happy Hour (presented by LeagueApps), bid on a variety of items through the digital auction, and participate in a drawing to win a pitching machine from Sports Attack! There's no better place to see who's supporting our sport than the 110+ companies in attendance.

Lyndsey shares how everyone can make a new discovery, "The Exhibit Show is the perfect place to get your hands on new technology, equipment, apparel, and much more all in one place. With a small budget, this is a good opportunity to help decide what works best for your program. Also, it never fails that you will see new things that you didn't even know existed!" 

Are you ready?

The NFCA Convention is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, although we hope to see you back every year! Many first-time attendees' favorite part about Convention is how approachable and supportive the coaches in attendance are - don't be afraid to meet someone new, ask questions or meet up for coffee in the morning! We have no doubt you will leave with your heart, and your cup, full.

Lyndsey shares her parting thoughts, "This is your chance to be in the same room with hundreds of coaches from all divisions, so don't be afraid to strike up a conversation or sit with someone new. I promise you won't regret it!"

Are you ready to join 1,500+ of your fellow coaches?

Register for Convention today!