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Whether you're a brand new softball coach or have been leading teams for decades, one thing is true: every coach needs a support system. The NFCA's Year-Round Mentoring Program, presented by SixFour3, is here to be just that. With structured guidance, built-in accountability, and access to coaches at every level, this is your professional home base.
The NFCA's Year-Round Mentoring Program is built around a unique triangle model that pairs coaches from different stages of their careers to create a system of support, growth, and shared learning. It's a space to ask questions, get honest feedback, build confidence, and grow as a professional.
Triangle model includes:
Coaches are matched based on areas they want to grow in (self-assessed). Triangles are intentionally built to avoid in-conference pairings for more diverse networking.
How It Works
Once you're matched, the structure is simple, but effective. There's space for flexibility based on each triangle's preferences, but also enough structure to keep things moving and valuable. The program runs the academic year (August to July) and monthly check-ins are expected! Participants connect via Zoom, text, GroupMe, phone calls, etc. Coaches can expect accountability, encouragement, and a space to grow, without pressure or judgment. Just like working with their teams!
"It's (been) an invaluable experience. Seeing that Division I programs go through the same ups and downs as a small community college in Louisiana was surprising, but awesome. What I've gained, I know I'll carry with me the rest of my career."
Amanda Nordberg-Hamilton, head coach, Bossier Parish Community College
No matter your role or experience, there's something powerful about having mentors (and mentees) in your circle. Now you know how the program works, but you might be wondering what it's really like to participate. Coach Cindy Bristow shares her experiences:
"Gaining connection is an invaluable part of the NFCA's mentoring program. Connecting with like-minded and motivated coaches all going through the same issues, just in different ways lends perspective and clarity that you don't otherwise get by just talking within your staff.
Our mentoring group usually met weekly in the off-season and tried for twice per month during season, just due to everybody's crazy schedule. We'd meet via Zoom and topics could range from pitching workouts, tricky player issues, time management, budget issues and how to best approach supervisors, to reviewing decisions in a previous game. The range of topics are WIDE open - our conversations vary based on the time of year and what each member is currently struggling with.
Within our triangles, we all ask for help and offer help in a very open and open and vulnerable way that's unique to our sport. I think every coach in our sport should be a part of this amazing program!"
Through this program, many coaches build lasting friendships and professional networks that extend well beyond the formal year. In December, you have the opportunity to catch up with your "mentoring triangle" in-person at the NFCA National Convention!
At Convention, take part in one of our most popular events: the Mentoring Workshop. For many coaches, this becomes the highlight of their year, a consistent, supportive place to grow and give back. Not to mention, we give away THOUSANDS of dollars in scholarships and prizes at the event! You'll want to add this event to your calendar.
Spots will go fast, so don't wait to get your application in! Here's how to prepare:
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