LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The 2016 NFCA Convention kicks off on Wednesday Dec. 7 and runs through Saturday, Dec. 10 at the New Orleans Marriott. Over the course of four days, attendees have a wide array of opportunities to educate themselves, network, conduct business, be recognized for their achievements, discover innovative products and have fun.
To get those more acquainted with the on-going proceedings, this feature takes a look at the final day (Dec. 10) of activities, which includes Drills, Drills, Drills, the Champions Brunch, Chalk Talks, our final speakers and caps off with a celebration of softball returning to the Olympics as USA Softball hosts a Olympian Reunion game versus the Louisville Slugger Warriors.
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Awards
The final recognition of coaching achievements takes place at 10:45 a.m. with the Champions Brunch. Following a hearty meal, our Easton Assistant Coaches of the Year and the national and regional Coaching Staffs of the Year will be honored. An added bonus this year is the opportunity to eat and mingle with former Olympians, who will be present and recognized for their achievements.
Educational Opportunities
Start your morning off right (9:00 a.m.) with the always popular “Drills, Drills, Drills.” This year Campbellsville Kim Borders Dunlap (pitching), Kansas’ Megan Smith (infield) and San Diego State’s Stacey Nuveman Deniz (hitting & catching) share drills in their areas of expertise.
Prior to that at 8:00 a.m., Texas Woman’s University will hold an open meeting about its master’s in coaching degree. What is unique about the program is the NFCA works in conjunction with TWU, allowing the association’s NFCC classes to supplement some of the University’s course requirements.
Chalk Talks (formerly called roundtables) kick off the afternoon’s education opportunities as coaches interact during each of the four forums. Our lead coaches in 2016 are Central Michigan’s Margo Jonker (Parent Orientation), Arkansas’ Matt Meuchel (How Statistics & Metrics Can Help You Win Games), Adelphi’s Bree Nasti (Creating Culture: Autonomy in Action) and Virginia’s Joanna Hardin (Rising in the Coaching Ranks).
Rounding out the convention schedule will be the final two speakers- Alabama’s Stephanie VanBrakle Prothro (Transition from Pitcher to Pitching Coach) and Denison’s Tiffany Ozbun (The Hidden Influence of Catching: Relationships & the Games within the Game).
Fun & Community Service
With it being the 20th anniversary of the 1996 Olympic Gold Medal victory and softball returning to the Olympics in 2020, ASA/USA Softball in conjunction with the NFCA Convention hosts a reunion game, featuring a slow-pitch exhibition against the Louisville Slugger Warriors. First pitch is set for 6:00 p.m. at Maestri Field at First NBC Ballpark, home of University of New Orleans baseball. Admission is free and there will be an autograph session immediately following the contest.
Prior to the game, the Diversity Committee will conduct an one-hour free clinic.
Note: Be sure to pick up your credential, because without your convention badge, you will be unable to attend all the great sessions offered in New Orleans.
For those arriving on Tuesday, Dec. 6 and who want to beat the crowd, a four-hour window (Noon-4:00 p.m.) is available to pick up your credentials. The registration booth will be open 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 7 and Thursday, Dec. 8. On Friday, Dec. 9 and Saturday, Dec. 10, the booth opens at 8:00 a.m. and closes at noon and 10 a.m., respectively.
In addition to picking up your credentials (for those who preregistered), members can also register on-site, renew their memberships and sign up for other convention related items.