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Coaching Management 2007 NFCA CONVENTION ISSUE VOL. XV NO. 13 $7.00 Convention Schedule Award Winners List of Exhibitors NATIONAL COACHING STAFF OF THE YEAR University of Arizona

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Page 1: Coaching management 15.13

Coaching Management2 0 0 7 N F C A C O N V E N T I O N I S S U E

VOL. XV NO. 13 ■ $7.00

■ Convention Schedule ■ Award Winners ■ List of Exhibitors

NATIONAL COACHING STAFF OF THE YEAR University of Arizona

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CONTENTS Coaching ManagementSoftball Edition2007 NFCA Convention Issue

Vol. XV, No. 13

HIGHLIGHTS

Convention Preview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2The NFCA hosts clinic sessions with top names in the profession covering all of the game’s aspects … Tanya Porter and Karen Johns lead a pre-convention seminar on using video to develop players and scout opponents … ESPN’s Carolyn Peck pro-vides motivation in the convention’s keynote speech … National Fastpitch Coaches’ College offers unique opportunities for educational credits … Legendary coaches Henry Christowski, Judy Groff, and George Wares are inducted into the Hall of Fame … Dee Abrahamson earns the NFCA Distinguished Service Award.

NCAA DIVISION I COACHING STAFF OF THE YEAR

University of Arizona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Head Coach Mike Candrea, Assistant Coach Larry Ray, and Assistant Coach Nancy Evans talk about working together as a team, teaching the mental and physical game, and overcoming challenges to lead the Wildcats to a second consecutive national title.

HONORING EXCELLENCE

2007 Award Winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28The NFCA National Coaching Staffs of the Year … The NFCA Regional Coaching Staffs of the Year … The 2007 Easton Victory Club Award Winners.

On the cover: Taryne Mowatt threw every pitch in the University of Arizona’s 2007 Women’s College World Series games, setting records for shutouts and strikeouts. Story begins on page 22.

2

Convention Schedule. . . . . 10

List of Exhibitors . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Products on Display . . . . . . 32

Products Debuting . . . . . . . . 37

More Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Advertisers Directory. . . . 36

22

COACHING MANAGEMENT 1

The Coaching Management softball edition is pub-lished in October and November by MAG, Inc. and is distributed free to college and high school coaches in the United States and Canada. Copyright © 2007 by MAG, Inc. All rights reserved. Text may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without the permission of the publisher. Unsolicited materials will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Coaching Management, P.O. Box 4806, Ithaca, N.Y. 14852 Printed in the U.S.A.

Printed in the U.S.A.

Publisher Mark GoldbergEditor-in-Chief Eleanor FrankelAssociate Editor Dennis ReadAssistant Editors R.J. Anderson, Kenny Berkowitz, Nate Dougherty, Abigail Funk, Greg Scholand, Laura Ulrich

Art Director Pamela CrawfordPhoto Researcher Susan MorrelloBusiness Manager Pennie SmallSpecial Projects Dave Wohlhueter

Marketing Director Sheryl ShafferMarketing/Sales Assistant Danielle CatalanoCirculation Director Dave DubinCirculation Manager John CallaghanProduction Director Don AndersenAssistant Production Director Jim Harper Production Assistant Jonni Campbell Prepress Manager Miles Worthington IT Manager Julian CookIT Assistant Jayme Peck

Advertising Sales Associates (607) 257-6970Diedra Harkenrider, ext. 24Pat Wertman, ext. 21

Ad Materials Coordinator Mike TownsendAdministrative Assistant Sharon Barbell

Business and Editorial Offices31 Dutch Mill Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850(607) 257-6970, Fax (607) [email protected]

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Karen Johns, she will conduct the four-hour clinic on “Using Video To Develop Players and Scout Opponents.”

Johns recently joined the NFCA staff after 12 years of

collegiate coaching to become the NFCA’s Associate Execu-tive Director. She also will serve as an assistant coach

for the USA Olympic Softball Team in Beijing in 2008, pri-marily scouting, working with catchers, and handling game

■ The latest innovations in softball equipment. More than 80 companies are expected for the Exhibitor Show on November 29 and 30. Learn about the newest in soft-ball training technology and

pick up great discounts at the silent auction, on display Thursday.

■ Forums to discuss chang-es in softball and the future of the sport will be held on Thursday and Friday and will feature caucus/business meet-ings for the individual mem-bership groups. It’s the perfect time to discuss key issues.

■ The National Fastpitch Coaches College. This pro-gram provides a unique opportunity to earn continu-ing education credits by learn-ing from some of the great-est coaches in the game. (See “School Days” on page 5.)

Training ToolsTanya Porter, Senior Sport Technologist in Performance Services for the United States Olympic Committee, has over 20 years of experience at the USOC, focusing on hands-on service and applied sport technology solutions for USA National Teams. Along with

The Best Deal in TownThe Las Vegas Hilton will host the 2007 NFCA National Con-vention from November 28 to December 1. Sitting just off the Las Vegas Strip, the Las Vegas Hilton is a staple of “The City That Never Sleeps.” It guarantees elegant accom-modations and amenities in 3,000 beautiful rooms and suites. Also available on site are tennis courts, a newly renovated spa, and a full-size swimming pool.

The Hilton offers all kinds of entertainment, mainly in the Hilton Theatre, where Elvis Presley staged his 1969 come-back concert. For Trekkies, Star Trek: The Experience also calls the Hilton home, giving fans the opportunity to beam aboard the USS Enterprise with some of the show’s most famous characters.

Convention highlights include:

■ Preconvention Seminar: Tanya Porter, USOC senior sport technologist, and Karen Johns, 2008 USA Olympic assistant coach, will conduct a four-hour preconvention semi-nar on “Using Video To Devel-op Players and Scout Oppo-nents.” Learn how to get the most from your video to improve practices, teach, and scout. (See “Training Tools” below.)

■ Keynote Speech by ESPN broadcaster Carolyn Peck, a former head women’s basket-ball coach at the University of Florida and one of the nation’s top motivational speakers. (See “Major Motivation” at right.)

■ Clinic sessions covering all of the game’s aspects: Learn valuable drills and tips from some of the best speak-ers in softball today. Vet-eran coaches, athletes, and nationally-known experts tell their secrets. (See “Voices of Experience” on page 4.)

NFCA CONVENTION PREVIEW

operations. Johns was also a successful player at the colle-giate and international levels.

The dynamic approach in this seminar will teach attendees how to best develop, select, and effectively use video in player development and scouting, even if they’re not working with a large staff.

Some of the key areas to be covered include how to use video in developing players, when to use (and not use) vid-eotape during instruction, how to develop efficient scout-ing techniques, how to iden-tify your own tendencies and avoid being predictable, and how to develop specific offen-sive and defensive strategies for your team.

Major MotivationThe keynote speaker for the 2007 NFCA National Conven-tion will be Carolyn Peck, on-air talent for ESPN’s women’s and men’s college and pro basketball broadcasts. Known as one of the nation’s top motivational speakers, Peck is the former women’s basket-ball coach at the University of Florida.

A native of Jefferson City, Tenn., Peck was a two-time prep All-American and was named Tennessee’s Miss Basketball before going on to play at Vanderbilt, where she received her communications degree in 1988. After a two-year stint in the Japanese Profession-al League, Peck started her coaching career as an assistant coach at the University of Ten-nessee, the University of Ken-tucky, and Purdue University.

After a promotion to head coach for the Boilermakers for the 1998 season, she led Purdue to Big Ten titles her first two years and won the 1999 NCAA Women’s Basket-ball Championship with a 34-1 record. Her accolades include 1999 Associated Press Nation-al Coach of the Year, 1999

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2 COACHING MANAGEMENT

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NFCA CONVENTION PREVIEW

Carolyn Peck, ESPN broadcaster and keynote speaker

Peck coached and served as general manager of the WNBA’s Orlando Miracle from 1999 to 2001 before taking the Florida Gator reins from 2002 to 2007. She served as an assistant coach for the U.S. Junior World Championship qualifying team in 2004. Peck is a recipient of the inaugu-ral Trailblazer of the Game Award, presented by the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. The award recognized “the poise, character, style and grace that make her a role model for young women of all races, colors and nationali-ties.”

Voices of ExperienceThe 2007 Convention will host clinics by some of the best softball athletes and coaches in the world, including presenta-

tions by Monica Abbott, Mike Candrea, Sue Enquist, Lisa Fernandez, Bill Hillhouse, Kelly Inouye-Perez, Eugene Lenti, Jay Miller, Pat Murphy, Tori Nyberg, Cat Osterman, Greg Riddoch, Michele Smith, Kirk Walker, and Teresa Wilson.

■ Mike Candrea, Head Coach at the University of Arizona and recently named Head Coach of the 2008 U.S. Olym-pic team, has been extraor-dinarily successful in both the international and collegiate arenas. At the 2007 NFCA National Convention, he and the University of Arizona coaching staff will explain their success in the 2007 Women’s College World Series, launch-ing the convention’s clinics with “Winning No. 8: How They Did It.”

No stranger to the honors podium, Candrea has taken

his team to the WCWS 19 times and won eight national titles. In 22 years, his teams have made 21 trips to the NCAA tournament and 19 trips to the WCWS. Can-drea has been named Pac-10 Coach of the Year or Co-Coach of the Year nine times. On the international level, he helped propel Team USA to a perfect record of 9-0 and the gold medal in the 2004 Olym-pic Games in Athens, Greece, and continues to lead the national team. He also has led the USA Women’s National Team to two World Cup titles (2006, 2007), two Canada Cup titles (2002, 2007), and the ISF World Championship title in 2006.

■ Strength and conditioning for pitchers is always an inter-esting topic, and convention-goers will have a chance to learn from two of the great-

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and the Virgin Islands. Hill-house also saw success on the field as a men’s fastpitch pitcher at the highest levels of the sport.

• Greg Riddoch, manager of the Eugene Emeralds, a Class A affiliate of the San Diego Padres, will help coaches understand how to teach hit-ting in a whole new light. Before returning in 2007, Rid-doch managed the Emeralds for six seasons, from 1975 to 1976 and from 1978 to 1981, posting 227 wins, three divi-sion titles (1975, 1978, 1980), and two Northwest League championships (1975, 1980). Riddoch currently stands sec-ond on the Emeralds’ all-time managerial wins list.

Riddoch has held a variety of positions in baseball, includ-ing three years as manager of the Padres (1990-92). In addition to his major league managerial experience, Rid-doch has twice been a major league bench coach, first with the Padres (1987-89) and then with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays (1998-99). Rid-doch was Director of Player

Tori Nyberg, Northwestern University Assistant Coach and convention pitching clinician

est pitchers to ever play the game. Cat Osterman, a fix-ture on the USA Softball scene since 2001, helped lead the national team to gold med-als at the 2007 Pan American Games and 2007 World Cup. As the youngest player on the 2004 Olympic team, Oster-man appeared in three games, registering a 0.00 ERA with 23 strikeouts. Prior to competing in Athens, she was a perfect 16-0 during the pre-Olympic tour, recording 170 strikeouts in 74.2 innings of work.

The only collegiate player to win the USA Softball Play-er of the Year award three times, Osterman led Texas to the Women’s College World Series in 2003, 2005, and 2006. She finished her col-legiate playing career as the NCAA’s all-time leader in strikeouts (2,265) and average strikeouts per seven innings (14.34), and twice received the Honda Award for soft-ball. She was named the Big 12 Pitcher of the Year in each of her four seasons with the Longhorns and was named the conference’s Female Ath-lete of the Year three times.

Coming off an outstanding collegiate career at the Uni-versity of Tennessee, Monica Abbott was the first draft pick of the Washington Glory of National Pro Fastpitch. She’s one of the most accomplished pitchers in NCAA history, holding NCAA career records in strikeouts (2,440), wins (189), shutouts (112), games pitched (253), games started (206), and innings pitched (1,448).

In her senior season, Abbott led the Lady Vols to the NCAA championship game by going 50-5, with a 0.68 ERA, and an NCAA record 724 strikeouts. In addition, she threw 23 no-hitters and six perfect games. She was a first team All-American all four seasons at Tennessee, was a three-time WCWS first team all-tourney selection, and the

2007 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year.

■ One of the most interest-ing topics should be a show-down on the mechanics of the game’s most important posi-tion: the pitcher. Three well-known pitching authorities—Texas Tech’s Teresa Wilson, Northwestern’s Tori Nyberg, and international pitching instructor Bill Hillhouse—will explain, debate, and demon-strate their philosophies.

After leading the University of Washington Huskies to 10 straight NCAA tournaments and six NCAA Women’s Col-lege World Series appear-ances, Teresa Wilson begins her fourth season at the helm of the Texas Tech Red Raiders. She began her career build-ing successful programs at the University of Oregon and the University of Minnesota. Now in her 21st season, she has a 802-446-1 record as an NCAA Division I head coach, including 12 NCAA postsea-son berths and national cham-pionship game appearances in 1996 and 1999.

Tori Nyberg’s third season as Northwestern’s pitching coach saw the Wildcats advance to the WCWS, where they fin-ished No. 4 in the final polls. Nyberg and staff helped coach the Wildcats to a record 52 wins in 2007, with three players named NFCA All-American for the second year in a row. As a player, Nyberg compiled 53 wins in the circle and earned All-Pac-10 honors her junior and senior seasons. Her best collegiate season came in 2002 when she post-ed a 26-11 record with a 1.51 ERA for the Stanford Cardinal.

Bill Hillhouse is employed as a pitching coach/instructor by national and club team pro-grams in the Philippines, Den-mark, the Dominican Repub-lic, and Guatemala. He’s also worked with club teams in the Bahamas, Belgium, Colombia, the Netherlands, Venezuela,

Development for the Cincin-nati Reds (1985) and the Mil-waukee Brewers (1999-03).

■ The Pac-10 will be well represented on the conven-tion stage by former UCLA Head Coach Sue Enquist, current UCLA Head Coach Kelly Inouye-Perez, UCLA Assistant Coach Lisa Fernan-dez, and Oregon State Head Coach Kirk Walker. Enquist and Inouye-Perez will present “Defining Roles and Coach-ing Staff Interaction,” while Fernandez and Walker will team up to discuss “Pitching Adjustments: How To Make and Practice Them.”

The SEC, another powerhouse conference, will be represent-ed by University of Alabama Head Coach Pat Murphy and Mississippi State University Head Coach Jay Miller. Ala-bama’s Pat Murphy, Alyson Habetz and Vann Stuedeman will cover “Hitting Adjust-ments: How To Make and Practice Them,” while Miller will cover “Situational Defen-sive Strategies.”

■ Another new feature at this year’s convention will be a field in the middle of the exhibit hall. Eugene Lenti, who led the DePaul Blue Demons to the WCWS in 2007, will cover “Competitive Drills and Demonstration,” fol-lowed by two-time Olympian Michele Smith, who will dem-onstrate “Progressive Pitching Drills.”

School DaysFor the sixth year, the National Fastpitch Coaches College sessions are being held in con-junction with the national con-vention.

Providing softball instruction unlike any other in the coun-try, the NFCC takes a single aspect of the game and cov-ers it thoroughly over a three-day span. Perfect for coaches who are seasoned veterans

COACHING MANAGEMENT 5

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NFCA CONVENTION PREVIEW

as well as those new to the sport, the NFCC’s in-depth presentations, featur-ing some of the top names in the game, immediately hook those who step into their first class.

“I have been coaching for 12 years and feel like I’m a good coach,” says Rob-ert Wiebort, Head Coach at Irvine (Calif.) High School. “Then I attended the NFCC and was blown away by what I still don’t know!”

Not only will the quality of information impress course attendees, but the edu-cational opportunities are tremendous as well. The program offers credit that can be applied to continuing education units, a Master Coach program recognized by the NFCA, and a master’s degree in kine-siology with an emphasis in coaching from Texas Woman’s University (TWU).

Coaches can pursue one or more of these routes to becoming more well-

rounded, or simply take courses for the fun of furthering their knowledge. The two continuing education units, which are administered through Mississippi State University, can be obtained while also pursuing one of the other options.

The completion of two courses earns participants a star certificate toward the unique billing of Four-Star Master Coach, which is obtained upon the finish of all eight courses. The NFCC graduated its first class of four-star master coaches dur-ing the 2005 NFCA National Conven-tion, and has seen 41 coaches receive the prestigious distinction.

Several of the coaches who graduated in the inaugural class of four-star mas-ter coaches also decided to further their collegiate education through the master’s degree opportunity that has arisen through a relationship between the NFCC and TWU. Forty-seven coach-es have decided to earn their master’s degrees while obtaining the wealth of information the NFCC courses have to offer.

The NFCC helps coaches improve the way they teach the game and communi-cate with players while putting more W’s in the win column and staying passion-ate about the game. There is no one bet-ter to help coaches than some of the top names in the game, who conduct the var-ious NFCC courses around the country.

The list of NFCC instructors for the 2007-2008 academic year is once again impressive, including the Head Coach of defending national champion University of Arizona and United States Olympic Team Mike Candrea, former Arizona State University Head Coach Linda Wells, Oregon State University Head Coach Kirk Walker, University of Alabama Head Coach Patrick Murphy, University of Texas Head Coach Connie Clark, Fresno State University Head Coach Margie Wright, University of Michigan Head Coach Carol Hutchins, Mississippi State University Head Coach Jay Miller, Univer-sity of Nebraska Head Coach Rhonda Revelle, St. Thomas University Head Coach John Tschida, Hofstra University Head Coach Bill Edwards, former Texas Woman’s University Head Coach Dianne Baker, and many more.

“I had a great experience working as an instructor for the NFCA Coaches Col-lege,” says University of Oklahoma Head Coach and NFCC instructor Patty Gasso.

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“The information presented is very thorough and innovative. I learned more as an instruc-tor than I have at any coach-ing clinic or convention. If you want to get the most out of your coaching career, I strong-ly recommend getting into the NFCA Coaches College.”

This year’s schedule includes six courses offered in 12 dif-ferent locations. Prior to the convention, the NFCC will offer its reworked Course 406, which now covers Analyzing and Applying Team Skills and Strategies. The revised offer-ing will focus on techniques for base coaching, giving signs, real-time strategies for different game situations, and much more in a classroom and field or gymnasium setting. Following the conclusion of the national convention at the Las Vegas Hilton, the NFCC will offer Course 405, Team

Carol Hutchins, University of Michigan Head Coach and NFCC instructor

Offense & Strategy, which will take an in-depth look at play-calling, offensive strategy, and developing a solid offensive game plan.

“The NFCC gives coaches at all levels an increased oppor-tunity for success,” says Uni-versity of Georgia Head Coach Lu Harris-Champer. “The courses explore con-cepts on an in-depth basis while allowing room for dif-fering opinions so you can develop your individual coach-ing style. These courses are a must if you want to learn from proven leaders in the sport of softball and be inspired to be the best coach you can be for your players.”

Two classes, Course 408, Coaching Observation and Practice and Course 403, Fielding, Throwing, and Posi-tion Play, will once again be held in conjunction with the WCWS in Oklahoma City, Okla. Other locations for courses during the 2007-08 academic year include San Diego, Calif.; Denton, Texas;

Medford, Mass.; and Gresh-am, Ore.

“The University of Alabama has been privileged to host an NFCC course, and the entire Alabama coaching staff was amazed at the depth of the topics covered,” says Murphy. “We were skeptical going into the weekend, but came away believers in the amount of information gathered. I highly recommend these courses to any coach at any level.”

NFCA Inducts Three into Hall Every year at the national convention, the NFCA inducts its most highly regarded members into the Hall of Fame, the most prestigious award given by the organiza-tion. In 2007, that honor goes to legendary coaches Henry

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NFCA CONVENTION PREVIEW

accomplish. Winning is always important, and I will never downgrade it—but there are different ways to win. The fact that I accomplished some-thing as a coach wasn’t nearly as important as what my kids accomplished.”

■ Judy Groff. For American International College Head Coach Judy Groff, coaching is one of the greatest challenges of all. It’s evident, however, that Groff has met that chal-lenge head-on to build one of the finest coaching careers in NCAA Division II history and earn a place in the NFCA Hall of Fame.

Groff began her coaching career in 1969, and has com-piled a record of 860-512-4, making her one of only five coaches in Division II history to collect 850 career wins. “I don’t think about how long I have been coaching,” Groff says. “It seems like I have been coaching all my life. I plan to keep coaching until I get tired of it. I am like the Energizer bunny—I keep going and going.”

During her tenure, the Yellow Jackets have tallied 30 winning seasons, including 20 of the last 23. Groff led the Yellow Jackets to back-to-back NCAA

Northeast Region titles and a pair of berths in the Division II national tournament in 1996 and 1997. The Yellow Jackets have won 30 games 18 times, and her team has averaged 32 wins per season since 1984. She has guided AIC to eight Northeast-10 Conference regular season championships and three NE-10 tournament titles (1987, 1996, and 2003). She has also led her teams to five berths in the Eastern College Athletic Conference tournament (ECAC) and three ECAC crowns (1986, 1988, and 1991).

The eight-time Northeast-10 Coach of the Year was inducted into the National Girls and Women in Sport Hall of Fame in 1999 and was inducted into the Connecti-cut Scholastic and the Colle-giate Softball Hall of Fame in 2003. In the spring of 2006, Groff earned an honor that is rarely bestowed upon active coaches when the softball field at AIC, previously known as Yellow Jackets Field, was renamed the Coach Judy Groff Softball Field.

The long list of awards and accomplishments denotes Groff’s coaching success, but according to her, what hap-pens off the field means more than wins and losses. “Since I am a college coach, I think that the social, physical, and academic aspects are all very important,” Groff says. “My goal is for every player on my team to graduate, and so far they all have. The most rewarding thing about coach-ing is watching people grow. In other words, I enjoy watch-ing people mature into adults, graduate and be happy.”

Groff’s success on the field has led her to many victo-ries. In 1999, she coached her 1,000th game in a contest against Saint Leo University. In 2000, she recorded her 700th career victory in a 5-2 win over Bryant in nine innings. She tal-lied her 800th career win on

Christowski, Judy Groff, and George Wares.

■ Henry Christowski. While pursuing his fastpitch playing career, Christowski also had his sights set on becoming a high school principal. Instead, he found himself pushed toward a coaching career that led to state championships, national championships, and ultimately, the NFCA Hall of Fame.

“I was up for the principal’s job at a school, and at the end of the fall softball season, the softball coach resigned,” he says. “The district superin-tendent told me he needed a softball coach for the program to continue, and explained I would be doing him a favor, since he had two daughters playing at the time. It came across that if I wanted the principal’s job, then I needed to do this favor. It was sup-posed to be for one year, but we can see where it led.”

After winning over 400 games at Norwalk (Iowa) High School and over 150 at Indianola High School, Christowski moved to West Des Moines Dowling High School, where he guided the program to its first state championship in

1992. He compiled a 272-70 record at Dowling from 1989 to 1996, when he was offered the head coaching job at Simpson College.

In his first year coaching col-lege softball, Christowski guided the Storm to a 31-10 mark and an NCAA regional title that advanced the team to the final eight in the nation. “It was a shock making it to nationals our first year, real-ly because I didn’t have any idea what it took to get to nationals,” he says. “I came in thinking I would have a big learning experience seeing how college ball operated. I had no idea about regionals and playoffs. I thought by the time nationals came around, I would be working again with the team at Dowling.”

That first-year success helped cement his decision to retire from the high school coaching ranks. In the 12 years since, he has compiled a 396-101-2 record that places him 32nd in the NCAA among active Division III coaches. His .796 winning percentage ranks behind just one other active Division III coach and two oth-ers in Division III history. The percentage also places him eighth among coaches in all three NCAA divisions.

The only coach in NCAA his-tory to win 200 games in the first five years of coaching a program, Christowski has led the Storm to two national championships, four regional titles, six regional appear-ances, and four IIAC champi-onships. Despite the records, Christowski considers coach-ing more of a hobby than an occupation.

“My primary goals have always been to make sure my players have a good time and learn things about softball and life,” he says. “We won state and national championships, and those things are nice, but they really don’t define a program and what you can

Judy Groff, American International College Head Coach and 2007 Hall of Fame inductee

Henry Christowski, Simpson College Head Coach and 2007 Hall of Fame inductee

8 COACHING MANAGEMENT

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NFCA CONVENTION PREVIEW

April 23, 2003, with a 3-2 vic-tory over LeMoyne College.

“I enjoy my job,” Groff says. “If I didn’t, I wouldn’t still be here. I have accomplished a lot in my life, and my desire to continue to coach is still very present.”

■ George Wares. After plan-ning to make his living as a high school counselor and basketball coach, George Wares changed direction, leading him to a coaching career that landed him in the NFCA Hall of Fame. His coaching career began at

Nesco High School in Zearing, Iowa, when a group of softball players asked him to be their coach.

“At first, I said no,” Wares says. “So they asked me to at least take a look at their pitch-er. I did, and I said yes. That’s

how I started, and it’s really snowballed from there.”

In seven years at Nesco, Wares posted a 214-94 record, taking three squads to the state tournament and being named All-Area Coach of the Year three times. Fol-

2007 NFCA CONVENTION SCHEDULE

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 25Noon

NFCC Course 406(through noon Tuesday)

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 271 p.m.

“Using Video to Develop Players and Scout Opponents” Pre-Convention Seminar with Tanya Porter, USOC, and Karen Johns, USA Softball National Team Assistant Coach

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 288 a.m.

Wilson Golf Scramble10 a.m.

Tennis Tournament3 p.m.

Assistant Coaches Caucus4 p.m.

Committee Meetings: Rules, Awards and Hall of Fame, Internet, and Diversity

5 p.m.Opening Business Meeting with keynote speaker Carolyn Peck

7 p.m.Louisville Slugger Reception

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 297 a.m.

Adams USA Continental Breakfast8 a.m.

Committee Meetings: All-American Regional Chairs, Camps and Clinics, Education and Publications, Nominating, Awards, and Hall of Fame

9 a.m.Caucus/Business Meetings by Group: NCAA Division I, NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III, NAIA, NJCAA, Cal JC, NWAACC

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.Exhibit Hall open

12:15 p.m.Easton Victory Club Luncheon

2 p.m. – 6 p.m.Silent Auction open

2:30 p.m. or 6 p.m. Division I Conference Meetings

2:30 p.m.“Winning No. 8: How They Did It” with University of Arizona Coaching Staff, the 2007 NFCA Division I Coaching Staff of the Year

3:25 p.m.“Strength and Conditioning for Pitchers” with USA National Team pitchers Cat Osterman and Monica Abbott

4:20 p.m.“Hitting Adjustments: How To Make and Practice Them” with University of Alabama Coaching Staff

6 p.m.Diamond Sports Hospitality

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 307 a.m.

Schutt Sports Continental Breakfast8 a.m.

High School and Travel Ball Caucuses; other caucus meetings

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.Exhibit Hall open

9:30 a.m.“Defi ning Roles and Coaching Staff In-teraction” with Kelly Inouye-Perez, Head Coach, UCLA, and Sue Enquist, former Head Coach, UCLA

10:30 a.m.“Competitive Drills and Demonstration” with Eugene Lenti, Head Coach, DePaul University

11:30 a.m.“Progressive Pitching Drills” with Michele Smith, two-time Olympic gold medalist and current ESPN commentator

NoonMizuno Lunch in the Exhibit Hall

2 p.m.“Different Perspectives in the Pitch-ing Debate” with Teresa Wilson, Head Coach, Texas Tech University; Bill Hill-house, international pitching consultant and former award-winning men’s fast-

pitch pitcher, and Tori Nyberg, Pitching Coach, Northwestern University

4 p.m.“Hitting: Learning Better When Seeing It in the Mind’s Eye” with Greg Riddoch, manager of the Eugene Emeralds and former MLB manager

6 p.m.The Game hosts Hall of Fame Reception for banquet attendees

7 p.m.NFCA Hall of Fame Banquet

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 18 a.m.

Texas Woman’s University Master’s Info Session

9:30 a.m.NFCA Coaching Staff of the Year Brunch

11 a.m.Adidas Roundtable at three different time slots: 11 a.m., Noon, and 1 p.m., with lunch provided at 1 p.m.“Team Unity for a Championship Team” with Sandy Montgomery, Head Coach, Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville“Strength Training for Hitters” with Dr. Brandon Marcello, Strength Coach for the USA Softball National Team and Baylor Softball“Tee Drills” with John Tschida, Head Coach, University of St. Thomas“Outfi eld Play” with Mark Eldridge, former Head Coach at Palomar College

2 p.m.“Situational Defensive Strategies” with Jay Miller, Head Coach, Mississippi State University

3 p.m.“Pitching Adjustments: How To Make and Practice Them” with Kirk Walker, Head Coach, Oregon State University, and Lisa Fernandez, three-time Olympic gold medalist and UCLA Assistant Coach

6 p.m.NFCC Course 405(through 2 p.m. Monday)

Page 13: Coaching management 15.13

COACHING MANAGEMENT 11

lowing that success, he moved to Pella High School, where his team scored two runner-up finishes in the state tourna-ment. Moving to NCAA Divi-sion III, Wares coached softball and assistant coached men’s basketball at Central College before taking over softball full time.

In his 23 seasons as Head Softball Coach, he has com-piled a 780-256-3 record, which ranks him third in NCAA Division III annals for victories, and a .752 win-ning percentage that rates him fourth all-time in Division III. Among active Division III head coaches, he comes in second in career wins and first in NCAA tournament berths and NCAA tourna-ment victories.

Wares guided the Dutch to five national tournament

appearances in a row, includ-ing four national titles. That first title in 1988 made Wares realize that the goal could be achieved and made finish-

ing on top a yearly goal. “I’ve always believed in setting the bar high,” Wares says. “The high expectations I’ve placed on the program have helped with some of the successes we’ve had. When you win that first national champion-ship, you realize that it can be done. Once it happens, you have a better measuring stick for what has to be done to do it again.”

While continuing to set the bar high for his teams, he has never said how long he plans to lead the Dutch. Aid-ed by an outstanding staff that includes his wife, Alicia O’Brien, as Associate Head Coach, Wares finds himself newly invigorated. “You get to a point in your career where you’ve lost a little bit of that fire you started with,” he says. “Now, all of a sudden, I get to coach with my wife, who

brings a lot of experience and a great deal of credibility. Just to sit and talk with her about the game has been a real refresher. She’s just as passion-ate about the sport as I am, and it’s relit my fire.”

By the BookGrowing up in Wilmette, Ill., Dee Abrahamson knew she wanted to be a teacher. Little did she know that goal would take her through 19 years as a collegiate softball coach and be the defining charac-teristic that led to her Nation-al Fastpitch Coaches Asso-ciation Distinguished Service Award.

Abrahamson earned her bach-elor’s degree from Western Michigan University, where she studied to be a teacher and was a member of the swim team, and stayed to earn

George Wares, Central College Head Coach and 2007 Hall of Fame inductee

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12 COACHING MANAGEMENT

her master’s degree. “I was a swimmer at Western Michi-gan as an undergraduate,” Abrahamson says. “I had an opportunity to stay there as a graduate assistant coach. It was a great experience, and it allowed me to get in the world and be employed. I had a great time, and it led me to the place I am today.”

She took her first job as an instructor at Lincoln Trail Junior College, where she played a vital role in the founding of the women’s sports program. After pro-posing the LTJC begin com-petitive women’s athletics, Abrahamson found herself named head coach of almost all the sports, including soft-ball, volleyball, and women’s basketball, as well as the combined men’s and wom-en’s swimming and diving teams.

She stayed at Lincoln Trail from 1975 to 1979, when she accepted a position as head softball coach at Northern Illinois University, where she stayed until 1994, compiling a 416-286-5 career record that included a WCWS berth in 1988.

Although Abrahamson no longer stands in the third base coach’s box, she hasn’t stopped coaching. After retir-ing from the softball field in 1994, she was named the Associate Athletics Director in charge of internal affairs at Northern Illinois. The change shifted her focus from coach-ing student-athletes to men-toring coaches who were entering their first experi-ences. “I really never stopped coaching,” she says. “I had to change my audience, which wasn’t softball players any-more, to staff members.”

Since 1996, Abrahamson has been mentoring coaches in another way—as NCAA Soft-ball Secretary Rules Editor. Her most visible responsibili-ties include editing the rule-book and representing the softball rules committee. She also serves on the Amateur Softball Association Council as vice-chair of the fastpitch rules committee and is a member of the equipment standards committee.

It’s only fitting that the NFCA presents its Distinguished Service Award to someone who tackles so many different roles. To Abrahamson, news that she would be receiving the honor came as a complete surprise. “It was unexpected,” Abrahamson says. “I have had a great time doing this job. I’ve met some great people along the way. I do this job because I really like it.”

NFCA CONVENTION PREVIEW

NCAA Softball Secretary Rules Editor Dee Abraha-mson, winner of the NFCA Distinguished Service Award

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Page 15: Coaching management 15.13

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Untitled-4 1 10/31/07 5:00:25 PM

Circle No. 121 NFCA Booth No. 301

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14 COACHING MANAGEMENT

3N2 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714111 Atlantic Annex Point #1Maitland, FL 32751877-362-1440www.3N2Sports.comMarty Graham

Accelerated BaseballTechnologies . . . . . . . . . . .720, 722217 Watson StreetRipon, WI 54971920-748-6599www.AcceleratedBaseball.comHoward Hansen

Adams USA, Inc. . . . . . . . . .912, 913610 S. JeffersonCookeville, TN 38501913-526-2109www.adamsusa.comGary Montgomery

adidas . . . . . . . . . . . . .900, 901, 902634 South 170 WestIvins, UT 84738www.adidas.comMichelle Delloso

Akadema . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .628317 Midland AvenueGarfield, NJ 07026973-772-7669www.akademapro.comDavid Winder

AKH Sports, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . .4051464-253 Garner Station Blvd.Raleigh, NC 27603919-342-3348www.hplate.comBill RathbunAKH Sports, maker of the Measuring Plate portable bullpen, is a small, fam-ily-owned sporting goods manufactur-ing company located in Raleigh, N.C.

See ad on page 18American International Sports Tours,

Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116511 West 86th TerraceKansas City , MO 64114816-256-3828www.AIST.usChad Wilkinson

Anaconda Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . .7125 Corporate DriveClifton Park, NY 12065800-234-2775www.AnacondaSports.comFred Veronezi

ARK Digital Systems . . . . . .603, 7022515 Brant RoadSan Diego, CA 92103503-750-3330www.arkdigitalsystems.comDon Powers

Athletic TrainingEquipment Company . . . .400, 4028750 W. Bryn Mawr AvenueChicago, IL 60631775-352-2800www.ATECSports.comCraig Kopkash

Athletix, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .710320 Cottage Grove CirclePataskala, OH 43062800-844-8326www.athletix.comTeresa Ralston

Bailey’s Innovative Products . . . .1152149 West Cascade, Suite 106A, #37Hood River, OR 97031509-427-5835www.baileysinnovativeproducts.comJim Bailey

Big Z Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12611204 Dover CourtYukon, OK 73099405-373-3253www.PitchingPractice.comSteve Zawrotny MS, CSCS

BMI Sales Group, Inc (Zingbat) . .1147750 Archer RoadJustice, IL 60458708-563-0500www.zingbat.comScott WadjaZingbat teaches the batter to stay inside the ball, allowing the ball to be hit harder, more often.

See ad on page 33Boathouse Sports . . . . . . . .500, 502

425 E. Hunting Park AvenuePhiladelphia, PA 19124215-425-4300www.boathouse.comBill Reifsnyder

BSN Sports/Collegiate Pacific . . .1121901 Diplomat DriveFarmers Branch, TX 75234800-527-7510www.BSNCP.comSteve Easterling

Burbank Sport Nets . . . . . . .529, 531P.O. Box 16198Fernandina Beach, FL 32035904-321-0976www.burbanksportnets.comEli Rowe

Buster’s Design Team . . . . . . . . .324303 East Geneseo StreetLafayette, CO 80026303-666-7415www.bustersdesignteam.comRuth Crowe

Clell Wade Coaches Directory, Inc. . .633701 Main Street, Cassville, MO 65625417-847-2783www.coachesdirectory.comKaran Wade-Nickle

Coaching Mangement . . . . . . . . . .1031 Dutch Mill RoadIthaca, NY 14850607-257-6970www.momentummedia.comMike TownsendCoaching Management publishes three issues per year for high school and college head softball coaches in the U.S. with targeted editorial, product information, and ads.

Coast to Coast Softball . . . . . . . .128P.O. Box 604Manchester, CT 06045877-373-2068www.CoasttoCoastSoftball.comShelly Koehler

Combat Baseball . . . . . . . . .100, 1021350 Thornton Avenue, Suite 4Pacific, WA 98047425-864-1669www.combatbaseball.comTiffany Toleson

Cutters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7282650 S. 46th Street, #105Phoenix, AZ 85034602-381-5434www.cuttersgloves.comGary Bethea

Dartfish USA . . . . . . . . . . . .101, 2003650 Brookside Parkway, Suite 300Alpharetta, GA 30022800-655-3850www.dartfish.comJustin Hanzlikk

Decker Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5336912 N. 97th CircleOmaha, NE 68122800-431-5128www.deckersports.comBrian O’Brien

Diamond Sports, Inc. . .329, 331, 33311130 Warland DriveCypress, CA 90630800-366-2999www.diamond-sports.comChris Coffing

Disney Sports Attractions . . . . . .108P.O. Box 10000Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830407-938-3801www.disneysports.comBrian Mize

Easton Sports . . . . . . .906, 907, 9084066 N. Redwood AvenueRialto, CA 92377909-854-4940www.eastonsports.comPam Newton

NFCA CONVENTION EXHIBITORS

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COACHING MANAGEMENT 15

Emask . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .302, 3048319 N. 30th StreetOmaha, NE 68112402-884-6285www.emasksales.comJeff Evans

Extra-Infielder.com . . . . . . . . . . .7061997 Oak Park DrivePleasant Hill, CA 94523925-705-1088www.Extra-Infielder.comTim Griffith

Fellowship of Christian Athletes . .1208701 Leeds RoadKansas City , MO 64129816-892-1192www.fca.orgDonna Noonan

Finch Windmill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .700P.O. Box 97La Miranda, CA 90638714-523-5659www.finchwindmill.comDoug Finch

Front Rush . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7243505 Main StreetDoylestown, PA 18901866-634-1186www.frontrush.comBrad Downs

girls got game . . . . . . . . . . .604, 606131 Main StreetGeneseo, NY 14454866-600-9905www.girlsgotgame.comSherrie PaddonInnovative styles, top-quality brand-ed products, uncompromising per-formance, fit, and function, and ser-vice that’s second to none make girls got game a leading choice for com-petitive women’s teams.

See ad inside front coverH&B Louisville Slugger . . 228, 230, 232

800 West Main StreetLouisville, KY 40202800-282-2287www.slugger.comRob PartinSince 1884, when John A. “Bud” Hil-lerich hand-turned a white ash bat for Pete “The Gladiator” Browning, the finest hitter of his day, the name Louisville Slugger has been synony-mous with the game’s greatest play-ers and teams.

See ad on page 9

High Tech Vision Training . . . . . .12724223 47th Avenue S.E.Woodinville, WA 98072206-409-6928www.hightechvisiontraining.comTom Davidson

House of Pitching . . . . . . . . . . . .6021102 Ardmore AvenueErie, PA 16505814-392-3369www.HouseofPitching.comBill Hillhouse

Inside Edge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6085049 Emerson Avenue SouthMinneapolis, MN 55419952-948-1481www.inside-edge.comJay Donchetz

JKP Sports Inc./Jugs . . . . . .224, 22619333 S.W. 118th AvenueTualatin, OR 97062800-547-6843www.jkpsports.comChris Gross

Liflong Products . . . . . . . . . . . . .8043200 S. Country Club RoadMelbourne, FL 32901877-543-5664www.liflong.comLarry Thompson

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Circle No. 109 NFCA Booth No. 726

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16 COACHING MANAGEMENT

NFCA CONVENTION EXHIBITORS

Longstreth Women’s Sports . . . .80528 Wells RoadParkerford, PA 19457800-545-1329www.longstreth.comRonnie Maurek

M.A.S.A./Osborne Inc. . . . .501, 5031413 Meridian RoadJasper, IN 47546800-264-4519www.MASA.comGrayson GoodnessM.A.S.A. distributes a full-color 104-page sporting goods and field main-tenance catalog. The company car-ries a wide assortment of baseball, softball, soccer, and football equip-ment at discounted prices.

See ad on page 19Majestic Athletic/

National Pro Fastpitch . . .401, 403100 Majestic Way, Bangor, PA 18013610-588-0100www.MajesticAthletic.comMichael Riha

Markwort Sporting Goods .605, 6071101 Research BoulevardSt. Louis, MO 63132800-280-5555www.markwort.comHerb Markwort

Mattingly Baseball . . . . . . . . . . . .5092 Enterprise Drive, Suite 407Shelton, CT 06484866-627-2287www.mattinglybaseball.comShari D’Amico

Miken . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .201, 203415 East South StreetCaledonia, MN 55921507-725-5483www.mikensports.comMike Rommes

Mizuno USA . . . . . . . . .432, 430, 4284925 Avalon Ridge ParkwayNorcross, GA 30071770-441-5553www.mizunousa.comCindy Peters

Monsoon Interactive—OnLetterhead Branded Email . . .630360 South Reynolds RoadToledo, OH 43615866-665-3887www.Onletterhead.comBill Findley

More Than ERA . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63211038 Hildreth CourtCamarillo, CA 93012805-491-3379www.morethanera.comLarry May

National CollegiateScouting Association . . . . . . . .1291415 N. Dayton, Suite 4MChicago, IL 60622888-333-6846www.ncsasports.orgAmanda Rawson

Nemo Speed Hitting Program . . .532Box 402Lincoln City, OR 97367541-764-3313www.speedbat.comDennis TessiciniNemo’s Speed Hitting Program was founded by Dennis Nemo Tessicini, former professional teacher and high-ly successful Head Baseball Coach at the high school level for more than 36 years. Coach Nemo resides in the beautiful state of Oregon.

See ad on page 7Nokona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .802, 803

9001 E Hwy. 82, P.O. Box 329Nocona, TX 76255940-825-3326www.nokona.comRob Storey

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COACHING MANAGEMENT 17

OB Team Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . .629809 S.R. 125Hamersville, OH 45130877-379-9051www.obteamsports.comByron OberschlakeOB Team Sports manufactures the Accu-Pitch Fast Pitch Mat, one of the most durable and longest-lasting mats on the market. It’s guaranteed not to slip, slide, scoot, or mark up the gym floor.

See ad on page 24OnDeck Softball . . . . . . . . . . . . .109

1102 Tomahawk LaneSouth Lake Tahoe, CA 96150530-573-1624www.ondecksoftball.netJoann Allister

Outer Edge Performance . . . . . .704P.O. Box 140014Edgewater, CO 80214303-458-1909www.outeredgeperformance.comMary Marcantonio

Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau . . . . . . . . . . . . .505P.O. Box 9473Panama City Beach, FL 32417800-327-8352www.thesportsloversbeach.comAnn Gager

PIK Products, LLC . . . . . . . .110, 111P.O. Box 2108Norwalk, CT 06852877-845-7845www.pikproducts.comLouis SeeleyPIK Products is a baseball training aid company offering reasonably priced products proven to get results at every level.

See ad outside back coverPitching Essentials . . . . . . . .625, 627

16772 W. Bell Road, #110, Box 405Surprise, AZ 85374602-751-5887www.pitchingessentials.comMike Kenneth

Pro Look Sports . . . . . . . . . .609, 70837 East Center St, Ste 304Provo, UT 84606800-PRO-LOOKwww.ProLook.comBrent Hekekia

Pro’s Choice, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .113410 N. Michigan, Suite 400Chicago, IL 60611800-648-1166www.proschoice1.comDave CyganPro’s Choice products are a leading choice of professional groundskee-pers to build and maintain winning ballfields, season after season.

See ad on page 21Circle No. 112

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ProBatter Sports . . . . . . . . .326, 32815 Old Gate LaneMilford, CT 06460203-874-2500www.probatter.comAdam BattersbyProBatter Sports, LLC, is a world leader in the production of vid-eo pitching machines. ProBatter machines are the ultimate softball training aid, created by coaches who believed there was a better way to teach and practice hitting.

See ad on page 17

Promats, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2081900 E. LincolnFort Collins, CO 80524800-678-6287www.promats.comKen John

Rank One Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . .631P.O. Box 1044Sanger, TX 76226214-336-5865www.rankonesport.comWayne Poage

NFCA Booth No. 326, 328

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18 COACHING MANAGEMENT

NFCA CONVENTION EXHIBITORS

ProBatter Sports . . . . . . . . .326, 32815 Old Gate LaneMilford, CT 06460203-874-2500www.probatter.comAdam Battersby

Promats, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2081900 E. LincolnFort Collins, CO 80524800-678-6287www.promats.comKen John

Rank One Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . .631P.O. Box 1044Sanger, TX 76226214-336-5865www.rankonesport.comWayne Poage

Rawlings Sporting Goods . . . . . .107510 Maryville University Dr., Ste. 110St. Louis, MO 63141800-729-7770www.rawlings.comDave Bracci

RevFire Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52514705 S. Blackfoot DriveOlathe, KS 66062866-414-3040www.revfire.comDave Marinelli

Rightview Pro . . . . . . . . . . .429, 52827 Middleridge Lane SouthRolling Hills, CA 90274310-377-9221www.rightviewpro.comDon Slaught

Ringor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117, 1197929 SW Burns Way, Suite CWilsonville, OR 97070-7678800-746-4670www.ringor.comGary KillingsworthRingor is a manufacturer of premi-um baseball and softball footwear, performance apparel, and team bags. Ringor’s patented designs are acclaimed for comfort and made from the finest materials.

See ad on page 20Rip-It . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .615, 617

3304 Dozer Court, Ocoee, FL 34761888-95RipItwww.ripitsoftball.comMatthew Polstein

Russell/Spalding TeamSports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .123, 1243330 Cumberland BlvdAtlanta, GA 30339678-742-8000www.russellathletic.comSarah Walsh

Schutt Sports . . . . . . . .229, 231, 2331200 E. Union AvenueLitchfield, IL 62056800-426-9784www.schuttsports.comDianne Baker

Scoutware, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6011444 Farnsworth, Suite 404Aurora, IL 60505630-375-2003www.scoutware.comAndy Clark

Slow the Game Down—Vision Training . . . . . . . . . . . . .5271110 S. Coast Highway, #203Laguna Beach, CA 92651949-715-9841www.slowthegamedown.comRyan Harrison

Softball Oregon - Xelerator. . . . .5308955 Pueblo Street N.E.Salem, OR 97305503-856-9177www.SoftballOregon.comKen Roudybush

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NFCA Booth No. 405

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COACHING MANAGEMENT 19

Softball Sales . . . . . . . . . . . .131, 1331051 E. NakomaSan Antonio, TX 78216800-882-1166www.softball.comJoey Squilla

South Padre Island Nets, Inc. . . .1212001 Amistad DriveSan Benito, TX 78586956-276-9598www.spinets.netCarlos Garcia

Southern California ASAPlayers Assoc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . .2277381 Pheasant Run RoadRiverside, CA 92509951-360-5388www.socal-asa.comLorrie Ivie

Southwest Host Services . . . . . . .504P.O. Box 13808Scottsdale, AZ 85267480-481-9852www.southwesthost.comLinda Hitchens

Speedline Athletic Wear . . .330, 3321804 N. HabanaTampa, FL 33607813-876-1375www.speedlineathletic.comDave Aubuchon

Sports Attack . . . . . . . . . . .624, 626P.O. Box 1529Verdi, NV 89439800-717-4251www.sportsattack.comKurt BrennerSports Attack manufactures qual-ity sports training equipment. With 35 years of experience designing machines, the company offers soft-ball, baseball, volleyball, and tennis training devices.

See ad on page 3Sports Sensors, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . .600

11351 Embassy DriveCincinnati, OH 45240888/542-9246www.gloveradar.comAl Dilz

Sports Tutor . . . . .807, 808, 809, 8103300 Winona AvenueBurbank, CA 91504800-448-8867www.sportstutorinc.comJohn HendersonSports Tutor manufactures the HomePlate programmable pitching machine for baseball and softball.

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20 COACHING MANAGEMENT

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COACHING MANAGEMENT 21

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When a program is as successful as the University of Arizona, it’s tempting to assume the wins come easily. But that was hardly true for the Wildcats at this year’s NCAA Division I Women’s College World Series. En route to earning a second consecutive national title, the team, led by Head Coach Mike Candrea, fought its way through five elimina-tion games before adding an eighth WCWS trophy to its awards case.

Candrea’s success is truly unpar-alleled. His teams have made the WCWS in 19 of the past 20 years—the only absence coming in 2004, when Candrea took a break to prepare the U.S. national team for its gold-medal performance at the Olympics. He’s a member of the NFCA Hall of Fame, and has received the Pacific 10 Conference Coach of the Year award 10 times, most recently in 2007.

Even with this success, Coach Can-drea is the first to point out that he hasn’t done it alone. His coaching staff includes Assistant Coaches Larry Ray and Nancy Evans, and Volunteer Assistant Coach David Feinberg. In this interview, Candrea, Ray, and Evans talk about teaching the mental and physical game, how they’ve seen college softball change on and off the field, and what they see in their program’s future.

COVER STORY

a hit. So I spend a lot of time focusing on my players’ mental approach to the game.

The way I do it varies from year to year. This year, instead of talking all the time, I inundated the team with literature. I’d post different things in the dugout throughout the season, the players would read them, and eventually everyone found a few that really hit home.

One was a sheet about the “three I’s”: intelligence, immediacy, and intensity. Intelligence is the ability to make sound decisions and play smart. Immediacy is a sense of urgency in accomplishing a task. Intensity is the belief that now is the time to give the game everything you’ve got, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I wanted them to think about those three things before they took the field. And at the bottom of the sheet, I wrote, “With our A game, we can beat anybody. Any-thing less, and they can beat us.”

Another sheet was all about identifying self-defeating thoughts and behaviors that undermine performance. We call them gremlins—invisible creatures that prevent athletes from doing their best, including fear, anger, anxiety, self-con-sciousness, perfectionism, stubbornness, and lack of motivation. It’s important for all of us to look honestly at ourselves and identify our gremlins. In sports, as in life, the first step to success is getting out of your own way.

What’s the biggest difference between trying to win your first title and trying to repeat?Winning for the first time is so emotional that sometimes you can lose a little focus, and you have to fight that. I remember in 1991, the first time we won the World Series, it seemed like the last out took four days. Everything slowed down and we found ourselves thinking about all the bad things that could happen. With experi-ence, that equation flips around. You think about all the good things that can happen because you’re so close to winning.

BY GREG SCHOLAND

NFCA NATIONAL COACHING STAFF OF THE YEAR UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

MIKE CANDREA, HEAD COACH

CM: You’ve been on both ends of close WCWS finals. What separates a winning team from a losing team?Candrea: By the time you reach the finals, there usu-ally isn’t a large difference in talent between the two teams. It usually comes down to special perfor-mances—which team has more players who raise their game that extra notch when called upon. Sometimes it’s just making the right play at the right moment, whether it’s a great slide in an extra-inning game or a great pitching performance to get the team out of a jam. That’s what cham-pionship play is all about.

How do you train players to give those special performances?There are so many unpredictable ele-ments in softball, but one thing we have full control over is our preparation. I want our kids to feel prepared, physically and mentally, to go out onto the field at any given moment, in any situation, and be confident they have the skills to win. When that happens, they’re not overthinking the game—they’re just reacting and trusting the things they’ve done all year. Softball is primarily a game of failure: The outcome is often determined by a critical mistake. If players are going to be successful, they need to be ready for anything.

How do you talk to players about mis-takes in a way that fosters confidence?We don’t pretend bad things never hap-pen, because that’s simply not realistic. When someone makes a mistake, we want her equipped to put it out of her mind and move on. If someone is 0 for 10 at the World Series, I want her to go to the plate for the 11th time still believing she can get

22 COACHING MANAGEMENT

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The Wildcats won their second consecutive WCWS championship with a combination of intelligence, immediacy, and intensity.

In the 2007 WCWS, Taryne Mowatt threw every pitch for your team. How did you decide she could go the distance?It was an easy decision because we really had no other options. By the time we reached the World Series, Taryne was used to being our go-to pitcher. She’s the type of player who wants to be out there when it counts most. She told me she was ready to throw until her arm fell off.

My pitching decisions are much harder when I’m working with the Olympic team, where I have Finch, Osterman, Abbott, Fernandez, and Hollowell to choose from. Sometimes there’s a real advantage to not having options. Some of my best col-lege teams have had lineups that were pretty well established early on. It takes pressure off the kids because they can make a mistake or have a little slump and not feel someone’s breathing down their neck.

This year’s WCWS set new records for strikeouts and shutouts, with Mowatt leading the way. Is pitching becoming too dominant?I think softball has a good balance between offense and defense. The last time we felt offense needed a boost, we moved the pitching circle back from 40 to

43 feet, and I believe that served its pur-pose. Not only did it increase offense, but it also brought more nuance to the pitch-ing game. Pitchers used to be able to dominate batters just by throwing hard, and that’s not as true anymore. To be a great pitcher today, you’d better focus on movement and off-speed pitches. Pitchers have to be smarter—they have to get ground balls and fly balls and play defense, and they have to vary their pitch selection to keep hitters off-balance.

As for all the strikeouts and shutouts, one big factor is that scouting has gotten better than ever. Coaches are charting opposing hitters’ weaknesses and prepar-ing pitchers to take advantage of them. So I see low-scoring games at the World Series largely as a compliment to coaches and pitchers for doing their homework.

The NCAA has placed a renewed empha-sis on sportsmanship in softball. Have you noticed changes in on-field conduct over your career?I think the game has gotten more intense, and sportsmanship problems are always a potential side effect of that, but I haven’t seen a huge difference. With more fans and more TV cameras today, it’s easy to let emotions run high, and

athletes and coaches need to find ways to keep themselves in control.

When I was a younger coach, I sometimes let my emotions do the talking. Back then I had a 72-mile commute to and from work, and I’d find myself driving home from games thinking, “Why did I say that?” or “Why did I let myself act that way?” It helped me realize the importance of stepping back and thinking about how my actions affect the entire program.

What’s one issue in college softball you wish more people were talking about?I think the sport is in great shape overall, but we can’t assume that what’s good for baseball is also good for softball. Sometimes it seems like we make deci-sions based on what baseball is doing, and that’s not right. For instance, baseball moved its start date to March, and we’ve talked about following their lead, but people need to remember that we’re two completely different sports.

Besides that, I’d really like to see the fences moved back to 220 feet all the way around. We have that in international play, and I think it’s a much better game because it puts a premium on outfield play, gets the triple back in the game, and

COACHING MANAGEMENT 23

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24 COACHING MANAGEMENT

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the game can feel very fast, and that’s when they lose control. The difference between practice speed and game speed can really hurt some players.

Has that observation affected the way you run your practices at Arizona?It sure has. Everything we do in practice is at a very quick pace. If the game is as fast in practice as it is during competition, you’re better prepared to compete.

What will be your team’s biggest chal-lenge in the coming year?Every team changes, and our team has changed quite drastically. Most strong teams are strong up the middle, and we’re replacing our shortstop, second baseman, and centerfielder this season. A key to our success will be the incom-ing freshmen making contributions right away. As for Taryne, she’s not going to surprise anyone this year—they all know about her, so she’ll have to bring her A game to the ballpark every time. And all our players are working to be more consistent. It’s great to have a cham-pionship to look back on, but the real question in softball is, “What have you done lately?”

LARRY RAY, ASSISTANT COACH

Larry Ray joined the Wildcats’ coaching staff in 1985. He left in1996 to start a new softball program at the University of Florida, where he amassed a record of 169-106 in four seasons before returning to Arizo-na in 2002. Today, he works primarily with slap hitters and infielders, and also spearheads the team’s recruiting.

CM: How do you teach slap hitting?Ray: As with any skill, you don’t want to make clones of everyone. I try to take what they’re already good at and expand on it, and I have a few fundamentals that I feel everyone can benefit from. For exam-ple, I try to get players to run as short a distance as possible. I’ll have our slap hit-ters move up in the box as far as they’re comfortable, so when their left foot cross-es over, they’re already headed down the

alleviates some of the problems with bats becoming too powerful. I know it would create major problems for some facilities, but it’s something I’d like to see discussed.

You’re taking a hiatus from the Wildcats this season to work with the national team. What is the biggest difference in coaching the two squads?One big difference is how great the national-level athletes are at learning and making adjustments all the time. Here’s a good example: At the Olympic level, I’ve seen players have three bad at-bats during a game, but add something new about the pitcher to their mental data-base each time. On their fourth at-bat, they get a hit. At the college level, a player having three bad at-bats is more likely to get down on herself or frustrated that she’s having a bad game.

Another difference is the Olympic-level players’ ability to slow the game down. At the college level, especially for freshmen,

Greg Scholand is an Assistant Editor at Coaching Management. He can be reached at: [email protected].

COVER STORY

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COACHING MANAGEMENT 25

line. We also work on pitch selection, so players are prepared to hit ground balls and force the defense to make plays.

What is the most common flaw you see in slap hitters?Some players have problems with consis-tency in their footwork, and it prevents them from getting a fast first step. When I see that, we work on developing a tech-nique that will get them moving down the line as quickly as possible while still feeling natural.

What are your top priorities in recruiting?It’s not too difficult to spot the best play-ers at a tournament. But I also care a lot about intangibles—how they handle success and failure, what their attitude is, what kind of teammate they are—and those things are harder to evaluate. When I’m at a tournament, I’m not just watch-ing the field. I look for the way players interact in the dugout, the way they talk to coaches and teammates, and how they react when they make a mistake.

How much do those things matter? I think one of our biggest strengths at Arizona is how well our team meshes on a personal

level. Our players are unselfish and very supportive of each other. At this year’s World Series, I honestly thought there were several teams with better overall tal-ent, but we played so well as a team, and that helped make the difference.

If you could change anything about the recruiting process, what would it be?Over the last several years we’ve been restricted in our opportunities to evaluate recruits, and I’d like to see that reversed. Ultimately, athletes are the ones hurt by that schedule. Our signing period is in November, and we can’t go out after that. But I think Thanksgiving and Christmas tournaments around the country would be great opportunities for teams to find players to fill their needs. It would also give more opportunities for high school players to get onto a college roster.

Do you see yourself making a return to head coaching?I’m really happy here. Mike treats us all like head coaches, and we’ve each got our areas to be in charge of. If the right opportunity came up, I’d consider it, but I love Tucson, I love U of A, and I love this program.

NANCY EVANS, ASSISTANT COACH

With a .939 winning percentage pitching for the Wildcats in the mid-1990s, Nancy Evans has the best win-loss ratio in NCAA softball his-tory. She finished her playing career with a sterling 124-8 record and two national titles (1994 and 1998), and was named the Honda Soft-ball Award win-ner and National Player of the Year as a senior. Evans joined the Arizona coaching staff immediately after graduation as a volunteer assistant, and became a full-time assistant coach in 2001. She works primarily with pitchers and catchers.

CM: What is your approach to develop-ing pitchers?Evans: It starts with realizing that each one has her own personality, style, ways of per-forming, and sources of motivation. I never take a cookie-cutter approach. The first

COVER STORY

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26 COACHING MANAGEMENT

thing I do is get to know them on a per-sonal level. I take an interest in them not just as softball players but as people, and once we’ve established mutual trust and respect, it makes everything else so much easier. It also means they’ll trust me when it comes to things like conditioning, because they know everything I have them do is aimed at making them more successful.

What do you emphasize in conditioning?One of our biggest priorities is cardio training. I’ve experienced the long season as a college pitcher, and I know that cardio work and strong legs are extremely impor-tant. Lots of pitchers have strong arms, but if their legs get tired, they’re done. I have our pitchers do cardio even when the rest of the team doesn’t. It was a battle at first, but after a 60-game season when some-one is throwing eight games in seven days and still feels great, they realize it pays off.

How do you approach the mental game?Coach Candrea believes the mental game is very important, and I completely agree because I know how much it’s helped me. I was also a sports psychology major in college, so I’ve become pretty good at talking to players about their mental approach to the game.

With pitchers, so much is about confidence. When I look at Taryne, for instance, and the progress she made between the start of last season and the World Series, it wasn’t that she got a lot stronger or devel-oped new techniques—she improved because she developed the mental skills of confidence, mental stamina, and toughness.

How do you help pitchers develop those intangible skills?I give mental routines to help them deal with mistakes or negative thoughts during the game. For instance, if a pitcher gives up a home run, of course that feels really bad. She’ll have her back to home plate as she’s watching the ball, and I’ll tell her not to turn around again until she’s dumped those negative feelings outside the circle. I’ll even give her a short phrase to repeat to herself about how that pitch is in the past and can’t be changed, so she has to focus on getting the next batter out. By the time she turns around and faces the plate again, she has a clear head.

Has the college game changed much since you played?The game itself hasn’t changed a lot, but bat technology has come a long way. We definitely didn’t have the same pop in our

bats that players do now. I wasn’t a home run hitter in college, but when I take bat-ting practice with these new bats, I hit them out all the time. It’s a shame I didn’t have these bats when I played.

Do you make it a priority for your players to learn other positions?Every day. I want them to understand every aspect of the game, to the point where they could become head coaches after they graduate. The more knowl-edgeable and skilled they are playing defense, the more they’re helping the team. Our pitchers field ground balls at every practice, and I want them to think of themselves as infielders in the circle. Even if an athlete comes in only having been a pitcher, she’s usually excited to learn other roles.

What do you see in your professional future?My goal is to be a head coach someday. I’ve learned so much working with Coach Candrea and the rest of the staff here, and I’ve really come to see this program as a family. When I become a head coach, I want to create the same kind of atmo-sphere, because I’ve seen first-hand how it makes success possible.

COVER STORY

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Coaching members receive:16 issues of the NFCA’s own newspaper - Fastpitch DeliverySpecial access to members-only area on the NFCA Web site, including the Skills and Drills Notebook, an easy way to find drills and coaching articles for your everyday needsPlayer Awards — Players are eligible for All-American, Scholar-Athlete and other field awardsCoach Awards — Coaching staffs are eli-gible for regional and national coaching staff of the year awards, and head coaches will be honored for reaching win plateausAnnual copies of the NFCA Directory and Calendar (sent every December)Special discounts in the NFCA Web Store on videos, audios, books, softball equipment, clothes and moreDiscounted prices to the NFCA National Convention and the National Fastpitch Coaches College coursesRegistration of your camp in the Camp Network to receive the NFCA’s camp pub-lication and other benefitsRepresentation of ideas to educational and softball governing bodies, and numerous networking opportunities

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Convention Program

2006 NFCA DIRECTORY OF INFORMATION

Volume 10, No. 14

October 2005

FASTPITCHDELIVERYBy Lacy Lee Baker

Publisher

Just recent-ly back from a meeting with Internat ional Olympic Com-mittee (IOC) P r e s i d e n tJacques Rog-ge, Don Porter was optimistic about softball’s chances of get-ting back on the program for the

2012 Olympic Games in London.Porter, president of the International Softball Federation (ISF) – the governing

body of softball in the world – said, “We are very optimistic of gaining needed

support to bring the issue back to the session for a revote in February.”

In July, the IOC members voted softball and baseball off the program. Softball

needed a majority of 53 votes to remain in London’s lineup, and the final vote was

52 in favor and 52 against, with one abstention.Although softball officials originally were told softball wouldn’t be eligible

for the Games until 2016, IOC members can request a new vote at their session in

February before the Winter Games in Turino, Italy. At least one-third of the 115

members would need to submit the motion. If it passed, softball would require a

majority in favor to win reinstatement.“The USOC is dedicated to see to it that women’s softball does not miss its

turn in 2012,” USOC President Peter Ueberroth said at the 2006 U.S. Olympic

team media summit. “We’re hopeful and, in a humble way, hope to try and in-

fluence people to reconsider a decision that was a bad decision to eliminate a

women’s sport.”Ueberroth’s statements were not as supportive for baseball, but that was be-

fore the baseball international federation requested its vote, which was in early

October. The result – 54-50 against – has encouraged baseball to push for another

vote in February.Porter seemed buoyed by his October meeting with Rogge, along with the six

softball athletes who accompanied him. The athletes, led by two-time Olympian,

Michele Smith, spent a little over an hour with the IOC head, expressing their con-

cerns on the future of softball as an Olympic sport while asking President Rogge

to support reconsideration of the close vote taken in Singapore last July.

The IOC president, said, “I hear your passion for your sport and share it.”

He commended the athletes and the ISF for their hard work in promoting and

developing softball and advised that the “door is open” for reconsideration.

Other athletes who met with Rogge were Jelena Tomic (Croatia), Alison Brad-

ley (Canada) Maria Vasquez (Spain), Joanna Bouzou (Greece) and Miyami Mu-

rakami (Japan). ISF Director of Competition Laurie Gouthro also attended the

meeting.It is not known if the February meeting is softball’s only chance for the 2012

Games, but after Torino, the IOC doesn’t meet again until July 2007. Some think

the host committee may be too far along in its planning by 2007 to include a soft-

ball venue.“It’s going to have to be at Torino,” Porter said of re-inclusion. “If it isn’t, I

think time will work against us.”

Special Release to Fastpitch DeliveryTexas senior pitcher Cat Osterman was honored as the Sportswoman of the Year in a team

sport by the Women’s Sports Foundation on Monday, Oct. 17. She was presented as the award

winner at a press conference at the Waldorf-Astoria on Monday morning and was also honored

at the 26th Annual Salute to Women in Sports Awards Dinner.

With the honor, Osterman becomes the first-ever active collegian to be honored as the top

female athlete.The Women’s Sports Foundation selects the annual Sportswoman of the Year based on the

following criteria:Every athlete has at least one crowning moment in her career when she feels completely

invincible. A truly exceptional athlete has many such moments throughout her athletic career.

When a series of high points comes in a particular year, the athlete earns a special distinction of

being eligible for the Women’s Sports Foundation Sportswoman of the Year Award. Each year,

champions in the individual category and team sport category are honored for extraordinary

performances that distinguish them from their peers.Athletes were considered for the award based on their athletic achievements between Au-

gust 1, 2004, and July 31, 2005. Athletes are nominated by sport governing bodies and the

public. The winners are determined by voting members of the Women’s Sports Foundation and Cat Osterman, the Texas Longhorns’ senior pitcher, makes history

as she becomes the first active college athlete to win the top award

in women’s athletics from the Women’s Sports Foundation.

See Sportswoman, page 25

CalendarNFCA members can submit pictures for the NFCA Calendar, distrib-uted each December.

Top RecruitThis “teen magazine” for youth fastpitch players is printed once a year.

NFCA mem-bers receive discounted fees to attend the NFCA National Convention.

The NFCA believes that coaches are teachers first, and that’s why it offers eight exciting courses to help improve your knowledge of the game.

Publications

www.nfca.org As a member, you will be given your own pass-word to access member-only features like the Skills and Drills Notebook.

Web Site

ProductsNFCA members receive member dis-counts on instruc-tional videos, books and CDs.

National Fastpitch Coaches College

National Convention

Recognition of fastpitch soft-ball’s top players and coaches has been an integral part of the NFCA since its founding in the early 1980s.

DirectoryYour name and contact info will be listed in the NFCA Directory, a great resource for networking.

Awards

Fastpitch DeliveryYou will receive 16 issues of the NFCA’s newspa-per, Fastpitch Delivery.

Helping fastpitch

softball coaches be

the best they can be

The National Fastpitch

Coaches Association

The National Fastpitch

Coaches Association

Helping fastpitch

softball coaches be

the best they can beTOPRECRUIT

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Circle No. 134

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28 COACHING MANAGEMENT

NFCA NATIONAL COACHING STAFFS OF THE YEAR

NCAA Division IUniversity of Arizona Head Coach Mike Candrea, along with assistants Nancy Evans, Larry Ray, Dave Feinberg, and student assistant Alicia Hollowell, have been named the 2007 NFCA Division I Coaching Staff of the Year. Candrea and his staff led the Wildcats to a second straight national title and the eighth in program history this past season. UA finished the year 50-14-1 as it fought off five elimination games at the Women’s College World Series en route to hoist-ing the trophy and earning the No. 1 ranking in the final USA Today/NFCA Top 25 poll. The Arizona coaching staff guided the team to a 10th Pac-10 title that earned it a 21st consecutive NCAA tournament berth.

NCAA Division II Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville Head Coach Sandy Montgomery, along with assistant coaches Valerie McCoy

and Shannon Evans, have been named the 2007 NFCA Division II National Coaching Staff of the Year. The SIU-Edwardsville staff earned the accolade after guiding the Cougars to the pro-gram’s first Division II softball national title. Montgomery, in her 19th season at the

school, led SIUE to the NCAA tourna-ment for the eighth straight season. The Cougars finished the year with a 49-8 record and a 19-5 mark in the Great Lakes Valley Conference. SIUE won its last 16 games and 25 of 26 as it finished No. 1 in the final NFCA Division II Top 25 poll for the first time.

NCAA Division III Linfield College Head Coach Jackson Vaughan, along with assistants Lisa Allen, Greg Herman, and Ben Blosser, have been named the 2007 NFCA Division III Coaching Staff of the Year. Vaughan and his staff led the Wildcats to their first national title after finishing 45-7 overall. His team included seven players who bat-ted over .400, and collectively the ’Cats hit at a .388 clip. Eighteen team records were established, including home runs (50), stolen bases (133), and winning percentage (.865). Linfield’s pitching staff posted a 2.35 earned run average, while two Wildcats earned Louisville Slugger/NFCA All-American honors.

NAIA Oklahoma City University Head Coach Phil McSpadden and Assistant Coach Bobbi Towers have been named the 2007 NFCA NAIA National Coaching Staff of the Year. McSpadden and Towers earned the acco-lade after guiding OCU to an NAIA-record eighth national title. The Stars finished the season with a 53-6 mark. Oklahoma City won the Sooner Athletic Conference title with an impressive 21-1 mark.

NJCAA Division I Chipola College Head Coach Belinda Hendrix and Assistant Coach Jimmy Hendrix have been named the NFCA’s NJCAA Division I Coaching Staff of the Year. The Lady Indians capped a 57-6-1 campaign by hoisting the 2007 NJCAA Division I national championship. Chipola also captured the Panhandle Conference title and finished the year ranked first in the NJCAA Division I poll after winning 14 of its last 15 games.

NJCAA Division II Phoenix College Head Coach Heinz Mueller and assistant coaches Hank Schrader, Christa Pfeninger, and Dallas Kuhlman have been named the NFCA NJCAA Division II Coaching Staff of the Year. The coaching staff won national honors for the third straight year after the squad won its fourth straight NJCAA Division II national title in its eighth consecutive national tournament appearance.

NJCAA Division IIIMonroe Community College Head Coach Robb DiGiacomo and Assistant Coach Chuck Sciortino have been

named the 2007 NFCA’s NJCAA Division III Coaching Staff of the Year. DiGiacomo, in his eighth year at the school, and Sciortino guided the team to a second straight softball national title as it swept four games at the national tournament

and outscored its opponents 57-6. The national championship capped a tremendous season for the Tribunes as they finished the year with a 35-game win streak en route to a school-record 52-2 mark. MCC led NJCAA Division III this season in win/loss percentage and batting average.

Cal JCCollege of the Siskiyous Head Coach Doug Eastman and Assistant Coach Larry Cook have been named the NFCA Cal

JC Coaching Staff of the Year. Eastman and Cook led Siskiyous to a 48-4 overall record and a berth in the state championship tournament after roll-ing to a 4-0 mark in the playoffs. The team finished second in the state overall rank-ings and first in the North Division poll as

it went 19-1 to win the program’s third Golden Valley Conference title.

NWAACCEverett Community College Co-Head Coaches Mandi Johnson and Randy Smith earned the NFCA NWAACC Coaching Staff of the Year Award. Johnson and Smith guided Everett to the NWAACC Championship Tournament after the team finished the season 44-10. ECC also claimed the Northern Region regular season championship with a 33-3 record in league competition.

High SchoolValencia (Calif.) High School Head Coach Donna Lee and Assistant Coach Carrie Mitchell have been named the 2007 NFCA High School Coaching Staff of the Year. Lee and Mitchell guided Valencia to the Division I San Francisco Section Championship with a 32-1 record. Valencia capped the year with the No. 1 ranking in the final USA Today/NFCA High School Top 25 Softball poll, making it the first team in the poll’s history to run through the entire season in the top spot. Under the duo’s leadership, Valencia also clinched titles at the Bullhead City Tournament of Champions, Michelle Carew Tournament, and the Best of the West.

Travel BallWorth Firecrackers Head Coach Tony Rico, along with assistants John Drakes and Don Minard, have been named the 2007 NFCA Travel Ball National Coaching Staff of the Year. Rico, Drakes, and Minard guided their team to the 2007 ASA Gold national championship following a sec-ond-place finish in 2006. The Firecrackers finished the year 103-21-4 and won the 2007 Canada Cup Futures title. The squad also finished third at the Colorado Fireworks Tournament.

MONTGOMERY

DIGIACOMO

EASTMAN

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NFCA REGIONAL COACHING STAFFS OF THE YEAR

NCAA Division IGreat Lakes Region: Ohio State UniversityHead Coach: Linda KalafatisAssistant Coaches: Ali Viola, Erica Beach, Kim Doran

Mid-Atlantic Region: Hofstra UniversityHead Coach: Bill EdwardsAssociate Head Coach: Larissa AndersonAssistant Coach: Ryan Realmuto

Mid-Atlantic Region: Long Island UniversityHead Coach: Roy KortmannAssistant Coaches: Bill Gehrke, Margie Masters

Mideast Region: DePaul UniversityHead Coach: Eugene LentiAssistant Coaches: Liz Bouck, Lindsay Chouinard

Midwest Region: Baylor UniversityHead Coach: Glenn MooreAssociate Head Coach: Mark LumleyAssistant Coaches: Britni Sneed, Jimmy Hubble

Northeast Region: Virginia TechHead Coach: Scot ThomasAssistant Coaches: Al Brauns, Tiffany McVay, Alan Bayse

South Region: University of TennesseeCo-Head Coaches: Ralph and Karen WeeklyAssistant Coaches: Marty McDaniel, Stephanie Humphrey-Sayne

Southeast Region: University of FloridaHead Coach: Tim WaltonAssistant Coaches: Jennifer Rocha, Jenny Gladding, Kristen Butler

West Region: University of Hawai’iHead Coach: Bob CoolenAssistant Coaches: John Nakamura, Dee Wisneski

NCAA Division II Mid-Atlantic Region: Lock Haven UniversityHead Coach: Kelley GreenAssistant Coaches: Kelly Shannon, Danielle Fraser

North Central Region: University of Nebraska-OmahaHead Coach: Jeanne ScarpelloAssistant Coaches: Michala Cimino, Kevin Dunn, Cory Petermann

Northeast Region: LIU-C.W. PostHead Coach: Jamie ApicellaAssistant Coach: Kelsey Walker

South Region: Florida Southern CollegeHead Coach: Chris BellottoAssistant Coaches: Jeff Lang, Julianne Dunham, and Al Bellotto

South Atlantic Region: Columbus State Head Coach: Tiffany TootleAssistant Coaches: Brad Huskisson, Jessica Bottoms

South Central Region: Angelo State Head Coach: Travis ScottAssistant Coaches: Claudia Lopez, Kelly Rhyne

West Region: California State, StanislausHead Coach: Jan SchefkowitzAssistant Coach: Paul Cavan

NCAA Division III Atlantic Region: Emory UniversityHead Coach: Penny SiqueirosAssistant Coaches: Gary Anderson, Michele Hawkins, Bill Hudson

Atlantic Region: Bridgewater CollegeHead Coach: Donnie FulkAssistant Coaches: Priscilla Halterman, Danny Conley, Skip Eger

Central Region: DePauw UniversityHead Coach: Bonnie SkrentaAssistant Coach: Clyde Spencer

East Region: Moravian CollegeHead Coach: John ByrneAssistant Coaches: Ron Cardinal, Rachel Mowrey, Geoffrey Deen, Mark Bentz, Heather Bortz

Great Lakes Region: University of Wisconsin-Eau ClaireHead Coach: Leslie HuntingtonAssistant Coaches: Robin Baker, Billie Buss, Nicole Pederson, Rachel Lemon

Midwest Region: Washington University in St. LouisHead Coach: Leticia Pineda-BoutteAssistant Coaches: Stacy Mui, Kris Caldwell

New England Region: Rhode Island CollegeHead Coach: Maria MorinAssistant Coaches: Ken Stanley, Kristen Norberg

Northeast Region: Plattsburgh State Head Coach: Sean CotterAssistant Coach: Jamie Trudeau

NAIA East Region: Shorter College Head Coach: Melanie CarterAssistant Coach: Al Thomas

Great Lakes Region: Bethel CollegeHead Coach: Anna WelshAssistant Coaches: Samantha Creakbaum, Stephanie Hochstetler, Jeff Welsh

Midwest Region: William Penn UniversityHead Coach: Mike ChristnerAssistant Coach: Steph Christner

West Region: Point Loma NazareneHead Coach: Dave WilliamsAssistant Coaches: Cheryl Schaefer, Ruth Atkins

NJCAA Division I Midwest Region: Texarkana College Head Coach: Leslie MessinaAssistant Coach: Sena Horne

West Region: North Idaho College Head Coach: Don Don WilliamsAssistant Coaches: Casi Reisenauer, Ron Bradstreet, Tammy Bradstreet

NJCAA Division II Midwest Region: Parkland College Head Coach: Chuck CluttsAssistant Coach: Brooke Freeman

East Region: Lansing Community CollegeHead Coach: Bob EveryAssistant Coaches: Jerry Murphy, Robert Dunham

High SchoolEast Region: Toms River East High SchoolHead Coach: Debbie SchwartzAssistant Coaches: Dawn Dziedzic, Michelle Neveling

North Region: Greenville High School Head Coach: Jerrod NewlandAssistant Coaches: Beth Arnold, Carol Paul, John Davis

South Region: Baker High School Head Coach: Tony ScarbroughAssistant Coaches: Henry Snow, Ricky Wharton, Jerry Rodden

South Region: Trinity Prep SchoolHead Coach: Kathy FinnucanAssistant Coaches: Kevin Griffin, Scott Burmeister, Dee Starling

South Central Region: Garland High School Head Coach: Cindy MostellerAssistant Coach: Jennifer Robertson

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HONORING EXCELLENCE

NCAA Division I Record YearsMike Candrea, University of Arizona 1,316-297-2 27Gayle Blevins, University of Iowa 1,136-529-5 28Yvette Girouard, Louisiana State University 1,122-351 28Joyce Compton, University of South Carolina 1,106-482 32Carol Hutchins, University of Michigan 1,031-384 24Eugene Lenti, DePaul University 932-463-6 26Donna J. Papa, University of North Carolina 839-488-4 23Ralph Weekly, University of Tennessee 827-282-1 20Teresa Wilson, Texas Tech University 802-446-1 21Patty Gasso, University of Oklahoma 801-267-2 17Jo Evans, Texas A&M University 725-433 22Frank Reed, Tennessee-Chattanoooga 721-244 16Karen Mullins, University of Connecticut 715-450-5 26Maria Di Bernardi, Villanova University 602-462-8 24Karen Weekly, University of Tennessee 549-198-1 11Megan Bryant, Stony Brook University 521-503 20Ken Eriksen, University of South Florida 509-261-1 11Holly Hesse, Missouri State University 501-479-2 19Lisa Navas, North Carolina State University 500-224-1 17Scot Thomas, Virginia Tech 434-288 12Kirk Walker, Oregon State University 421-324-3 13Craig Coleman, Robert Morris University 408-371-4 17Bridget Orchard, Fordham University 329-187-3 10Katie Flynn, James Madison University 323-332 13Kerri Blaylock, Southern Illinois University 315-132 8Pete Langlois, Southeastern Louisiana University 306-392 13Aimee Devos, North Carolina-Charlotte 300-401 13Windy Thees, University of Memphis 227-143 7Tim Walton, University of Florida 216-111 5Darren Mueller, North Dakota State University 213-111 7Mark Montgomery, Centenary College (La.) 212-173 7Jamie Pinkerton, University of Arkansas 206-226 7Gordon Eakin, Brigham Young University 201-93 5Stacey Sullivan, University of Maine 112-98 5Heather Tarr, University of Washington 112-66 3Mandy Roczniak, Central Connecticut State 111-298-2 9Mickey Dean, Radford University 109-32 8Jeanine Gunther, Lafayette College 107-116 5Jenny Condon, Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo 101-56 3

NCAA Division IIChris Bellotto, Florida Southern College 1,028-306 26Frank Cheek, Humboldt State University 922-227-2 19Vickee Kazee-Hollifield, Carson-Newman 733-207 21Lori Meyer, Minnesota State University Mankato 707- 504-3 23David Hanna, Coker College 604-163-1 18Kris Mort, Mesa State College 414-242 14Dan Burns, Lincoln Memorial University 409-296-1 13Jamie Apicella, C.W. Post-Long Island University 343-134 9David Kuhn, Delta State University 335-199 9Lesa M. Bonee, Nova Southeastern University 319-263-1 11Kathy Stewart, Northern Kentucky University 318-149 9Ken King, LeMoyne College 316-153-3 10Pam Knox, Western Oregon University 301-290 13Kelley Green, Lock Haven University 246-120 8

David Deiros, Florida Gulf Coast University 232-65-2 5Dana Lillard, Regis University 228-130 7Susan Anderson, University of Central Missouri 211-195 9Kristi Bredbenner, Emporia State University 143-38 3Richie Bruister, Henderson State University 124-75 4Chantiel Wilson, Abilene Christian University 119-95 4Bob Bartel, Concordia University-St. Paul 115-63 3Steve Johnson, North Carolina-Pembroke 109-150 5Ginger Chaffinch, Georgia College 104-51 3Gretta Melsted, Augustana College (S.D.) 103-120 4

NCAA Division IIIDonna Newberry, Muskingum College 817-370 33Karla Wolters, Hope College 623-342 29Jeff Annis, Gustavus Adolphus College 526-103 25Deb Pallozzi, Ithaca College 524-254 19Jim Kulawiak, North Central College 520-219 19Julie Lenhart, SUNY Cortland 516-255-1 18Gina Loudenburg, Wheaton College (Mass.) 504-188-3 18Charlie Beach, Keene State College 502-322 22Faye Perkins, University of Wisconsin-River Falls 427-350-2 20Janet Lloyd, Chapman University 427-144 14Margie Knight, Salisbury University 413-105-2 11Dick Bailey, Colby College 408-271-3 23Kim Wilson, Rowan University 406-184 17Linda Detra, Arcadia University 317-169 13Mike McKenzie, Aurora University 313-116-2 10Linda Wage, Clark University 306-195 19Kara Kehe, Wartburg College 225-135 8Orie Gentile, La Roche College 224-103 11Damian Williams, Willamette University 219-218 12John Dumaw, Brockport State University 202-133 9Jamie Smyth, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine 200-185 10Danny Fish, Maryville College 126-76 5Laurie Nevarez, University of Redlands 120-42 4JP Richards, Edgewood College 120-87 5Rachel Turoscy, DeSales University 114-193 10Diana Pepin, Eastern Connecticut State University 114-113 6Lance Kingery, Nebraska Wesleyan University 114-109 6Bonnie Skrenta, DePauw University 107-82 5Billie Blackwell, Centenary College (N.J.) 106-145-1 10Stella Porto, College of Staten Island 103-65 5Tina Phillips, University of Pittsburgh-Bradford 103-50-1 4Cheryl Milligan, Tufts University 102-53 4

NAIAWendy Spratt, Columbia College 508-232 13Terri Knecht, Savannah College of Art 436-255 13Dave Williams, Point Loma Nazarene University 426-145 10Mike Hampton, Iowa Wesleyan College 426-301 14Myra Minuskin, Saint Xavier University 424-255 13Ed Lehotak, Bellevue University 413-195 11Jeana Howald, Mount Vernon Nazarene 400-306 18Jerry Breaux, Evangel University 400-269-2 14Coby Mackin, University of Mobile 325-155-3 9Keith Kramme, Midland Lutheran College 324-308-1 12

2007 EASTON VICTORY CLUB AWARD WINNERS

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COACHING MANAGEMENT 31 31 COACHING MANAGEMENT31 COACHING MANAGEMENT

Brandie Paul, Martin Methodist College 311-241 10Chris Wilcoxson, Reinhardt College 211-116 8Emily Moore Russell, Lee University 209-88 5Frank Greene, Concordia University (Neb.) 201-140-1 7Tori Raby-Gentry, University of Virginia-Wise 131-83 4Greg Stewart, Oregon Tech 102-35-2 3Todd Buckingham, Indiana University Southeast 101-160 6

NJCAA Division I Jami Lind, Florida Community College 928-375 22Susan M. Painter, Gulf Coast Community College 632-192 13Don Gines, Louisburg College 608-272 15Kate McCluskey, Eastern Arizona College 546-425 18Mark Dicus, Seminole State College 506-159 9Tommy Ramos, Midland College 419-126-2 9Jayne Clem, Wallace State Community College 357-112 8Brenda Pena, Pensacola Junior College 327-180 10Greg Shivers, Central Alabama CC 315-103 7Beth Keylon-Randolph, Chattanooga State Tech 313-69 6Dr. Nancy Keenum, Calhoun Community College 313-90 7Karie Linsenmeyer, Northern Oklahoma College 303-220 10Don Don Williams, North Idaho College 244-250-1 11Joel Prickett, Odessa College 212-177 6Armando Quiroz, Pima Community College 205-76-1 8Belinda Hendrix, Chipola College 137-41 3Leslie Messina, Texarkana College 105-73 3

NJCAA Division II Ed Hargrove, Cowley Community College 823-283 23Dennis Clark, Kankakee Community College 800-272 25Jim Overturf, Kirkwood Community College 526-352 20Paula Maloley, Grand Rapids Community College 509-471 21Bob Every, Lansing Community College 343-57 8Chuck Clutts, Parkland College 333-98-2 7Art Kasak, Triton College 126-119 4Brian Dewey, Mercyhurst North East 117-62 5Scott Reese, Ancilla College 108-192 6Mary Jo Vrba, North Iowa Area CC 106-142 6

NJCAA Division III Robb DiGiacomo, Monroe Community College 245-74 8Nicholas A. DeGennaro, Sussex County CC 103-54-1 4

Cal JCRobert A. Maglione, Sacramento City College 1,008-346 27Sonny Stupek, Shasta College 612-306 21Lisa Bassi, Fullerton College 609-297 20Debbie Huntze-Rooney, San Jose City College 441-221-4 16Darci Brownell, Sierra College 309-84 9Michelle Daddona-Moya, Riverside CC 198-161-3 8Suzy Brazney, Golden West College 191-287 20Lisa Field, Santiago Canyon College 12-25 1

NWAACCMatt Loes, South Puget Sound CC 224-184 10

High SchoolRalph Wiktor, Romeo High School 606-174 25Andy Behmlander, Reese High School 514-209 25Kathy Finnucan, Trinity Preparatory School 507-147 24Tommy Orndorff, Bishop O’Connell High School 506-57 22Mike Teshkoyan, Caldwell High School 500-91-2 21Janice Williamson, Bryan High School 416-166 19Loa Kay Bowthorpe, Union High School 400-128 22Laneigh Clark, Pearland High School 325-322 16Mike Dyson, Centennial High School 315-104-8 14James McClanahan, Elkins High School 306-84 12Wes Worrell, Bishop Kelly High School 305-88 14Christina Christmas, Mason County Central 302-113 13David Halter, Bell High School 301-151 18Angelo Matz, Delaware Valley High School 300-130 20Jennifer Brown, Vestavia Hills High School 240-62 5Scott Hall, Pendleton Heights High School 228-54 9Paul Moore, Lassen High School 223-115 10Scott Libby, San Antonio Taft High School 213-84 10David Stewart, Wayland-Cohocton High School 213-83 15Amy Sullivan, Pelham High School 212-116 7Bob McFall, Evansville Memorial High School 209-71 9Deborah Loughlin, Spencerport High School 208-154 16Luann Zullo, Nutley High School 207-120 12Doug Kesler, Madison County High School 206-102 9Jerrod Newland, Greenville High School 128-27 5Jason Shirey, Fayetteville High School 118-19 4Tom McCall, Milford High School 117-77 7Ken Dischler, Park Falls High School 114-99 11Jeff Kuespert, Williams Bay High School 114-51 8Kaylyn Bayly, Countryside High School 108-35 5Mark Rhoten, St. Pius X High School 105-32 5Jason Blair, Parkland High School 104-65 6Linda Bouvet, Sault Area High School 103-284-1 12Cynthia Zea, Plano Senior High School 103-42-1 5Anthony LaRezza, Immaculate Heart Academy 102-24 4

International Allan Schwartz, Calahoo Erins 1,200-250 39

Travel BallBen McKinney, Carolina Cardinals 927-364-7 9Milton Simmons, Sports Plus 803-393 22Scott A. Smith, Texas Bombers-Black 695-206 6Lynn Snodgrass, Northern Colorado Xplosion 657-252-26 14Duane Cretin, Team Indiana U16 610-213 11Donnie Schwirtlich, South Texas HotStuff 441-169-11 9Edward Loweth, Indiana Nitro 16U 406-235 17Lewis Boehm, Texas Comets 302-120 6Stan Kolbe, Washington Senators 225-106 8Bob Bilafer, Black Ice 16U 211-81-4 6Larry Geyer, Idaho Golden Gloves 161-56-1 8Christian Sweeney, Bayside Blues 142-57-5 3Mark Goodacre, Fury 128-89 6Ken Fry, East Coast Elite Gold 103-23 5

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32 COACHING MANAGEMENT

PRODUCTS ON DISPLAY

Zingbat866-ZINGBATwww.zingbat.com

Zingbat™ offers the Trainer Series product line. This economically priced version of the regular Pro Series

Zingbat is ideal for youth play-ers. The Trainer Series teaches batters basic swing mechanics. The Composite Zingbat Trainer is available in one length and weight

(30 inches, 17 ounces), while the alu-minum Pro Series can be customized to meet your team’s specific length and weight requirements. Call today for a free instructional CD or video.

Circle No. 500

Louisville Slugger 800-282-2287www.slugger.com

The Louisville Slugger TPS Catalyst changed the face of fast-pitch softball in 2005, when it pro-pelled the Michigan Wolverines to a Women’s College World Series title. Two years later, the Catalyst continues to dominate fastpitch, and will continue to do so in 2008 with another new model. The TPS Catalyst is offered in -8 ounce, -9 ounce, and -10 ounce models. Its stiff handle and flexible barrel give players the ultimate in perfor-mance, feel, and durability.

Circle No. 501

The TPS Female Fastpitch Glove from Louisville Slugger features narrower finger stalls and smaller wrist open-

ings for a snug fit and great control. Bruise-Gard padding offers added protection in the palm and fin-ger areas, and Dye-Thru lacing enhances dura-

bility. Coolmax finger linings wick away perspiration from the player’s hand for control and comfort.

Circle No. 502

M.A.S.A., Inc.800-264-4519www.masa.com

M.A.S.A. has welcomed the new Fence Guard Lite to its family of fence guards. Fence Guard Lite is priced for the tight-

est budgets. It protects against chain-link fence inju-ries, increas-es fence visibility, and can add beauty to any

field. With the addition of Fence Guard Lite, M.A.S.A. now offers three grades of Fence Guard: Premium, Standard, and Lite. All three feature exterior-grade UV-resistant polyethylene construction that is maintenance-free and designed to last for many years. Call or go online today for more information.

Circle No. 503

The revolutionary new Handozer from M.A.S.A. is a complete infield grooming solution. It cuts maintenance time by

up to 75 percent and gets professional results. Traditional grooming requires four steps: a nail drag is used to cre-ate loose dirt for smoothing, a leveling device levels the field, a roller is typi-cally used for firmness, and a finishing drag mat makes the diamond sparkle. The new 30-inch-wide Handozer fea-tures all four tools on a compact frame designed for one-person operation. Call or go online for more information.

Circle No. 504

Nemo’s Speed Hitting Program503-848-7889www.speedbat.com

Nemo’s Speed Hitting Program is the recipient of the 2000 B&N Softball #1 New Product of the Year award. The

program includes Nemo’s Speed Training Bat, three instructional vid-eos, and now the new Triple Hitting Tee. Coach Nemo will be releasing his fourth instruc-tional video in December 2007. This is a complete

training program following a speed cir-cuit format using underloading drills to increase bat speed and reaction time. In the words of Drs. McDowell and Noebe of B&N Sports, “This product is one of the few products that can truly be used for baseball and softball. It really does work.”

Circle No. 505

Pro’s Choice800-648-1166www.proschoice1.com

Pro’s Choice Red infield conditioner is designed to meet the challenges of wet, dry, or compacted infields. This

legendary product is the first choice of professional groundskeepers for build-ing and maintaining winning softball fields season after season. It manages the moisture on your field, keeping it in top playing condition. Pro’s Choice Red infield conditioner is the all-star veteran of the Pro’s Choice lineup.

Circle No. 506

Rapid Dry drying agent from Pro’s Choice quickly wicks excess water away from your softball field and helps

improve soil consistency. It’s not a dusty powder, and its granules are

Need help fundraisingfor your team?

Check out the new source for fund-raising tips, support, and suppliers:

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PRODUCTS ON DISPLAY

perfectly sized for both stability and absorption. Rapid Dry’s sand-like tex-ture even improves footing on slippery surfaces. Just pour it on any wet spots and get back in the game, fast. When you need a game-saver, you want Rapid Dry drying agent in the lineup.

Circle No. 507

Grand Slam Pitching Machine800-GRAND-SLAMwww.agrandslam.com

Grand Slam is one of the most effec-tive pitching machines for working batters’ hand-eye coordination. Its self-

feeding reser-voir holds more than 60 golf ball-size Wiffle® balls and allows batters to take 50 swings in five minutes. Each pitch is guaranteed to hit the strike zone. It’s ideal

for indoor training or outdoor use—all you need is 16 to 20 feet of free space. Forty-eight balls and a lifetime warranty are included.

Circle No. 508

PIK Products, LLC877-845-7845www.pikproducts.comwww.baseballtrainingaids.com

The patented EZ Tee is lightweight, dura-ble, and portable. The legs fold for EZ storage—no more clunky home plates.

Use it with a golf ball-size Wiffle® ball for sharpen-ing hand-eye coordination, or with a baseball or softball. The fric-tion collar makes for EZ adjustment. The rubber top-per is flexible so it won’t damage

game bats. It allows the hitter to strike the ball more cleanly, so the tee stays upright. The EZ Tee was voted Best New Product at the 2007 American Baseball Coaches Association show.

Circle No. 509

RevFire866-414-3040www.revfire.com

Easier to use than a radar gun, the RevFire measures the spin of pitches as well as the speed. Adopted by college teams and clinics

across the country, coaches report dramatic results—pitchers throw a more effective breaking ball when they receive spin rate feedback. The RevFire is quickly becoming standard equip-ment among high school programs, pri-vate instructors, and serious pitchers. Go online to learn more.

Circle No. 510

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Circle No. 124 NFCA Booth No. 114

Circle No. 123

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34 COACHING MANAGEMENT

PRODUCTS ON DISPLAY

Ringor Corp.877-274-6467www.ringor.com

Ringor’s women’s Diamond Star is specifically designed to be the ultimate softball shoe, blending durability, com-

fort, and lightweight per for-mance. The Diamond Star is available in a metal spike and a non-

metal TPU model. Mid-high models and Pro-Tec-Toes models are also avail-able. The Diamond Star is the perfect team choice, with 10 color options: red, royal blue, maroon, black (pic-tured), green, white, navy blue, purple, orange, and pink.

Circle No. 511

Sports Attack 800-717-4251 www.sportsattack.com

All pitches, one machine—with the Hack Attack softball pitching machine, simply adjust the wheel speed dials to throw fastballs above 80 mph, risers, drops, right- and left-handed curves, screwballs up and in to right- and left-handed hitters, and knuckleball changeups. This machine has a unique three-wheel design that provides complete ball vision, lifelike timing, and pinpoint accuracy for col-lege and serious high school athletes.

Circle No. 512

The Junior Hack Attack softball pitching machine from Sports Attack is designed to develop seri-ous young play-ers. With a quick turn of the dials, this machine can

throw fastballs above 60 mph, risers, drops, right- and left-handed curves, screwballs, and knuckleball changeups. The exclusive three-wheel vision allows the hitter to see the ball clearly, just like with a live pitcher. At 75 pounds, it easily fits into a compact car, even a Mini Cooper.

Circle No. 513

Sports Tutor800-448-8867www.sportsmachines.com

The HomePlate Softball programmable pitching machine can simulate any pitch that batters are likely to face. It

can throw a 70-mph riser, a 50-mph drop pitch, a curve, and a slider with only seven seconds between pitches. Store up to eight different pitches in each of the eight different programs.

Programmed pitches can be thrown sequentially for specific hitting drills, or randomly to simulate game conditions. Choose the auto-feed model, which holds up to 40 12-inch dimpled soft-balls, or the hand-feed model, starting at $4,495.

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Stabilizer Solutions, Inc.800-336-2468www.stabilizersolutions.com

Stabilizer Ballyard Products designed the Hilltopper product line specifically for the game of softball. The Hilltopper family is a leader in all-weath-er field amend-ments. These products shed water from the playing surface and are dust-free. They do not require water for installation or maintenance. This innovative line includes the Hilltopper Mound & Homeplate Clay, Hilltopper Infield Mix, Hilltopper Warning Track Mix, and Hilltopper Conditioner. Whatever your style of play, Hilltopper delivers.

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Stromgren Supports800-527-1988www.stromgren.com

The Heel-Lock ankle support (model 329) from Stromgren emulates a pro-fessional tape job, providing excellent

ankle support and eliminating costly taping. It’s not bulky, it’s easy to put on, and it fits comfort-ably in either the left or right shoe. The Spandex™ sock applies comfortable compression to the foot, and the per-manently attached

heel-lock straps help control severe eversion and inversion. The Heel-Lock is available in black or white. For more information, call toll-free or visit the company online.

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The Low Rider softball sliding shorts (models 1363 and 1364) from Stromgren provide athletes with com-fort and compression to support muscle stabil-ity and keep protective pads in place. Hip and thigh areas in both the five- and seven-inch inseam models are protected with antimi-crobial padding, while the Hydro-Flex mois-ture-wicking system keeps players dry and cool. The Low Rider is designed with a Coolmax® gusset panel for feminine hygiene. This product is sold exclusively through team distributors nationwide. Call toll-free or visit the company online for more information.

Circle No. 517

Check out

www.AthleticBid.comto contact these companies.

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COACHING MANAGEMENT 35

PRODUCTS ON DISPLAY

girls got game866-600-9905 www.girlsgotgamesoftball.com

girls got game features performance-driven products for women’s softball players who take their game seriously. The company offers top-quality branded products from Mizuno, Under Armour, Russell, Nike, adidas, Oakley, and more. Russell’s All Star Performance Uniform, normally $80, is avail-able for just $59.98. To

request a catalog or for more informa-tion, call or go online today.

Circle No. 518

OB Team Sports877-379-9051www.obteamsports.com

OB Team Sports is the maker of the AccuPitch Fastpitch Mat, one of the

most durable, longest-lasting mats on the market today. It’s guaranteed not to slip, slide, scoot, or leave marks

on gym-nasium floors. The com-pany also carries a full line of field mainte-nance

and fastpitch equipment from batting cages to softballs, plus a wide variety of training aids. Call today and let OB Team Sports help you design a win-ning program.

Circle No. 519

World-Sport800-496-8687www.worldsport-tours.com

World-Sport is an innovative company that coordinates exciting national and international travel programs for all kinds of sports teams. Regardless

of athletes’ age, skill level, or sport, World-Sport takes care of all the details, leaving the coach free to plan

strat-egy and enjoy the sights—simply choose a desti-nation

and World-Sport does the rest. Along with quality competition, your team will experience one-in-a-lifetime sightsee-ing and cultural activities. Lunch at the Leaning Tower of Pisa? No problem. A team photo with kangaroos and koalas? No worries, mate. Players, coaches, parents, and boosters all enjoy outstanding tours as you travel the globe with World-Sport.

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TeamPacks_CM1513.indd 1 10/22/07 4:54:20 PM

A COACHES BEST FRIEND

The best in artificial

turf for your next

baseball, softball or

other sport facility.

800-959-1844 • 888-566-8966www.diamondturf.net

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36 COACHING MANAGEMENT

P R O D U C T S D I R E C T O R YCIRCLE COMPANY PAGE CIRCLE COMPANY PAGENO. NO. NO. NO

537. . . Beam Clay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

525 . . BetterBaseball (Easy Auction) . . . . . . . 38

524 . . . BetterBaseball (nets and cages) . . . . . 38

543 . . Diamond Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

540 . . DiamondTurf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

527. . . Game-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

528. . . Game-On (Red) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

530 . . GameMaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

529 . . girls got game (NFCA Awards Program) . 38

518 . . . girls got game (performance-driven) . . . 35

508 . . Grand Slam Pitching Machine . . . . . 33

532 . . Jump Stretch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

501. . . Louisville Slugger (TPS Catalyst) . . . . . . 32

502 . . Louisville Slugger (TPS Fastpitch Glove) . 32

503 . . M.A.S.A. (Fence Guard Lite) . . . . . . . . . 32

504 . . M.A.S.A. (Handozer) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

521 . . . Measuring Plate (AKH Sports) . . . . . . 37

533 . . Memphis Net & Twine Co. . . . . . . . 39

534 . . Mighty Grip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

535 . . Muhl Tech (Advanced Skills Tee) . . . . . . 39

536 . . Muhl Tech (training equipment) . . . . . . 39

505 . . Nemo’s Speed Hitting Program . . . 32

519 . . . OB Team Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

509 . . PIK Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

531 . . . Plus5 Field Marker (Imerys) . . . . . . . . 38

539 . . Power Systems (Power Base Trainer) . . 40

538 . . Power Systems (Power Program) . . . . . 40

507 . . Pro’s Choice (Rapid Dry) . . . . . . . . . . . 32

506 . . Pro’s Choice (Red infield conditioner) . . 32

510 . . . RevFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

511 . . . Ringor (Diamond Star) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

522 . . Ringor (GameSpeed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

512 . . . Sports Attack (Hack Attack) . . . . . . . . 34

513 . . . Sports Attack (Junior Hack Attack) . . . . 34

541 . . . Sports Products Consultants . . . . . 40

514 . . . Sports Tutor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

515 . . . Stabilizer Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

516 . . . Stromgren (Heel-Lock ankle support) . . 34

517 . . . Stromgren (sliding shorts) . . . . . . . . . . 34

542 . . TeamPacks.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

523 . . The K Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

544 . . The Pitching Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

526. . . WeatherBeater® by Colorado Lining . 38

520 . . World-Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

500 . . Zingbat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

A D V E R T I S E R S D I R E C T O R YCIRCLE COMPANY PAGE CIRCLE COMPANY PAGENO. NO. NO. NO

121 . . . Atec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

123 . . . Beam Clay® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

103 . . . BetterBaseball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

110 . . . Diamond Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

126 . . . DiamondTurf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

102 . . . Game-On Field Conditioner . . . . . . . 4

114 . . . GameMaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

100 . . girls got game . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

122 . . . Jump Stretch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

105. . . Louisville Slugger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

115 . . . M.A.S.A. Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

113 . . . Measuring Plate (AKH Sports) . . . . . . 18

117 . . . Memphis Net & Twine Co. . . . . . . . 20

127 . . . Mighty Grip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

106. . . Muhl Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

134 . . . National Fastpitch Coaches Assoc.. . 27

104. . . Nemo’s Speed Hitting Program . . . . 7

120 . . . OB Team Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

129 . . . Personal Pitcher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

132 . . . PIK Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BC

108 . . Plus5 Field Marker (Imerys) . . . . . . . . 12

112 . . . ProBatter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

118 . . . Pro’s Choice Field Products . . . . . . 21

116 . . . Ringor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

133 . . . Softball-Tips.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

101 . . . Sports Attack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

131 . . . Sports Tutor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC

119 . . . Stabilizer Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

109. . . Stromgren . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

125 . . . TeamPacks.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

130 . . . The K Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

128 . . . The Pitching Pad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

107 . . . WeatherBeater® by Colorado Lining . 12

111 . . . World-Sport Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

124 . . . Zingbat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

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COACHING MANAGEMENT 37

It’s time for a better way to train.Perfect Pitches through Perfect Practice

Baseball or Softball.BETTER Accuracy.BETTER Control.No need for a catcher.

The Pitching PadTh e Professional Pitching System

www.thepitchingpad.com 210.232.8392

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PRODUCTS DEBUTING AT THE SHOW

AKH Sports, Inc./The Measuring Plate888-406-4347www.hplate.com

The Measuring Plate is perfect for all levels of play in baseball and softball. It’s simple to use and has a lightweight double-wall design. It is ideal for pitch-

ing practice and warmup anytime and anywhere. Pitcher/catch-er camps and clinics for all ages can ben-efit from the Measuring

Plate, and it can add a new dimension to indoor training and off-season prac-tice away from the field. Advanced uses include flat practice (baseball pitching), pitching rehab (all levels), and private instruction and training centers. It fea-tures rugged UV- and weather-resistant HDPE plastic construction with adjustable 60’ 6” fiberglass tape.

Circle No. 521

Ringor Corp.877-274-6467www.ringor.com

Ringor’s GameSpeed™ product line is designed to promote game-specific movements. All apparel products within

this line are spe-cifically made for softball players seeking garments that are designed to control

moisture and regulate core body tem-perature. Ringor’s GameSpeed products take the next step by allowing “flex” during softball-specific movements. This is best highlighted by the Women’s GameSpeed Shirt from Ringor. This garment is available in red, royal blue, maroon, green, white, navy blue, grey, purple, and black.

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The K Factor917-797-6576www.the-k-factor.com

The K Factor is a fastpitch training tool that’s specifically designed to enhance a pitcher’s performance on the mound. Coaches, parents, and athletes know

the mechanical hardships pitch-ers can encounter with their training and how frustrat-ing it can be. The K Factor helps build strong, independent, suc-cessful pitchers by increasing arm speed, maximiz-

ing the length of the arm circle, adding overall velocity to pitches, strengthen-ing the wrist snap to create better breaks on pitches, and developing strong and healthy muscle memory.

Circle No. 523

BETTER PROTECTION.

New PROTEK Gloves. Finally, exclusive under-mitt impact protection. You won’t even knowwhat hit you.

BETTER GRIPPING.

1.866.517.7810 mightygrip.com

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38 COACHING MANAGEMENT

Betterbaseball.com800-997-4233www.betterbaseball.com

BetterBaseball is a total baseball and softball supply house, specializing in nets and batting cages that are cus-

tom cut to any size you want. The company provides quick, friendly cus-tomer service. BetterBaseball

supplies everything, including bases, plates, mounds, gear, and hardware. All team equipment needs can be found easily online, or you can call the compa-ny toll-free for more product information.

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Want to save even more on great prod-ucts at the Betterbaseball.com Web site? Try the new Easy Auction feature. Each item up for bid is described in detail and a product image is shown. Get fantastic deals on every-thing from bats and gloves to windscreens and practice balls. Go online to learn more, and you’ll be placing bids in no time.

Circle No. 525

Colorado Lining888-546-4641www.weather-beater.com

Protect your field with WeatherBeater®’s athletic covers. The company’s products include field covers, sideline

covers, infield shields, windscreens, event flooring, gym floor covers, custom logo printing, and more. WeatherBeater, by Colorado Lining, has more than 28 years and half a billion square feet of experience converting plastics for various industries. For literature and more information, call today or visit the company online.

Circle No. 526

DiGeronimo Aggregates888-593-0395www.hayditegame-on.com

Game-On is a sports field soil condi-tioner that will not break your budget and will provide excellent results. It is

a lightweight, expanded-shale product that absorbs more than 20 percent of its weight in water. Game-On is more durable than clay products and tends not to break down into fine

particles. The Game-On product line also includes Game-On Red topdress-ing, Game-On warning track mix, and Game Dry drying agent. Game-On is available both in bags and in bulk.

Circle No. 527

Game-On hits a home run with Game-On Red topdressing. Game-On Red has a brick-red color and gives your field that professional finish-ing touch. It offers a more consistent bounce, and the deep red color allows your infielders to see the ball more easily. Game-On Red is available in bags and in bulk.

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girls got game866-600-9905 www.girlsgotgamesoftball.com

girls got game has announced a com-mitment to the NFCA’s Academic

Awards Program. Investing in the academic

goals of athletes is a priority for girls got game. This commitment is being made not only to the sport of softball, but also to the growth and development of the student-athletes who strive for excellence in their daily lives.

Circle No. 529

GameMaster800-646-4225www.gamemasterathletic.com

The new and improved Instructo-Swing was developed to help hitters prac-tice and learn how to swing a bat the correct way. When training with the

Instructo-Swing, the good habits bars help the hitter to develop the correct swing path to the ball. The new angle adjust-ment feature

helps develop the type of swings that produce line drives, hard ground balls, and fly balls that carry.

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Imerys800-552-9671www.plus5linemarker.com

Plus 5 is licensed as the official marking material of the NFHS. It’s easy to apply and produces a whiter line, and it is also good for turf. This economical product is harmless to skin and cloth-ing. Plus 5 complies with NCAA and NFHS rules for athletic marking materials, as well as the “safe use” requirements of the Consumer Safety Act, Public Law 92-573.

Circle No. 531

Jump Stretch, Inc.800-344-3539www.jumpstretch.com

“Don’t Ice that Ankle Sprain!” by Jump Stretch founder Dick Hartzell and Dr. Michael Shimmel will introduce you to

the FlexBand Ankle & Strengthening Traction Technique, which is designed to reduce pain and swelling and to speed recovery time from ankle injuries. You will never deal with a sprain the same way again. The

book is 85 pages long, includes a com-panion DVD, and covers horizontal trac-tion, vertical traction, deferred pain, and more. It also includes testimonials from athletes and healthcare professionals.

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MORE PRODUCTS

Page 41: Coaching management 15.13

COACHING MANAGEMENT 39

MORE PRODUCTS

PERSONAL PITCHERCOACH’S OFF-SEASON SPECIAL

ONLY $99

TO ORDER CALL (800) 474-8243 OR VISIT

www.personalpitcher.comUSE CMMAG IN THE PROMO CODE ON ORDER FORM (PO’S OK)

The accuracy, speed & variety ofpitches allows a player to use PIT,Pitch Isolation Training, unique tothe Personal Pitcher. Simply set thetype of pitch and keep swinging untilit’s easy! Then work on another pitch! NO other golf ball machines, nor do moststandard machines, offer this feature!

Call for Accessory Discounts! Add $15 shipping.Visit website to see a video presented by Chris Richard, MLBPA.

Retail Value — $154CMMAG Price ONLY $99!Save $55!

Limited TimeOffer!

Meet The Original Golf Ball Pitching Machine!• Fastballs to 60mph Exit Velocity• RH/LH CURVEBALLS/Cut Fastballs• 24 Balls & AC Adapter Included• 2-Year Warranty, All Parts & Labor• 100 Ball Capacity w/Autofeed• Discounted Accessories Available:

Tripod, 4-hr. Battery, Extra Balls, etc.• Weighs Only 5 Pounds Fully Loaded• Save $55 (or more), Our Best Offer EVER!

Offer Good Through 3e ro o o e G o Or er or

ed by ber ujo

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Nov. 0thd

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Memphis Net & Twine Co., Inc.800-238-6380www.memphisnet.net

Memphis Net & Twine makes its prod-ucts in the United States, offering batting cages and backstops to meet

customers’ exact specifications. The company also fabricates custom wind-

screens out of vinyl-coated polyester in 11 different colors. These windscreens can be made to any height or width. Memphis Net & Twine also sells bench-es, stadium bleachers, and tip-n-roll bleachers.

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Mighty Grip800-449-2143www.mightygrip.com

Catchers and first basemen can protect their glove hand with Protek, Mighty Grip’s innovative inner glove, made of pliable goat leather and a proprietary

space-aged shock absorbing material. They can also get a grip with Mighty Grip’s grip-enhanc-ing powder. Mighty Grip powder is body-heat activated to enhance grip on the

ball and bat without transferring. You can apply it as often as needed without messy buildup. Better than pine tar, you don’t need as much and it washes off with soap and water, leaving no stain.

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Muhl Tech888-766-8772www.themuhl.com

Why is the Advanced Skills Tee used by more than 2,000 high school and col-lege programs? You get instant feedback with every swing. Its unique forward arm

and outside barrier help develop a nice swing path and keep the hands inside the ball. The tough polyurethane con-struction will give you years of worry-free use. Try one this season, and if you don’t like it, Muhl Tech will buy it back.

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Muhl Tech Baseball & Softball offers equipment to make your practice time more productive. Since 2001, the company has been devel-oping a line of “skill-spe-cific” training equipment that gives hit-ters instant feedback with every swing. The products are designed to withstand heavy use during high school and col-lege team practices. Muhl Tech also offers its own line of batting cages and screens, sold direct to save you money.

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NFCA Booth No.122

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40 COACHING MANAGEMENT

MORE PRODUCTS

Beam Clay®800-247-BEAMwww.beamclay.com

Permanent pitcher’s mound and bat-ter’s box pads save time and money. These specially formulated red polyure-

thane pads are buried two inch-es below

the surface and eliminate deep holes. They reduce maintenance in high-wear areas by 95 percent, while providing the safety and feel of properly main-tained clay. They’re tougher and longer lasting than granulated rubber or arti-ficial turf pads. This option is great for high-use fields, and for ballfields where coaches or parents repair the mound and home plate areas—simply drag the infield mix back over the pads.

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Power Systems, Inc.800-321-6975www.power-systems.com

The Softball Power Program, exclusive-ly from Power Systems, is a 12-week training program designed to bolster the speed, agility, and explosive-ness of softball ath-letes. The program includes a Pro Agility Ladder, a six-pound Power Med Ball, a Lateral Stepper, a VersaDisc, a Power Chute (large), a Power Throw-Ball set (7, 14, and 21 ounce, softball size), a nylon carrying bag, and the Power Program manual and DVD.

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Train more athletes in the same amount of time with the new Power Base Trainer from Power Systems. This anchoring

system eliminates the need for a part-ner when training solo or in a group. Users can perform forward, backward, lateral, vertical, or jumping move-ments. Load the

Power Base Trainer with weight plates (minimum of 90 pounds) and train up

to four athletes by attaching the fully sheathed resistance tubing to the four welded metal loops on top.

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DiamondTurfwww.diamondturf.net

Supreme DiamondTurf 36 is designed to withstand pivoting steel spikes for optimum performance and outstanding

durability. Its monofil-ament poly-propylene surface is ideal for

softball because it has no pile direc-tion, resulting in more consistent ball roll. Supreme DiamondTurf 36 comes with an optional five-millimeter foam pad, and can be enhanced with custom inlaid logos and colors. The turf carries an eight-year warranty and is available through Collegiate Pacific (888-566-8966), Tomark Sports (800-959-1844), and VPI Sports (800-244-4457).

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Sports Products Consultants800-474-8243www.personalpitcher.com

Accurately keep track of pitch speeds from pee wee to pro with the patented ScoutWatch. You just press and release on each pitch. It features an automatic pitch counter, time-down-the-line, and umpire mode. This product is used by pro and college scouts at functions where radar is prohibited. ScoutWatch is just one of the many great products available from Sports Products Consultants. Save $10 when you use the promo code “CMMAG” on your order form.

Circle No. 541

TeamPacks.com877-302-0548www.teampacks.com

TeamPacks.com offers sports programs quality uniforms and practice wear. For baseball and softball programs, TeamPacks offers the Home Run Pack, which includes one hooded sweatshirt

(two-color print), one performance batting practice top (two-color print and num-ber), one two-color print T-shirt, one two-color

print pair of sweatpants, a pro-mesh short (one-color print, seven- or nine-inch inseam), and one long-sleeve mock (two-color print). This six-item package costs only $75—with no art fees. Turnaround time is two weeks, and custom pack-ages are available.

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TXI/Diamond Pro800-228-2987www.diamondpro.com

Diamond Pro offers a complete line of professional groundskeeping prod-ucts: infield conditioners, calcined clay, mound and home plate clay, bricks, marking dust, and infield and warning track mixes. The company offers fast and convenient delivery. Diamond Pro’s vitrified red clay infield conditioner is available in bulk nationwide, and is easy to handle and apply. Truckloads are available in 10-, 15-, and 24-ton loads that save you both time and money.

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The Pitching Pad210-232-8392www.thepitchingpad.com

The Pitching Pad is a complete system designed to make pitchers’ workouts more effective. Using the markings on

the Pitching Pad as reference points, pitch-ers are forced to focus on location, and by seeing exactly where each pitch lands, they’re better able to make needed adjust-ments. The numbers

are laid out like a clock, allowing the pitcher to perfect a 12-6 curveball or a 10-4 sinker. Suggested daily workouts, a pitching chart, and simulated game instructions are included.

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HomePlateBY SPORTS TUTOR

TM

The PPROGRAMMABLE SoftballPitching MMachine

1-800-448-8867FREE brochure

Sports Tutor, 3300 Winona Ave., Burbank, CA 91504www.sportsmachines.com

SPORTSTUTOR

The Sports Machine Company

•Risers, drops andcurves up to 70 MPH

•Simulate opposing pitchers

•40-ball auto-feed or hand feed models

BASEBALLMODELS TOO!

from$4,995

THROW A DIFFERENT

PITCH EVERY

7 SECONDS

Come see the HomePlate in action at the NFCA Show in booths 807-810

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Contact your local team dealer or call 877.845.7845 www.pikproducts.com

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