The NVGSA is committed to supporting our volunteer coaches by providing coaching development and resources. Refer to the Clinics page for coaching clinics we are currently offering.

Coach Development

The NVGSA encourages all volunteer coaches to develop their technical and coaching skills. We recommend that coaches obtain at least the following minimum levels of training and certification through the National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) from the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC).

House League, up to Mite division

Initiation context in the Community Sport stream

House League, Squirt & higher divisions

Ongoing Participation context in the Community Sport stream

Rep League

The minimum qualification for coaching at the Rep level is the Introduction context in the Competition stream. Refer to the Rep Program Guidelines for detailed Rep coaching qualifications.

Clinics

Please check the Softball BC Coaching Clinics page for a current listing of clinics offered outside of the NVGSA.

Please check the CAC website for more information on NCCP training and certification, including clinics and workshops.

Batting

NVGSA has two pitching machines which can be used by any team for batting skills development, a battery operated one and an electric one which requires a plug-in for power. We now have much more flexibility with the times and locations available for pitching machine usage.

The cost is $10.00 per 2-hour session. This charge goes towards the cost for upkeep of the machines and replacement of worn out balls.

The pitching machines must be booked in advance from one of the Pitching Machine Managers listed on the Executive page. There are specific rules on picking up and returning the equipment which will be explained at the time of booking.

It should be noted that the balls used in this machine are very expensive. Please take care to ensure you return the same number of balls you were issued.

Coaching Library

The following books and videos are available for coaches to borrow from the NVGSA. The loan period is one (1) week, which can be extended on request if no one else has requested the item. Please contact the Head Coach on the Executive page to arrange to borrow these items.

The Softball Coaching Bible

National Fastpitch Coaches Association, 2002

The Softball Pitching Edge

Featuring Cheri Kempf, Human Kinetics Video (VHS), 2003

Pitching and Catching

Softball skills & drills featuring Judi Garman, Human Kinetics Video (VHS), 2001

Fielding

Softball skills & drills featuring Judi Garman, Human Kinetics Video (VHS), 2001

On-Line Resources

Rules

Umpire Casebook

Manual to assist softball umpires to better understand and interpret the rules of softball.

Coaching Softball

CANCoach

Coaching software with multimedia drills, skill training, plays and diagrams.

Decatur Softball Drills

Comprehensive list on all aspects of softball, including nutrition, motivation/pyschology, strategy, and equipment.

Fastpitch on eteamz

Tips and drills, a discussion board, and softball cheers.

Coaching Female Athletes

Coaching Female Athletes

A publication from the CABC designed for coaches by coaches to address important issues about coaching female athletes.

CAAWS

Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity.

Excellence in Coaching

Coaches Game Plan

Guidelines to creating a safer environment, including the Athlete's Bill of Rights and the Coaches Code of Conduct, from the Government of BC SportSafe Program.

Coaches Association of BC (CABC)

Coaching resources, courses, articles & publications, conferences, and the National Coaches Certification Program (NCCP).

Sport BC

Leadership, direction and support to foster the growth and development of amateur sport in BC.

Coaching Association of Canada (CAC)

Coach education & training, professionalization & membership, promotion & communication, and resource & organizational development.

Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sports (CCES)