Get Our Newsletter
Players
CANpitch is Softball Canada’s national pitching program created to provide a standardized curriculum based on Softball Canada’s Long-Term Player Development framework to introduce and develop the skill of windmill pitching to children and youth. The primary objective of the program is to provide a vehicle to enhance the development of pitching skills and knowledge of players across Canada especially at the grassroots level.
Interested Associations should contact their local CanPitch instructor directly:Abbotsford/Chilliwack - Jen Schreyer - jennifer_schreyer@sd34.bc.ca
Castlegar - Derek Hipwell - hipwells@telus.net
Kelowna - Joni Frei - jonifrei@yahoo.com
Prince George - K-Lynn Hogh - khogh@shaw.ca
Nanaimo - Bobby O'Brien - bobbyobrien@hotmail.com
North Vancouver- Isla Powell - isla-powell@hotmail.com
Surrey - Jim Ullock - jimullock@msn.com
Vancouver - Kaila Holtz - kailaholtz@gmail.com
Vancouver - Auburn Sigurdson - auburn.sigurdson@gmail.com
Vancouver - Erin Thomas - erin.et.thomas@gmail.com
Victoria - Rob Guenter - robgue@shaw.ca
Victoria - Joey Van de Vorde - vicdevilscoach@gmail.com
Victoria - Lori Zehr - zehrl@camosun.bc.ca
Victoria - Sam Aldridge - sa7@shaw.ca
Victoria - Hannah Wilson - softball.08@hotmail.com
CANpitch Sessions
Vancouver – Final Session
Location:
What is the CanPitch Program?
Throughout the program, pitchers will:
- learn and develop the fundamental skills of pitching.
- meet other players and develop friendships.
- see their progress as they move from one stage of pitching development to the next following a clearly defined pathway.
- be introduced to the concepts of fair play, fitness, safety, teamwork, and the importance of a positive attitude.
- have a fun memorable experience.
How does the Program Work?
The CANpitch Program will be delivered by Provincial/Territorial Softball Associations across Canada and facilitated by Master or Regional Pitching Instructors through a weekly pitching clinic using a 6-week curriculum. If you wish to sign up for a clinic or if your local softball association wishes to host a clinic, please contact your Provincial/Territorial Softball Association.
The CANpitch Program currently has three developmental levels with plans to add more in the future:
- FUNdamentals (ages 8-9)
- Learning To Train (ages10-12)
- Training To Train (ages 13-16)
All participants will be evaluated at the beginning of the program and will be trained at the level that best suits their developmental needs. The CANpitch Program is offered in a 6-week block. It is expected that a pitcher would likely participate in more than one 6-week block over the course of the year. This structure allows the pitcher time to participate in other activities and interests as well as ensures their long-term development over their career.
CANpitch FUNdamentals (Ages 8-9)
The FUNdamental stage is the entry level for young pitchers. At this level, pitchers should learn two basic concepts: proper grip and how to deliver the ball towards the target. Emphasis is also placed on smooth, rhythmic wrist and arm action.
Structured Lessons:
60 minute session once per week.
Additional Practice Time:
Participants are encouraged to practice one additional session per week on their own time with parents.
CANpitch Learning To Train (Ages10-12)
In the Learning To Train stage, pitchers continue to learn fundamental pitching skills. The goal of this stage is to systematically build on the skills learned in the FUNdamentals stage by increasing the speed of the motion and throwing to basic targets while maintaining proper mechanics.
Structured Lessons:
60 minute session once per week.
Additional Practice Time:
at least 20 minutes one to two times per week with a coach, catcher or parent.
CANpitch Training To Train (Ages 13-16)
Pitchers at this stage are beginning to understand the skills associated with being a successful pitcher. Improving velocity, control, and ball movement are the next priorities in the progression of skill development. Pitchers at this stage will be encouraged to develop at least two (2) pitches: a fastball and a change-up (females) or the drop ball and change-up (males). Based on the instructor’s assessment, the drop ball, curve ball and rise ball may also be introduced at this stage based on the pitcher’s size, strength, and ability.
Structured Lessons:
60 minute session once per week.
Additional Practice Time:
at least 20 minutes up to 3 times per week with a coach, catcher or parent.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE CANPITCH PROGRAM, PLEASE CONTACT SARAH AT 604-531-0044 OR BY EMAIL AT programcoordinator@softball.bc.ca.
