Softball Australia is proud to unveil the Elite Battery Coach Academy, a game-changing initiative set to redefine coaching standards in Australian softball. This innovative program looks to go beyond traditional training, towards shaping the future of our sport by developing elite battery coaches while nurturing high-performing pitchers and catchers.

“In 2024, this program will simultaneously develop pitchers, catchers and coaches. In order to create sustainable success at World Cups and Olympics for Australia, we need to lead the world in the way we develop the battery”, said Softball Australia National Pathways Manager, Clare Humberstone. “We don’t have the playing and coaching depth of Japan and USA, but what we do have is Australian innovation, collaboration, skill and thirst for knowledge. We can learn faster than everyone else and this will be our secret weapon. We are going to develop a community of battery coaches who are world-leaders”.

What is the Elite Battery Coach Academy program?

The Elite Battery Coach Academy is a 1-year program that will run throughout 2024. A pair of face-to-face camps in April and June 2024 serve as the cornerstone of the program. These athlete and coach development weekends will immerse participants in a high-performance coaching environment, held within world-class facilities at the Australian Institute of Sport. Coaches and players will work together through a series of practical sessions to build a deeper collective understanding of what contributes to world class softball battery performance and create individualised player development plans.

Former Aussie Spirit Head Coach and internationally accredited coach developer, Bob Crudgington, will be leading the specialised coaching development throughout the program. Bob brings a wealth of experience to the Elite Battery Coach Academy, who’s coaching pedigree and commitment to excellence helps to ensure a lasting legacy of success of the program. Read more in Bob's profile here.

Strength and power development, biomechanics, skills learning, mental performance and player development planning will be key features of the program. In addition, the program covers a spectrum of coaching aspects, from technical and tactical coaching to fostering a supportive and autonomous learning environment for players. The inclusion of reflective activities, goal-setting, and performance reviews empowers players and coaches to refine their approach continually.

For the coaches, the face-to-face camps are complemented by a series of interactive online seminars throughout the year focused on technical and tactical approaches to the game, contemporary coaching practice as well as connection to industry experts. Coaches will also have the opportunity throughout the year to work with a coach developer, a “coach of coaches”, to get individualised feedback on the way they are supporting athletes in their development. The program awards a certificate of completion, recognising each participant’s commitment to continuous improvement.

This is exciting. How can I be part of it?

For Coaches: This program is targeted at coaches who aspire to be national team battery coaches and/or coaches who currently support pitchers and catchers who are part of the Softball Australia national squads. Battery coaches who are passionate about personal development and the development of our future battery stars are encouraged to apply to be part of the program. For more information and to register your interest, visit our Elite Battery Coach Academy page. Applications close Sunday 4 February 2024.

For Players: The program is by invitation only and is targeted towards players aged 14+ who, through their 2023 and 2024 performances, have demonstrated potential to be an Australian senior pitcher or catcher in the future. These players will be selected from within the Softball Australia national squads and invited to attend.