CANpitch is Softball Canada’s national pitching program created by a team of pitching experts with considerable experience in the game. The program delivers a standardized curriculum compliant with Softball Canada`s Long Term Player Development framework and introduces the the skills of windmill pitching to children, youth or adults in a fun, safe, developmentally appropriate manner.
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.
• 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.
All participants will be evaluated at the beginning of the program and will be trained at the level that best suits their developmental needs. To enhance overall long-term athlete development, pitchers are encouraged to participate in multiple 6-week blocks over the course of the year while taking part in other activities and interests.
CANpitch FUNdamentals
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.
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.
Additional Practice time: Participants are encouraged to practice one additional session per week on their own time with parents.
CANpitch Learning To Train
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.
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.
Additional Practice time: at least 20 minutes one to two times per week with a coach, catcher or parent.
CANpitch Training To Train
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.
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.
Additional practice time: at least 20 minutes up to 3 times per week with a coach, catcher or parent.