2026 Coaching Applications Now Open!

Team Plans for 2026:
•     Travel Select Teams: We anticipate forming at least two teams at each of the following age levels: U9, U11, U13, and U15
•     Local Select Teams: Expected at U9, U11, U13, & U15
Important Notes:
•     Final team formation will depend on coach and player interest
•     If you're passionate about developing young athletes and building strong teams, we encourage you to apply!
Apply Today!
 Apply Here: https://app.teamlinkt.com/register/find/nipissingdistrictsoftballclub?cid=55589

A current valid VSC certificate and your NCCP number is required as soon as possible.


COACHING INFORMATION

WHAT IS A VULNERABLE SECTOR CHECK (VSC) AND WHY DO I NEED IT?

A Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) for coaching is a mandatory, high-level screening process for coaches and volunteers in Canada to protect children and vulnerable populations.

All volunteers are required to complete the following:

  1. A Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) must be completed before you begin coaching. For the 2026 season, the Nipissing District Softball Club will accept a VSC that was done in on or after September 2024. VSCs must be renewed every two years. The Nipissing District Softball Club reserves the right to request an updated VSC from a volunteer at any time.

For further information, please contact us at info@thesoftballclub.ca 

ALL Vulnerable Sector Checks are completed online. 

If you live in the City of North Bay, please visit the following link to obtain your VSC - NORTH BAY POLICE

If you live outside the City of North Bay, please visit the following link to obtain your VSC - OPP NORTH BAY


What is an NCCP#?

A National Coaching Certification Program Number (NCCP#) is your coach education profile. All NCCP coach training and education you take is recorded through an online database called The Locker. Your training from every sport and at every context is recorded here. As well, professional development (PD) training can also be recorded here. In order to take an NCCP module you will need an NCCP#.

Getting your NCCP#

  1. Go to www.thelocker.coach.ca
  2. Click on “Don’t have an account? Create one now!”
  3. Check the box “I agree”
  4. Check the box “I want to create a Locker account for access to my transcript, eLearning opportunities, to sign up for coaching events, and more!” – Fill in your info – Click Register
  5. Login to your email account and open the verification email that was sent to you
  6. Click on the “click here” at the very end of the email
  7. Create a password
  8. Click submit
  9. Click on the Icon “Profile”
  10. In the left hand corner of your screen under your name is your NCCP#


Foundations of Coaching Softball

Our Coaches must complete two online tutorials that make up "Foundations of Coaching Softball". Each module takes between 60 and 90 minutes to complete, and you are responsible for the nominal cost.

Foundations of Coaching Softball, module 1 | $20

When you've completed module 1, you will be able to:

  • indicate where you fit as a coach within Softball Canada’s NCCP.
  • describe your personal coaching philosophy.
  • describe Softball Canada’s long-term player development (LTPD) model.
  • assess risks during practice sessions.
  • use strategies to work effectively with players and parents.

Foundations of Coaching Softball, module 2 | $25

When you've completed module 2, you will be able to:

  • describe Softball Canada’s long-term player development (LTPD) model.
  • make coaching decisions that are appropriate for the players’ stage of skill development and long-term player development.
  • apply a 5-step process to coaching activities.

Both modules of the Foundations of Coaching Softball are accessed at the Coaching Association of Canada (CAC) using your NCCP number and password for the Locker.


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Responsible Coaching Movement

The Responsible Coaching Movement (RCM) is a call to action for sport organizations, parents, and coaches to enact responsible coaching across Canada — on and off the field.

What is RCM? Established by the Coaching Association of Canada and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport, the RCM invites all coaches and sport organizations to learn and apply consistent coaching principles. It includes three distinct pillars, each serving to create a sport environment that is Safe, Smart and Secure.

Rule of Two The Rule of Two is a leading practice to ensure a safe sport environment for all. The goal of the Rule of Two is to ensure all interactions and communications are open, observable, and justifiable, and when two responsible adults (a coach, parent, or screened volunteer) are present with a participant. There may be exceptions in emergency situations. Check with your sport organization as to how the  Rule of Two is enforced.

Background Screening A secure sport environment is one where all coaches and sport organization leaders are screened to meet requirements to be involved in sport. Screening includes comprehensive background and reference checks, interviews, plus police information checks, to be done at regular intervals.

Ethics Training A smart sport environment ensures coaches are trained and have the confidence and skills needed to effectively manage challenging situations. Lifelong learning through numerous training modules helps coaches expand their knowledge and awareness of important topics throughout their career.