Softball Victoria is pleased to announce the establishment of a new Pathways Committee, a key initiative designed to strengthen the development of athletes and coaches across the state.

The Committee will play a central role in shaping a connected, inclusive and progressive pathway system, supporting participants from grassroots through to high performance.

A Strategic Step Forward

The creation of the Pathways Committee reflects Softball Victoria’s commitment to building a more aligned and sustainable development system.

The Committee will focus on:

• Developing and maintaining clear athlete and coach pathways
• Supporting growth and retention across all levels of the sport
• Promoting best practice, innovation and modern coaching methodologies
• Strengthening alignment between community participation, pathway programs and State Teams

This work will ensure that softball in Victoria continues to evolve in line with national standards and the needs of our community.

Working Across the System

The Pathways Committee will work collaboratively with key stakeholders, including:

• Softball Victoria staff
• Associations and clubs
• Coaches and athletes
• The State Teams Committee

Importantly, the Committee will provide advice and recommendations on the development and progression of coaches and athletes, and will support long-term planning to build capability across the sport.

While the Pathways Committee focuses on strategy and development, it will work alongside the State Teams Committee, which is responsible for the delivery and performance of representative programs—ensuring strong alignment across the system.

Focused on Innovation and Best Practice

A key responsibility of the Committee will be to ensure Softball Victoria remains informed by contemporary, evidence-based approaches to athlete and coach development.

This includes:

• Staying current with emerging coaching methodologies
• Supporting the use of technology such as video analysis and athlete monitoring
• Encouraging continuous improvement across all levels of the pathway

A Collaborative and Inclusive Approach

The Pathways Committee will bring together individuals with experience across:

• Grassroots and community softball
• Talent and pathway programs
• High performance environments
• Coach education and development

Importantly, the Committee will also include athlete representation, ensuring that the voice of participants remains central to decision-making.

Help Shape the Future

The Terms of Reference for the Pathways Committee have been developed in draft form, providing a strong foundation while allowing flexibility for refinement. 

Those who join the Committee will have the opportunity to contribute to shaping its final purpose, priorities and direction, ensuring it reflects the needs and ambitions of the softball community.

Take a look at the DRAFT TERMS OF REFERENCE AND ROLE DESCRIPTIONS

Expressions of Interest Now Open

Softball Victoria is now seeking expressions of interest from passionate and experienced members of the softball community, including athletes and coaches, to join the Pathways Committee.

This is an opportunity to:

• Contribute to the future direction of softball in Victoria
• Support the development of athletes and coaches
• Be part of a collaborative and forward-thinking group

SUBMIT YOUR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further please contact Jo Schutt via email: jo.schutt@softballvic.org.au or phone: 0425 785 161

One Game. One Community. Your Pathway.