LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The 2016 NFCA Convention kicks off on Wednesday Dec. 7 and runs through Saturday, Dec. 10 at the New Orleans Marriott.  Over the course of four days, attendees have a wide array of opportunities to educate themselves, network, conduct business, be recognized for their achievements, discover innovative products and have fun.

To get those more acquainted with the on-going proceedings, this feature takes a look at the second day (Dec. 8) of activities which includes our first speakers, college caucuses, exhibitor show, mentoring session and much more.

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But before we dive into things, the most important item to point out is registration. Be sure to pick up your credential, because without your convention badge, you will be unable to attend all the great sessions offered in New Orleans.

For those arriving on Tuesday, Dec. 6 and who want to beat the crowd, a four-hour window (Noon-4:00 p.m.) is available to pick up your credentials. The registration booth will be open 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 7 and Thursday, Dec. 8. On Friday, Dec. 9 and Saturday, Dec. 10, the booth opens at 8:00 a.m. and closes at noon and 10 a.m., respectively.

In addition to picking up your credentials (for those who preregistered), members can also register on-site, renew their memberships and sign up for other convention related items.

Conduct Business
Thursday morning (8:300-11:30 a.m.) is set aside for our college (except Cal JC) caucus meetings. It is an opportunity to discuss changes and have healthy conversations about the future of the sport in a smaller setting amongst your peers. Also on the agenda is the International Caucus and several NCAA Division I league meetings. Additionally, the Division II Top 25 committee and Alliance of Women Coaches will gather to discuss their business.

Educational Opportunities
The first two coaches hit the stage in the afternoon. At 3:00 p.m. Oklahoma head coach Patty Gasso of the defending NCAA Division I National Champions will present “Championship Coach: The Power in Empowerment.” Marshall head coach Shonda Stanton follows at 4:00 p.m. and will discuss base running in her “The Next 60 Feet” presentation.

One of the most popular and helpful sessions of the NFCA Convention, the Mentoring Workshop, is being held from 7-9:00 p.m. Pre-selected mentors discuss various coaching topics in small groups with all mentees in attendance. Newer coaches can get better in the areas they need to, while veterans share their knowledge with fellow coaches. Everyone makes connections and builds relationships that last throughout their coaching careers.

Following the workshop will be a brand new feature- Extra Inning Fireside Chats. Build on the connections you just made in the mentoring workshop or just stop by to hear perspectives on other subjects from top coaches in a laid back setting.

In addition, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes will conduct a two-hour session- Coaching Today’s Athlete- after the conclusion of the mentoring workshop.

New Tools
With 85 companies in attendance, the exhibit hall opens its doors to members at 11:00 a.m. It’s an opportunity for members to discover innovative products, apparel and services and also invest time with companies to create a positive relationship that may be beneficial in the future.

Fun
After you’ve perused the exhibit hall and mingled with company representatives, you can relax and be social at Mizuno’s Happy Hour in the exhibit hall. If you want to venture out into the city later in the evening, Diamond Sports and PGF will hold a reception at the House of Blues from 9:00 pm to midnight.