A Message from the Founder
To Our Northern Force Families,
Over the past several weeks, we've been humbled by the incredible interest in Northern Force.
As we continue to grow, I wanted to take a moment to share the vision behind Northern Force, explain what our program is, and provide clarity on where we're headed.
Northern Force was founded with a simple belief:
Every athlete deserves the opportunity to pursue the pathway that best matches her goals.
For some athletes, that means enjoying the game close to home with friends. For others, it means pursuing year-round development, competing against the highest level of competition available, and preparing for opportunities beyond minor softball.
Neither path is right or wrong. They're simply different.
Beginning with the 2026–2027 season, Northern Force will transition from a winter showcase and development program into a 12-month athlete development program for athletes born between 2009 and 2014, based on interest.
This decision came after asking one simple question:
How can we create the best possible environment for athletes who aspire to compete at the highest levels of the game?
The answer was clear. Elite development takes more than a single season. It takes sustained time and attention.
They develop through consistent coaching, meaningful competition, individualized instruction, purposeful training, and intentional recovery, all working together over time.
By keeping our athletes together throughout the year, our coaches can build meaningful relationships, create individualized development plans, monitor progress, and prepare athletes for future opportunities both on and off the field.
Our philosophy is built around four core pillars:
- 01Athlete Development
- 02High-Level Competition
- 03College Recruiting
- 04Intentional Recovery
These pillars guide every decision we make.
Throughout the year, Northern Force athletes will benefit from:
- Weekly team practices
- Weekly program-wide development sessions
- Dedicated pitcher and catcher development
- Position-specific instruction
- Strength and performance opportunities
- Local exhibition competition
- Carefully selected showcase events across Canada and the United States
- A planned December recovery period to promote both physical and mental wellness
Our goal isn't simply to prepare athletes for the next tournament.
Our goal is to develop complete athletes.
Program costs will always be discussed collaboratively between the organization, coaching staff, and each team based on the team's goals, travel schedule, and overall program needs. We are committed to complete financial transparency: no hidden fees, no unnecessary costs, and all expenses managed through a team-approved budget.
Just as importantly, we want to help families navigate the recruiting process with confidence. Through recruiting education, communication guidance, exposure opportunities, and mentorship, we are committed to supporting athletes who aspire to compete at the collegiate level.
We also recognize that no athlete reaches this stage alone.
Every athlete's journey begins because of passionate coaches, volunteers, organizations, and communities who dedicate countless hours to introducing young people to softball and fostering a lifelong love of the game. We have tremendous respect for everyone who contributes to growing our sport.
Northern Force exists to provide another pathway for athletes who are seeking year-round elite development.
As with any important decision, we encourage every family to ask questions, explore their options, and choose the environment that best aligns with their athlete's aspirations, commitment, and long-term goals.
In the coming days, we'll be sharing more information about our coaching staff, practice locations, program structure, fees, frequently asked questions, and team details.
Thank you for believing in our vision and for placing your trust in Northern Force. We are incredibly excited for what lies ahead and can't wait to build something truly special alongside our athletes and families.
With gratitude,
Courtney Gilbert
Courtney Gilbert
Founder · Northern Force Fastpitch