From my own days as a Fastpitch softball player, traveling across Canada and forging lifelong friendships, to now coaching for a decade and passing on those same experiences to my daughter, softball has woven itself into the fabric of my existence. Last year, both my daughter and I embarked on an unforgettable adventure: the Canada Futures trip to Georgia. The anticipation built up over a month of evaluations and practices, and when the time came, we were ready. I had the privilege of being part of the coaching staff, while my daughter earned her spot as a starting player. What unfolded during that trip was beyond my expectations. Firstly, the coaching my daughter received was top-notch. It not only elevated her performance on the field but also boosted her confidence off the field. The knowledge imparted, the skills honed, and the camaraderie formed—these were invaluable takeaways. And let’s not forget the friendships! Bonds were forged that will last a lifetime, transcending borders and time zones. As a coach, I also grew immensely. Collaborating with dedicated colleagues, learning from their expertise, and fine-tuning my coaching approach—it was a transformative experience. Canada Futures operates at a level of excellence that sets it apart. To players and fellow coaches, I wholeheartedly recommend this program. Thank you, Coach Frei and the entire team, for creating memories that will forever resonate in our hearts.

Noel Sharman | Head Coach - Abbotsford Minor Softball Association - Former Men’s player, Current School Principal

When I joined Canada Futures I wasn’t really sure what I was becoming a part of. Coach Frei helped me realize my potential to play at a division 1 athlete after the US tour. Our team won a record amount of games and I was able to see how athletic program ran which helped me decide to pursue a track of getting recruited in the US. Coach Frei showed us what being a collegiate athlete is, gave me a week of great experiences helped me developed my skills and turn me into to a fearless player. Not only was my softball enhanced but I was able to meet a bunch of great people that I still connect with today. Not only was Coach Frei my Canada Futures coach but she became my assistant coach of Langford Lightning 05 who became back to back National Champions. Canada Futures really only tapped into the start of my relationship with Coach Frei which I am extremely grateful for.

Peyton Bryden - , Langford Lightning - Winthrop University - NCAA Division I

The environment created by Joni and continued with the great minds through the tryout phase, into the 2 practice weekends is extremely collaborative and supportive. Once we get on the trip, then the magic starts, working through tough games, post game chats, bus rides, group meals, homework, room checks, and even the laundry. So much information and knowledge is shared between us and the players it's amazing. From a coaches perspective, this program is a priceless experience, so many things that can be taken away and shared with your club teams, helping guide them to wherever it is they aspire to go. I feel like I've gained tools to help our players get to the next level. Being able to have conversations with parents, coaches and players that have not experienced the program is critical. Once they understand why the program is so great, what the players get out of the whole trip is truly why I do it. Perspective, it's all about perspective and experiences. Wouldn't it be great if we can take that 80% of softball players that come home after that first year of US college softball and cut it in half or better. What if we can show players that maybe going into the US to play isn't for them, and staying in Canada to play for a Canadian college or University is an option. I believe this program can do that. I've consistently used my experiences in my role as an NCCP Learning Facilitator for Softball BC, as well as an assistant coach for our club team, and even my sons baseball program. Obviously I wholeheartedly support the Canada Futures program, and want to see it flourish and grow.

Derek Finlayson | Fraser Valley Fusion Coach - NCCP Facilitator/Evaluator

I will remember my trip with Canada Futures for the rest of my life, not only for the memories and friends I made, but also for the lessons I learned. One of the benefits of this program, for myself as a player, was the player development leading up to the trip. At the time, the intensity of the practice environment was something I had never experienced before. Every single player on the team was ready to work hard and prove that they deserved to play. In return, the coaches helped develop our skillset to compete at the level of college teams. Being around devoted players and coaches helped grow my skills as a player and taught me the true definition of hard work. One of Coach Frei’s quotes has stuck with me for years and I try to apply it to every situation I am in, whether it be softball, school, or life. The quote is: “You are entitled to nothing; If you want something, you have to earn it”, and it has played a massive role in motivating me to be the best player and person I can be. To this day, the Canada Futures trip down to the US has been one of the best experiences of my life. The opportunity to play against college teams was an enlightening experience that helped spark my goal of playing softball in post-secondary. Additionally, being able to travel with the team, without my parents, helped replicate the college softball experience. Traveling alone also meant taking on the responsibility of looking after myself, and I believe that I came out of both trips as a more mature person. Finally, the Canada Futures program helped connect me with some of the best people I know. I made so many friends on the trip, a lot of whom I still play with today, and it has helped connect me to the softball community. I believe that the Canada Futures team offers an incredibly unique experience, and will help elevate the level of play in British Columbia. The endorsement of this program would be beneficial to future players who wish to play at a college level. Being a part of Canada Futures and Coach Frei’s camps, have put me in touch with college coaches, who recognize this program as a high-level organization that helps develop amazing players.

Tala Rennie | University of Toronto

I am a coach and league president in Prince George Minor Fastball that has been on the coaching staff for Canada Futures for 2 years. I love this program and what it provides to girls thinking about playing college ball. They learn what it is like to be away from home, independence, accountability on top of the ball skills we teach. I have seen so much growth in not only the kids that come but the coaches as well. Canada Futures has grown my passion and knowledge for the game that I bring up to Northern BC Softball. The networking and being able to connect with coaches from all over BC . Canada Futures is the best thing I ever signed up for! I am so thankful for Canada Futures and I hope to be a part of this program for a long time.

Kourtney Miller | Prince George Minor Softball President - BC Summer Games Head Coach

It’s a great experience to be able to collaborate with other coaches and gain significant amounts of knowledge from a great group of coaches.  Being able to work as a coaching team with the Canada Future athletes gave me insight in different methods to help the athletes get the results they were looking for.  In returning from the program, it gave me more insight into the game and helped me to level up my ability for the coaches and players that I’m around through the regular season.  The additional network of coaches continues to enhance my coaching. The program provides an opportunity for the players to really experience what the collegiate experience is like.  My daughter had an amazing time and has attended the last two years.  It gave her a thorough look at what being a collegiate athlete would be like.  The opportunity to chat with current athletes as well as campus and dorm tours provided the Canada Futures players a vision of what they may be working towards.  The athlete development and change in outlook in the short time is significant.

Tyler Saito | MBA - Head Coach Thunder

I was on the team for four years and it shaped me into the player I am today. Every moment on and off the field had purpose, and still today I carry that mentality everywhere I go. Coach Frei and the rest of the coaching staff introduced me to so many new ways to think about the game and get my mind and body ready for my college experience. When I was first on the team when I was in the ninth grade I was so nervous, but by the end of that trip, I had gained so much confidence, saying “I can compete with them. And I will compete.” I could seriously go on forever about how incredible this program is, absolutely one of the most incredible times of my life experiencing the Southern lifestyle as a college athlete. It’s the best being able to play against this team when I’m in college, like the past two Octobers when they came to Florida. You will grow and become a better athlete and person with this program, no doubt about it!

Danielle De Ruiter | Junior National team player - NCAA Division I Athlete - International Coach.

In my grade eleven year I played on the Canada Futures team and traveled to Georgia to compete against colleges, and to gain college exposure. Coach Frei and the rest of the coaching staff showed me so many new ways to enhance my softball skills and showed nothing but support for me. Canada Futures not only strengthened my desire to play collegiate softball but it also taught me what it takes to become a collegiate athlete. I also made a lot of new friends from around Canada who share the same amount of passion, desire, and dedication about the game as I do. Overall, I would highly recommend anyone who has an interest in playing collegiate softball to participate in Canada Futures, as it has helped shape my understanding of the game and is the closest representation to what a real college experience would feel like.

Liberty Sharman | Abbotsford Minor Softball Association - Seward College

and went on my last trip as a player when I was 16. Coach Frei has given me countless opportunities to learn and grow as a young softball player, and I will forever give credit for her coaching that has led me to all of my successes. As a Canada Futures player I have developed independence, leadership, and accountability. Going on the trip and staying without my parents enforced responsibility and independence, being on the team throughout my entire high school softball career has allowed me to tap into a stronger leadership role each year, and I have become accountable for warming myself up and making sure my body is well taken care of to endure the long days. Canada Futures has helped me tremendously with preparing to play at the university level, as I learned what it takes to become a college softball player and faced many uphill battles against strong schools on the trip. Currently I am committed to a strong junior college in Utah and I thank Coach Frei and Canada Futures for getting me to where I am in my softball career. During my grade 12 year I was already committed to the university I will attend in the fall, but still went on the Canada Futures trip one last time. Canada Futures holds a place in my heart as it has been something I’ve always known. Coach Frei has helped me develop into the athlete I am now, as she has always given me love, support, and had confidence in me even when I didn’t have it in myself. I am forever grateful for the memories and moments I have had with Coach Frei as my Canada Futures coach, as I would not be the person or player I am today without her. She is a strong and impactful coach that has really made a difference in my softball career, by being a great role model and someone I will always go to for guidance. The Canada Futures trip is an opportunity that everyone that attends is incredibly fortunate to get, as well as being coached by Coach Frei. I hope one day to become one of the coaches on Canada Futures, so I can share my experiences as a coach and continue learning from Coach Frei. This program has contributed to each and every amazing moment I’ve had in softball, and I couldn’t thank Coach Frei more for the impact she has left on me as a player and person.

Emma Walker | Utah State Eastern College

I’ve had the opportunity to coach with Canada Futures twice and I plan to coach again this season. It’s been an amazing experience being able to share with my two oldest girls. The experience is life changing for these young athletes as it gives them perspective as a player and student. My girls loved the experience and had completely different perspectives and opportunities. As a coach from Vancouver Island it’s given me a chance to learn, coach and network with other coaches from across BC. It’s an experience that continues long after the tour. It’s such a unique opportunity. My favourite part of the trip is listening to Coach Frei’s pre and postgame chats. She’s captivating and sees the game in ways others don’t. Coach Frei is an amazing mentor and role model for coaches and female athletes. She always makes time outside of Canada Futures to support players, coaches and teams. I look forward to my next tour with Canada Futures and can’t wait for my youngest daughter to have the same experience as her sisters.

John Reynen | BC Summer Games Head Coach - Father of a player on the Junior National team - College Athlete - View Royal Softball Association Head Coach

I played for Canada Futures in October, 2023. It was my first year playing for Canada Futures so I didn’t quite know what to expect, but I was not disappointed. I ended up having so much fun and I met a lot of great people and made some new friends along the way. Getting to play college teams down in the states was an incredible experience, and working alongside so many great coaches, especially Coach Frei, taught me so many new skills and made me a better player. Since playing for Canada Futures, I have seen so much improvement in myself as a player and as a coach. I would 100% do this program again and I have recommended it to lots of my friends and teammates. I want to thank all the coaches with Canada Futures for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful experience.

Priya Callewaert | Cloverdale Fury "A"

Canada Futures was honestly one of the most eye opening softball experiences in all of my career. I initially found out about the trip from a fellow club teammate and she made it sound like an impassable opportunity. I had the chance to travel to Georgia with 32 fellow athletes. We were able to go to 5 different colleges in the span of 9 days and we played a total of 10 exhibition games. This whole experience was nothing I had ever experience before and I got to meet so many amazing teammates along the way. Girls I had never even met before became very close friends in the span of hours or even just at the tryouts. You are roomed with 3 other girls on the trip and I had the most amazing roommates which made the experience even better. This whole opportunity gives you the chance to tour different colleges, meet girls that currently go to the school, and gives you the chance to work with new coaches you haven’t worked with before. This trip also allows girls to get a preview of what college looks like for current college athletes. The girls from the team take you around the campus and answer any questions you might have about recruiting, possible majors, etc. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who still doesn’t know if they want to go to the states for softball or even if they want to play softball post secondary.

Mackenzie Brown | Baker University

This program gives you the exposure and experience of a college softball player and access to great coaching. You learn small tips and skills that help you transform from a good player to a great player. This program has impacted me as a player in many ways. I have learned, gained knowledge, and improved from all of the advice that I was given, such as noticing defensive patterns to make you a better base runner. I made so many friendships and memories that I will never forget, while Iearning what it takes, physically and mentally, to be/become a college softball player. It is a key memory in my softball journey, and was a very fun program to partake in. If you are looking to see what the next level is like in your softball journey, I would highly recommend the program.

Jessica Slater | Ladysmith Lightning/White Rock Renegades

My name is Lily McCullough, I am a 2008 fastball player currently playing with the U17 Okanagan Elite.  Last season I was a member of the U17 Prince George Thunderbirds fastball team.  I also had the privilege of being named to the Canada Futures team, and travelled to Georgia this past fall for games vs college teams. My dream is to play college ball and hopefully get a scholarship. Being from a northern town this dream felt very distant to me as I have never toured a US college campus, let alone play against a college team.  The confidence gained from being able to compete vs US College players is something that I could not have acquired anywhere else.  The positive experiences were not restricted to on the field but also off the field.  We were able to tour the facilities at the US colleges as well as hang out and talk with coaches and players.  This was very exciting as we could hear first hand what it is like and what it will take to play college ball.  Just as important I was able to make new relationships with players and coaches from all over BC. Coach Frei and her coaching staff are incredible and helped me believe in myself, while also challenging me to keep improving.   I still keep in contact with my team mates and coaches to this day. My experience with Canada Futures this past fall was very impactful.  I have a fire inside that motivates me to work hard and to keep improving so that one day I can be the one that can share my college experience with younger players in the Canada Futures program.

Lily McCullough | Prince George Softball Association & Okanagan Elite Softball Association

I have been a part of Canada Futures for 2 years now and it is one of the best experiences as a player. Before I went, I was unsure if I wanted to play in post-secondary and Canada Futures showed me that I could and gave me the confidence to go out for these dreams and goals. The trip has taught me so much as both a player and a person. As a player, I was exposed to new and experienced coaches who made me a better player and student of the game. My skills and confidence grew so much on the trip thanks to the amazing coaching staff that was always willing to spend time to help me improve. As a person, I was able to learn more about myself, how to be independent, improve my work ethic, be punctual and especially how to be a good teammate. Canada Futures has been such a great experience and learning opportunity for me and my teammates. 

Katelyn Saito | University of Redlands - South Surrey White Rock

From the start to finish of my time on the team, I was introduced to a new approach to the game of softball, through Coach Frei and all the other amazing coaches. During my time spent on the trip, I learned a lot about myself as an athlete, and my love for the game of softball grew tremendously. I came to realize that I was capable of things I did not yet know, and through Canada Futures I was able to commit to a school that we played against, and achieve my dream to play college softball. Simply put, I would not have had this opportunity without the Canada Futures program. I cannot express enough how valuable and life-changing this program is, and it leads to so many amazing opportunities, friendships, and memories that last beyond the game.

Hannah Rust | Port Alberni - Brewton Parker College

It gave me the full experience of touring with teammates on a bus, earning playing time, competing at a college level, learning from coaches I might not play for and meet new friends. My experience on and off the field was amazing and I highly recommend Canada Futures. I continue to stay in contact with teammates and coaches. Coach Frei has supported me on and off the field and continues to impact my softball journey.

Taitum Reynen | Salt Lake Community College - Langford Minor Softball - Canadian Junior National Team

Learning from Coach Frei is an opportunity I highly recommend to everyone who wants to grow into a better athlete, softball player and person. The Canada Futures program she has built has changed countless lives and given opportunities to players that they otherwise wouldn’t have had the chance to pursue. During the week in Georgia the sense of community was palpable, with every coach, player and staff member contributing to and buying into the shared vision put forth by Coach Frei. A vision of excellence, growth and success.  Throughout the week the growth you see in the players is incredible. The relationships built on the trip gave way to new friendships, networking opportunities and a sense of community that has extended far beyond the ball field. Being a part of the Canada Futures family is an opportunity that I will forever cherish. I can’t wait for the next trip and I cannot recommend this opportunity enough to anyone interested in pursuing collegiate softball.

Brittany Lucas | Vancouver Island pitching instructor - Central Saanich Extreme/Cordova Bay Fastball/Carnarvon Fastball

Taking the opportunity to play for Canada Futures showed me that playing at the collegiate level was something I wanted; it motivated me to work harder. Through Canada Futures, I was also able to form connections with people all over the softball community, having the opportunity to receive coaching from well-known and highly respected coaches, getting to play with and against very talented athletes who pushed me to get better and I made life-long friendships along the way. Canada Futures helped show me what I wanted and I'm very grateful for my time with them.

Madelaine Akiyama | Douglas College - BC Summer Games Assistant Coach

In my grade twelve year I played on the Canada Futures team and traveled to Georgia in order to compete against colleges, and to gain college exposure.  Canada Futures note only strengthened my desire to play collegiate softball but it also taught me how to be independent since I went without my parents.  I also made a lot of new friends from around Canada who are as passionate about the game as I am.  Overall, I would recommend anyone who has an interest in playing collegiate softball to participate in Canada Futures, it gives the closest representation to what a real college experience should feel like.

Cassa Courtney | Douglas College and UBC Thunderbirds

I couldn’t imagine where I would be in this sport without the support of my chances at the time and now, myself, getting to coach as well.  Coach Frei and Coach D helped shape who I am today and I cannot be more thankful for them.  I’ve continued to love this fame thanks to the experiences and support from Canada Futures and I will cherish all the friendships I have made throughout the years with them.  I get to watch this program grow from the time I was a part of the first team when I was 13 years old.  I am beyond proud of everyone involved in positively impacting every girls’ life that comes through this program.  I’m excited to see what the future holds.  Love you coach!

Sadie Rusteika | Brewton-Parker College

Canada Futures allowed me to be seen at the college level while giving me the skills and confidence to perform under pressure. From the tryouts, to practices, all the way to Texas and Georgia I have improved and grown so much as an athlete and a person! I have made so many friends in the past 2 trips I have been in, and been given countless opportunities to play with other teams by the connections Canada Futures has allowed me to make! Without the Futures program, I’m not sure if I would have know where I wanted to play or given the opportunity to play at the collegiate level. I am so grateful to be apart of the Canada Futures program, and hope to one day help the next generation of young women aspiring to be athletes as much as the coaches at Canada Futures helped me.

Brooklyn Dickie - Weatherford College - TriCity Titans

I was a pitcher for Canada Futures for 3 years. It made me fall in love with pitching in a way I didn't know existed before. Before Canada Futures I thought I would go crazy only being a pitcher in college but Coach Frei taught me to love my craft. I learned that coaching and team culture can win you games in situations you never thought were possible. I am thankful for the journey I was brought along for. Canada Futures has created a network of friendships across softball defying age and level differences. Thank you to the organizers and coaches who continue this program, I hope I am one of you one day.

Skylar Finlayson - Midland College - Fraser Valley Fusion

Well obviously Honey Boo Boo. A life changing experience where I learned the respect of the game and how to respect my teammates, coaches and softball community. Coach Frei’s expectations and standards set me up for some of life’s toughest challenges and I love sharing that with the kids I coach.

Alena Holyk - Nanaimo Diamonds

I absolutely loved Canada Futures the girls I met and the softball was amazing! Canada Futures really helped me know that I wanted to play college softball, and now I recently signed with Golden West College in California.

Callie Burnett - Golden West College

I had the most amazing time being a part of the Canada Futures program. Without Canada Futures I would definitely not be where I am today. It taught me belief in myself and how far I can go. Not a year went by that I didn’t learn something from the program whether that be on the field or off. I always looked forward to levelling up, pushing myself, and proving to myself that I could.

Kaitlyn Saito - College of the Redwoods - South Surrey White Rock Thunder

The two years I went to Georgia were some of the most memorable softball trips I’ve been on to this day. The camaraderie, the high level ball, the college tours lit such a spark in me. I finally felt like I’d found my softball people! Being coached as a high level athlete helped me realize my potential and desire for more from the game and without the Canada Futures experience I don’t think I would’ve ever gone to play college ball. I still recommend the program to all of my athletes especially to those who are certain about playing competitively. I look forward to experiencing the journey from the coaching perspective!

Ceara Barkowsky - Prince George Minor Softball