Big Things Are Happening at Practice Pro! New Classes, New Tools & More

This fall at Practice Pro, we’re leveling up in every way — new programs, new ways to get your practice in, and new opportunities for players to learn, and compete together. Whether you’ve been with us for years or you’re thinking about joining, here’s a look at all the exciting things happening right now across our locations.

College Recruiting Cohort with Coach Erica Hanrahan

This week, our Coach Erica Hanrahan — a 13-year college coaching veteran who guided her teams to nine NCAA Division III postseason appearances as a head coach, kicked off our College Recruiting Cohort.

This program helps families navigate the recruiting process with confidence — from understanding timelines and communication rules to building player profiles and identifying the right-fit schools. It’s real-world insight from someone who’s coached at the highest levels of the game.

Players get monthly 1 on 1 meetings with Coach Erica, plus a monthly group meeting with the following coaches - Tiffany Prager (Illinois Weslyan), Heather Tarter (Yale, Northern Kentucky, McKendrie) , Lauren Ebstein (Tufts), and Amanda Rivera-Eberhart (Purdue). Ann Marie Guglieri (Yale Athletic Director) and Sarah Pruess (Northern Kentucky Athletic Director). What an amazing opportunity for the participants!!

Practice Club Mondays in Oak Park

Back by popular demand, our Practice Club is happening Monday nights at Varsity Club in Oak Park! Come anytime between 5:15 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to run through the pitching practice stations. For only $30, Coach Abby will choose the perfect plan for you and guide you through an efficient pitching practice. This flexible program gives pitchers a place to practice with structure, accountability, and coaching support. Stay as long (or short) as you want. No need to sign up ahead of time, just show up!

Practice Pro Hitting School: Our Newest Addition

This is our first-ever official Offseason Hitting Session at Practice Pro, led by Coach Marisa Belpedio. This brand-new program focuses on more than just mechanics — it’s about mindset, intentionality, and developing softball IQ through purpose.

Each class is small-group, personalized, and built around repetition and feedback — just like our pitching program. It’s already off to a great start, and we can’t wait to watch our hitters grow stronger every week. Follow our new Hitting Instagram (@practice_pro_hitting) for drills, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes moments from the cage!

Warm Up to Throw, Don’t Throw to Warm Up

It’s been amazing to see the energy our pitchers are bringing this fall. We’re focused on mechanical improvement, spin development, and speed— all with the goal of setting pitchers up for their strongest spring season yet.

Our small-group format keeps the instruction focused, high-energy, and productive. This year we’ve introduced plyo balls from High-Level Throwing as part of our warm-up routine to build arm strength and body awareness safely and effectively.

Team Classes: Train Together, Win Together

Teams can reserve an entire Practice Pro class! These sessions allow the full pitching staff of travel or house league teams team to train together toward shared goals.

It’s a powerful experience — pitchers get to compete side by side with their teammates, build chemistry, and align on technique and strategy before the season even starts. If your team wants to join in January, reach out early — space is limited and fills fast!

Elite Pitching Class with Coach Erica Hanrahan

For our most advanced high school athletes, Coach Erica is also leading our Elite Pitching Class. This is where mechanics meet strategy — blending spin, speed, and mental toughness with college-level feedback. It’s an incredible opportunity for serious pitchers to elevate their craft and compete at the next level.

NFCA Conference — We’re Heading There!

This November, some of our coaching staff will be returning to the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Conference — the biggest professional event for softball coaches in the country.

We’ll be learning from top NCAA and professional coaches, bringing back new drills, tools, and insights to share with all of you. Continuing education and community connection are huge parts of what make Practice Pro special — we’re always learning so our athletes can keep growing.

Wrapping It All Up

It’s been amazing to see how far our Practice Pro athletes have come — from a small pitching school to a full team of athletes, parents, and coaches united by one goal: to develop Illinois as the powerhouse of softball by making premier-level instruction the norm for everyone.‬

Thank you to everyone who’s been part this journey so far. The future of softball in the midwest is bright — and we’re just getting started.

See you at practice,
Abby Hanrahan & The Practice Pro Team