We had the good fortune of connecting with Toni Paisley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Toni, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
The competitive nature between brands that takes away from the growth of the sport. From the outside, it would make sense that if trainers and coaches wanted the best for the athletes that they would love to collaborate and lift the sport up as a whole. This is true for some, but there is an extreme opposing force of competition that breeds more separation and confusion for those trying to learn. This has been a driving factor behind Paisleys Pitching; to knock down some of those walls. Creating a trusting space to join forces and a safe place to grow will continue to help improve the next generation of athletes. We are stronger together, always, and although it is a battle everyday we are chipping away and getting one step closer to breaking through.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
After being a Professional Softball Athlete I immediately started training the next generation. I started with in person training and it grew into the first ever Online Pitching Academy! I am most proud of what it has become and for inspiring others to start their own Online Training Platforms. In 2017 I envisioned creating an Online Community for everyone and anyone who wanted Pitching Support. At the time, there were no Coaches or Platforms to base a model off of. I knew that it was a need for our community to get quality information out there and it has become so much more now. It has grown into a community of pitching enthusiasts that all support each other and want to grow. It has become a safe place for pitchers and parents to share their struggles and most cherished successes on the field. We learn together and we push each other daily. The community has really become such a supportive system for families and coaches all over the world. It wasn’t easy, but it was so worth it! Fast forward to 2020 and it has now been an inspiration for other coaches and professional softball trainers to start their own online communities and training platforms. This will only help to grow the sport of softball and that is something I can always be proud of.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely stay in the local surrounding areas like belmont shores and long beach, we love it here! Drinks and tacos at Ola Mexican Kitchen with views of the Marina is tough to beat. Spending time at the Peninsula with the calm waters would probably take me through the entire week but I absolutely love riding bikes around Marine Stadium. Of course if you need some shopping and excitement there’s always 2nd & PCH, 2nd st shops, shoreline village and downtown Long Beach!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Parents! My goodness, they created my foundation that realistically supports me every single day. I was supported constantly and had an extremely trusting space with my parents growing up. Raising athletes has to be tough, I am so sure of it. My parents were right there by my side every step of the way. Late night softball practices at the park until the lights shut off to early morning games before the sun came up – they were literally always there. The support, the confidence and wisdom on and off the field is something I am forever grateful for. Without it, I don’t know where I would be today. Thank you Mom and Dad.

 

Website: www.paisleyspitching.com
Instagram: paisleyspitching
Linkedin: toni paisley
Facebook: paisleys pitching

Image Credits
Everett Mason

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