Speed is a game-changer in softball, but stealing a record takes more than just raw quickness. Meghan McCans, a standout from Arcanum High School, recently etched her name into the Wittenberg University and North Coast Athletic Conference record books with an incredible 102 career stolen bases, proving that elite base-running is a craft.
"My dad harped on me about base IQ and looking for the little things," McCans explained. Her strategy goes beyond pure speed, involving meticulous observation of a pitcher's movements and a catcher's tendencies. She credits her father, David McCans—a former track athlete and founder of Focus Fastpitch Softball—for instilling this savvy approach from a young age.
McCans shattered the previous conference record of 99 steals last week, a feat complemented by a stellar performance that earned her NCAC Player of the Week honors. She hit .462 with six stolen bases in four games, helping Wittenberg to a strong start in conference play.
Her evolution as a player is a story of perfecting a role. After a modest freshman season, she transformed into a dominant force, hitting .400 with a school-record 36 steals as a sophomore. Now a senior leading the team with a .371 average and 24 steals in 22 games, she is on pace to reach her goal of 40 steals this season.
The foundation for this success was laid early. Her father's coaching was instrumental, even switching her to batting left-handed to maximize her speed through slapping techniques—a decision that paid dividends from her high school career, where she also set Arcanum's stolen base record, straight through to college.
Choosing Wittenberg for its proximity to home, McCans has excelled off the field as well. She will soon complete a master's degree in sports administration, with ambitions to become an athletic director or coach, ensuring her deep understanding of the game will inspire future generations of players.
Meghan McCans's record is a testament to the powerful combination of natural athleticism, intelligent preparation, and dedicated coaching—a true blueprint for success on the base paths.