The basic unit of organization in each program is the Division. We use both USA softball age-designated divisions as well as our own. The recreational program is comprised of five divisions. The descriptions of the divisions below are intended to give you a feel for the objectives we have for each division and the level of play we expect.
- T-Ball (USA 6U - age 6 & under) - This Division introduces softball to very young girls who have likely never played before and whose skill and coordination are just developing. The ball is hit off a tee and players are taught the very rudiments of how to throw the ball, field a grounder, swing the bat, and which way to run around the bases. The season is 10 to 14 games long. No scores are kept and everyone bats every inning and plays the field. Time permitting; games should be 2 or 3 innings in length.
- Rookie (USA 8U - age 8 & under) - This Division seeks to explain and demonstrate the sport of softball to its players by introducing more of the sports rules. Players begin to pitch for themselves with the help of coach pitching if necessary. Emphasis is on good fundamental throwing, fielding, and hitting skills and all players are encouraged to develop some rudimentary pitching motion. While additional attention is paid to enhancing their fundamental skills, advanced skills are generally not taught here. The regular season consists of games in which scores and standings are not kept followed by a season-end round robin or elimination tournament. Playing time is evenly distributed and everyone bats while run limits and other special rules are employed commensurate with player skill development. Games are normally 3-4 innings in length.
- Division 1 (USA 10U - age 10 & under) - Fundamentals are still the focus here but some competitive spirit begins to show among players in this division. More advance rules are introduced and pitching development is a big priority. Some finer points of hitting are developed and bunting is introduced as an important part of girls softball. Baserunning skills and team defensive play are introduced, while basic throwing, fielding, and hitting skills are reinforced. The season is nominally 12-16 games plus a single-elimination, post-season tournament. Scores and team standings are kept and everyone bats in the order. Games are normally 4-5 innings in length.
- Division 2 (USA 12U - age 12 & under) - While skill development, team play, and fun are still the emphasis, the girls become noticeably more competitive. Pitching development is still encouraged for anyone interested but pitchers and catchers willing to put in the extra effort to play their positions start to decrease in number. More advanced hitting, bunting, and baserunning techniques are taught. Team play is emphasized on defense while a consistent demonstration of fielding fundamentals is now the goal. The full complement of ASA rules is in effect. The season is 14-16 games long plus a single-elimination, post-season tournament. Scores and team standings are kept and everyone bats in the order. Games are normally 5-6 innings in length.
- Division 3 (USA 14U - age 14 & under) - This is a more competitively oriented division comprised of many players who may be advancing to high school play or playing for competitive travel teams. The goal is to get these players ready for this level of play. Any remaining pitchers have probably been at it for a few years and are fairly serious about it. Pitching strategy and throwing more than one pitch is emphasized. Advanced team play and offensive and defensive game strategies are taught and executed. The season is nominally 16 games played amongst teams in the surrounding communities referred to as the Super League. There is usually a multi-league tournament setup and all ASA rules are in effect. Games are normally 5-7 innings in length.