FAQs

Q: How do i determine my child's playing age/division for the season?

A:  For Spring 2026, your child's playing age is determined by how old they are as of 8/31/2025.  For example, if your daughter turns 9 on August 2nd, she would play in the 10U division.  If your daughter turns 9 on September 17th (which is after the age cut off of 8/31), she's considered 8 for the year and would play in the 8U division.  Note: you can choose to play up a division if your child is ready.  

For Fall 2025, girls should follow whichever age division they will play in the next Spring.

Questions? Please talk to a coach before the season starts if you have any questions or concerns. latrobegirlsyouthsoftball@gmail.com

Age Divisions for Spring 2026

• 8U       (girls age 6, 7 or 8 as of 8/31/2025)

• 10U     (girls age 9 or 10 as of 8/31/2025)

• 12U     (girls age 11 or 12 as of 8/31/2025)

Q: What equipment do I need to purchase for my child to play youth softball?

A:  A properly fitting softball glove (mitt) is necessary. 

A defensive face mask is imperative at the 8U and 10U levels. These protect the facial area in the event of a line drive.  At the 12U level, they are highly recommended but not mandatory. 

Purchasing a properly fitting batting helmet (must be with facemask) is preferred. The league has some that can be shared in the event one is unable to be purchased.

A softball bat can come in many sizes, types and materials. They range in price from $20 to $500+. Girls just starting out will do fine with an aluminum bat on the lower end of the price scale. It must have the pictured stamps (ASA approved) and be a fastpitch softball bat. Older, more experienced girls may favor composite bats which tend to cost more, but have the potential to drive a ball deep when hit well. Bats should be properly sized to the player (length and weight) and online tools can help you with this. T-ball, slow pitch softball, baseball bats and other bats are not permitted. Bats may be shared if a teammate permits, however, it is a good idea to have one to practice with at home.

Cleats are necessary for good traction on the infield surfaces. Molded cleats work well for most youth players and are relatively inexpensive.

Younger players may wear shorts, but as the players' experience mounts and the ability to slide is achieved, softball pants are recommended.  A bag is useful for carrying all this stuff to and from the field.

All these items can be found at reasonable prices new at stores such as Dick's Sporting Goods or Dunhams. It's also recommended to check out used equipment stores, such as Play It Again Sports.

Catching gear (chest, leg protection and helmets) are available for use from the league. Heart guards (worn by pitchers to prevent cardiac rhythm disruption from a sudden blow to the chest by a ball) are available through the league for use.

Q: What is included in the registration fee?

A: The registration fees provide the funds for uniform shirts, league fees, umpire costs, team equipment (catchers gear, hitting nets, balls, tee's etc.), and field maintenance. 

Q:  How are the teams chosen?

A:  We aim to provide each team with a competitive balance of players and a capable coaching staff.  This typically means that girls who are older in their respective class or more capable may be divided/drafted if there are 2 teams.  Certain skill positions, such as pitching and catching may influence the teams.  We want everyone to have a chance to succeed.  

Q:  What's travel ball all about?

A:  Travel ball tryouts typically go on over the summer months. Please see our travel ball FAQ document for a good overview of travel ball.