Division Age Categories

In 2011, Softball Canada switched from named categories to age categories. Previously, there were a variety of names for the age categories and different designations for classifications used in softball across Canada. In addition, there were no nationally accepted titles for the early categories (such as Coach Pitch). If you would like to read more about this then please see the following article from Softball Canada.

The definition of the category means that the child must be "Under" the age shown prior to January 1 of the year that the season is in.

For example: Say you turned 14 on January 9; in the spring season you would continue to play in the U14 category as you were still "under 14" prior to January 1st.

Age Category FSA Former Name
Under 8 (U8) Coach Pitch
Under 10 (U10) Mite
Under 12 (U12) Squirt
Under 14 (U14) Pee Wee
Under 16 (U16) Bantam
Under 18 (U18) Midget

 

Competitative Levels of Play

We offer various levels of play: A, B and C.

A Teams, offered at U10 and up, require the highest level of commitment from the players, parents and coaches. The intent for teams at this level will to proceed to play at the Alberta Provincials at the A level as well as play other tournaments.

B Teams, offered at U12 and up, require a normal level of commitment from the players, parents and coaches. The hope, for teams at this level, is that they will play at the Alberta Provincials at the B level as well as play other tournaments. The amount of extra play, outside of regular league play, is up to the coaches and parents to decide.

C Teams, offered at all levels, require a normal level of commitment from the players, parents and coaches. Teams at this level are focused on player development and for the players to have fun. It is possible for teams at this level to play at the Alberta Provincials at the C or D level. The amount of extra play, outside of regular league play, is up to the coaches and parents to decide.

 

Why would your child try out for a A level team?

It all depends on your perspective. There are varying reasons for making the decision to make the jump to a A Team. It might be as simple as noticing some attributes in your child; perhaps he/she just "can't wait" for the next ball game, or perhaps he/she has improved dramatically over last season and now seems more skilled than many of the other players. Playing on an A Team can be a fun and rewarding experience. Your child will be challenged by playing higher calibre softball teams and may sense more accomplishment in their successes. Due to the fact that equal competition may be difficult to find around the city - typically A Teams will enter weekend tournaments (in or out-of-town) to provide them with the opportunity to play higher skilled softball teams.