Piedmont 8U (age 7 and 8) Information:
(Player league age is Player age as of Jan 1)
Recreational Teams:
Schedule:
Practices begin around the 2nd week in March. Teams generally practice twice a week leading up until games. Games start in the beginning of April and Run through the beginning of June (including playoffs). Teams will play one game during the week and one on the weekend (usually Saturday). Some teams work in a practice in between games.
Goals:
This is an instructional level of play utilizing all coach pitching. Batting is continuous and players will play both infield and outfield. There is no stealing or walks. Girls will have 5 pitches to put a ball in play. Runs will be limited per inning. This is a great age to learn the strategy of the game in a semi-competitive environment. Score will be kept and there will be standings for playoff purposes.
Equipment / Uniforms:
Mandatory – Glove 10.5 inch or larger (no plastic gloves). Helmet (with mask preferably) . Cleats or turf shoes. Girls can wear black softball pants, leggings or shorts.
Recommended: Bat (aluminum alloy only – NO composite) length of 27inch-29inch depending on the size of the girl (this is just a guideline). Fielders mask – this is very important for developing ability to catch a ball.
Balls are 11”
Jersey and socks will be provided (please email the league if your daughter needs an abnormally large jersey).
Field:
Most games are on fields 2 at Piedmont. There are occasional away games at neighboring leagues. Bases are 60 feet. Mound is 35 feet.
Teammate and coach requests / playing up or down:
Teams are formed by the commissioner. We will grant teammate and coach request to the best of our ability. If your daughter is 8 and shows exceptional ability she can attend the 10u evaluations for consideration to play in 10u (sign up for your normal age slot and inform the league).
Fall Ball:
We offer a 6 week fall ball schedule beginning when school is back in session. Girls will be introduced to the level of play they will see in the following Spring. This is a laid back and very instructional league. It is a great way to see if they will enjoy the next level of play.
Tournament team:
The goal of the tournament team will be to compete in the Babe Ruth State tournament and Regional tournament. They will also play in a few tournaments in the surrounding area. Most teams are formed in the spring via a tryout and compete in tournaments in June and early July. The entire league will be notified of tryouts and specific schedules for the team.