Farm A Softball Division Description:
The Farm A Softball division is the entry-level program for young girls, typically aged 4 to 6. This division focuses on introducing the fundamentals of softball in a fun and engaging way. Here are the key aspects:
Age Group: 4 to 6 years old
Focus: Fun, fitness, and fundamentals.
Structure: Players hit a ball off a batting tee. The rules of the game can be adjusted to accommodate teaching needs, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Goals: To instruct children in the basics of hitting and fielding while allowing them to experience the value of teamwork and sportsmanship.
Field Dimensions: Games are played on a diamond with 60-foot base paths.
Parental Involvement: Parents are strongly encouraged to participate as managers, coaches, and volunteers in various capacities.
This division is often a family’s first introduction to Little League, making it a crucial step in fostering a child’s love for the game.
89ers Softball Division Description:
The 89ers Softball division in Little League is designed for young players who are transitioning from Tee Ball to more advanced levels of play. This division helps players develop their skills in a supportive and structured environment. Here are the key aspects:
Age Group: Typically for players aged 7 to 9
Pitching: This division often starts with coach pitch and gradually introduces player pitch. Coaches pitch to the players for the initial part of the season, and as players become more comfortable, they begin to pitch themselves.
Focus: Emphasis on developing fundamental skills such as hitting, fielding, and base running. The transition to player pitch helps players understand the dynamics of pitching and hitting in a game setting.
Field Dimensions: Games are played on a diamond with 60-foot base paths and a 35-foot pitching distance.
Structure: Games and practices are designed to be instructional, with a focus on skill development and understanding the rules of the game. The environment is supportive, aiming to build confidence and encourage participation.
Goals: To prepare players for higher levels of play by gradually introducing them to more competitive aspects of the game while maintaining a fun and educational atmosphere.
This division is a crucial step in a young player’s development, providing the foundation needed for success in more advanced levels of softball.
Minors Softball Division Description:
The Minor League Softball division in Little League is designed for young players, typically aged 9 to 11, and serves as a bridge between 89ers AA and more advanced levels of play. Here are the key aspects:
Age Group: 9 to 11 years old.
Structure: Player Pitch
Focus: Emphasis on developing fundamental skills like hitting, fielding, pitching, and base running. The division aims to build a solid foundation for future success in softball.
Competition: While the division is instructional, it also introduces elements of competition, including outs, runs, wins, and losses.
Field Dimensions: Games are played on a diamond with 60-foot base paths and a 35-foot pitching distance.
Team Selection: Players are typically selected through a skills assessment and draft process to ensure balanced teams.
This division is crucial for helping young players transition from basic to more advanced levels of play, ensuring they develop the necessary skills and confidence to succeed.
Majors Softball Division Description:
The Majors Softball Division in Little League, also known as the Major Division, is designed for players aged 9 to 12. This division offers a higher level of competition and focuses on refining advanced skills and understanding game strategies. Here are the key aspects:
Age Group: 9 to 12 years old.
Field Dimensions: Games are played on a diamond with 60-foot base paths and a 40-foot pitching distance.
Competition Level: This division is more competitive, with standings kept and a post-season tournament that can lead to the Little League Softball World Series.
Skill Development: Emphasis on advanced skills such as pitching, hitting, fielding, and base running. Players often begin to specialize in specific positions.
Team Selection: Players are typically selected through a skills assessment and draft process to ensure balanced teams.
This division provides an excellent opportunity for young players to experience a higher level of competition while continuing to develop their skills and love for the game.