Resources for Your Softball Player

As a parent or guardian, you play a vital role in your child's softball experience, and we're here to support you every step of the way. This page includes helpful information to guide you through the season:

• Understanding what equipment your player needs
• Ways to encourage practice and skill-building at home
• How to help your player develop good sportsmanship
• Guidance on supporting volunteer coaches and umpires
• General tips on being an awesome softball parent/guardian

Equipment Information

Here’s what your player will receive, what you might want to purchase, and where to find gear locally or online.

• We provide:
  • Jersey
  • Socks
  • Helmets
  • Bats
  • Catcher’s gear and infielder masks
• You may choose to purchase:
  • Personal bat (ASA-approved)
  • Personal Helmet (Face Guard Required)
  • Hat or sunglasses
  • Cleats (non-metal only; recommended for safety and traction)
  • Sliding shorts and/or softball pants: Players often choose black softball pants because they offer comfort and durability—especially during sliding. While sliding is more commonly taught and used at the 12U level, wearing proper pants can still provide valuable protection for players of any age.
• Required: Please ensure your player has a glove
• Bring a labeled water bottle to every practice
• Where to shop:
  • Instant Replay Sports (Ithaca) — new & used
  • Dick’s Sporting Goods
  • Walmart

Encouraging Practice at Home

Outside of team practices, there are many fun and simple ways to support your player's development.

• Practicing outside of team time is encouraged
• Helpful activities include:
  • Skill-building drills (e.g. throwing, catching, hitting)
  • Video tutorials and how-tos
  • Watching games (JV/Varsity, College Softball, MLB)
• Online resources:
  • At-Home Drills – MLB & USA Softball
  • Softball Buying Guide – Dick’s Sporting Goods

Commitment to the Team

Being part of a team means showing up and giving your best. Here's what to expect and how to help keep things running smoothly.

• Attendance at practices and games is essential
• To view schedules, roster, and other team related information view our team pages here.You must be logged in to the site to view.
• Minimum of 9 players required to field a team
• We aim to give all players as much playing time as possible
• Game cancellations:
  • Notified ASAP via website and social media
  • Check regularly for updates

Sportsmanship & Support

Modeling good sportsmanship and showing support for all participants helps make the season a great experience for everyone.

• Softball teaches:
  • Teamwork
  • Respect
  • Resilience
• Your support makes a big impact:
  • Encourage sportsmanship
  • Recognize efforts of coaches and umpires
  • Help players come prepared and excited
• Spectator conduct:
  • Cheer enthusiastically
  • Show respect to players, coaches, umpires, and other fans
  • Demonstrate community spirit and good sportsmanship

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📋 For official Little League rules, visit: Little League National

ℹ️ For age groups and levels: Age & Level Information

🗓️ For events and important dates: Click here

Thank you for helping make this a great season!