FAQs
When does registration usually open?
Registration for the spring usually opens early November and closes mid February.
How long is the season?
Practices usually start after April 1st, games begin the 3rd week of April and run through early June.
What age groups do you offer and what are the age cutoffs?
We have a clinic/8U level, 10U, 12U and 17U. We follow the guidelines below, but are flexible on placement based on the skill level of the player. Please email catonsvillesoftball@gmail.com before registering if you’d like to register your player in a different age category.
Clinic/8u - 01/01/2016 and 04/01/2019
10U - 01/01/2014 and 12/31/2015
12U - 01/01/2012 and 12/31/2013
17U - 09/01/2006 and 12/31/20011
When are practices / games played?
Each level will play one of two nights each week and one Saturday. This is the typical schedule, but may change based on field availability. Games and practices may also be scheduled on Fridays depending on registration numbers. Weeknights are generally at 6pm and Saturdays are between 9am and 4pm. Games last between 60-90 minutes, depending on the age group.
Clinic/8u – Mon OR Tues OR Thurs
10U – Mon OR Wed OR Thurs
12U - Mon OR Tues OR Wed
17U – Tues OR Thurs
Are uniforms provided?
Yes, clinic and 10U receive jerseys, socks and a visor. 12U and 17U receive jerseys and socks. For clinic and 10U, black shorts are required, and for 12U and 17u black softball pants are required - you may purchase them through us or on your own.
Is equipment provided?
We provide bats, helmets and balls, but you may bring your own if you wish. Each player MUST have a glove.
Where are the games played?
Most games will be played on the fields between Westchester Elementary and Catonsville Middle.
How do you choose teams?
For 10U, 12U, 17U we hold evaluations in early March. Coaches meet and hold drafts with the intent of keeping teams as evenly matched as possible. We do our best to accommodate requests, but we cannot guarantee team placement.
Do you offer tournament play?
Yes, for girls who may be interested in higher level play, and have the skills, we put together Rec All Star teams when we can. There will be extra fees, as well as extra practices during the season and through the end of tournament season (usually late July.) We will be looking for coaches at a few of the levels. Contact catonsvillesoftball@gmail.com if you are able to help.
Can I coach if I don't have experience?
Yes! Please contact catonsvillesoftball@gmail.com for information. A background check is required, and we will be happy to give you advice and help if needed.
What's your mission?
To provide a fun, safe, environment for girls from ages 6 to 18 to play softball by learning teamwork, skills, and strategy. We follow a positive-coaching philosophy.
How can I help?
We are 100% volunteer-run, and are always looking for new faces to help out! Below are examples of some of the kinds of help we need and what is required. We are a fun group and welcome new ideas! Please contact catonsvillesoftball@gmail.com with questions. Just a reminder that Rec and Parks requires a background check every year.
Coach
Assistant Coach
Level Director – makes the schedule and organizes an age group
Board – Treasurer, Secretary, general help – attends 4-6 meetings a year
Fundraising – organize one restaurant-based fundraising night, assist with team sponsorship, any other ideas they might have (very light work)
Opening Day – helps organize picture day (approximately one day of work)
Closing Day – helps organize closing day (a few hours of prep and approximately one day of work)
Fourth of July Parade – coordinate participants (one day)
Field Crew – help prep the fields occasionally, particularly after bad weather (as needed)
General Help
Snack Shack – be back up help for the Snack Shack (as needed)