V1; 1-29-24
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
USA Softball of Southern California, hereafter referred to as USAS SoCal, is an affiliate member of USA
Softball, the National Governing Body (NGB) of Softball in the United States of America. The
responsibilities of USAS SoCal include the regulation of competition, the assurance of fairness, and
affording equal opportunity for all who wish to participate in USA Softball within the boundaries of USAS
SoCal.
USAS SoCal is a nongovernment, nonpolitical and nonprofit corporation staffed by experienced
and knowledgeable volunteers dedicated to the advancement of softball at all levels of play. USAS SoCal
accepts all persons that qualify as an amateur regardless of gender, sexual orientation, color of skin,
creed, or nationality. Through the efforts of the Commissioner, the Junior Olympic Commissioner and
the Junior Olympic (JO) Commissioner Staff, USAS SoCal has the largest and one of the best Junior
Olympic Programs in the nation. This program exists to help advance the softball interests, skills, and
desires of our youth softball players using several classifications of fast pitch play, with emphasis on fun
and furnishing a positive, supportive environment. The program builds healthy, productive, and
confident youths by means of a positive softball experience. USAS SoCal offers volunteer coaches and
other adult volunteers an intensive and informative coaching education experience that is available
through our Annual Coaching Clinics and the ACE Coach Education Program. The ACE (Aspire, Challenge,
Encourage) Coach Education Program which is available online at the USA Softball National Office
website.
Participants of our Junior Olympic Program receive the best overall softball experience possible
as we offer the best trained umpires, outstanding administration/organization at the local level,
excellent insurance coverage, programs for both recreation and competitive play, and much more.
USAS SoCal appreciates your participation in our Junior Olympic Program. USAS SoCal is
extremely excited for the 2024 season and getting back on the field. We look forward to supporting and
serving you in 2024 and future years.
Best regards,
Christina Drumm
Commissioner
Table of Contents
Topic Page
Board of Directors 4
Junior Olympic “A” Classification (Travel) Staff Listing 5
Junior Olympic “B” and “C” Classifications (Recreation) Staff Listing 6
Umpire-in-Chief Staff Listing 10
Mission/Junior Olympic Program 11
USA Softball Preview 12
USAS SoCal Standards of Conduct 13
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
USAS Parents’ Code of Ethics 14
“A” Classification Section (Travel)
1 USAS Eligibility Rules 15
2 Volunteer Adult Management 15
3 Manager and Coach Commitment to Players 17
4 Manager/Coach Commitment to USA Softball, Umpires and other Coaches 17
5 Players 17
6 Team Management Guidelines 18
Player Add and Release 18
Championship Roster 19
Returning Team 19
Pick-up Player 19
Championship Play Guidelines 21
Administration 21
Entry Fee/Entry Fee Refunds 21
Advancing in Championship Play 21
Championship Directors 21
Championship Play Umpires 21
“A” Classification (Travel) Championship Rules 22
Frequently Asked Questions 23
“B” and “C” Classification Sections (Recreation)
“B” Recreation Leagues 24
Purpose 24
Recreation League Teams 24
Eligibility Policy and Procedures 24
Recreation League All-Star Teams 24
League Teams Eligibility 25
Player Eligibility 26
DISCLAIMER
This copy of the USA Softball of Southern California 2024 Junior Olympic Rules and Regulations (Yellow Book) is
effective January 1, 2024. USAS SoCal will, from time to time, make necessary changes as required to this publication;
therefore, you are encouraged to regularly review the official copy of the Yellow Book which can be found online at
the USAS SoCal website, www.usasoftballsocal.com. In the event a conflict in language between this printed version
of the Yellow Book and the version online at our website, the official copy found at the USAS SoCal website controls. If
incorrect information regarding this published Yellow Book is issued by voice, written, electronic or any other form of
communication, whether by USAS SoCal staff members or not, the provisions and intent of the Yellow Book found in
the USAS SoCal website will always prevail.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
League Pick-up Player 27
Interleague All-Star Teams 27
Select Players/Teams 28
High School Teams/Players (16U and 18U) 28
Rural or Remote Location Team Eligibility 29
Championship Play Procedures 30
“C” Recreation Leagues 31
Eligibility Policy and Procedures 31
Categories of Eligibility 31
Recreation League All-Star Teams 31
League Teams Eligibility 32
Player Eligibility 33
Pick-up Player 34
Interleague All-Star Teams 34
Championship Play Procedures 34
“B” and “C” Championship Play Eligibility Responsibilities 36
Recreation League “B” and “C” Championship Play 37
Western “B” USA Softball National Championships 37
Calendar for Recreation Leagues 38
Frequently Asked Questions 40
Appendices
Tournament Sanctioning Policy (Appendix A) 43
Complaint Procedures (Appendix B) 44
Suspension Hearing (Appendix C) 45
Background Check Minimum Criteria for Known Offenses (Appendix D) 47
Appeal Procedures (Appendix E) 50
2024 Junior Olympic (JO) Age Classification Chart (Appendix F) 51
Concussion Protocol Guidelines (Appendix G) 52
Parents’ Code of Ethics (Appendix H) 62
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Board of Directors
President/Marketing Director Vice President/Junior Olympic Commissioner
Mike Schuck Kristi Allen
3380 La Sierra Avenue, Suite 104-270 144 W. Los Angeles Avenue, #116-121
Riverside, California 92503-5225 Moorpark, California 93021
909-241-0734 805-990-6122
Secretary/Deputy Umpire-in-Chief Treasurer/State Commissioner
Mark Korras Christina Drumm
3044 Adobe Springs Dr Post Office Box 5028
Prescott, Arizona 86301 Oceanside, California 92052-5028
213-400-6017 760-473-4823
[email protected]m drumm.chris.s[email protected]
State Umpire-in-Chief Adult Program Commissioner
Laura Head Louis (Jay) Arredondo
PO Box 90722 12433 Vivenda Avenue
Long Beach, California 90809 Grand Terrace, CA 92313
562-221-4540 909-645-3850
At Large Board Member
Open
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Junior Olympic (JO) Program – Travel Staff (“A” and Gold Classifications)
State Junior Olympic Commissioner
Kristi Allen
144 W. Los Angeles Avenue, # 116-121
Moorpark, California 93021
805-990-6122
kristiusasoftballsocal1@gmail.com
Age Classification Commissioners
10/12 and Under 14 and Under
Contact: Kristi Allen Contact: Kristi Allen
805-990-6122 805-990-6122
kristiusasoftballsocal1@gmail.com kristiusasoftballsocal1@gmail.com
16 and Under 18 and Under/Gold
Julie Creps Mike Schuck
25781 Lockmoor Road 3380 La Sierra Avenue, Suite 104-270
Valencia, California 91355 Riverside, California 92503-5225
661-714-5226 909-241-0734
Players Association
Lorrie Ivie
7381 Pheasant Run Road
Riverside, California 92509
951-233-7922
Champions Cup
Coaching Director
Deb Hartwig
925 Eucalyptus Dr
El Segundo, CA 90245
310-466-0324
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
State Commissioner
Christina Drumm
Post Office Box 5028
Oceanside, California 92052-5028
760-473-4823
Junior Olympic (JO) Program – Recreation Staff (“B” and “C” Classifications)
State Junior Olympic Commissioner Deputy State Junior Olympic Commissioner
Kristi Allen Bruce Sawyer
144 W. Los Angeles Avenue, #116-121 Post Office Box 6513
Moorpark, California 93021 Torrance, California 90504
805-990-6122 310-941-0689
kristiusasoftballsocal1@gmail.com brusawy[email protected]
District Staffs
Central District
District Commissioner District Umpire-in-Chief
Lori Williams Fred Mayrhofer
17326 Yvette Ave 8092 Catherine Avenue
Cerritos, CA 93021 Stanton, California 90680
562-301-1673 714-251-3796
Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief
Bob McElroy Julian McGuire
2 Lusitano 2 via Lampara
Coto de Caza, California 92679 Rancho Santa Margarita, California 92688
714-585-9250 714-328-1035
Eastern District
District Commissioner Deputy District Commissioner
Rhonda Shirey Trish Reyes
31887 Cedarhill Lane 2135 Estrado Circle
Lake Elsinore, California 92532 Corona, California 92882
951-281-9345 951-751-5318
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief
Phil Schwabrow A. P. Ramirez
PO Box 8952 16004 PFC Pacific Paris Montanez
Brea, California 92822 Fontana, California 92336
951-586-7202 909-910-8336
Los Angeles/South Bay District
District Commissioner Deputy District Commissioner
Bruce Sawyer JoAnn Vincent
Post Office Box 6513 Post Office Box 6513
Torrance, California 90504 Torrance, California 90504
310-941-0689 310-200-2621
District Umpire-in-Chief
Tim Kohut
3721 Corinth Avenue
Los Angeles, California 90066
310-869-9706
Northern District
District Commissioner District Umpire-in-Chief
Ralph Rivera J.D. Lambright
8402 Strub Ave 3641 Eve Circle, #L
Whittier, Ca 90605 Jurupa Valley, California 91752
562-328-9203 626-715-5506
ralphriverausasoftballsocal@yahoo.com jlambright@usasoftballsocal.com
Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief
Terry Erickson Mike Girouard
13706 W Amberwing St 4571 Avenida del Este
Peoria, Arizona 85383 Yorba Linda, California 92886
714-262-0102 714-742-8304
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
North San Diego District
District Commissioner District Umpire-in-Chief
Mitch Seime Jim Sanderson
9747 Esparta Court 374 Halberta Circle
Santee, California 92071 Calimesa, California 92320
619-316-1525 951-586-7202
Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief
Bruce Carvajal
14336 La Harina Court
San Diego, California 92129
619-977-7256
South San Diego
District Commissioner District Umpire-in-Chief
Nicole Taylor Don Parker
2365 Caminito Afuera 2400 Alpine Blvd, #88
San Diego, California 92107 Alpine, California 91901
619-417-4883 619-672-4269
Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief
Tony Bretz Mike Letendre
5800 Derk Drive 6470 East Lake Drive
La Mesa, California 91942 San Diego, California 92119
619-921-3249 619-990-6470
Western District
District Commissioner Deputy District Commissioner
Jared Breuer OPEN
1127 21
st
Street
Santa Monica, CA 90403
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
District Umpire-in-Chief Deputy District Umpire-in-Chief
Mark Korras Scott Matthews
3044 Adobe Springs Dr PO Box 1694
Prescott, Arizona 86301 Burbank, California 91507
213-400-6017 818-307-0405
16U/18U “B” Age Classification
JoAnn Vincent
310-200-2621
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Umpire-in-Chief Staff
State Umpire-in-Chief
Laura Head
PO Box 90722
Long Beach, California 90755
562-221-4540
Deputy Umpire-in-Chief/Administration
Paul Morines
24676 Paseo Vendaval
Lake Forest, California 92630
714-264-8707
pmorines@usasoftballsocal.com
Deputy Umpires-in-Chief/Umpire Training and Development
Mark Korras
3044 Adobe Springs Dr
Prescott, Arizona 86301
213-400-6017
Hal Van Ryswyk
126 W. 9
th
Street
Claremont, California 91711
909-568-6323
Deputy Umpire-in-Chief/Adult Program
James Walker III
2431 S. Meyler Street
San Pedro, California 90731
310-529-4555
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Mission
The mission of USA Softball of Southern California (USAS SoCal) is to foster, develop, promote, and
regulate the sport of softball within the boundaries of Southern California through a standardized,
quality program that is consistent with USA Softball.
Junior Olympic Program
The specific purpose of the USAS SoCal Junior Olympic (JO) Program is to:
Promote the game of amateur softball to all persons throughout Southern California regardless
of race, color of skin, creed, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, or ancestry.
Provide safeguards in accordance with the spirit of true sportsmanship.
Establish and publish standardized rules, regulations, and guidelines that all may follow.
Organize, promote, and conduct clinics and seminars for players, teams, leagues, umpires, and
others regarding the proper skills of softball play and the rules of the game.
Schedule, promote and conduct well organized annual softball championship play as well as
other tournaments.
Provide a standard and consistent avenue for USAS SoCal teams to qualify for participation in
District, State, Region, Western, and National Championships.
Provide grants and other forms of assistance to promote the growth of softball.
Provide scholarships which present more young persons the opportunity for advanced
education.
Assist international softball teams while in Southern California, when requested by the USA
Softball National Office.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
USA Softball Preview
Teams affiliated with USA Softball of Southern California are a vital part of the National Governing Body
of Softball of the United States. As such, the teams enjoy the following:
Governing Body of Softball. USA Softball is the National Governing Body (NGB) of Softball in the United
States as approved by the U.S. Congress and accepted by the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC) and the
World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC). As the NGB USA Softball is the only softball organization
authorized to represent the United States of America in the sport of softball.
Standard Eligibility and Playing Rules. All USA Softball registered teams throughout our country are
governed by the same eligibility and playing rules, thus ensuring fair competition in Championship Play.
Player eligibility is governed by the USA Softball Code and Procedural Manual, which are further defined
in this publication.
Championship Certified Umpires. USAS SoCal Championship Certified Umpires only are assigned to
Championship Play. These umpires must attend annual rules and mechanics clinics, pass the annual
rules exam, and pass an annual background check to become and remain eligible for assignment.
Team Classification. USAS SoCal has a classification code to help ensure that teams and players with
dominant softball playing ability do not play in lower classifications. However, teams and players may
request reclassification for eligibility to compete in a lower classification.
Championship Play. Championship Play may be scheduled for the following classifications: Gold, “A”,
“B” and “C” in the Age Classifications of 18 and under, 16 and Under, 14 and Under, 12 and Under, 10
and Under, and 8 and Under.
Junior Olympic Age Classification. The age cutoff date is December 31 of each year. Please see the
Junior Olympic Age Qualification Chart (Appendix E) on Page 50. (Note: Age cutoff date will change to
September 1, beginning September 2023 – USA Code Change)
18 and 16 and Under Gold. These classifications include the most advanced Junior Olympic fast pitch
players and teams. These players have the potential to participate in our National Teams Program,
which includes two of our USA National Teams. Teams at this level may compete to qualify for
advancement to the age appropriate 18 and/or 16 and Under Gold USA National Championship.
“A” Classification (Travel). This level of play is highly competitive with most players having consistent
ability and pitchers can control a game. Qualifying teams at this level advance to the USA Softball “A”
National Championship or to the Western USA Softball “A” National Championship in their respective
Age Classification.
“B” Classification/League All-Stars/Select. This level of play is for recreation leagues. Only recreation
league teams, league All-Star Teams or Select Teams are eligible to participate in these Championships.
District Championships are scheduled to qualify a predetermined number of teams for advancement to
the USAS SoCal “B” State Championships. Qualifying teams from the State Championships advance to
the “B” Western USA Softball National Championship in their respective Age Classification.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
“C” Classification/League All-Stars. This classification is for recreation leagues only and is explicitly for
less competitive leagues. The “C” Classification has been established to afford meaningful competition
for leagues and teams that are unable to compete in the “B” Classification because of the size of the
league and/or the level of softball skills. Only league teams or league All-Star Teams are eligible to
participate in these Championships. District Championships are scheduled to qualify a predetermined
number of teams for advancement to either the USAS SoCal “C” State Championships or to the Pacific
Coast Region of USA Softball (10) Championships. This classification does not advance beyond the State
or Region Championships.
USAS SoCal Standards of Conduct
Standards of Conduct are part of the USA Softball Code and Procedural Manual, as well as the USAS
SoCal Rules and Regulations. All USA Softball members shall respect these standards. A manager, coach,
player, or other volunteer affiliated with a team shall not violate any of the following:
● Unsportsmanlike conduct or any derogatory action on or off the field of play.
● Verbal or physical attack or threat upon an umpire or other USA Softball official.
● Destruction of property, abusive behavior, or violation of local, state, or federal law.
● Non-Payment of team incurred debt.
● All players shall be individually registered with USA Softball.
● All managers, coaches and team parents entering the field of play or dugout shall be individually
registered with USA Softball and shall have passed a background check conducted through the
USA Softball National Office and completed Safe Sport Certification. Proof of a current
completed background check shall be displayed.
● Playing under an assumed name or falsifying an official USA Softball document.
● Writing a check to a USA Softball official, USA Softball team, individual or business that is
returned unpaid by a bank for any reason.
● Commission of larceny perpetrated against a USA Official, team or individual.
● Use of any USA Softball logo or trademark without express permission.
● Commission of any act that is contrary to the objectives and purposes of USA Softball.
● Intentional forfeiture of a scheduled game in Championship Play.
● Competing with or against individuals or teams who are suspended from USA Softball play.
● Any other act of suspension as listed in the USA Softball Code and/or Procedural Manual.
● Team manager or coach shall not contact a USA Softball National Championship Tournament
Director regarding “fill-in” berths.
● No player, coach or manager shall consume alcoholic beverages or smoke on the field of play, or
inside/outside the dugout.
Violation of any of the above items may result in a team and/or individual suspension, or other
appropriate disciplinary action.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Parents’ Code of Ethics
I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care, and encouragement for my child participating in
youth sports by following this Parents’ Code of Ethics Pledge.
I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches and
officials at every game, practice or other youth sports event.
I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my child ahead of a personal desire to win.
I will insist that my child play in a safe and healthy environment. I will support coaches and officials
working with my child in order to encourage a positive and enjoyable experience for all.
I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free of drugs, tobacco and alcohol, and will
refrain from their use at all youth sports events.
I will remember that the game is for youth – not for adults. I will do my very best to make youth sports
fun for my child.
I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, fans and officials with respect regardless of race,
gender, creed or ability.
I promise to help my child enjoy the youth sports experience by doing whatever I can, such as being a
respectful fan, assisting with coaching and providing transportation.
I will require that my child’s coach be trained in the responsibilities of being a youth sports coach and
that the coach upholds the Coaches’ Code of Ethics.
Violation of any of the above items may result in suspension or other appropriate disciplinary action.
Appendix H is a copy of this code that can be signed by parents.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Section A: “A” Classification Program (Travel)
1 USAS SoCal Eligibility Rules
1.1 Each Player shall be individually registered.
1.2 The age classifications contained in the USA Softball Code and this publication apply and
shall be followed.
1.3 A player shall be listed on one team roster and participate with that team only during
Championship Play of the current season. EXCEPTION. Pick-up Players and players who have
been properly released from their previous team. (See USA Softball Code)
1.4 Proper player identification shall be produced when requested by a USAS SoCal Staff
member or other proper authority. The identification shall include a current photo and
appropriate signatures. If proper identification is not produced the player is ineligible.
2 Volunteer Adult Management
2.1 All sports organizations must have rules and regulations to ensure fair and equitable
competition. The USA Softball Championship Program publishes regulations, known as the
USA Code, which shall be followed by all USA Softball members. In addition to the USA
Softball Code, USAS SoCal establishes and publishes local rules and regulations which
supplement the USA Softball Code. The USAS SoCal Rules and Regulations, this publication,
serves to protect our members in circumstances that may be specific to Southern California
and defines further the USA Softball Code.
2.2 USAS SoCal is one of the best softball organizations in the nation due primarily to the
dedication of our volunteer adults, the talent and determination of our players, and the
rules and regulations established by USAS SoCal. Continued cooperation at adhering to
these rules and regulations will ensure continued success going forward. To preserve our
high standards, any infraction of the following agreements should be reported to the
appropriate Age Classification Commissioner, the Junior Olympic Commissioner, or the
Commissioner.
2.3 Manager/Other Adults. Managers and other Adult Volunteers shall adhere to the USAS
SoCal Rules and Regulations, the USA Softball Code and the below listed guidelines.
Additionally, it is imperative that managers and coaches understand that they are
responsible for all actions of their team, including financial obligations. Each manager and
Adult Volunteer shall agree to abide by the USA Softball Code, the Official Rules of Softball,
and these rules and regulations, including but not limited to the following.
2.3.1 A manager, other volunteer, or team parent (team staff) who enters the field of play
or dugout shall be individually registered, background checked and Safe Sport
Certified through the USA Softball system and shall have proof of such visibly
displayed. (See Appendix D)
2.3.2 The manager of a team participating in Championship Play shall be ACE Certified and
have proof of such on their person.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
2.3.3 Shall conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner always and act in accordance
with the objectives and purposes of USA Softball.
2.3.4 Shall individually register each player on their team. A player’s individual
registration includes Accident and Liability Insurance.
2.3.5 Refrain from and discourage all team members from recruiting or enticing to change
teams, including any player who is registered and participating in the USAS SoCal
Junior Olympic Program “B” and/or “C” Classification (Recreation Leagues). This
remains in effect until July 15 of the current year or when a team is no longer
eligible for Championship Play, whichever occurs first.
2.3.6 Shall not compete with or against a suspended player, manager/coach, or team
after having been notified of such suspension.
2.3.7 Shall not use or permit team personnel to use any USA Softball logo or trademark
item without express permission from USAS SoCal.
2.3.8 Shall have control of all team personnel and fans while participating in any USA
Softball event.
2.3.9 Shall request and receive permission from another team’s manager prior to asking a
player from that other team to be a Pick-Up Player on a team for an invitational
tournament.
2.3.10 Shall notify the manager of a team that is no longer eligible to participate in
Championship Play prior to asking a player from that team to be a Pick-Up Player.
2.3.11 Shall understand that all players of a team are released as soon as that team decides
not to enter USA Softball Championship Play.
2.3.12 Shall inform all players on the team that they are automatically released from the
team when:
● Decision is made not to enter USA Softball Championship Play.
● Decision is made not to enter any remaining USA Softball Championship
Play; for example, Regional National Qualifier, USA Western National
Championship, or the USA Softball National Championship Finals.
● Team is eliminated from further USA Softball Championship Play.
● A player is released by a team with the written approval of the
manager/coach and the player’s parents/guardians when the player is
under 18 years old.
NOTE: A team manager/coach shall notify the appropriate Age Classification
Commissioner or the Junior Olympic Commissioner when any of the above
occurs.
2.3.13 Shall refrain from attempting to recruit or entice a player of another team that is
still competing in Championship Play to become a Pick-up Player for their team
during Championship Play, for the Fall Season or for the following year’s team. This
applies to all levels of play including teams competing in USA Softball “B” and “C”
Classification (Recreation League) All-Star Championship Play.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
2.3.14 Shall advance to the next level of USA Softball Championship Play when the team
qualifies. A team that qualifies is defined as a team that has earned a berth to the
next level of Championship Play and accepts such berth.
2.3.15 Shall not permit team personnel or fans to abuse team players, opposing teams,
spectators, umpires and/or USA Softball Staff members.
2.3.16 Managers who have a player participating simultaneously in a USA Softball “B” or
“C” Classification Program (Recreation League) shall inform that player and the
player’s parents that participation with an “A” Classification Team (Travel) after
March 31 of the current year renders that player ineligible for selection to the
league’s All-Star Team.
2.3.17 Shall not permit their team to compete in non-championship tournaments which
award cash prizes to individual players.
2.3.18 A team shall not forfeit a scheduled game in USA Softball Championship Play.
NOTE: Violation of any of the above items may result in a team and/or individual
suspension, or other appropriate disciplinary action.
3 Manager/Coach Commitment to the Players
3.1 Will place the welfare of players above all else and will always maintain a professional
relationship with each of them.
3.2 Will encourage players to always exhibit good sportsmanship.
3.3 Will always treat players with dignity and respect.
3.4 Shall understand that they are role models for the players and should therefore always
strive to set a good example.
3.5 Will be truthful regarding situations when recruiting players for their teams.
4 Manager/Coach Commitment to USA Softball, Umpires, and Other Coaches
4.1 By their actions on and off the field of play, shall be a credit to their team and USA Softball.
4.2 Shall treat other coaches, umpires, and USA Softball Staff members in a professional and
respectful manner on and off the field of play.
5 Players
5.1 Players should understand that participation in USA Softball Championship Play is permitted
with one team only during the current season. If a player leaves that team without written
permission from the coach, parent, and USAS SoCal, they become ineligible to compete with
another USA Softball team, including as a Pick-up Player.
5.2 A player who leaves a team for just cause without a release may appeal their non-release to
the Junior Olympic Commissioner. Per the USA Softball Code, such an appeal shall not be
considered once the player’s team enters USA Championship Play.
5.3 All players are automatically released from their team when the team is no longer
participating in USA Softball Championship Play after July 15, or the player is no longer Age
Qualified. Each player shall agree to abide by the USA Softball Code and these regulations,
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
which are available from the team manager or through membership in the USAS SoCal
Players’ Association, including but not limited to the following:
5.3.1 A player shall not be guilty of unsportsmanlike conduct or any other act that is
contrary to the objectives and purposes of USA Softball.
5.3.2 A player shall refrain from recruiting or enticing any player who is listed on a roster
of another USA Softball team to leave that team to play for another USA Softball
team.
5.3.3 A player shall respect and accept a manager’s decision and/or changes concerning
positions and playing time in any game or tournament.
5.3.4 A player shall return all team uniform items and equipment in good condition,
except for normal wear, to the manager within 15 days of being released from the
team. Failure to return such items could result in the player becoming ineligible for
participation in USA Softball until all items are returned or the manager is
reimbursed the cost.
5.3.5 A player should understand that they have until July 1 or the start of USA
Championship Play, whichever occurs first, to be released from a travel team to be
eligible to compete in USA Softball Championship Play with another USA Softball
team during the current season.
EXCEPTION: A player who receives a release in writing signed by both the manager/coach
and parents.
5.3.6 A player should understand that unless agreed to in writing, time and money given
to a team is of their own free will and becomes the property of the team. The
manager/coach should provide each player and parent/guardian with a preseason
budget and a final itemized and accurate financial statement at end of USA
Championship Play.
6 Team Management Guidelines
6.1 Player added or released from team:
6.1.1 A player may be added to or released from a team roster until July 1 of the current
season or when the team first enters USA Softball Championship Play, whichever
occurs first.
EXCEPTION: A player who receives a release in writing signed by both the manager/coach
and the player’s parents.
6.1.2 Prior to entering USA Softball Championship Play:
6.1.2.1 To add a player prior to the roster change deadline or before entering USA
Softball Championship Play, the team adds the player to their roster on
RegisterUSASoftball.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
6.1.2.2 To release a player the team manager/coach contacts their Age Classification
Commissioner prior to the roster change deadline or before entering
Championship Play, whichever occurs first.
6.1.3 After entering USA Softball Championship Play: To add a player the Pick-Up Player
rule applies.
6.2 Championship Roster. The Championship Roster must be submitted to the Age
Classification Commissioner. The team roster is frozen as soon as the team participates in
their first USA Softball Championship Play.
6.3 Returning Team. A team must meet the returning team requirements listed in the USA
Softball Code to be classified as a returning team. An eligible returning team must provide
the Official Tournament Entry Request Form and a completed roster to their Age
Classification Commissioner for verification and signature before July 1 of the current
season.
NOTE: Completed roster is defined as an invoice has been created, approved and payment has
been received by USAS SoCal.
6.4 Pick-Up Player. A Pick-Up Player is a player who has not participated with that team during
the current season. A Pick-Up Player may be a player selected from a team that is no longer
eligible for USA Softball Championship Play, a player who has obtained a written release
signed by the manager/coach, parent and USAS SoCal, or a player who registered with USA
Softball at least seven (7) days prior to the start of the National Championship Final. A
maximum of three (3) players may be Pick-Up Players on a team, as follows:
6.4.1 A Pick-Up Player shall sign an official Pick-Up Player Form that must also be signed
by the team manager and the Commissioner or their designee. When the player is
17 years old or younger, their parent/guardian must also sign the form.
6.4.2 A Pick-Up Player must be registered with USA Softball during the current season.
Players must be registered seven (7) days prior to the start of the National
Championship Final.
6.4.3 A Junior Olympic player whose team has qualified for a USA Softball National
Championship Final is eligible to be a Pick-Up Player ONLY if released in writing
through the Player Release Form signed by both the manager/coach and a
parent/guardian.
6.4.4 A player who has competed in any Junior Olympic National Championship Final is an
eligible Pick-Up Player in a higher-level National Championship Final.
EXAMPLE: A player who participates in the Western National Championship Final
can then become a Pick-Up Player at the age appropriate USA Softball National
Championship Final.
6.4.5 A Pick-Up Player may not be replaced on a Championship Roster after participating
with a team.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
6.4.6 Team personnel should refrain from recruiting or enticing any player and/or parent
to change teams until July 15 or when the team is no longer eligible for USA Softball
Championship Play.
NOTE: A Pick-Up Player is not allowed to participate in a USA Softball National Qualifier.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
“A” Classification (Travel) Championship Play Guidelines
Administration. The USAS SoCal Commissioner shall determine playing sites, dates, deadlines, and entry
fees. The Age Classification Commissioners shall conduct the USAS SoCal Junior Olympic Championships
for their respective Age Classifications, unless otherwise authorized.
Entry Fee. A USA Softball Championship Entry Fee may be paid by check or money order but must be
received by the published deadline. A $35.00 Returned Check Fee shall be charged for each check
returned unpaid by the bank for any reason. When this occurs, only a money order, cashier’s check or
cash shall be accepted as payment of the returned check plus the $35.00 Returned Check Fee. These
fees must be paid prior to a team re-entering USA Softball Championship Play.
Entry Fee Refund. A refund of the entire Championship Entry Fee shall be provided to a team only when
a refund is requested by the team manager prior to the entry deadline or if the team qualifies for the
USA Softball National Championship Final and accepts the berth. A team that disbands after the
Championship Entry Deadline may request a partial refund, however a team that simply elects not to
participate shall forfeit their entire Entry Fee.
Advancing in USA Softball Championship Play. A team that participates in the USAS SoCal “A”
Championship automatically qualifies for the Western USA Softball National Championship Final. The
team Championship Entry Form and Entry Fee are due to the Age Classification Commissioner within 72
hours of the completion of the USAS SoCal “A” Championship. Should the Championship Entry Form and
Entry Fee not be received by the deadline, all players on that team are released and become eligible to
be Pick-Up Players.
Championship Director. The USAS SoCal Championship Director and other USAS SoCal Staff members
are responsible for enforcing all USA Softball and USAS SoCal Rules and Regulations. They may remove
any manager, coach, player, team and/or spectator from the Championship for a violation of the USA
Softball Code and/or the USAS SoCal Rules and Regulations. A decision regarding suspension from USA
Softball is the sole responsibility of the USAS SoCal Staff.
Championship Play Umpires. All umpires assigned to USA Softball Championship Play have attended a
USAS SoCal Annual Rules Clinic, an Annual Mechanics Clinic, and have passed the current USA Softball
Umpire Rules Exam. Additionally, most umpires have attended a weekend National Umpire School
and/or a 5-day National Umpire Camp for fast pitch, slow pitch, or both. The Championship Umpire-in-
Chief is responsible for umpire game assignments, playing rules protests, and any other activity deem
necessary by the Championship Director. Game umpires, the UIC and/or the Championship Director may
remove from the game, out of sight and sound, any manager, coach, player and/or spectator for abusive
language, physically charging, bumping, shoving, striking, or threatening to strike an umpire, manager,
coach, or player.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
“A” Classification (Travel) Championship Rules
The current USA Softball Code and Official Rules of Softball shall apply, augmented by the following
clarifications and exceptions.
● Championship Play shall be double elimination, unless otherwise authorized by the USAS SoCal
Commissioner.
● A team that already has a berth to a USA Softball National Championship Final may enter
Championship Play only after forfeiting their existing berth. EXCEPTION: 18U “A” and 16U “A”
teams that have accepted a berth to their respective Age Classification USA Softball National
Championship Final may enter Gold Qualifiers in their respective Age Classification without
relinquishing their “A” berth.
● All teams must check-in with the appropriate Championship Director at least one (1) hour prior
to the team’s first scheduled game.
● The team manager is responsible for checking with the Championship Staff to verify schedule
and field locations. Changes may occur any time.
● USAS SoCal Official Line-up Cards ONLY shall be used.
● Home team for each game shall be determined by coin toss at the umpires and coaches
pregame Plate Meeting.
● Softballs shall be provided by USAS SoCal and will be the ONLY softballs used.
● The team listed at the Top Bracket shall occupy the 3
rd
Base dugout, unless a team is playing
back-to-back games at the same field in which case that team may remain in the dugout used
during the previous game.
● When an Official Scorekeeper is not assigned, the home team shall be designated as the Official
Scorekeeper.
● No batting or infield practice is permitted in fair territory of the game field.
● In case of a disputed umpire decision on the field, the team manager ONLY may consult with the
game umpires. Other coaches and players shall remain away from the discussion.
● The team manager shall always have full control of their coaching staff and their players, both
on and off the field. The team manager is also responsible for the actions of all team followers at
the Championship.
● Artificial noisemakers, regardless of type, are NOT permitted at USA Softball Junior Olympic
Championships.
● The use of tobacco products on the field or inside/outside the dugout by any team personnel is
prohibited.
● The use or possession of alcoholic beverages in any form on the field or inside/outside the
dugout by any team personnel is prohibited.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
“A” Classification (Travel) Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a National Qualifier?
A. Each of the USA Softball 10 Regions is authorized to host one National Qualifier (NQ) per Age
Classification. Any team in each Age Classification may enter NQ with the winning team
advancing to the USA Softball National Championship Final of the appropriate Age Classification.
Q. How does a team qualify for the USA Softball Western National Championship Final?
A. A team must play in the current year USAS SoCal Championship (State) in its Age Classification. If
the team does not qualify to advance to the Regional NQ or for the USA Softball National
Championship Final the team is automatically qualified to play in the USA Softball Western
National Championship Final.
Q. Does a team need a Travel Permit to enter a NQ outside of Southern California?
A. No, however the team must have an Official Championship Entry Form signed by the USAS SoCal
Commissioner or their designee. The form is available from the Age Classification Commissioner.
Q. Can a manager, coach, player, or parent of one team communicate with a player who is
committed to another team?
A. Personal communications amongst friends is acceptable and encouraged, however the
recruitment and/or enticement of a player or parent on another team is inappropriate and
certainly unsportsmanlike behavior. This should not take place.
Q. Is there a list of USA Softball Travel Teams in an Age Classification?
A. Yes, each USA Softball team manager has a team listing in their membership packet or the Age
Classification Commissioner can be contacted for the most current listing.
Q. What is a Junior Olympic “B” and/or “C” All-Star Championship?
A. The Junior Olympic “B” and “C” Classifications are recreation level competition, less competitive
than the “A” and Gold levels. The “B” and “C” Leagues All-Star Teams also compete in “B” and
“C” All-Star Championship Play. The recreation program comprises the largest portion of the
USAS SoCal Junior Olympic Program and is therefore primarily responsible for the many berths
to USA Softball National Championships that USAS SoCal presently has.
Q. What is the Players’ Association?
A. The Players’ Association is the USAS SoCal entity that used to advise players and their parents.
The Players’ Association also welcomes feedback/suggestions from players and parents on how
to improve the USAS SoCal Junior Olympic Program. Additionally, the Players’ Association
annually awards several college scholarships to worthy USAS SoCal Junior Olympic players.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Section B: “B” Classification Program (Recreation)
1 Purpose. To provide a “B” Classification Program (Recreation) and Championship Play for
leagues registered with USAS SoCal.
1.1 Recreation League Teams. These teams, in Age Classifications 6U through 18U, shall
represent a recreation league. A recreation league is defined as follows:
1.1.1 An organized league that is associated with a recognized neighborhood or
community.
1.1.2 Participation is open to any interested youth.
1.1.3 Tryouts or demonstration of skills is not required for participation.
1.1.4 A draft, draw or other District Commissioner approved method is used to ensure
equitable distribution of talent amongst all the league teams.
1.1.5 All teams must be approved by the league Board of Directors.
1.1.6 All league teams will be classified “B” on January 1 of each year.
NOTE: Leagues that split their Age Classifications based on skill level must have a minimum of ten (10)
teams in the division with at least six (6) teams in the upper classification, regardless of the method used
to create the split Age Classification, including but not limited to player evaluations, league assignments
and/or parent requests. Split classification shall not be used in Age Classification below 8U. All players in
a league with split classifications are eligible for All-Star selection.
1.2 “B” 16U and 18U Teams. These teams may be formed in any area within the boundaries of
USAS SoCal, whether league play is offered in their respective Age Classification or not.
NOTE: High School district boundaries shall not be used to determine eligibility.
1.3 The Championship Season (e.g., All-Stars) will begin no earlier than May 5
th
and will end
after the National Championships. Every team participating in Championship Play must
acknowledge and be prepared to accept a berth, if earned, to the next higher level. Refusal
to accept a berth can result in the loss of eligibility for All-Star participation the following
year.
1.4 Each team Adult Staff member, e.g. manager/coach/team parent and all Board of Directors
members, shall be individually registered, have proof that a background check has been
conducted and Safe Sport Certified through the RegisterUSASoftball system. The USAS
registration period is 01 September to 31 August of the following year. Background Checks
and SafeSport must be completed prior to taking the field. (see Appendix D). Additionally, all
Board of Director members and at least two (2) adults on each team shall be concussion
certified (see Appendix G).
Note: No invitational All-Star tournaments shall be held before May 10th.
2 Eligibility Policy and Procedures
2.1 Recreation League All-Star Eligibility
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
2.1.1 The Spring season is January 1 through the end of national championship play.
2.1.2 The Fall Ball Season is September 1 to December 31.
2.1.3 Each 6U through 18U player playing in recreation leagues shall be individually
registered with USAS SoCal. Players participating in Fall shall be registered by
October 1
st
. Any players not registered during the Fall season shall be registered
before April 1 of the current Spring season.
2.1.4 Each All-Star manager shall be ACE certified, Concussion and Safe Sport certified,
and must show proof of such. USAS Staff shall provide the identification means.
2.1.5 All members of the All-Star coaching staff shall be Background checked and Safe
Sport certified and must show proof of such. At least two (2) shall be Concussion
certified.
2.1.6 A team shall ONLY play against other teams and leagues that are USA Softball
registered.
2.1.7 Recreation league teams or Select Teams that play in USA Softball or non-USA
Softball travel events, including but not limited to travel ball friendlies, are not
eligible for “B” or “C” classification.
2.1.8 Once a league has drafted their recreation or Select teams, they may not play in any
travel ball related events. Doing so will result in loss of B or C classification.
2.2 League Team Eligibility
2.2.1 Team roster may include up to 20 players.
2.2.2 A team may be a single league team, an All-Star Team, or a Select Team as certified
by the league Board of Directors.
2.2.2.1 Leagues may not nominate, choose or tryout before May 1. Practice or playing
together prior to May 5 is not permitted.
2.2.2.2 No invitational All-Star tournaments shall be held before May 10 .
2.2.2.3 If the league chooses a single league team or most players are from a single
team, this team must meet the requirements of paragraph 2.1 above.
2.2.3 A team shall not have more than four (4) players who played with a travel type team
after January 1 of the current season.
NOTE: This applies to All-Star Teams only and is limited to four (4) travel ball players
per division within the league. This team shall be classified “B”.
NOTE: Travel Type Team is defined as any team that is not part of the player’s
approved Recreation League Team or League Select Team.
2.2.4 Leagues may not choose All-Star managers before April 24 of the current season.
NOTE: Leagues are encouraged to send out information to their league families
about All Stars (i.e. schedule, required commitments, costs [player registration,
uniforms, tournaments, hotels, etc.] and stress the importance of committing to
Championship Play as mentioned in para 2.2.6 below).
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
2.2.5 Teams participating in recreation tournaments between January 1 and May 1 of the
current season must be composed of the original drafted league team. No pickup
players or Select Teams are allowed.
2.2.6 The Championship Season (e.g., All-Star) shall commence no earlier than May 1
th
and ends immediately after the National Championships. Every team participating in
Championship Play must acknowledge and be prepared to accept a berth, if earned,
to the next higher level. Failure to accept a berth will result in Sanctions to the
League.
2.2.7 All Player Clinics held after March 31st of the current year must have approval of the
District Commissioner and must be open to all players.
2.3 Player Eligibility
2.3.1 A player must play a minimum 75 percent of the current season’s league games.
EXCEPTION: High School students who are age eligible to return to the 14U Age
Classification may return to the league in which they played during the previous
year providing the league has less than 30 14U eligible players. The 14U All-Star
Team shall not include more than four (4) players who attended High School. A
player returning to the 14U Age Classification must have been registered with the
league before May 15 of the current season. Returning High School players must be
approved by the league Board of Directors.
NOTE: A player may appeal the 75 percent minimum rule to their respective District
Commissioner in cases of documented injury.
2.3.2 A player who played in a higher Age Classification during the current season is
eligible to play in their proper Age Classification in Championship Play.
2.3.3 A player who played on a High School team or other recreation league team after
March 31 of the current season is eligible to play if all other eligibility rules are met.
2.3.4 A player playing in more than one USA Softball recreation league must declare in
writing by 31 March to both the League Player Agent and the All-Star Administrator
in which league they wish to be eligible for All-Star selection. The league is required
to provide a copy of the player’s declaration to their respective District
Commissioner.
2.3.5 A player who participated on a team other than a team in their recreation league
after March 31 of the current season is NOT eligible. For example, a player shall not
participate on any non-USA Softball team, All-Star Team, or travel type team after
March 31.
NOTE: “Participate”, above, is defined as a player or team taking part in a tryout,
practice, practice game, scheduled game, friendly or tournament.
2.3.6 A league that has more than one post-season team within an Age Classification may
elevate a player within the same league from the second All-Star Team to the first
All-Star Team with the approval of the respective District Commissioner. When a
player is moved that player is locked on the team to which they were moved until
the team is eliminated from Championship Play.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
2.3.7 A player shall not participate with more than one team in USA Softball
Championship Play during the same season. EXCEPTION: Pick-Up Player.
2.3.8 A player participating in Championship Play shall have USAS SoCal authorized photo
identification. USAS shall determine the type of acceptable photo identification.
2.4 League “Pick-Up Players” (See USA Softball Code)
2.4.1 A “B” Classification All-Star Pick-Up Player shall meet all player eligibility
requirements in this section.
2.4.2 A player can be a Pick-Up Player only once per season.
2.4.3 A “B” All-Star Player whose team is no longer eligible for Championship Play is
eligible to be a Pick-Up Player per the USA Softball Code.
2.4.4 A Pick-Up Player must have played on a USAS SoCal registered “B” or “C” Team
during the current season.
2.4.5 Pick-Up Players are not permitted at District Championships. Roster addition prior to
the District Championship is permitted only in case of injury or another unexpected
situation and must be approved by the District Commissioner.
2.4.6 A Pick-Up Player, after District Championships but before the USAS SoCal All-Star
Championships (State), may be picked up only from their own league. After the
USAS SoCal Championships (State), a Pick-Up Player may be picked up from within
the appropriate Age Classification from anywhere in Southern California.
NOTE: 14U teams qualified to State may pickup players from within their district as
long as they were in interleague playing with the other district leagues.
2.4.7 Pick-Up Players must be approved by the league Board of Directors.
2.5 Interleague All-Star Teams. Leagues that combine to participate in interleague play may
choose a combined All-Star Team providing all the above and below listed requirements are
met.
2.5.1 A league that combines with another league must have approval of their District
Commissioner.
2.5.2 More than two (2) leagues may combine to form an All-Star Team.
2.5.3 No player from either league interested in participating on the combined All-Star
Team shall be denied the opportunity. EXCEPTION: A player who declines to
participate in Championship Play.
2.5.4 An All-Star Team formed by combined “B” Leagues shall be classified “B”. All other
combined All-Star Teams shall be classified by the District Commissioner.
2.5.5 Combined teams must be approved by the Board of Directors of each league that
combines.
2.5.6 Leagues may combine to form a second All-Star Team when approved by their
District Commissioner.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
2.6 The Select Program was established to provide an additional opportunity for players who
wish to improve their softball skills beyond the regular league season but who have not yet
reached the Junior Olympic “A” Classification skill level. This program is for 8U through 14U
players who wish to improve their softball skills and thereby benefit themselves as well as
their league. The Select Program will be in effect January 1st through April 7th of the current
season.
2.6.1 Select Player Eligibility
2.6.1.1 Spring Select players must be individually registered with a recreation league, as
required in paragraphs 1.1 and 2.1 above.
2.6.1.2 Spring Select players must be drafted onto an active recreation league team
roster in the current season.
2.6.1.3 Spring Select players must play in a minimum of 75 percent of the leagues
scheduled games during the current season.
2.6.1.4 A Select player shall not participate on more than one Select team during the
same season.
2.6.2 Spring Select Team Eligibility
2.6.2.1 Select teams may be established in the 8U, 10U, 12U and 14U Age
Classifications ONLY.
2.6.2.2 The team roster may include up to 20 players.
2.6.2.3 Participation is limited to one day per week.
NOTE: USAS SoCal Select events in January may occur over two (2) days since
leagues normally have not started league play.
2.6.2.4 Select team participation may not interfere with any regular season
participation.
2.6.2.5 Select teams may not have more than four (4) players who have participated on
a travel type team after January 1st of the current season.
2.6.2.6 Select teams shall be comprised of players from a single Recreation League.
2.6.2.7 Select teams and all activities must be approved by the league board of
directors.
2.6.2.8 A Select Team or player that participates in a USA Softball “A”, Gold or any non-
USA Softball travel type qualifying event shall NOT be eligible for participation in
“B” or “C” Classification Championship Play.
2.6.3 Recreation Leagues may not host their own Select Tournaments.
2.6.3.1 Select Teams may not participate in Select Team friendlies that conflict with
their District Select Tournament, unless it is full.
2.6.3.2 The District Commissioner shall approve all Select Team friendlies.
Note: Select teams participating in non-approved Select friendlies may
adversely affect their league’s All-Star eligibility.
2.6.4 Select teams registered for a Select Tournament may not withdraw after the
tournament deadline without the concurrence of both the Tournament Director and
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
their respective District Commissioner. Teams that withdraw and participate in
another venue will not be refunded or will be responsible for the full entry fee, and
may adversely affect their league’s All-Star eligibility.
2.6.5 Fall Select
2.6.5.1 The Fall Select Program will be in effect from September 1 to December 31.
2.6.5.2 Fall Select teams may be established in the 8U, 10U, 12U and 14U Age
Classifications ONLY.
2.6.5.3 The team roster may include up to 20 players.
2.6.5.4 Select teams shall be comprised of players from a single Recreation League.
2.6.5.5 Select teams and all activities must be approved by the league board of
directors.
2.6.5.6 The District Commissioner shall approve all Select Team friendlies.
2.7 “B” Classification 16U and 18U Teams. These Age Classifications provide competition and
Championship Play for players and teams that have not yet reached the Junior Olympic “A”
Classification skill level. This program is devoted to High School age players who wish to
improve their softball skills and thereby benefit their league, their high school as well as
themselves.
2.7.1 Classification 16U and 18U Team Eligibility
2.7.1.1 A team shall register before June 1 with a minimum of five (5) players who are
individually registered with USAS SoCal. A minimum of eight (8) players shall be
individually registered before July 1. Every player on the roster shall be
individually registered before the start of Championship Play.
2.7.1.2 A team roster may include 20 players, including Pick-Up Players.
2.7.1.3 A team shall be comprised of players who meet all the 16U and 18U “B”
eligibility requirements.
2.7.1.4 A team may be single league team, or an All-Star Team as chosen and approved
by the league.
2.7.1.5 A team shall not have any players who participated on a travel type team after
March 31st.
2.7.1.6 A team represented by more than five (5) high school players requires approval
of the USAS SoCal Junior Olympic (JO) Commissioner.
2.7.1.7 A team may participate in “A” and/or “B” Classification invitational tournaments
after May 1 but risks being reclassified. If reclassified, a team may appeal the
reclassification to the USAS SoCal Junior Olympic (JO) Commissioner.
2.7.1.8 A team that participates in a USA Softball “A” or Gold qualifying event shall not
be eligible to participate in “B” Classification Championship Play.
2.7.1.9 A team participating in USA Softball Championship Play shall abide by all USA
Softball codes pertaining to Championship Play and the policies outlined on the
back of the Official “B” Championship Roster.
2.7.1.10 A player who pitched at the high school varsity level may pitch in these
classifications unless they are classified above the “B” Classification by their
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
respective District Commissioner. The decision of a District Commissioner may
be appealed to the USAS SoCal Junior Olympic (JO) Commissioner.
2.7.2 16U and 18U Player Eligibility
2.7.2.1 Player age eligibility is in accordance with the USA Softball Code.
2.7.2.2 A Player shall not be on two (2) Championship Rosters during the same season.
For example, a player may not be on a USA Softball “B” 16U/18U Classification
Team and a USA Softball “A” Classification Team during the same season.
2.7.2.3 A player is eligible to become a Pick-Up Player for a USA Softball “A”
Classification (Travel) Team only after their current team is eliminated from
Championship Play.
2.7.3 16U and 18U Pick-Up Players (see USA Softball Code)
2.7.3.1 A “B” Classification Pick-Up Player shall meet all the player eligibility
requirements in this section.
2.7.3.2 A player shall be a Pick-Up Player only once per season.
2.7.3.3 A “B” Classification Player whose team is eliminated from Championship Play is
eligible to be a Pick-Up Player for either an “A” or “B” Classification Team in the
same or higher Age Classification.
2.7.3.4 A Pick-Up Player must be registered with USA Softball during the current
season. Players must be registered at least seven (7) days before the start of the
National Championship Final.
2.7.3.5 All Pick-Up Player requirements contained in the USA Softball Code apply.
2.7.4 Rural or Remote Location Team Eligibility. Contact the “B” 16U/18U Age
Classification Commissioner for team eligibility policy.
3 Championship Play Procedures. The All-Star Championship Play procedures are:
3.1 USAS SoCal is divided into seven (7) districts which are used for qualifying teams for the
USAS SoCal “B” Classification All-Star Championship (State).
Central District North San Diego District
Eastern District South San Diego District
Los Angeles/South Bay District Western District
Northern District
3.2 Each District Commissioner shall conduct a District Championship. Each USAS SoCal League
within a District may enter a minimum of one (1) team per Age Classification. The District
Commissioner is authorized to add entries based on availability.
3.3 District Championships should be hosted by a league in the District and will be sanctioned by
USAS SoCal. USAS SoCal Staff shall administer all District Championships.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
3.4 District Championships shall be conducted on the dates published.
3.5 Teams must provide a signed championship roster printed from RegisterUSA Softball.
3.6 The first, second, and third place teams in Age Classifications 8U, 10U, 12U and 14U in each
District Championship shall advance to the USAS SoCal “B” Classification All-Star
Championships (State). Additional berths shall be awarded based on participation.
3.7 The “B” Classification USAS SoCal All-Star Championships top 12 finishers in the 10U, 12U,
14U, 16U and 18U Age Classifications shall advance to the “B” Classification USA Softball
Western National Championship Finals. Additional berths may be awarded based on
availability. The top 8U finishers shall advance to the Regional Tournament.
NOTE: A team that qualifies but fails to advance is subject to suspension the following year.
“Qualified” is defined as a team that has earned a berth to the next level of Championship
Play.
3.8 All USAS SoCal registered “B” 16U and 18U Teams are eligible for the USAS SoCal “B”
Classification All-Star Championships (State).
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Section C: “C” Classification Program (Recreation)
1. Purpose. To provide a “C” Classification Program (Recreation) and Championship Play for
leagues registered with USAS SoCal with the express intent to provide those leagues the
opportunity to ultimately compete at the “B” Classification level.
1.1 Recreation League Teams. These teams, in Age Classifications 6U through 18U, shall
represent a recreation league. A recreation league is defined as follows:
1.1.1 An organized league that is associated with a recognized neighborhood or
community.
1.1.2 Participation is open to any interested youth.
1.1.3 Tryouts or demonstration of skills is not required for participation.
1.1.4 A draft, a draw or another method approved District Commissioner is used to
ensure equitable distribution of talent amongst all the league teams.
1.1.5 All teams must be approved by the league Board of Directors.
1.2 A league that qualifies two (2) or more teams for the “C” USAS SoCal Championships (State),
excluding the 14U Age Classification, may not be eligible for “C” Classification the following
year.
1.3 “C” Classification of Leagues. A league may request to be reclassified “C” by submitting a “C”
Eligibility Request Form to their respective District Commissioner before March 15th the
current year. The commissioner shall notify the leagues with their decision no later than
April 15th.
At a minimum, evaluation criteria used to evaluate the request shall include the skill level,
league play and history of tournament play, including Championship Play. The District
Commissioner shall notify the League President of their decision as soon as practical. Based
on performance, a “C” Classification team may be reclassified at any time by their District
Commissioner. The reclassification may be appealed to the USAS SoCal Junior Olympic (JO)
Commissioner in writing within 10 days of the notification. NOTE: Leagues and Teams are
classified based on their performance relative to their District.
1.4 A league that divides Age Classifications into split classifications based on skill or player
“impact” is not eligible for “C” Classification.
1.5 Teams in the 16U and 18U Age Classifications, see “B” Classification information in Section B
above.
1.6 A league that has been reclassified “B” must send at least two (2) teams in the 8U, 10U or
12U Age Classifications to the “B” District Championships before applying for
reclassification to the “C” Classification.
NOTE: Leagues may appeal to the USAS SoCal Junior Olympic (JO) Commissioner for
reclassification to “C” Classification.
2 Eligibility Policy and Procedures
2.1 Recreation League All-Star Eligibility
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2.1.1 Each 6U through 18U player participating in recreation league play shall be
individually registered with USAS SoCal. Players participating in Fall shall be
registered by October 1, and any players not already registered during the Fall
season shall be registered before April 1 of the current Spring season.
2.1.2 Each team Adult Staff member, e.g. manager/coach/team parent and all Board of
Directors members, shall be individually registered, have proof that a background
check has been conducted and Safe Sport Certified through the RegisterUSASoftball
system. USAS Registration period is September to September. Background Checks
and SafeSport must be completed prior to taking the field. (see Appendix D).
Additionally, all Board of Director members and at least two (2) adults on each team
shall be concussion certified (see Appendix G).
2.1.3 Each All-Star manager shall be ACE certified, Concussion and Safe Sport certified,
and must show proof of such. USAS Staff shall provide the identification means.
2.1.4 All members of the All-Star coaching staff shall be Safe Sport certified and must
show proof of such. At least two (2) members shall be Concussion certified.
2.1.5 A league shall use only the Age Classifications approved by the USA Softball Code
and USAS SoCal. The approved Age Classifications are 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and
18U.
2.1.6 Pick-Up player is not permitted at District Championships. Roster addition prior to
the District Championship is permitted only in case of injury or another unexpected
situation. Must be approved by the District Commissioner.
2.2 League Team Eligibility
2.2.1 Team roster may include up to 20 players.
2.2.2 A team may be a single league team, or an All-Star Team selected and approved by
the league Board of Directors.
2.2.2.1 If the league chooses an All-Star Team, the All-Star Team may not nominate,
choose or tryout before May 1. Practice and/or playing together before May 5
th
is not permitted.
Note: No invitational All-Star tournaments shall be held before May 10th
2.2.2.2 If the league picks a single league team or most of the players are from a single
team, this team must meet the requirements of 2.1 above.
2.2.3 A team shall not have more than four (4) players who participated on a travel type
team after March 31st of the current season.
Note: A Travel type team is defined as any team that is nota part of the player’s
Recreation League or League’s Select team.
2.2.4 A team that participates in a USA Softball “A” Gold or any non-USA Travel Ball type
event is not eligible for participation in “C” Classification Championship Play.
2.2.5 Leagues may not choose All-Star managers before April 24th of the current season.
2.2.6 The Championship Season (e.g., All-Star) shall commence no earlier than May 1st
and ends immediately after the National Championships. . Every team participating
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
in Championship Play must acknowledge and be prepared to accept a berth, if
earned, to the next higher level. Failure to accept a berth will result in Sanctions to
the League
2.2.7 All Player Clinics held after March 31
st
of the current year must have approval of the
District Commissioner and must be open to all players.
2.3 Player Eligibility
2.3.1 A player must play a minimum 75 percent of the current season’s league games.
EXCEPTION: High school students who are age eligible to return to the 14U Age
Classification may return to the league in which they played during the previous
year providing the league has less than 30 14U eligible players. The 14U All-Star
Team shall not include more than four (4) players who attended high school. A
player returning to the 14U Age Classification must be registered with the league
before May 15
th
of the current season. Returning high school player must be
approved by the league Board of Directors.
NOTE: A player may appeal the 75 percent minimum playing rule in cases of
documented injury or illness to their respective District Commissioner.
2.3.2 A player who played in a higher Age Classification during the current season is
eligible to play in their appropriate Age Classification in Championship Play.
2.3.3 A player who played on a high school team or other recreation league team after
March 31
st
of the current season is eligible to play if all other eligibility requirements
are met.
2.3.4 A player participating in more than one (1) USAS SoCal recreation league must
declare by March 31
st
in writing to both the League Player Agent and the All-Star
Administrator of the league they wish to be eligible for All-Star selection. The league
is required to provide a copy of the player’s declaration to their respective District
Commissioner.
2.3.5 A player who participated on a team other than a team in their recreation league
after March 31st of the current season is NOT eligible, per paragraph 2.2.3 above.
For example, a player shall not participate on any non-USA Softball team, All-Star
Team, or travel type team after March 31st.
2.3.6 A league that has more than one post-season team within an Age Classification may
elevate a player within the same league from the second All-Star Team to the first
All-Star Team with the approval of the respective District Commissioner. When a
player is moved that player is locked on the team to which they were moved until
the team is eliminated from Championship Play.
2.3.7 A player shall not participate with more than one (1) team in USA Softball
Championship Play during the same season, except as a Pick-Up Player.
2.3.8 A player participating in Championship Play shall have USAS SoCal authorized photo
identification.
NOTE: “Participate” is defined as a player or team taking part in a tryout, practice, practice game,
scheduled game, friendly or tournament.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
2.4 League “Pick-Up Players”
2.4.1 A “C” Classification All-Star Pick-Up Player shall meet all player eligibility
requirements in this section.
2.4.2 A player may be a Pick-Up Player only once per season.
2.4.3 A “C” Classification All-Star Player whose team is eliminated from Championship
Play is eligible to be a Pick-Up Player, per USA Softball Code.
2.4.4 A Pick-Up Player must have played on a USAS SoCal registered “C” team during the
current season.
2.4.5 A Pick-Up Player, after District Championships but before the USAS SoCal
All-Star Championships (State) may be a Pick-Up Player from their own league only.
After the USAS SoCal All-Star Championships (State) teams may Pick-Up eligible “C”
Classified players from within their District.
2.4.6 Pick-Up Players must be approved by the league Board of Directors.
2.5 Interleague All-Star Teams. Leagues that combine to participate in interleague play may pick
a combined All-Star Team, providing all the above and below listed eligibility requirements
are met.
2.5.1 Any league that combines with another league must have approval of their District
Commissioner.
2.5.2 More than two (2) leagues may combine to form an All-Star Team.
2.5.3 No player from either league interested to participate on the combined All-Star
Team shall be denied the opportunity.
EXCEPTION: A player who declines to participate in Championship Play.
2.5.4 All “C” Leagues combined All-Star teams shall be classified by the District
Commissioner.
2.5.5 Combined teams must be approved by the Board of Directors of each league that
combines.
2.5.6 Leagues may combine to form a second All-Star Team when approved by their
District Commissioner.
3 Championship Play Procedures. The All-Star Championship Play procedures are as follows:
3.1 USAS SoCal is divided into seven (7) Districts for qualifying teams for the USAS SoCal “C”
Classification All-Star Championships (State).
Central District North San Diego District
Eastern District South San Diego District
Los Angeles/South Bay District Western San Diego District
Northern District
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
3.2 Each District Commissioner may conduct a “C” District Championship. Each USAS SoCal “C”
League may enter a minimum of one (1) team per Age Classification. The District
Commissioner may add entries based on the availability.
3.3 A District Championship should be hosted by a league in the District and shall be sanctioned
by USAS SoCal. USAS SoCal Junior Olympic (JO) Program staff shall administer each District
Championship.
3.4 District Championships shall be conducted on the dates published.
3.5 Teams must provide a signed championship roster printed from RegisterUSA Softball.
3.6 The first, second, and third place teams in Age Classifications 8U, 10U, 12U and 14U in each
District Championship shall advance to the USAS SoCal “C” Classification All-Star
Championship (State). Additional berths will be awarded based on participation.
3.7 The USAS SoCal “C” Classification All-Star Championship top 12 finishers in the 8U,10U and
12U Age Classifications shall advance to the “C” Regional Tournament. Additional berths
may be awarded based on availability. The top (6) finishers in the 14U Age Classification
shall advance to the 14U B Western Nationals.
NOTE: When USAS SoCal is the host of the “B” Western National Championship, the top six
(6) teams from the “C” State Championship shall be awarded berths to the “B” Western
National Championship. For 2023, the top (6) 10U teams will go to the B Western Nationals
in Camarillo.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
“B” and “C” Classifications (Recreation) Championship Play Eligibility Responsibilities
1. District Commissioner. Responsible for verifying the classification and eligibility of each team
from their District participating in Championship Play.
2. League President or Chief Softball Administrator
2.1 Responsible for verifying the league’s players/teams’ eligibility.
2.2 Shall notify the District Commissioner of any possible infraction.
3. Team Manager
3.1 Responsible for verifying their team and player eligibility.
3.2 Be prepared to provide proof of age and photo identification for each player on the team
roster at every Championship.
3.3 If found to be in violation of USA Softball policy may be suspended from USA Softball.
3.4 Team shall abide by all rules and regulations of the USA Code and USAS SoCal.
3.5 Must sign the Official Championship Roster confirming the eligibility of their players.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
2024 “B” and “C” Classification (Recreation) Championship Play
“B” Classification (Recreation) All-Star Championship Play
June 21-23 All-Star District Championships (8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and 18U)
July 4-7 All-Star USAS SoCal Championships (8U, 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and 18U)
Lancaster, CA
July 19-21 All-Star USA Softball of Pacific Coast Region Championships (8U)
San Diego, CA California State Games
29 July-04 August Western B Nationals (10U,12U, 14U, 16U, 18U)
Medford, OR
“C” Classification (Recreation) All-Star Championship Play
June 14-16 All-Star District Championships (8U, 10U, 12U and 14U)
June 27-30 All-Star USAS SoCal Championships (8U, 10U, 12U and 14U)
Lancaster, CA
July 19-21 USA Softball Pacific Coast Region Championship, California State Games
San Diego, CA (8U, 10U, and 12U)
The above listed USA Softball Championship Play is open to all eligible teams from USAS SoCal.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
2024 Calendar for “B” and “C” Classifications (Recreation)
March 15 “C” Classification League Designation. A league or team requesting “C” Classification
designation shall submit a “C” Eligibility Request Form to their respective District
Commissioner before March 15 of the current season. The form is available at the USAS
SoCal website.
March 31 Registration Deadline. Each player participating in league play shall be individually
registered with USAS SoCal before April 1 of the current season to be eligible for
Championship Play.
Player Eligibility Declared. For information see League/Player Eligibility in Sections B
and C above.
April 7 All Select teams must disband.
April 24 All-Star Manager Selection may occur.
May 1 All-Star Selection. All-Star team selection may begin.
May 5 All-Star Practice may begin.
May 12 All-Star Tournament Play may begin.
May 31 Championship Play Entry Deadline. Championship Play Entry Form and entry fee must
be received by the respective District Commissioner before June 1 of the current season
to participate in Championship Play. The Registration Form is available at the USAS
SoCal website.
“B” 16U/18U Team Registration Deadline. Team shall be USA Softball “B” registered
before June 1 of current season to participate in Championship Play. The Registration
Form is available at the USAS SoCal website.
June 21-23 “B” Classification (Recreation) All-Star District Championships. Championship Roster is
due before the team’s first game in Championship Play. Roster and proof of age for
players listed may be submitted at the District Draw or at the Championship site. Roster
shall be fully completed with signatures of the Team Manager, players and
parents/guardians when required.
June 14-16 “C” Classification (Recreation) All-Star District Championships. Championship Roster is
due before the team’s first game in Championship Play. Roster and proof of age for
players listed may be submitted at the District Draw or at the Championship site. Roster
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
shall be fully completed with signatures of the Team Manager, players and
parents/guardians when required.
“B” Classification (Recreation) Team Advances to All-Star USAS SoCal Championships (State)
June 23 Advancing to “B” Classification All-Star USAS SoCal Championships (State). A team that
qualifies for the “B” All-Star USAS SoCal Championships (State) must provide payment of
the “B” All-Star USAS SoCal Championships Entry Fee before leaving the District
Championship site.
July 5 “B” Classification (Recreation) All-Star USAS SoCal Championships. Teams shall check-
in not later than one (1) hour before their scheduled first game. Proof of age, authorized
photo identification and Pick-Up Player forms, when applicable, shall be provided at
check-in.
“B” Classification (Recreation) All-Star Teams Advancing to “B” Classification
Western USA Softball National Finals
July 7 USA Softball Western National Championship. Payment of Entry Fee must be received
not later than this date. The Championship Entry Form and Entry Fee should be provided
to the USAS SoCal “B” All-Star Championship (State) Director at the “B” All-Star
Championship (State) site.
July 28 USA Softball Western National Championship. Team shall check-in at the place and
time designated in the provided National Championship documents. All applicable
documentation must be provided at check-in.
Pick-Up Players. A maximum of three (3) Pick-Up Players from a league may be added to the
Championship Roster after the District Championships. A Pick-Up Player shall meet all eligibility
Requirements contained in this publication. Pick-Up Player Forms will be in the packets that each team
receives upon qualifying for the USAS SoCal Championships (State) and the USA Softball Western
National Championship Finals.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
“B” and “C” Classification (Recreation) Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Regarding eligibility, there are USAS SoCal rules, USA Softball Pacific Coast Region rules and
the USA Softball Code. Which has priority?
A. Eligibility rules begin with the USA Softball Code. However, the USA Softball Code is sometimes
general and for that reason the Pacific Coast Region expands some rules to clarify their
application to the region. In turn, USAS SoCal further expands on those rules to better fit our
situation. The USAS SoCal expanded rules may not conflict with the USA Softball Pacific Coast
Region rules and the region rules may not conflict with the USA Softball Code.
Q. May a player participate with a travel team and then participate on an All-Star Team?
A. A player may participate with a travel team and remain eligible for All-Star Team selection if that
player stops participating with the travel team before March 31
st
of the current year. Before
March 31
st
the player must decide whether to continue playing with the travel team or
participate in a recreation league to become eligible for All-Star selection.
Q. How does USAS SoCal define “participate” or “participation”?
A. A player taking part in a tryout, practice, practice game, game, or tournament.
Q. What happens to a player who drops from a travel team before March 31
st
and is then not
selected for an All-Star Team?
A. The player may re-join the original travel team or join another travel team.
Q. May a player participating in two (2) leagues be selected to an All-Star Team?
A. Yes, but only in one (1) league. The player must, by March 31
st
of the current year, declare in
which league they wish to be considered for All-Star selection.
Q. May a 10 years old player who participated with a 12U Team during league play be selected
for a 10U Team?
A. Yes, providing the player meets all other eligibility requirements.
Q. May a 10 years old player who participated with a 12U Travel Team be selected for a 10U All-
Star Team?
A. Yes, providing the player has not participated with the travel team after March 31
st
of the
current year and they meet all other eligibility requirements.
Q. May a league team enter USA Softball Championship Play without approval of the league?
A. No.
Q. Do these eligibility rules apply to all All-Star Teams and at invitational tournaments?
A. No, these eligibility rules apply only to All-Star Teams entering USA Softball Championship Play.
Other tournaments sanctioned by USAS SoCal and some invitational tournaments often use
USAS SoCal eligibility rules. Check with the Tournament Director.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Q. What is Championship Play?
A. Competition where the winner and often additional teams advance to a higher level of
Championship Play. The different levels of Championship Play are in the USA Softball Code, or
ask a USAS SoCal Staff member.
Q. What are “A”, “B” and “C” Classifications of play?
A. The “A” Classification consists of independent travel teams and organizations that may
participate in USA Softball “A” and Gold Classification Championship Play only. Independent
recreation leagues are designated “B” or “C” Classification and may participate in “B” and “C”
Championship Play only. Primarily, but not entirely, the skill level of the players determines the
classification.
Q. Why is a player not permitted to play both “A” and “B” or “C” Classifications?
A. This is not permitted because the “A” Classification is intended for players who have as their
primary goal the development of competitive softball skills, with much emphasis on
competition, while the “B” and “C” Classifications are for players who are registered with a
league primarily for recreation purposes. The “B” and “C” Classification players’ primary goal is
to have fun. USA Softball provides programs for everyone, it is up to the individual or their
parents to choose the program best suited for them.
Q. What is the “C” League automatic reclassification?
A. A league that qualifies two (2) or more teams for the “C” USAS SoCal Championships (State),
excluding the 14U Age Classification, may not be eligible for “C” Classification the following year.
A league may request to be reclassified “C” by submitting a “C” Eligibility Request Form to their
respective District Commissioner before March 15th the current year.
Note: Reclassification may occur at any time at the discretion of the District Commissioner.
Q. May a league that has been reclassified “B” reapply for “C” Classification?
A. A league that has been reclassified “B” may submit a “C” Eligibility Request Form. However, a
league that has been reclassified “B” must send at least two (2) teams in the 8U, 10U or 12U
Age Classifications to the “B” District Championships before applying for reclassification to the
“C” Classification. (See Question/Answer above for further clarifications.)
Q. Can the USAS SoCal eligibility rules be changed?
A. Yes, they are reviewed annually and often changed. However, be mindful, the USAS SoCal rules
may not conflict with either the USA Softball Pacific Coast Region rules or the USA Softball Code.
Everyone is encouraged to submit proposed changes in writing, to their respective District
Commissioner.
Q. May Select Teams participate in Select events without the approval of their league?
A. No. Select tournaments are managed by the District Commissioner. Select friendlies require
District Commissioner approval and may not take place on the same weekend as their District
Select Tournament. Exceptions may be allowed on a case by case basis if the tournament is full.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX A
Tournament Sanctioning Policy
Purpose. The following policy was developed and adopted by USAS SoCal to establish sanctioning
procedures for softball tournaments. Sanctioning a tournament protects USAS SoCal leagues and teams
under the USAS SoCal Rules and Regulations. All Recreation League invitational tournaments shall be
sanctioned by USAS SoCal.
Benefits. The sanctioning of a tournament by USAS SoCal affords the following benefits:
● Access to USA Softball Insurance Programs offered by RPS-Bollinger Insurance Company.
● Access to USA Softball registered umpires who have passed a background checked.
● Ability to use the USAS SoCal name in promoting the tournament or event.
● USAS SoCal assistance in enforcing standards of conduct by tournament participants.
● USAS SoCal assistance in recovering bad debts of participants.
Objectives. This sanctioning policy is in effect to fulfill the following:
● Provide a method of processing requests for those parties interested in hosting USAS
SoCal sanctioned tournaments.
● Enhance the USAS SoCal recreation tournament program.
● Develop a method for monitoring tournaments sanctioned by USAS SoCal.
● Ensure that tournament sanctioning requirements are fulfill by the host.
● Develop more tournament opportunities for USAS SoCal registered teams.
Authorization. The USAS SoCal Commissioner and their designees have the authority to issue
sanctioning for any adult and youth tournament that is deemed to meet the objectives of USAS SoCal.
The Commissioner and their designees have the responsibility to ensure that the requirements for
sanctioning a tournament or other event are met by the host and that the event host fulfills all
responsibilities associated with the event.
Process. An event host that wishes to sanction a tournament with USAS SoCal shall submit a Sanction
Request Form to the Commissioner or their designee. The request shall be reviewed and if the event is
deemed to meet the objectives of USAS SoCal a sanction shall be awarded. A copy of the Sanction
Request Form can be found at the USAS SoCal website, or a copy may be obtained from any USAS SoCal
Junior Olympic (JO) Program Staff member.
Requirements. An individual hosting a USAS SoCal sanctioned tournament shall declare, before the start
of the tournament, and fulfill thereafter, the following:
● Obtain and maintain at least a $1M General Liability Insurance Policy for the event. Said
policy shall include USAS SoCal as additionally insured.
● All paid umpires shall be registered and in good standing with USAS SoCal.
● All participating teams shall be registered and in good standing with USAS SoCal.
● All participating teams shall submit their team rosters printed on the approved form
from RegisterUSA.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX B
Complaint Procedure
USAS SoCal is not intent on policing teams, managers, coaches and/or players. However, when
allegations of violations of the USA Softball Code and/or the USAS SoCal Rules and Regulations are filed,
in writing, a USAS SoCal official shall conduct an examination of the reported violations to determine if
there is basis to schedule a suspension hearing.
The procedure for filing a written complaint is as follows:
1. A USAS SoCal Complaint Form shall be filed. The form is available in the USAS SoCal website.
The form may also be obtained by contacting any member of the USAS SoCal Junior Olympic
(JO) Staff. At a minimum, the complaint must contain the following information:
A. Name and address of all parties.
B. The Code Article or Rule/Regulation allegedly violated.
C. All supporting information, evidence and/or documents related to the complaint.
2. A money order or cashier’s check in the amount of $75.00 made payable to USAS SoCal
must accompany the complaint. The $75.00 is non-refundable and may be waived only by
the USAS SoCal Commissioner.
3. Evidence substantiating the alleged violation must be listed in the complaint form and
included. Examples of such evidence are witness statements, documentation, photos, etc.
Witnesses to the alleged violation must be named with their addresses and phone numbers
listed. Witnesses for or against the accused may testify at a hearing, limited to four (4) per
side. Written statements, with appropriate signatures, from witnesses unable to attend the
hearing are acceptable.
4. Receipt of the compliant shall be acknowledged by a USAS SoCal Staff member via the USPS
or email within 14 days. If determined that sufficient basis exists for a hearing, the hearing
shall be scheduled within a reasonable time, but not later than 60 days from receipt of the
complaint providing all required information has been submitted.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX C
Suspension Hearing
A hearing shall be scheduled when the examination of a written complaint received by USAS SoCal
determines that sufficient evidence of an alleged violation of the USA Softball Code and/or USAS SoCal
Rules and Regulations may be valid. Violations of specific Articles of the USA Softball Code require
minimum suspension time periods. The penalty for other violations is the discretion of the hearing panel
or the USAS SoCal Commissioner. All testimony shall be considered to establish the validity of or to
disprove the complaint, and then, if appropriate, impose an appropriate penalty.
Testimony at a hearing may indicate that although guilty, a person deserves leniency because of
mitigating circumstances, while in other cases the testimony may show that a harsher penalty is in
order. While conducting a hearing, the hearing panel shall consider all information available, including
the past record of the accused, previous complaints, and the testimony of witnesses at the hearing.
1. When a hearing date is scheduled, all parties shall be notified in writing.
2. Each party, complainant and accused, may request one (1) postponement only. When a
postponement is requested and granted, a new hearing date will be scheduled, and all parties
shall be notified in writing.
3. Four (4) persons for the accused and four (4) persons for the complainant may testify.
4. If the accused fails to appear at the hearing without notification, the hearing shall proceed with
the hearing panel taking appropriate action.
5. If the complainant fails to appear at the hearing without notification, the complaint may be
dismissed.
6. USAS SoCal may conduct any necessary inquiry into allegations brought against a USA Softball
team, manager, coach, player, or umpire to prove or disprove the allegations. The inquiry may
be conducted before, during or after the hearing.
7. Any member of the USAS SoCal Staff who witnesses or has irrefutable evidence of a violation of
the USA Softball Code at a Championship may immediately remove a team, manager, coach,
player and/or umpire from further competition in that Championship. A suspension hearing may
be conducted at the Championship to determine if further action is necessary. The suspension
hearing, if held, will be conducted per Article 305.D of the USA Softball Code.
8. A team, manager, coach, player and/or umpire suspended by USAS SoCal forfeits all rights and
privileges afforded to a member of USA Softball. The forfeiture of said rights and privileges shall
include, but not be limited to:
A. Representing themselves as an eligible USA Softball team, manager, coach, player, or
umpire to anyone affiliated with USA Softball.
B. Practicing, managing, coaching, umpiring, or participating at any time with anyone affiliated
with USA Softball.
C. Recruiting for a USA Softball team.
D. Competing with or against any USA Softball team.
E. Suspended individuals shall not be on a field, keep score, be in or around the dugout, relay
verbal advice or instruction or signal to a team from any location.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
9. When a complaint is upheld and results in suspension, the individual has the right to appeal as
outlined in the USA Softball Code.
Non-compliance Penalty. A minimum of 12 months added to the original penalty.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX D
Background Check Minimum Criteria for Known Offenses
USA Softball and USAS SoCal reserve the right to screen any volunteer, contractor and/or employee who
has access to children in USA Softball programs. The screening may consist of (1) a Staff and Volunteer
Application Form, (2) an interview, (3) consent to reference and fingerprint for a background check
report, and/or (4) approval by staff and/or committee members.
Please note that the 50 states of the United States adopt different laws and categorize the offenses
differently. The USA Softball list of offenses below is not intended to be an exhaustive list of offenses
but a list of commonly used terms to define the offenses. Other convictions, accusations, charges, or
facts should be considered on a case-by-case basis.
If a background check is performed and any of the following convictions are revealed, USA Softball, its
National Background Check Committee, and USAS SoCal shall undertake a review of such individual’s
application to determine whether or not such a person should be permitted to participate in USA
Softball programs:
**Murder
**Rape
**Sexual Assault
**False Imprisonment
**Armed Robbery
**Indecent Solicitation of a child
**Aggravated Sexual Abuse/Assault of a child
**Child Abuse
**Child Molestation
**Sexual Conduct with a minor
**Sexual Abuse of a child
**Online Solicitation of a minor
___________________________________
Abandon/Endanger a child
Arson
Assault
Bad Checks/Insufficient Funds
Bookmaking
Breach of Computer Security
Breaking and Entering
Burglary
Coercion
Conspiracy
Credit Card abuse
Crimes against elderly
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Disorderly Conduct
Domestic Violence in the presence of a minor
Domestic Violence/Abuse
Drug Dealing
Drug Possession
Drug Trafficking
DUI/DWI (3 in last seven (7) years)
Escape from Penitentiary
Evading Arrest
Firearms/Weapons charges
Forgery
Furnishing Alcohol to a minor
Identity Theft
Indecency with a child
Money Laundering
Petty Theft
Prostitution
Public Intoxication (2 in last five (5) years)
Shoplifting
Theft/Robbery/Larceny
Violation of a Protective Order
If a background check is performed and reveals a conviction of any of the above offenses, then the
application shall be reviewed by a member of the National Background Check Committee (or such
person’s designee) for a determination of eligibility. A denial of eligibility may be appealed by the
applicant to the entire National Background Check Committee.
In addition, if the background check reveals that the applicant is listed on a sex offender registry, then
the applicant shall be ineligible for participation in USA Softball programs.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
APPENDIX E
Appeal Process:
USA Softball recognizes that no policy can encompass every situation, so USA Softball has formed its
National Background Check Committee to evaluate applications and decide appeals variance requests
on a case-by-case basis in certain situations where good cause exists.
An applicant may appeal a denial of eligibility to the entire National Background Check Committee, so
long as the appeal is timely filed within fourteen (14) days of the date stated on the denial
correspondence. The appeal process shall provide the applicant with an opportunity to present their
side of the story. An appeal may advise the Committee of incorrect information appearing in a
background check report, a mistaken identity with another individual, or extenuating circumstances as
to why the person should be permitted to participate despite a conviction of one of the above listed
offenses.
Any person whose application for participation in USA Softball’s program has been denied may appeal
the denial within (14) days to the USA Softball’s National Background Committee by filing their appeal
with the USAS SoCal Commissioner. All appeals shall be in writing and sent first to the USAS SoCal
Commissioner. The written appeal submission must contain a statement of the specific grounds why the
prior determination should be reversed and must be accompanied by all evidence supporting the
request for reversal. With the written appeal submission, the person filing the appeal may also file any
other information or evidence in support of the appeal. The USAS SoCal Commissioner will review the
information and make a recommendation to the National Background Check Committee in Oklahoma
City, Oklahoma. The National Background Check Committee shall review the appeal and decide whether
the applicant’s appeal should be granted or denied.
Subject to the Mandatory Ineligibility requirements below, in extenuating circumstances and for good
cause shown, USA Softball’s National Background Check Committee shall have the authority to, but not
be required to, grant an appeal to permit an individual to participate in USA Softball’s program even
though that person has been convicted of one of the above non-mandatory offenses (or its equivalent).
Mandatory Ineligibility for Certain Felony Offenses. Any of the following shall constitute an applicant’s
mandatory ineligibility from participation in USA Softball programs: (a) an applicant’s current listing on
any sex offender registry, and/or (b) any felony conviction(s) occurring within the prior 15 years for any
offense(s) marked with an “**”. For all such applications, the National Background Check Committee
may consider appeals based on incorrectly reported information and/or mistaken identity, but the
Committee shall not have the authority to grant an appeal for extenuating circumstances or good cause
shown in instances where the applicant is listed on a sex offender registry or has been convicted within
the last 15 years of a felony of the type marked with “**” above.
Revised 9/2017
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Appendix F
2024 Junior Olympic Age Classification Chart
Use the chart below to determine Junior Olympic Age
Classification for the 202
4
Season.
This chart is
based on the age of the player as of September 1 of the current year.
Age Group
18U
16U
14U
12U
10U
8U
Birth Year
200
4
Eligible
200
5
Eligible
200
6
Eligible
Eligible
200
7
Eligible
Eligible
200
8
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
20
09
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
201
0
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
201
1
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
201
2
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
201
3
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
201
4
-
201
7
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
Eligible
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Appendix G
Concussion Protocol Guidelines
To: USA Softball of Southern California Leagues and Teams
Assembly Bill No. 2007, Youth Athletics: Youth Sports Organizations: Concussions or other Head Injuries.
Prior to January 1, 2017, law required a school district, charter school or private school, that offered an athletic
program to immediately remove an athlete from an athletic activity for the remainder of the day if the athlete was
suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury, and prohibited the athlete from returning to the athletic
activity until the athlete was evaluated by a licensed health care provider, trained in the management of
concussions, and acting within the scope of their practice, and the athlete received written clearance from the
licensed health care provider to return to the athletic activity. The law also required, on a yearly basis, that a
concussion and head injury information sheet be signed and returned by the athlete and the athlete’s
parent/guardian before the athlete’s initiating practice or competition.
On September 23, 2016, The Governor signed into law Assembly Bill 2007, which, on January 1, 2017, applied the
above-mentioned provisions to athletes participating in youth sports organizations. The youth organizations are
defined to include organizations, businesses, nonprofit entities, or local governmental agencies that sponsor or
conduct amateur sports competitions, training, camps, or clubs in which persons 17 years of age and younger
participate in any of the 27 designated sports. One of the designated sports is Softball. Therefore, youth softball
organizations are now required to notify the parents or guardians of athletes 17 years of age or younger who have
been removed from athletic activities due to suspected concussions, as specified in the following pages. The law
requires youth softball organizations to offer concussion and head injury education, or related educational
materials, or both, to each coach and administrator on a yearly basis, as prescribed in the following pages. The law
further requires each coach and administrator to successfully complete the concussion and head injury education
at least once annually either online or in person. Additionally, the law requires youth softball organizations to
identify procedures for ensuring compliance with the law’s requirements for providing concussion and head injury
education and a concussion and head injury information sheet. The law further requires youth softball
organizations to identify procedures to ensure compliance with the athlete removal provisions and the return-to-
play protocol, as specified. This law applies to all persons participating in youth softball, regardless of age. Youth
softball organizations may adopt and enforce rules intended to provide a higher standard or safety for athletes
than the standard established by this law.
To assist the youth softball leagues and teams affiliated with USA Softball of Southern California comply with AB
2007, information, materials, and online links can be found in the following pages as listed below.
● Youth Sports and Concussions (Assembly Bill 2007)
● Concussion Information Sheet, or
● Parent and Athlete Concussion Policy Statement Sheet
● Graded Concussion Symptom Checklist
● Acute Concussion Notification Form for Parents/Guardians
● Concussion Return-to-Play (RTP) Protocol
● Concussion Certification for Coaches and Administrators
● Physician Letter to League/Team (Concussion)
Please contact our Junior Olympic Commissioner or any other member of our Junior Olympic Staff should you
require assistance or more information.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Youth Sports and Concussions (Assembly Bill 2007)
Since 2012, per Assembly Bill 25, all schools with sports programs have been required to
immediately remove an athlete from an athletic activity for the remainder of the day if the
athlete is suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury, and prohibits the athlete from
returning to the athletic activity until the athlete is evaluated by a licensed health care provider,
trained in the management of concussions, and acting within the scope of his or her practice,
and the athlete receives written clearance from the licensed health care provider to return to
the athletic activity. This law also requires, on a yearly basis, a concussion, and head injury
information sheet to be signed and returned by the athlete and athlete's parent or guardian
before the athlete's re-initiating practice or competition.
A new law went into effect on January 1, 2017. Assembly Bill 2007 now applies these same
regulations to athletes participating in youth sports organizations. Softball is one of the 27
youth sports now required to:
● Remove an athlete who may have a concussion during a practice or game to be
removed from the activity for the remainder of the day.
● Any athlete removed for this reason must receive a written clearance note from a
medical doctor trained in the management of concussion before returning to practice,
and after completion of the Return to Learn and Return to Play Protocols.
● Before an athlete can start the season and begin practice in a sport, a concussion
information sheet must be signed and returned to the league by the parent/guardian.
● Provide all coaches and administrators with training on concussions, and document
completion and understanding of this training.
However, AB 2007 has not yet provided specific educational material, tools, information sheets
or protocols for youth sports organizations. Until such material is provided, USA Softball of
Southern California used the material currently available by the California Interscholastic
Federation to all schools as part of AB 25, which fulfills all areas of this new law, to put together
the information contained in the following pages dealing with concussions.
In addition to the information provided as stated above, please visit the links below for a free
information available on concussions.
http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/Training/index.html
http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/parents.html
http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/athletes.html
http://nfhslearn.com/courses/61064/concussion-in-sports
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Concussion Information Sheet
Why am I getting this information Sheet?
You are getting this information sheet about concussions because of California state law AB 2007 (effective January
1, 2017), which applies to 27 youth sports organizations, including softball:
1. The law requires an athlete who may have a concussion during a practice or game to be removed from the
activity for the remainder of the day.
2. Any athlete removed for this reason must receive a written note from a medical doctor trained in the
management of concussion before returning to practice.
3. Before an athlete can start the season and begin practice in the sport of softball, a concussion information
sheet must be signed by the athlete and parent/guardian and returned to their league/team.
All coaches are required to receive training about concussions annually.
What is a concussion and how would I recognize one?
A concussion is a kind of brain injury. It can be caused by a bump or hit to the head, or by a blow to another part of
the body with the force that shakes the head. Concussions can appear in any sport and can look differently in each
sport.
Most concussions get better with rest and over 90% of athletes fully recover. However, all concussions should be
considered serious. If not recognized and managed the right way, they may result in problems including brain
damage and even death.
Most concussions occur without being knocked out. Signs and symptoms of concussions (see following page) may
show up right after the injury or can take hours to appear. If your child reports any symptoms of concussion or if you
notice some symptoms and signs, seek medical evaluation from a medical doctor trained in the evaluation and
management of concussion. If your child is vomiting, has a severe headache, or is having difficulty staying awake or
answering simple questions, call 911 to take him/her immediately to the emergency department of your local hospital.
On the USA Softball of Southern California website is a Graded Concussion Symptom Checklist. If your child fills out
this checklist after having had a concussion, it helps the doctor, trainer or coach understand how he/she is feeling
and hopefully shows improvement. We ask that you have your child fill out the checklist at the start of the season
even before a concussion has occurred to document if some symptoms such as headaches might be a part of his/her
everyday life. This is called a “baseline” to understand what symptoms are normal and common for your child. Keep
a copy for your records, and turn in the original to your league/team. If a concussion occurs, the child should fill out
this checklist daily. This Graded Symptom Checklist provides a list of symptoms to compare over time to make sure
the athlete is recovering from the concussion.
What can happen if my child keeps playing with concussion symptoms or returns too soon after getting a
concussion?
Athletes with the signs and symptoms of concussion should be removed from play immediately. There is NO same
day return to play for a youth with s suspected concussion. Youth athletes may take more time to recover from
concussion and are more prone to long-term serious problems from a concussion.
Even though a traditional brain scan (e.g., MRI or CT) may be “normal”, the brain has still been injured. Animal and
human research studies show that a second blow before the brain has recovered can result in serious damage to the
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
brain. If your athlete suffers another concussion before completely recovering from the first one, this can lead to
prolonged recovery (weeks to months), or even to severe brain swelling (Second Impact Syndrome) with devastating
consequences.
There is an increasing concern that head impact exposure and recurrent concussions may contribute to long-term
neurological problems. One goal of this concussion program is to prevent a too early return to play so that serious
brain damage can be prevented.
Signs observed by teammates, parents and coaches
include:
● Looks dizzy
● Looks spaced out
● Confused about plays
● Forgets plays
● Is unsure of game, score or opponent
● Moves clumsily or awkwardly
● Answers questions slowly
● Slurred speech
● Shows a change in personality or way of acting
● Can’t recall events before or after the injury
● Seizures or has a fit
● Any change in typical behavior or personality
● Passes out
Symptoms may include one or more of the following:
● Headaches
● “Pressure in head”
● Nausea or throws up
● Neck pain
● Has trouble standing or walking
● Blurred, double or fuzzy vision
● Bothered by light or noise
● Feeling sluggish or slowed down
● Feeling foggy or groggy
● Drowsiness
● Change in sleep patterns
● Loss of memory
● “Don’t feel right”
● Tired or low energy
● Sadness
● Nervousness or feeling on edge
● Irritability
● More emotional
● Confused
● Concentration or memory problems
● Repeating the same question/comment
What is Return to Play (RTP) determined?
Following a concussion, athletes may have difficulties with short and long-term memory, concentration, and organization. They
will require rest while recovering from injury (e.g., avoid reading, texting, video games, loud movies), and may even need to stay
home for a few days. As the athlete returns to normal they may benefit from a reduced schedule, depending on how they feel. If
recovery from the concussion is taking longer than expected, they may also benefit by a more reduced activity and may require
further assessment by a medical doctor trained in the management of concussion. If the athlete is in school at time of the
concussion, the California Interscholastic Federation Return to Learn guidelines should be completed and return to complete
school before beginning any sports or physical activities, unless your doctor makes other recommendations. Go to the CIF
website (cifstate.org) for more information on Return to Learn.
Concussion symptoms should be completely gone before returning to competition. A RTP progression involves a gradual, step-
wise increase in physical effort, sports-specific activities, and the risk for contact. If symptoms occur with activity, the progression
should be stopped. If there are no symptoms the next day, exercise can be restarted at the previous stage.
RTP after concussion should occur only with medical clearance from a medical doctor trained in the evaluation and management
of concussions, and a step-wise progression program monitored by an athletic trainer, coach, or other authorized person. (As a
guide, California state law AB2127, effective 1/1/15, which deals with schools, states that return to play (e.g., full competition)
must be no sooner than 7 days after the concussion diagnosis has been made by a physician.)
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Final thoughts for Parents/Guardians:
It is well known that athletes will often not talk about signs of concussions, which is why this information sheet is so important for
review with them. Teach your child to tell the coaching staff if he/she experiences such symptoms, or if he/she suspects that a
teammate has had a concussion. You should also feel comfortable talking to the coaches or trainer about possible concussion
signs and symptoms that you may be seeing in your child.
References:
● American Medical Society for Sports Medicine position statement: concussion in sport (2013)
● Consensus statement on concussions in sport: the 4
th
International Conference on Concussions in Sport held in Zurich,
November 2012
● http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/youth.html
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Concussion Information Sheet
League/Team:
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
You are receiving this information sheet about concussions because of California State Law AB 2007 (effective January 1, 2017):
1. The law requires an athlete who may have a concussion during a practice or game to be removed from the activity for
the remainder of the day.
2. Any athlete removed for this reason must receive a written note from a medical doctor trained in the management of
concussion before returning to practice.
3. Before an athlete can start the season and begin practice in a sport, a concussion information sheet must be signed
and returned to the league/team by the athlete and the parent/guardian.
Every year all coaches are required to receive training about concussions.
For current and up-to-date information on concussions you can visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/youth.html
I acknowledge that I have received and read the USA Softball of Southern California Concussion Information Sheet.
______________________________ ______________________________ _______________
Athlete Name (Printed) Athlete Signature Date
______________________________ ______________________________ _______________
Parent/Legal Guardian (Printed)
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Graded Concussion Symptom Checklist
Today’s Date: _________ Time: ___________ Hours of Sleep:__________ Date of Diagnosis:____________
● Grade the 22 symptoms with a score of 0 through 6.
o Note that these symptoms may not all be related to a concussion.
● You can fill this out at the beginning of the season as a baseline (after a good night’s sleep)
● If you suffer a suspected concussion, use this checklist to record your symptoms daily.
o Be consistent and try to grade either at the beginning or end of each day.
● There is no scale to compare your total score to; the checklist helps you follow your symptoms on a
day-to-day basis.
o If your total scores are not decreasing, see your physician right away.
● Show your baseline (if available) and daily checklists to your physician.
None Mild Moderate
Severe
Headache
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
“Pressure in Head”
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Neck Pain
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Nausea or Vomiting
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Dizziness
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Blurred Vision
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Balance Problems
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Sensitivity to light
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Sensitivity to noise
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Feeling slowed down
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Feeling like “in a fog”
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
“Don’t feel
right”
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Difficulty Concentrating
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Difficulty Remembering
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Fatigue or low energy
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Confusion
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Drowsiness
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Trouble falling asleep
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
More emotional than usual
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Irritability
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Sadness
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Nervous or Anxious
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
Total Sum of Each Column
0
Total Symptom Score
(Sum of all
column totals)
Athlete’s Name: ________________________________ League/Team:__________________________________
D.O.B.__________________ Physician (MD/DO) ____________________________Date: ___________________
Baseline Score
Post-Concussion Score
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Acute Concussion Notification Form for Parents/Guardians
● Your child has symptoms consistent with a concussion. At the time of evaluation, there was no sign of any
serious complications.
● He/she will need monitoring for a further period by a responsible adult, and should not be left alone over the
next 12-14 hours.
Call 911 and go to the nearest Hospital Emergency
Department for the following:
o Headache that worsens
o Seizure (uncontrolled jerking of arms/legs)
o Weakness or numbness of arms/legs
o Repeated vomiting
o Loss of consciousness
o Lack of balance/unsteadiness on fee
o Changes in vision (double, blurry vision)
o Can’t recognize people or places
o Looks very drowsy/Can’t be awakened
o Increased confusion and/or irritability
o Unusual behavior
o Slurred speech
o Drainage of blood/fluid from ears or nose
o Loss of bowel and/or bladder control
Recommendations:
● AVOID medications like ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or aspirin for the next 48 hours due to the potential of
increased bleeding risk in the brain.
● Acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be tried but often won’t take away a concussion headache. DO NOT give
narcotic pain medication like codeine.
● Check for normal breathing every few hours while sleeping but DO NOT wake your child up unless you are
concerned. If he/she can’t be aroused, call 911 immediately.
● Make an appointment to see a physician within 72 hours. Inform your child’s coaches about the injury. Keep
your child at home if symptoms are severe or worsen through normal activity.
● Track your child’s symptoms using the Graded Concussion Symptoms Checklist. Bring these checklists to
your physician.
● No activities like other sports and no physical exertion until your child is evaluated and cleared by a
physician (MD/DO) trained in the diagnosis and management of concussions.
● Refer to the other concussion materials/protocols provided and available online.
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Concussions Return to Play (RTP) Protocol
California State Law AB 2117, which applies to the California Interscholastic Federation, states that to return to play
(i.e., Competition) cannot be sooner than 7 days after evaluation by a physician (MD/DO) who has made the diagnosis of
concussion, and ONLY after completing a Graduated Return to Play Protocol. Since the State of California, in
implementing AB 2007 (Concussion Law), has including softball organizations outside of the CIF, the following protocol
should be followed before an athlete returns to full competition after suffering a concussion.
Instructions:
● This is an example of a graduated return to play protocol that MUST be completed before you can return to full
competition.
o A certified athletic trainer (AT), physician, or identified concussion monitor (e.g., coach) must initial each
stage after you successfully pass it.
o You should be back to normal activities before beginning Stage II, unless otherwise instructed by your
physician.
● After Stage I, you cannot progress more than one stage per day (or longer if instructed by your physician).
● If symptoms return at any stage in the progression, IMMEDIATELY STOP any physical activity and follow up with your
AT, other identified monitor, or your physician. In general, if you are symptoms-free the next day, return to the previous
stage where symptoms had not occurred.
● Seek further medical attention if you cannot pass a stage after 3 attempts due to concussion symptoms, or if you feel
uncomfortable an anytime during the progression.
You must have written physician (MD/DO) clearance to begin and progress through the following Stages
as outlined below, or as otherwise directed by your physician. Minimum of 6 days to pass Stage I and II.
Date &
Initials
Stage Activity Exercise Example Objective of the Stage
I
No physical activity for at least 2 full
symptoms-free days
No activities requiring exertion (weight
Lifting, jogging)
Recovery and elimination of symptoms
II-A Light aerobic activity
10-15 minutes (min) of walking or stationary
biking.
Must be performed under direct
supervision by designated individual
Increase heart rate to no more than 50% of
perceived maximum (max) exertion (e.g., <100
beats per min (bpm))
Monitor for symptom return
II-B
Moderate aerobic activity (Light
resistance training)
20-30 min jogging or stationary biking
Body weight exercises (squads, push-
ups), max 1 set of 10, no more than 10
min total
Increase heart rate to 50-75% max exertion
(e.g., 100-150 bpm)
Monitor for symptom return
II-C
Strenuous aerobic activity (Moderate
resistance activity)
30
-
45 min running or stationary biking
Weight lifting ≤ 50% of max
weight
Increase heart rate to > 75% max exertion
Monitor for symptom return
II-D
Non-contact training with drills (No
restrictions for weightlifting)
Non-contact drills, sport activities (cutting,
jumping, sprinting)
Add total body movement
Monitor for symptom return
Prior to beginning Stage III, make sure that written physician (MD/DO) clearance for return to play, after successful complet
ion of Stages I and II,
has been given to your league/team concussion monitor.
III
Limited practice
Controlled practice drills allowed
Increase training drills
Restore confidence, assess readiness for
return to play
Monitor for symptom return
Full unrestricted practice
Return to normal training
Return to normal unrestricted training
MANDATORY: You must complete at least ONE unrestricted practice before return to competition.
IV
Return to Play (competition)
Normal game play (competitive event)
Return to full
sports activity without restrictions
Athlete’s Name: _________________________________________ Date of Concussion Diagnosis: ___________________
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Concussion Certification for Coaches
California law, per Assembly Bill 2007 (effective January 1, 2017), mandates that all coaches
receive training on concussions. The training requirement may be fulfilled through the free,
online course through the National Federation of High Schools (NFHS).
NFHS Learning Center: Concussion in Sports
http://nfhslearn.com/courses/61064/concussion-in-sports
Complete this 20-minute online class for FREE from the NFHS.
Coaches should download and print their certificate at the completion of the course.
Coaches shall remove from practice or game competition any athlete who is suspected of
sustaining a concussion or head injury and remain out of practice or play for the rest of the day.
Coaches shall not allow an athlete who has been removed from practice or play because of a
suspected concussion/brain injury to return to practice or play until the athlete has received
written clearance from a licensed health care provider trained in the evaluation and
management of brain injuries.
Additional Resources
CDC – Heads up: Concussion in High Schools Sports
http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/highschoolsports/index.html
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Physician Letter to League/Team (Concussion)
To Whom It May Concern:
Patient’s Name: ____________________________________________ DOB: _____________________________
Date of Concussion Diagnosis by MD/DO: ___________________________________
Injury Status
Has been diagnosed by a MD/DO with a concussion and is currently under our care.
Medical follow-up evaluation is scheduled for (date): _________________________
Was evaluated and did not have a concussion injury. There are no limitations on softball physical activity.
Physical Activity Status (Please mark all that apply)
This athlete is not to participate in physical activity of any kind.
This athlete is not to participate in physical activities except for untimed, voluntary walking.
This athlete may begin a graduated return to play progression (see Concussion Return to Play Protocol
Form).
This athlete has medical clearance for unrestricted athletic participation (Has successfully completed the
Concussion Return to Play protocol).
Physician’s (MD/DO) Signature: _____________________________ Examination Date: ____________________
Physician’s Stamp and Contact Information:
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USA SOFTBALL OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Appendix H
Parents’ Code of Ethics
I hereby pledge to provide positive support, care, and encouragement for my
child participating in youth sports by following this Parents’ Code of Ethics
Pledge.
I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players,
coaches, and officials at every game, practice or other youth sports event.
I will place the emotional and physical well-being of my child ahead of a personal desire
to win.
I will insist that my child play in a safe and healthy environment. I will
support coaches and officials working with my child, in order to encourage a positive
and enjoyable experience for all.
I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free of drugs, tobacco, and
alcohol, and will refrain from their use at all youth sports events.
I will remember that the game is for youth – not for adults.
I will do my very best to make youth sports fun for my child.
I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, fans, and officials with respect
regardless of race, sex, creed, or ability.
I promise to help my child enjoy the youth sports experience by doing whatever I can,
and such as being a respectful fan, assisting with coaching, or providing transportation.
I will require that my child’s coach be trained in the responsibilities of being a youth
sports coach and that the coach upholds the Coaches’ Code of Ethics.
Parent’s Signature Parent’s Signature Date
