8u Parents,

Your SDYS board made an intentional decision to make our 8u rosters small this season.  We had much discussion over the summer about the game of softball and how we engage and grow our retention rate of young players.  

The problem: 6u and 8u registrations have been declining since the COVID recovery years. We historically have a reduction in players from 8u to 10u. Players are leaving the game as they get older and we want to make some changes to reverse the trend. 

Our thoughts: Other team sports, soccer, lacrosse, etc., have programs that start with a modified, smaller version of the adult game.  Their programs evolve as the players get older.  This affords the young player higher engagement, increased touches, and overall athletic development.  Following this example, we are trying out smaller roster sizes for the Fall 2024 season.  We considered changing the game by removing outfielders, or starting with a 1 ball and 1 strike count.  In the end, we made a decision to simply reduce the number of players, ensuring that ALL players are on the field every inning and our batting lineups turnover more often.   

 The goal is to give every player more opportunities to hit, catch, throw, pitch, and run the bases in each game they play. We all recognize the game of softball has been a staple of American youth sports for a long time. The game is steep in tradition.  We grew up with 9 players on the field and a 9 player lineup.  Unfortunately the result is players in the back half of the lineup are getting 1-2 at bats per game and those in the 8u outfield are rarely touching the ball during the game even once.  Hopefully this change will result in players getting 3-4 at bats per game and all fielders touching the ball multiple times per game; making the game more fun for an 8 year old child.

Notes:

- Yes, we want ALL softball players to MOVE MORE. Stop watching the game being played around them and start participating in the game being played.  

- Yes, infielders will have to turn, run and chase balls that get by them. That is the goal, more play and engagement.

- Yes, players without the ball will need to learn, react, and cover bases to prevent runners from advancing. This is good for their acumen of how the game is played. 

- Yes, all players will need to move more on defense to cover more positions in a non-traditional way.  

- Yes, if only 5 players are available, the expectation is that a player may play third base and shortstop simultaneously… that’s ok.  Embrace the game and play ball. 

- No, games will not be forfeit for a lack of players.  Borrow players from the other team and play ball. 

- 10u, 12u, and 14u rosters remain at a target of 12 players; this is only for 8u. 

- The 8u Select team will remain a standard size roster. 

- No, other leagues are not part of this change. Games against other leagues will not be balanced.  The other leagues are aware of our plan and no games will be forfeit.  Having a smaller roster with high turnover is an advantage in 8u.  This will not result in losing a competitive advantage. The opposite may actually happen. 

- No, we are not committed to this concept beyond the Fall season. We are taking a chance to make the game more fun and engaging for 8u players.  If it does not fulfill the objective in the Fall, we will revert  in the Spring season.  

- Yes, feedback is needed from YOU! Let us know throughout the season if your player is enjoying the change, or not. We’ll also send out a survey at the end of the season where you can share your feedback as well.  Please reach out anytime with your comments, questions or concerns to Colton Walter at colton.walter@sdyssoftball.com

Finally, the SDYS board exists to serve our players and community.  We appreciate your continued support!

What is the Cost For Fall Ball?

6U - $50
8U-14U - $210 

Registration includes: a uniform top, USA Softball registration, insurance, umpire fees and a standard picture package. Scholarships are available and awarded based on financial need. Please contact the treasurer at treasurer@sdyssoftball.com for more information.

All Fall teams are formed by the Player Selection Committee which takes many factors into account when forming teams.

What is the appropriate division for my player?
Effective September 1, 2023, USA Softball is changing the birth year classification for each age division.  SDYS is affording those players born between September 1 and December 31, who have completed 2 years in their current age division, the choice to remain in the same age division (for a third year), or move up to the next age division, if desired. This annual election will be effective for all recreational seasons (Spring, Select, All Stars) through August 31, 2024. You will be required to make this declaration prior to the start of the first season you play (Fall or Spring) during the 2023-2024 playing year.   Any requests to play in a different division need board approval. Please contact the Player Agent playeragent@sdyssoftball.com with requests.

What are Select Teams?

Note: The Board is considering having a single advanced "Select" team that plays in the North San Diego County Winterball League in lieu of the Tournament Team format below for 8U/10U/12U divisions. In this format, players would only play on this team. The format will be decided soon.

Fall Select Teams are teams that are put together in the 8U, 10U and 12U divisions and are separate from the regular Fall teams. The program is geared towards advanced players - players that have previously played All-Stars or Select teams, for example. The Select Teams will play double headers in the North County San Diego Winter Ball league. In addition, teams are likely to play in 1-2 tournaments as well. Pre-season workouts will be used as a basis for team formation. Prior All-Star or advanced team experience does not guarantee a spot on a Fall Select Team. Additional fees will be incurred for each player on a Fall Select Team prior to each Tournament  - expect these costs to be approximately $50 per Tournament. See the Fall Select Page for more info.

When Does the Season Start?

Fall Ball teams will be formed and practices will begin in late August or early September. 

Where are Games and Practices?
Practices and home games will be held at Cardiff Sports Park or Encinitas Community Park. In Fall, many games are played against other leagues, and some games will be held at other parks in North San Diego County. 8U-14U practices will be held on Friday afternoon/evenings (pending confirmation of field space from the city of Encinitas), with games on Sundays. 6U teams meet only on Sundays with 45 minutes of practice followed by a 45 minute game.

How Long is the Fall Season?
The season is approximately 8-10 weeks and will conclude in mid-November.

What Equipment is Needed?
Players need to provide: Softball glove, batting helmet with face guard, pants, cleats and bat.
Fielding masks are highly recommended for all players 8U and older, especially pitchers and infielders.
Sliding pads or shorts are recommended for players 10U and older.
SDYS provides some team bats for 6U and 8U. The league supplies basic equipment including balls, catcher's gear and a limited number of pitcher's masks, however, you may choose to purchase these on your own.
More details can be found on the Equipment page.

Who should I contact with further questions?
If you have additional questions you may send them to info@sdyssoftball.com or please feel free to contact any of the SDYS board members listed on the board member page of our website.