What is Spring Ball?
San Dieguito Youth Softball is a recreational league that stresses skill development, good sportsmanship and having fun. We provide a competitive, educational and fun environment for girls to learn the game, develop proper mechanics, make new friends and build self-confidence. Players of all levels are encouraged to reach their full potential. 

Who can play Spring Ball?
Spring ball is open to players of all skill levels between the ages of 5 and 14 (see age chart below).

When does the season start?
The spring season begins with player evaluations and team selections in January. Team practices for 8U-14U will begin in late January, and games will begin in February on Opening Day. 6U/T-Ball practice/games all start on Opening Day.

What is the cost for Spring Ball?
The Spring 2024 registration fee for 8U-14U is $215. 6U registration is only $50. For information about scholarships please see the FAQs.

What is the Select Program?
Read all about the select program on our Spring Select page.

How long is the season?
The season runs approximately 10-12 weeks with games beginning in February and concluding with a season-ending tournament in late April or early May. We typically schedule a one week break coinciding with the Encinitas Union School District's spring break.

When are games and practices?
For 8U, 10U, 12U and 14U divisions there is one game on Saturdays and one practice in the afternoon/evenings on a weekday, each week until spring break. After spring break, games will be held on Saturdays and one weekday evening each week. 6U/T-Ball teams meet on Saturdays only with 45 minutes of practice followed by a 45 minute game each week.

Where are games and practices?
Most games and practices are held at Cardiff Sports Park though some games and practices are held at other parks and schools in North San Diego County. January and February practices may be held at various elementary schools in Encinitas.

How are teams formed?
8U pitchers and all players in the 10U and  12U are assessed prior to the season (14U player assessments are typically not performed).  10U and 12U teams are formed through a draft in an effort to keep the teams balanced by age and skill levels.   6U/T-Ball and 8U teams generally are formed by grouping girls by school and parent requests, however, the team selection committee is also responsible for making teams as fair and balanced as possible. We cannot guarantee coach or teammate requests, but will honor them whenever possible.

What happens at player assessments?
Player assessments typically consist of each player hitting 1 bunt and 5 hits off a pitching machine, running to 2nd base on the last hit, fielding 3 ground balls at shortstop and 3 fly balls in left field.

What is the appropriate division for my player?
Divisions are based on the player's year of birth:

Softball Players wishing to play outside their normal division (i.e. "play up" or "play down") must submit a request to the player agent. Players with a birthdate in the 6U range have the option during registration to play up in 8U. 

What do I need to provide?
Included in the registration fee are: uniform jersey, practice shirt, socks, USA Softball registration, insurance, umpire fees, basic equipment, and the standard picture package. 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. 

You will need to provide:

• Glove - Each player must have her own fielding glove. We highly recommend gloves that are leather, not vinyl, as leather is more durable and better for fielding.
• Batting Helmet - NOCSAE approved helmet with facemask and chinstrap.
• Cleats - Softball, baseball or soccer cleats are acceptable. No metal spikes, except 14U.
• Bat (league provides some team bats for 6U/T-Ball and 8U).
• Fielding Mask - SDYS highly recommends fielding masks for all players 8U and older, especially pitchers and infielders.
• Sliding Shorts (recommended for 10U+)
• Pants - Softball pants are no longer provided for the Spring season - players should provide their own softball pants (NAVY BLUE!) for all seasons.

For further questions regarding equipment please see our equipment page or ask a board member or coach.

What kinds of instruction are offered?
All teams have weekly practices beginning in late January and continuing throughout the season (6U/T-Ball practices are held on Saturdays prior to games). In addition, SDYS hosts clinics throughout the season for pitching, batting and other skills.

What type of coaching is provided?
Our volunteer coaches are trained and developed through a series of coaching clinics. All SDYS head coaches are certified by the Amateur Softball Association and ALL coaches and team parents are background checked by USA Softball.

Are any scholarships offered?
Full and partial scholarships are available and awarded based on financial need. Please contact the treasurer at treasurer@sdyssoftball.com for more information.

Payments and Refund Policy
Spring teams will be formed in late January, at which time all registration payments are due in full. No player is allowed to practice or play on a SDYS team until the registration fee has been completed. Refunds may not be given to players who drop after teams have been formed.

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.