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Epping Youth Athletic Association

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Softball FAQs

When does the softball season start and end?

The spring softball season starts at the beginning of May and runs through June. Practices start in mid-April. The fall softball season starts at the end of August and runs through October. Fall softball is run through the Lamprey River Softball League and participation may be limited based on interest.

What equipment will my player need?

All players will need a glove, fielder's face mask/shield, and cleats. Players may also wish to have their own bat and helmet.

6U/8U: EYAA will provide shared bats, helmets, and catcher's gear.
10U/12U: EYAA will provide limited shared bats, helmets, and catcher's gear, though players may wish to bring and obtain their own gear as they grow into more specialized positions (like a first base glove or catcher's gear).

Uniform jerseys will be provided by EYAA or Lamprey River Softball League and are included in the registration fee. Players will also need softball pants and additional socks.

What ball should my player be using?

Game balls and practice balls will be provided to coaches by EYAA.

For 6U, a 10" safety "softie" ball is used.
For 8U, an 11" safety "softie" ball is used.
For 10U, an 11" hard softball is used.
For 12U, a 12" hard softball is used.

How do I know which division my player will play in?

Divisions are done by age based on the Babe Ruth League age chart, found here. Players may play up a level at the discretion of the EYAA softball commissioners in accordance with league rules.

What if my player wants to try out for the middle school team?

Middle school tryouts take place after EYAA registration closes, and for older players and families we understand the hesitation to commit to two teams. Here's what you need to know:

*If your player registers for EYAA and makes the middle school team, but decides they do not want to play both, EYAA will issue a refund of your registration fee.
*It is possible to play for both the middle school team and EYAA. Many players do! EYAA provides additional reps, skill development, and game experience that can complement school play.
*The middle school team practice schedule rarely overlaps with EYAA practices, since they utilize the same fields. Games are played at different times and also rarely overlap with EYAA games.
*Registering before the deadline helps us form teams appropriately without impacting roster sizes and team placement.

We never want families to feel stuck or pressured. If you're unsure, we encourage you to register your player and keep options open - we will work with you!

I'm interested in being a softball coach. What do I need to do?

Volunteer coaches are always needed! You can sign up to coach or assistant coach during registration. All coaches are required to complete a background check every two years and a coaches' certification (one time only) as part of participation in the Babe Ruth League. Please visit our Coaches' Corner for more information.

How much playtime can my player expect?

Game times for younger leagues run from 60-90 minutes. Game times for older leagues are 90 minutes or more.

Most leagues have 1-2 practices per week, and 1-2 games per week (one on a week day and one on a weekend).

At EYAA Softball, our goal is to create a positive, development-focused experience for every player. Playing time and positions are managed with age, skill development, and safety in mind, while always encouraging growth and confidence.

6U & 8U: At the youngest levels, the emphasis is on learning the game and having fun. Players will rotate through positions and receive balanced playing time to help build skills, confidence, and a love of softball.

10U & 12U: As players advance, positions may become more situational and game-dependent. Coaches work to balance continued development with introducing game strategy and team concepts, while still striving to provide meaningful opportunities for all players to contribute. Coaches are encouraged to rotate lineups and positions in order to balance play time and allow players to specialize in certain positions. The best players are able to play various positions!

Player Communication

Softball is a team sport, and every player has an important role—whether you’re on the field, in the dugout, or cheering on your teammates.

We encourage players to:

*Talk directly with their coach if they have goals, questions, or positions they’d like to learn
*Ask respectfully and at appropriate times (not during a game)
*Be open to trying new positions and challenges
*Stay positive and ready, even when spending time on the bench

Your coaches make lineup and position decisions based on what’s best for the team, player development, and game situations. Being flexible, supportive, and coachable is part of growing as an athlete and as a teammate.

Family Communication

We appreciate the support and enthusiasm families bring to EYAA Softball. As players grow, we encourage families to help athletes learn to advocate for themselves by communicating directly with their coaches.

Coaches are responsible for playing time and position decisions, particularly at the older levels where strategy and skill development play a larger role. Bench time, position changes, and lineup adjustments are a normal part of the game and are not meant as a reflection of a player’s effort or importance to the team.

We ask families to:

*Support coaches’ decisions
*Encourage positive attitudes and teamwork
*Allow players to speak for themselves whenever possible

Together, we can help create a respectful, supportive environment where players build confidence, resilience, and a love for the game.

Please contact the softball co-commissioners at [email protected].

Softball Co-Commissioners
Jason Follansbee
Erin Graichen

Assistant Softball Commissioner
Jennifer Espinosa-Galindez