Softball FAQ's

Answers to Some Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the season last?

The intramural Season runs from mid-March through mid-June.  Opening Day is Saturday April 17^th.

The Travel season will run from mid-March through mid-July depending on how deep the team gets into the playoffs.  The teams play in the DEL-VAL softball league and are separated by the player's age as of 12/31/2002.  Teams are broken up into: Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, and Under 16.

When are practices?

Prior to opening day, there will be at least one practice, with the goal of 2 per week.  This is all subject to the availability of the fields and the location of the practices may vary.

When are games?

The intramural leagues play games on Weekday nights, Saturday's and typically reserve Sunday's for make-ups.  Typically a team will have 2 games (or 1 game and 1 practice) per week.

The travel teams generally play games on Weekday nights, Saturday's or Sundays as dictated by the Del-Val League.

Where are the games played?

We try to get as many games as possible to be played at BYC's Gillespie Park, however with 25+ softball teams and limited fields, some games will be played at either Clayton Park, the Garnet Valley Middle School or the High School (upper fields).

The travel teams play their games at various locations throughout the Delaware Valley and play their home games at BYC's Gillespie Park.

Do boys and girls play together?

Although there are separate leagues for boys and girls, girls are not restricted from playing baseball.  Girls, however typically play softball with the higher caliber players playing travel.

Are children placed based on their grade in school or their age?

The softball program is set up based on age. 

Players For the intramural league, players are placed on teams based on their age as of  7/31/2004 (similar to Babe Ruth rules).

Players for the travel teams, players are placed on teams based on their age as of 12/31/2003 per the Del-Val League Rules. Teams are broken up into: Under 10, Under 12, Under 14, and Under 16.

What is travel Softball?

Travel softball is for the more competitive player. These teams compete against teams from other areas in Delaware County. All the travel teams compete in the Del-Val Softball league and may also enter into end of year tournaments throughout the Delaware County.  The decision to enter tournaments is a coach and team decision.

Is the travel season longer?

Travel season typically begins in early March with practices and the games usually start in Mid April. The regular season typically ends near the end of June and then July is reserved for tournaments and playoffs.

How much does it cost?

Costs are shown below and differ for different ages and for travel:

What equipment does my child need to play softball?

The only required equipment for softball is a glove and sneakers.  Many players wear cleats, but they are not required. 

For most ages, an entire uniform will be provided by BYC for all players consisting of pants, socks, shirt, and visor.  For some of the youngest age groups, a shirt and visor are provided.   All bats, balls and catcher's equipment are provided.  Coaches are provided with an ample supply of balls and Ice packs and first aid kit and scorebook.

What are the eligible ages?

A child must by 5 years old by July 31, 2003 to play Softball this season and not turn 18 prior to July 31, 2003.

What if my child has never played before?

We would love to change that! We encourage first timers and most kids are fairly adaptable and catch on quickly. 

What if I change my mind?

We will refund your registration fee.  Just contact the commissioner of softball. 

How do I sign up to coach?

You may volunteer to coach when you register your players through our web site.

The Softball Committee has regular meetings the second Monday of each month . Meetings are held upstairs at the Fieldhouse. All are welcome.