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U11 PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
U11 division is designed to further develop softball fundamentals while introducing players to more structured and competitive elements of the game in a development-first environment.
While game rules and expectations increase at this level, the focus remains on skill progression, confidence-building, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Winning is secondary to learning and long-term player development.
Strengthen core softball skills: throwing, catching, hitting, pitching, and base running
Introduce players to game strategy and situational awareness
Develop proper defensive positioning and teamwork
Encourage teamwork and positive social interaction
Ensure all players continue to receive meaninful and fair participation
Games are typically 90 minutes in length with 4-5 innings (time permitting)
Games are played with official umpires (subject to availability)
Socres are kept, but standings and results are not emphasized.
Coaches may rotate lineups and positions to support player development.
Batters hit from live player pitching
Coach pitching may step in after a reasonable amount of player pitching has been attempted to keep play moving.
Walks are permitted
A 4 run limit per inning is applied
Bunting may be introduced
All standard fair and foul ball rules apply
All batters run through first base.
Leading off, stealing and sliding are permitted and encouraged
Runners may advance on overthrows with one base maximum.
Coaches are responsible for reaching proper base-running awarness and safety
All players rotate through all positions during the course of the season
Defensive positions include:
Pitcher
Catcher
Infielders and outfielders
pitchers and catchers should be managed carefully to ensure player arm and phsyical health
Coaches should prioritize developmetn and learnign over specializing players too early.
Softball-approved bats (lightweight, age-appropriate)
Softball glove for each player
Helmets are mandatory for all batters and runners
Catchers must wear full protective catching gear
Protective gear (face masks, mouthguards) are recommended
No metal cleats allowed
Helmets must be worn at all times while batting or running bases.
Bats may only be swung in the batting area.
Coaches and parents must remain aware of batters and runners at all times.
Injured players should be removed immediately and assessed.
Positive encouragement is required from:
Coaches, Parents, Spectators
No yelling instructions to players during live play.
Umpires (if present) and coaches are volunteers and must be treated respectfully.
The emphasis is learning over winning.
Bases are set 45 feet apart (league preference). Bases may be throw-down or flat safety bases.
Pitching distance is approximately 35 feet
Coaches are encouraged to:
Demonstrate skills
Guide positioning
Help players understand game flow
Coaches should avoid making plays for players unless safety requires it.
All players line up for:
High-fives
Thank-you acknowledgements
Focus on fun, effort, and learning rather than results
U11 is a key development stage where players begin to understand the competitive nature of softball while continuing to learn and grow. The goal is to foster confidence, resilience, teamwork, and a strong foundation that prepares players for future levels of play—while keeping the game enjoyable and inclusive.