© 2026 RAMP Interactive. All Rights Reserved.
U7 PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
The U7 division is designed to introduce young players to softball in a safe, fun, and inclusive environment. The focus is on skill development, teamwork, sportsmanship, and enjoyment of the game, not competition or scoring.
Learn basic skills: throwing, catching, hitting, running, and field awareness
Develop confidence and love for the game
Encourage teamwork and positive social interaction
Every player participates equally
Games typically consist of 3–4 innings or a time limit set by the league (commonly 60 minutes).
Each inning allows every player to bat once.
No official score is kept.
Games may end early if attention spans or weather require it.
Batters hit from a batting tee only.
No live pitching is permitted.
Coaches may assist players with stance and swing setup.
Batters may take multiple swings until contact is made.
All batted balls are considered fair (no foul rule enforcement).
All batters run through first base.
Runners advance one base at a time unless instructed otherwise by the coach.
No leading off, stealing, or sliding.
Runners may not advance on overthrows.
All runners stop once the defensive play is complete.
All players rotate through all positions during the game.
Defensive positions include:
Pitcher (coach-controlled area, no fielding required)
Catcher (optional, no catching equipment required)
Infielders and outfielders
Coaches are permitted on the field to:
Direct positioning, Assist with understanding plays AND Ensure safety
Outs are not formally recorded.
Defensive players are encouraged to:
Attempt throws to first base
Learn where to make plays
The play stops when:
The ball is returned to the coach
The coach signals the end of the play
Softball-approved bats (lightweight, age-appropriate)
Softball glove for each player
Batting tee
Helmets are mandatory for all batters and runners
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.
No sliding or aggressive contact.
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:
CoachesParentsSpectators
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 30–40 feet apart (league preference). Bases may be throw-down or flat safety bases.
No pitching rubber required.
Batting tee is placed: Centered in the batter’s box Approximately 25–30 feet from home plate area
Outfielders should be positioned closer than standard fields. A soft boundary may be marked to prevent excessive running.
One offensive coach near the tee. One or more defensive coaches in the field
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
U7 softball is about building confidence, friendships, and a lifelong love of the game. Success is measured by smiles, participation, and progress—not wins or losses.