ARE YOU NEW TO SOFTBALL?
WHY SOFTBALL?
Did you hear about Brantford Minor Softball from a friend or neighbor and want to find out more?
First, you're in the right spot. We offer programs for boys and girls of all ages.
Our site has a tremendous amount of info so please read through the FAQs. Can't find what you are looking for? Just email us and we'll be happy to chat with you.
Softball has captivated kids for the past decades. Don't worry if your kid has never played, as most kids here haven't so your child is not at a disadvantage. A lot of kids have only picked up a bat in the last couple of years, and every year we add more new kids to the program.
WHAT DO YOU NEED?
Each player must provide their own glove, helmet with full face guard (including a chin strap), appropriate full-length athletic pants (no zippers, snaps/buttons, no jeans), full-length socks (no ankle socks), and athletic footwear (no metal cleats). No skin may show below the waist, or the player cannot take the field. See examples below.
Helmets
All players must have a helmet with an attached face mask to play. Please ensure that you have secured this equipment before the season, as they tend to go out of stock quickly. Players are not encouraged to share for health and safety precautions. Any player who doesn't have a helmet with an attached cage will not be allowed to participate.
Pants
U5 and U7 divisions are allowed to wear shorts. However, we do recommend that players wear pants. For U9 and above, athletic plants are mandatory. Any athletic pants will do as long as they are full-length, are not jeans, and have no zippers or snaps/buttons on the legs.
Glove
Gloves come in many different colours and sizes. Choose a glove that works for your budget and needs, and ensure that it fits you comfortably. Only catchers and players playing 1st base can wear "mitts/trappers." For the younger divisions, the gloves need to hold an 11-inch ball. For U15+, gloves must be large enough to catch a 12-inch ball.
How to Choose a Bat
Softball bats are not all the same. They must be chosen with a player’s size and strength in mind. When you look for a bat, look at three primary factors: the length, the weight, and the style.
- To find a bat that is the right length, stand up straight and hold a bat by its knob at the end. If you can hold your arm straight down, and the bat touches the ground, it is the right length. If you have to bend your elbow, it is too long. If the bat doesn't touch the ground, it's too short.
- To find a bat that is the right weight, look at the drop. The drop is the numerical difference between the bat's height (in inches) and weight (in ounces). The drop will range anywhere from -8 to -12. Lighter bats (near -12), are good for weak or slow batters. Heavier bats (near -8), are best for strong batters. You can also test the suitability of the bat's weight by placing it in your throwing hand and holding it straight out in front of you. It is not too heavy if you can easily hold it at arm's length for a full minute or more.
- There are two main types of softball bats available: aluminum and composite. Each type is appropriate for beginners and experienced players, but aluminum bats are more popular. These are also available in single- or double-walled construction. Single-walled are cheaper but slightly less effective than double-walled bats. Composite bats will hit the ball farther but can crack easily in cold weather.
