Frequently Asked Questions

How are age divisions determined?

MGSA follows USA age guidelines, which use a September 1 age cutoff.

A player’s division is based on their birthdate between September 1 and August 31, not their age on Opening Day and not their school grade.

Players remain in the same division for the entire season, even if they have a birthday during the season.

What are the MGSA age divisions for the 2026 season?

6U Division
• Birthdates: September 1, 2018 – August 31, 2021

8U Division
• Birthdates: September 1, 2016 – August 31, 2018

10U Division
• Birthdates: September 1, 2014 – August 31, 2016

12U / 14U Combined Division
• Birthdates: September 1, 2010 – August 31, 2014
 

Why doesn’t my child’s division match their school grade or current age?

Youth softball divisions are based on sanctioning guidelines, not school enrollment.

Using a September 1 cutoff:

• Keeps teams consistent for the entire season

• Prevents players from moving divisions mid-season

• Aligns MGSA with USSSA competition standards

My child has a birthday during the season — will they move up?

No. Players do not move divisions during the season, even if they have a birthday after the season begins.

What if my child falls near the cutoff date?

If your child’s birthdate is close to a division cutoff and you have questions, please contact MGSA before registering so we can help guide you to the correct division.

Can MGSA move a player to a different division?

MGSA may adjust team placement or divisions based on:

• Registration numbers

• Participation levels

• League structure and safety considerations

Any adjustments are made with player development and fair competition in mind.

What equipment does my child need to play MGSA softball?

Equipment needs may vary by age and level of play, but all players should have the following:

• Glove: Each player should have their own softball glove that is appropriately sized for their hand and suitable for catching a 10"–12" softball, depending on age division. Gloves should be broken in so the player can easily open and close it.

• Water Bottle: Players should bring their own water bottle to all practices and games.

• Footwear: Rubber-soled cleats are recommended. Tennis shoes are acceptable for 6U Tee Ball players.

• Infield Face Mask:

  • Highly recommended for 8U players

  • Required for 10U and older players

MGSA will provide each team with shared batting helmets, bats, and catcher’s gear. Players are welcome to bring their own equipment; however:

• Personal batting helmets must include a face mask

• All bats must be USA Softball–certified

Optional equipment may include softball pants, belt, socks, batting gloves, and a gear bag. Families with players participating at more competitive levels may choose to purchase additional personal equipment.

What type of softball is used in each division?

Softball size varies by age division:

• 6U Tee Ball: 10" official tee ball or 11" flex ball

• 8U & 10U: Hard 11" softball

• 12U & 14U: Hard 12" softball

Why can’t I request a specific team, coach, or teammates?

MGSA does not accept team, coach, or teammate requests in order to ensure consistency and fairness across the program. As registration numbers and divisions vary from year to year, honoring individual requests can impact team formation and league operations.

Team placements are determined by MGSA leadership and coaches after registration closes, based on age divisions and league needs.

Can my child play up to an older age division?

Requests for a player to participate in an older age division (“playing up”) are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. MGSA considers several factors, including registration numbers, division structure, league safety considerations, and overall program needs.

MGSA leadership retains final authority on all division assignments, and approval to play up is not guaranteed.

Why am I required to work a concessions shift during the season?

MGSA is a volunteer-supported organization, and the operation of our concession stand is essential to supporting league expenses, field maintenance, equipment, and overall program costs.

Requiring each family to assist with concessions for at least one shift helps distribute the workload fairly across all participants and allows MGSA to keep registration fees affordable for families. This shared commitment ensures that the league can operate smoothly throughout the season.

Additional details regarding scheduling, shift length, and expectations will be communicated prior to the start of the season.