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Softball
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Parent / Coach / VolunteerAdmin🥎 Softball
Friendly, coach-pitched introduction to fast-pitch softball for girls.
8U Softball is designed to be the most welcoming entry point in the LYB program. Coach-pitched games ensure every batter gets quality plate appearances, and the emphasis is entirely on bat contact, fielding basics, and having fun.
The 60-foot base paths and 32-foot coach pitch distance keep the game moving and keep young players engaged. There are no walks at 8U — the coach pitches for the entire at-bat. No stealing or leading off. Every player bats every inning in a continuous lineup, and a 6-run-per-inning limit keeps the game flowing.
Coaches at this level set the tone for a player's relationship with softball. The most important thing a player learns in 8U is whether she loves the game. Everything else is secondary.
| Base path | 60 feet (SRAA — all softball divisions) |
| Pitching distance | 32 feet (coach pitch) — SRAA 8U standard |
| Game ball | 11-inch yellow optic cover — SRAA standard |
| Innings | 6 innings — 80-minute time limit |
| Run limit | 6 runs per inning maximum |
| Mercy rule | 10 runs after 4 innings; 15 runs after 3 innings |
| Pitching | Coach pitch — no kid pitching at this level |
| No walks | Coach pitches for the entire at-bat |
| Stealing / leads | No stealing or leading off |
| Bunting | Not allowed at 8U |
| Batting order | Continuous — everyone bats every inning |
| Pitcher facemask | Required — all pitchers must wear a fielding facemask |
| Metal spikes | Not permitted — rubber cleats only. Metal allowed 12U and above. |
Coach's Note
"Resist the urge to focus on winning at 8U. The players who love the game at 8U come back every year. The ones who feel pressure to perform often don't. Keep it loud, keep it fun, celebrate every good play. Remember: all pitchers (even at coach-pitch levels) should be wearing a fielding facemask per SRAA rules."
Players who turned 8 by September 1, 2025 are eligible for 8U Softball (born 2018 or 2019). Players who turn 9 after September 1, 2025 may also play 8U.
Bat
24"–27" bat, drop -12 or lighter. ASA/USA Softball certified. Barrel 2¼", max length 34", max weight 31.5 oz.
Official USA Softball certified equipment list
Glove
9"–11" softball glove. Look for a glove specifically sized for smaller hands.
What to Bring