Who can play?
Any boy or girl meeting the age requirements and living in South Fayette Township may play. Boys must be at least 5 years old and no older than 18 on July 31, 2002. Girls must be at least 5 years old by December 31, 2001 to play Tee-ball. Girls playing softball should be 7 and no older than 18 by December 31, 2001.
Which division will my child be in?
Each league has been grouped into divisions based on age. An older child may not play in a younger division except for obvious medical reasons. A younger child may play one year ahead by parental request and league approval. In most cases it is best to have the younger children play in the division of their age, rather than to move them up.
In addition, Girls 9 & older have the option of playing Fast-pitch or Slow-pitch softball. Please see our Softball page which offers additional information on this subject.
Do I have to buy any equipment?
Players only need a baseball glove. Shoes with cleats (either baseball or soccer type) are recommended. A protective cup is strongly recommended for boys. The SFAA supplies bats, balls, batting helmets, and catchers gear to each team. Each player gets a uniform consisting of caps, jerseys and pants (Tee-ball players do not get pants). Players get to keep their caps and jerseys but the pants must be returned at the end of the season.
How much will my child get to play?
In-house leagues "bat the bench" which means all players bat in order. In addition players in the Tee-ball and 8 & under Girls division play the whole game defensively.
Midget Boys and Mitey-Mite boys have a "free substitution" rule which permits the manager to substitute without restriction. Boys playing in these divisions typically play at least 4 defensive innings.
The minimum playing time for the traveling divisions is dictated by the rules of the organization they play in (i.e. CVC, CVBA, etc.). Some divisions "bat the bench" and allow "free substitution" but others have specific rules limiting substitution. These rules are subject to change each year but they are normally at least 1 at bat and 2 defensive innings.
What is the CVC?
CVC stands for "Chartiers Valley Communities". It is the organization that most of our travelling baseball and softball teams play in. The CVC has its own board, separate league meetings and playing rules. SFAA teams competing in CVC divisions must abide by their rules and regulations. Other communities that have teams in the CVC are: Bridgeville, Carnegie, Cecil, Collier, Findlay, McDonald, Midway, Oakdale and North Fayette. From time to time other communities in Southwestern Pittsburgh may also have teams in particular CVC division.
In addition, some of older boys play in the CVBA (Chartiers Valley Baseball Association) and the fast pitch girls play in the Pittsburgh North Softball Association.
Can I request or refuse a certain manager?
Generally, No. In order to maintain competitive balance we do not allow parents to determine which teams their child plays on. However if you or your child had a bad experience with a certain manager you may request that he/she not be on that individual's team by writing your request on your registration form. Once the uniforms have been ordered you may not move your child to another team for any reason.
What do I do if I have a problem with a manager?
You should first speak to your manager directly, either after a game/practice or over the phone. Most managers are interested in the opinions of parents and will be happy to discuss issues concerning the team. Please do not try to bring the matter up before or during a game since the manager is usually very busy at these times. Whatever you do, NEVER make a scene in front of the children.
If you have talked to the manager and still are not satisfied, contact one of the SFAA officers and the matter will be reviewed.
How can I become a manager?
Managers are usually selected at the first League Meeting after player registrations have ended. The number of managers depends upon the number of children playing in the various divisions. Individuals interested in managing a team should attend this meeting and volunteer. If there are more volunteers than teams available, the returning managers usually get priority.
I would like to be involved with my team, what can I do?
Ask your team manager. There is usually something that needs to be done, whether it is coaching, concession stand duty, scorekeeping, field preparation, sometimes even an emergency umpire is needed! If you want to help, please don't be shy!
How can I become more involved in the SFAA?
We are always looking for volunteers to help out. If there is something specific you would like to do, speak to a league officer. The best way to get involved is to attend League Meetings which take place the second Sunday of each Month (except July, August and December) at the Municipal Building.
What is Fall Baseball like?
Fall baseball usually starts around Labor Day and generally concludes around the end of October. The games are scheduled approximately twice a week. One game during the week and one game on the weekends. The emphasis on these games is instruction and no league standings or records are kept.
The Mighty Mite, Little League, Pony and Colt divisions play at home and in the South Hills community. Girls Fast-Pitch softball is also available in the fall. Costs can be between $25 and $50 per player. Each year this program has become more popular! Ask any coach or Board Member about the benefits of Fall Baseball!
