Frequently Asked Questions
Does this league hold tryouts?
At some age divisions, player skill evaluations help to ensure that players are evenly assigned to teams. No player is ever cut from a team.
Does my player need softball experience?
American River Girls Softball encourages players of all levels of experience to register. We seek to teach girls how to play the game, and our coaches are committed to player development at all age divisions.
What equipment does my player need?
Each player will need a glove, a bat, a helmet with a face mask, and cleats. League registration includes a uniform shirt, but each player will need to provide uniform pants. Coaches will advise as to color of uniform pants at the beginning of each season. Infield masks are recommended but not required. At 10U and above, players will also need sliding shorts.
While the league does not provide equipment, each year players' families donate to a shared "closet" of equipment that their players have outgrown for others to use. We encourage you to check out this resource during our pre-season clinics and field prep days.
How are coaches selected?
All coaches and managers are volunteers and most are parents of players who have chosen to share their time and talents to develop this program. All coaches and volunteers must be approved by the Board of Directors per our League Bylaws to ensure they meet league expectations.
Are coaches background checked?
All volunteers are background checked and complete SafeSport training to ensure fair, ethical, and safe coaching practices.
Are parents required to complete volunteer hours?
Parents are expected to contribute to the success of each season through volunteer hours. There are many different ways to fulfill those hours: field work days, field prep on game days, snack bar shifts, score keeping, and service on the Board. Each team is responsible for staffing the snack bar with parent volunteers throughout the season.
Does this league fundraise?
ARGSA hosts a fireworks booth each summer as our primary fundraiser. We also seek sponsorships for each team to offset the costs of maintaining the facilities, uniforms, and special league events. The snack bar also brings in funds, as does our annual gift basket raffle which takes place at our Opening Day celebration.
What is included in the registration fees?
Registration fees include a uniform shirt (pants are provided by the player), fees associated with the use of our facilities, player insurance, umpires.
What other expenses should I anticipate?
Teams usually ask players to purchase matching socks and to contribute to other expenses such as a team banner, end of season party, and thank you gifts for coaches. You might also be asked to contribute to a gift basket your team donates to the raffle at Opening Day.