“Rec” softball
Rec, or recreational, softball is generally where the game is introduced and basic skills are learned. Players of all ages and all skill levels are welcome to play; prior experience is not necessary. Rec softball places less emphasis on winning and prioritizes participation and development over competition. Players are assigned by the organization and rec league rules require teams to bat the entire roster and ensure everyone gets to play in every game.
Most rec leagues offer spring and fall seasons, with 8-10 regular season games, plus a post-season tournament. Rec teams typically practice once per week.
FBSA strives to ensure all players, regardless of skill level, have the opportunity to play. Coaches and parents are expected to encourage players and maintain a positive, safe and supportive environment.
“Select” or "Travel" softball
Select softball, also called travel softball, is highly competitive and requires a significantly larger investment of both time and money. Select teams hold tryouts and actively recruit players. Not every player that tries out makes the team and all players must tryout each year. Playing time is NOT guaranteed, but earned based on ability, effort and attitude demonstrated at practices and games. Some players may play every inning of most games while others only play a few innings, especially during bracket play. Winning is important but player development is the primary focus. Most rec players see dramatic improvement in skill level during their first 6-8 months of playing select softball.
While experiences with select teams vary greatly, most teams practice 2-3 times each week and play in 2-3 weekend tournaments each month. Tournament play (may be local or out of state) oftentimes starts at 8AM and can last all day Saturday and Sunday, with as many as 10 games in a single weekend. Teams may also participate in competitive softball leagues, usually double-headers played on a weeknight.
So, should my daughter play Rec or Select?
Has she played rec ball for 2-3 seasons and is the best player on her team?
Is she constantly practicing on her own or asking you to practice with her? Does she have the desire, dedication, and commitment to compete and earn her spot on the field? Is she ready to devote entire weekends to playing softball? Are you?
If the answer isn’t yes to all of these questions, she should continue playing recreational softball.