FAQs
What is Pony League?
PONY stands for Protect Our Nation's Youth and has been around for more than 60 years. The league is focused on creating safe, fundamental, and challenging opportunities for children of all ages and skill levels. The Pony League South Region is a vibrant, active softball community with some of the area's best youth programs.
What's the difference between Fall and Spring seasons?
Fall typically has a more instructional focus, and is a great time for those who might be interested in trying softball to try it out. Spring is the main competitive season with a full lineup of games and tournaments, including postseason opportunities in June!
What are the age group cutoffs?
Pony League determines age brackets by the calendar year (Jan. 1 - Dec. 31) or year of birth. For 2024, your player's age is the age she was on 12/31/23. For example, players born in the year 2015 will qualify for the 8U or Pinto Division. Players born in 2012 are eligible for the 12U or Bronco Division.
What equipment does my player need?
Glove - Required for each player. Make sure to try it on! It will be stiff at first, but will break in the more she plays.
Black softball pants - Required for each player. These are for game uniforms.
Face guard - Required for all players.
Helmet - Highly Recommended. We suggest each player have her own helmet, but will have extras for each team. Try it on to make sure the fit is snug and safe.
Cleats - Highly recommended, especially for 10U and older. Plastic spikes only (no metal).
Bat - Optional. All bats must bear the USA/ASA approved certification mark, Selection suggestions here. NO T-BALL BATS (even for tee ball players!).
When will teams practice and play games?
Practices will be held on weeknights on Fields 6 and 8. As the days grow longer, we may hold two practices an evening, depending on the number of teams and demand. Games will be held on Saturdays and some Sundays, with possible away games scheduled during the week as needed.
How do I become a coach?
It's easy! On the registration page, click "Volunteer" to enroll. You'll have the opportunity to select Coach or Assistant Coach under the "Enrollment Type" category. Once we receive all registrations, we will reach out to those who have volunteered. Coaches must submit to a background check as well as attend a mandatory training.
How else can I support Northwest Softball?
There are so many ways! We need volunteers to help as team parents, run concessions, help maintain the fields, and keep score at games. We also need to build our financial support throughout the community. So if you know of a business looking to give back, or have a matching program at your work, email us at sponsorship@nwsoftball.org.