8U Rookies is a division offered in the spring season for girls ages 7 and 8 (view age chart for girls). The 8U Rookies division serves as the next step up from Tee Ball in the progression through the various divisions of EBYBS. Your daughter will move from co-ed Tee Ball to girls only softball in 8U Rookies. Dimpled softballs (softies) are used and batters will hit off a softball pitching machine at about 30-35 MPH. A pitching machine will help them build confidence in hitting a moving ball without the fear of getting hit by the ball. Players will begin to make defensive outs and teams typically begin to count outs in the second half of the season. Teams are formed based on the elementary school they attend. The purpose for this division is to build on what was learned in Tee Ball by continuing to practice and develop skills in hitting, catching, throwing, and base running, while also adding more basic rules and defensive strategy in softball.
NOTE: Players that are league age 8 and already excel in throwing, fielding, and hitting live pitching from other players, may consider requesting the ability to play up to 10U Minors and attend spring assessments to see if playing up is appropriate.