Senior 3-Pitch
Senior 3-Pitch is an excellent step between T-Ball & softball itself
Senior 3-Pitch play is the same as our Junior 3-Pitch league with respect to the following:
- This game is played with a regulation 11" softball.
- The batting team's coach, or (for Senior 3-Pitch) a pre-qualified player, pitches to his/her own team (with the objective of letting the batter get a good hit).
- General rules of softball with 3 outs per inning (Our Senior league plays 7-inning games).
- Excellent step between hitting off a tee and fastball/softball itself.
- Those born in the youngest eligible birth-year have the choice of which 3-Pitch league to register in. When making the choice, please remember the age brackets for each league. (Senior has players as much as 4 years older and the rules are more strictly enforced in Senior 3-Pitch.)
The following points highlight the major differences between our Junior and Senior 3-Pitch Leagues:
- The average age in Senior 3-Pitch is approximately 2 1/2 years older.
- Pre-qualified players, wearing protective gear, may be allowed to pitch (to their own team) in Senior 3-Pitch.
- More of the games count in the standings
- Teams can opt to track player stats and interim scores
- "Official" scorekeepers may be working the games
- Umpires will be less "lenient" in calling "bad" pitches
- Coaches in the field of play will be minimized
- Experienced players are encouraged to help coach the bases, act as field captains, etc.
Senior 3-Pitch play is even more competitive than Junior 3-Pitch, especially for the season-ending wrap-up tournament.
Helmets, with chin straps fastened, are required to be worn by batters and base runners. We supply batting helmets for use on a shared basis, but many players prefer to have their own.
Face guards, such as the Rip-It mask shown, must be worn by all infielders; the pitcher and catcher must wear helmets with face guards. (Helmets with faceguards are optional for the other infielders.) All necessary (This equipment is supplied by the league to all teams.) Chest protectors and shin pads are provided (and must be worn) by the catcher.
The offensive team's pitcher must wear face protection (supplied by the league). Other personal protection for the offensive pitcher's body is highly recommended.
Hitting sticks: With the assistance of a grant from the Kitchener Sports Association, each team was offered the use of a "hitting stick" and improved results at the plate were evident. A hitting stick is now part of each team's equipment. The suggestion is that it be used, not only at team practices, but also for team members to borrow for use at home and, most usefully, to "warm up" the players as they wait their turn to bat!
