2026 Season Update: House League registration is now open. Travel tryout details will be announced soon.
Give Softball A Try Clinics (Free)
Curious about girls softball? These sessions are a no-pressure way to come out, meet coaches, and try the basics. New players are always welcome.
What to expect
• Beginner-friendly skill stations
• Bring a glove if you have one (we can help if you don’t)
• Choose preferred month and time (February, March, or April)
This form collects player and parent/guardian info so we can confirm the best clinic date/time for your family.
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Girls Softball Program
Registration is open for the 2026 season. Programs are designed for both new and returning players.
Established in 2025, Ancaster Little League offers a welcoming and growing girls softball program built around skill development, confidence, teamwork, and fun.
In our inaugural season, more than 50 girls joined the program, showing the demand for a local, development-first girls softball experience in Ancaster and Hamilton.
New players are always welcome. No previous softball experience is required.
Program Highlights
Established: 2025
Inaugural season: Over 50 girls registered
Focus: Fundamentals, confidence, and community
Divisions: 8U, 10U, and 12U
Pathway: House League and Travel/Select
Designed to stay local: Minimal weeknight travel
Why Little League Softball in Ancaster
Ancaster Little League is part of
Little League Canada
and the global
Little League
program best known for the Little League World Series.
What this means for families: House League is designed to stay local with minimal weeknight travel, so you spend less time in the car and more time enjoying the season.
Our program is built to be community based. Regular season play is structured to keep games close to home, so you aren’t routinely driving to other cities on weeknights just to play House League.
Players who want a more competitive pathway can pursue Travel opportunities while still being part of their local House League experience. It’s a great fit for families with different goals, and for friend groups who want to play together.
Registration
Register online using the link below. Once registered, you’ll receive schedule updates through the SportsHeadz App.
New to the program? Register now, then watch for an email with next steps, key dates, and what to expect at the first practices.
Register for Girls Softball
Fees and Equipment
Registration fee: $335
Included
- Team jersey
- For the 2026 season: a free Ancaster Softball T-shirt for each registered player
Required
- Glove
- Batting helmet with face mask
- Running shoes or cleats
- Water bottle
Recommended (not required)
- Baseball or softball pants
- Baseball or softball socks
- Protective jill (pelvic protector)
- Batting gloves
- Bat bag to carry gear
- Personal bat (optional)
- Fielding face mask (especially for infielders)
Approved bats (if bringing your own):
USABat
The league provides shared team equipment including softballs, a team bat, catcher’s gear, and other team items. Full details will be shared with families before the season begins.
At a Glance
Commitment: typically one game and one practice per week
Season: early May through end of July
Playoffs: August, typically a weekend tournament
Weeknight start time: usually around 6:00 pm
Weekend games: limited and scheduled throughout the day
Experience: beginners welcome
New to Softball?
Many players in our program are trying softball for the first time. Coaches focus on teaching fundamentals in a supportive, encouraging environment where girls can learn at their own pace.
Parents can expect clear communication as the season approaches, including schedules, equipment guidance, and what to expect at the first practices and games.
Ancaster Girls Softball Featured on CHCH News
“Girls softball in Ancaster continues to grow, creating new opportunities for young athletes.”
Our Girls Softball program was featured on CHCH News, highlighting the growth of girls softball in Ancaster and the importance of creating welcoming opportunities for young athletes.
Divisions and Age Eligibility
Age eligibility (2026): Little League Softball league age is based on a player’s actual age on December 31 of the previous year.
Birth year ranges can vary by birth month, so please use the official chart to confirm eligibility.
8U Girls
Typical league ages: 7 and 8
2026 birth year reference: generally 2017 and 2018
Typical game night: TBD (based on registration)
Game format: Intro format focused on fundamentals, confidence, and lots of ball-in-play action
Confirm exact eligibility using the official age chart link above.
10U Girls
Typical league ages: 9 and 10
2026 birth year reference: generally 2015 and 2016
Typical game night: Wednesday evenings
Game format: Modified coach pitch with a focus on development and game flow
Confirm exact eligibility using the official age chart link above.
12U Girls
Typical league ages: 11 and 12
2026 birth year reference: generally 2013 and 2014
Typical game night: Tuesday evenings (may include doubleheaders)
Game format: Player pitch with continued skill development
Confirm exact eligibility using the official age chart link above.
Final division placement is based on birth month and year, along with registration details.
8U Game Format and What to Expect
8U is designed to be a fun, confidence-building introduction to softball.
The goal is simple: lots of touches, lots of smiles, and steady progress each week.
What the season feels like at 8U
- Girls-only teams in a positive, encouraging environment
- Short, high-energy practices with skill stations and games
- Beginner-friendly instruction with plenty of repetition
- Emphasis on confidence, teamwork, listening skills, and having fun
Skills we focus on
- Throwing and catching fundamentals
- Fielding a ground ball and making a simple play
- Hitting basics, including confidence at the plate
- Base running, safety, and learning the flow of the game
Local play
8U is designed to stay close to home, with games and practices primarily in Ancaster and at Gord Oakes Park.
Weeknight travel is minimal.
Exact 8U format details (including nightly schedule) will be confirmed once registration numbers and teams are finalized.
10U Game Format and Development Pathway
Our 10U division is built to maximize confidence, skill development, and game action.
At this age, the best learning happens when the ball is put in play often, every player gets defensive reps,
and games move at a steady pace.
Why we use a modified coach pitch format at 10U
- More balls in play means more hitting and fielding opportunities for every player
- Fewer stalled innings keeps games fun and moving
- Consistent game flow helps players stay engaged and helps families plan their weeknights
- A strong focus on fundamentals, teamwork, and confidence building
How we develop pitchers and catchers at 10U
Even though 10U games use a modified coach pitch format, pitching and catching development is still a priority.
Throughout the season, players will have access to pitching and catching skill development through practices and clinics.
- Pitching development focused on mechanics, balance, control, and confidence
- Catching development focused on receiving, blocking, footwork, and throws
- Simple warmup routines and skill stations designed to build skills progressively
Access to batting cages and hitting machine
In addition to regular team practices, players in the 10U division will have access to batting cages with a softball pitching machine.
This allows players to work on timing, swing mechanics, and confidence in a controlled training environment.
Use of the batting cages and hitting machine will be incorporated into practices, clinics, or optional development sessions,
and is intended to support skill development rather than change the in-game coach pitch format.
Playoffs and end of season format
Because 10U is focused on development and consistent game play, we plan to use a round robin style playoff weekend
rather than single game elimination. This creates a positive finish to the season and ensures meaningful reps for every team.
Progression to 12U
The 12U division is typically where players transition to hitting against player pitching in games.
By building strong fundamentals at 10U and developing pitching, catching, and hitting through structured practices and clinics,
players enter 12U more prepared and more confident.
Exact game rules and development details for the season will be shared with families once teams and schedules are finalized.
Hosted Tournament
Ancaster Little League hosts the Ancaster Spring Valley Classic (10U/12U) tournament weekend.
Dates: June 26 to 28, 2026
Divisions: 10U and 12U
For Travel/Select teams and visiting clubs. House League families are welcome to come watch and support.
Travel Softball
The Travel program is a pathway for players who want to challenge themselves beyond the regular House League schedule.
Travel teams focus on advanced fundamentals, teamwork, and representing our community in regional play.
Note: Travel details and tryout timing may differ by age group. Updates will be posted here and shared through the SportsHeadz App.
2026 Girls 10U Travel Tryouts: Coming Soon
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Is your 10U player ready for a higher level of play? Tryouts for our 2026 10U Travel/Select Team are coming soon.
This program offers advanced skill development and regional tournament play.
Typical eligibility: league ages 9 and 10 (generally birth years 2015 and 2016)
Dates and location: TBD (Late April / Early May)
Coaching: Seeking a Head Coach for this squad
Important: Players must be registered for House League to be eligible
Typical Commitment (10U Travel)
- Dual Participation: Travel players must also be registered and active in House League.
- Practice: Expect one additional weeknight practice per week.
- Tournaments: Typically 2 to 4 weekend tournaments between May and August.
- Perks: Along with their team jersey, every player receives a free “Ancaster Softball” T-shirt.
2026 Girls 12U Travel Team
Last updated: January 18, 2026
We also have a 12U Travel/Select team for players who are ready for additional development and a more competitive experience alongside House League.
This team focuses on advanced fundamentals, strong team culture, and representing Ancaster in regional competition.
Typical eligibility: league ages 11 and 12 (generally birth years 2013 and 2014)
Tryout timing: TBD (posted as soon as confirmed)
Important: Players must be registered for House League to be eligible
Typical Commitment (12U Travel)
- Dual Participation: Travel players must also be registered and active in House League.
- Practice: Expect one additional weeknight practice per week.
- Tournaments: Weekend tournaments during the season.
What Parents Can Expect
Season Timing
The season runs from early May through end of July. Playoffs are held in August, typically a weekend tournament. Key dates are shared once schedules are finalized.
Games and Start Times
8U schedule is confirmed after registration.
10U games are typically Wednesday evenings.
12U games are typically Tuesday evenings and may include doubleheaders.
Most weeknight games start around 6:00 pm.
Flexibility
We understand families juggle multiple activities. Regular attendance is encouraged, and occasional missed games or practices are expected and manageable.
Locations
Games and practices are primarily held at the Little Ancaster diamonds and Gord Oakes Park in Mt Hope. Additional nearby diamonds may be used occasionally based on scheduling and field availability.
Gord Oakes Park
3027 Homestead Dr
Mt Hope, ON L0R 1W0
Girls With Game Initiative
Girls With Game is our initiative to encourage more girls to try softball, stay active, and build confidence through sport. Our goal is for every player to feel supported, challenged, and proud of their growth.
- Inclusive team environments
- Positive coaching and role models
- Fun, fast-paced softball experiences
Program updates will be shared through league news and social media.
Softball Spirit Wear
Ancaster Softball specific spirit wear is available through our supplier THQ for families who are interested.
Softball items can be ordered directly through the Team Headquarters website using the link below. Orders are placed directly with the supplier and are optional. No additional discounts apply to these items.
As more softball specific options become available, this page will be updated. If there is a hoodie, shirt, or short design you like and would like adapted with Little League branding, feel free to send it along and we can explore having it designed for your team.
Connect With Us on Instagram
Want to see Girls With Game in action? Follow our Instagram account: @girlssoftball.all. Instagram is our best place for photos, quick updates, and season moments.
What You’ll See
- Game and practice photos
- Behind the scenes moments
- Quick reminders and updates
- Player effort and sportsmanship highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
Do players need previous softball experience?
No. Many girls in the program are new to softball. Coaches teach fundamentals and build confidence from day one.
What if my child plays another sport?
That’s very common. Regular attendance is encouraged, and occasional missed games or practices are expected and manageable.
What equipment is required?
Players need a glove, helmet, proper footwear, and a water bottle. Team jerseys are provided. See the Fees and Equipment section above for required and recommended items.
How does House League work with Travel?
Travel players must also be registered and active in House League. This keeps players connected to local friends and ensures a strong base of reps and development.
Contact
Questions about girls softball? Email us anytime:
[email protected]
David Nantais
VP, Girls Softball, Ancaster Little League