EBSA League FAQ

These questions apply to all EBSA baseball and softball families.

1. Who operates youth baseball and softball in Elgin?

Elgin Baseball & Softball Association (EBSA) is the official youth baseball and softball league serving Elgin under PONY Baseball & Softball and is the only league using the fields at 506 E 10th Street.

2. Is PONY a travel-only or elite league?

No. PONY is a community-based league model designed for players of all skill levels. EBSA provides recreational league play with optional tournament opportunities for teams that want additional competition.

3. What sports and age divisions does EBSA offer?

EBSA currently offers:

• Baseball: 4U–14U
• Softball: 8U–14U

Divisions are based on age as of the PONY cutoff date.

4. Will my child play teams from other towns?

Yes, but competition varies by age group:

• Younger divisions (Baseball 4U & 6U): Play primarily against Elgin teams during the regular season, with a more robust end-of-season tournament that can include neighboring PONY leagues.
• Older divisions: Participate in regular interleague games during the season with nearby towns such as Manor, Pflugerville, Taylor, Hutto, Bastrop, and others, as well as scheduled tournaments.

5. When will game schedules be released?

Interleague and tournament schedules are coordinated jointly with neighboring PONY leagues during scheduling meetings, typically in late January. Full season schedules are published well in advance of Opening Day so families have plenty of time to plan.

6. Does EBSA prioritize equal playing time?

Yes. EBSA emphasizes athlete development and participation, especially at younger ages. Coaches are expected to provide meaningful playing time for all players.

7. Are background checks required for coaches?

Yes. All EBSA coaches and appropriate volunteers must complete a background check in compliance with PONY safety requirements.

8. Are players insured?

Yes. EBSA carries both player accident insurance and general liability coverage as required by PONY.

9. Are metal cleats allowed?

No. Only molded rubber cleats or turf shoes are permitted at all EBSA fields for safety reasons.

10. Where can families review official league rules?

Full PONY Baseball and PONY Girls Softball rulebooks are posted on our website under the Rulebooks & Policies section for reference.

EBSA Softball FAQ (8U–14U)

1. What softball age divisions does EBSA offer?

EBSA softball currently serves 8U through 14U players:

• 8U Pinto
• 10U Mustang
• 12U Bronco
• 14U Pony

2. Is softball fast pitch or coach pitch?

EBSA softball uses the fast-pitch format:

• 8U: Coach pitch with player-pitch development.
• 10U–14U: Full fast-pitch softball.

3. Is playing time guaranteed?

EBSA promotes maximum participation, particularly at younger levels, with players rotating through fielding positions.

4. What safety gear is required for softball?

Softball players must wear:

• Batting helmets
• Infield face masks where required by division or league policy
• Full catcher’s protective gear (mask, chest protector, leg guards, throat guard)

5. Are there pitching limits?

Yes. Pitchers follow age-appropriate pitch-count and rest guidelines based on PONY safety recommendations.

6. Are runners allowed to steal bases?

Stealing rules are age-dependent:

• 8U: Limited or controlled stealing rules.
• 10U–14U: Full fast-pitch base-stealing rules apply.

7. Are softball games timed?

Yes. 8U typically plays time-limited games, while 10U–14U may play full innings with time caps depending on schedules.

8. Are run limits used in softball?

Yes. Run limits are used to keep games fair, positive, and development-focused for all teams.

9. Are tournaments offered for softball?

Yes. Optional tournaments and interleague competitions may be offered by division, especially toward the end of the season.

10. Are softball umpires trained?

Yes. All games are officiated by trained umpires following current PONY Softball rules.

EBSA Baseball FAQ (4U–14U)

1. What baseball age divisions does EBSA offer?

EBSA offers baseball divisions from 4U through 14U:

• 4U Foal
• 6U Shetland
• 8U Pinto
• 10U Mustang
• 12U Bronco
• 14U Pony

2. Are younger baseball divisions instructional?

Yes. 4U and 6U are fully instructional divisions using tee-ball and coach pitch formats to teach basic skills, teamwork, and confidence in a fun environment.

3. When does player pitching begin?

Player pitching typically begins at the 8U (Pinto) level as players develop the necessary skills and control.

4. Are baseball games competitive?

Competition increases with age, but player development is always the main priority at every level within EBSA.

5. How many players are on baseball teams?

Most baseball teams have approximately 12–15 players, depending on division and registration numbers.

6. Is equal playing time expected?

Yes. EBSA expects coaches to provide meaningful playing time for all players, particularly in the younger divisions.

7. Are run limits used in baseball?

Yes. Run rules are used to prevent lopsided scores and keep games focused on learning, sportsmanship, and fun.

8. Can players steal bases in baseball?

Stealing is division-specific:

• 4U & 6U: No base stealing.
• 8U: Limited base stealing may be allowed.
• 10U–14U: Standard PONY base-stealing rules apply.

9. What equipment is required for baseball?

Baseball players must have:

• Approved bats that meet PONY standards
• Batting helmets for all batters and runners
• Full catcher’s protective gear for anyone catching

10. Are baseball umpires trained?

Yes. EBSA uses trained umpires who officiate games according to current PONY Baseball rules.

For full official rules, division details, and season policies, please review the posted PONY Baseball and Girls Softball rulebooks on our website. For questions, contact the EBSA Board at [email protected].