Elgin Baseball & Softball Association

EBSA League FAQ

These questions apply to all EBSA baseball and softball families.

General League Information

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.
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.
What sports and age divisions does EBSA offer?
Baseball: 4U–14U
Softball: 8U–14U
Divisions are based on age as of the PONY cutoff date.
Will my child play teams from other towns?
Younger divisions (Baseball 4U & 6U): Primarily Elgin teams during the regular season, with expanded end-of-season tournaments.
Older divisions: Regular interleague play with Manor, Pflugerville, Taylor, Hutto, Bastrop, and other nearby PONY leagues.
When will game schedules be released?
Scheduling meetings typically occur in late January. Full schedules are published well in advance of Opening Day.
Does EBSA prioritize equal playing time?
Yes. EBSA emphasizes athlete development and participation, especially at younger ages.
Are background checks required for coaches?
Yes. All coaches and appropriate volunteers must complete background checks in compliance with PONY safety requirements.
Are players insured?
Yes. EBSA carries player accident insurance and general liability coverage as required by PONY.
Are metal cleats allowed?
No. Only molded rubber cleats or turf shoes are permitted at all EBSA fields.
Where can families review official league rules?
Full PONY Baseball and PONY Girls Softball rulebooks are posted on our website under the Rules & Policies section.

EBSA Softball FAQ (8U–14U)

What softball age divisions does EBSA offer?
8U Pinto, 10U Mustang, 12U Bronco, 14U Pony
Is softball fast pitch or coach pitch?
8U uses coach pitch with player-pitch development. 10U–14U uses full fast-pitch softball.
Is playing time guaranteed?
EBSA promotes maximum participation, especially at younger levels.
What safety gear is required?
Batting helmets, infield face masks where required, and full catcher’s gear.
Are there pitching limits?
Yes. Pitch counts and rest requirements follow PONY safety guidelines.
Are runners allowed to steal bases?
8U has limited stealing. 10U–14U follows standard fast-pitch rules.
Are softball games timed?
Yes. 8U is typically time-limited; older divisions may play full innings with time caps.
Are run limits used?
Yes, to keep games fair and development-focused.
Are tournaments offered?
Yes. Optional tournaments and interleague play may be offered by division.
Are umpires trained?
Yes. Games are officiated by trained umpires following PONY rules.

EBSA Baseball FAQ (4U–14U)

What baseball divisions does EBSA offer?
4U Foal, 6U Shetland, 8U Pinto, 10U Mustang, 12U Bronco, 14U Pony
Are younger divisions instructional?
Yes. 4U and 6U are fully instructional with tee-ball and coach pitch formats.
When does player pitching begin?
Typically at the 8U (Pinto) level.
Are games competitive?
Competition increases with age, but development is always the priority.
How many players are on teams?
Most teams have approximately 12–15 players.
Is equal playing time expected?
Yes, particularly in younger divisions.
Are run limits used?
Yes, to promote sportsmanship and learning.
Can players steal bases?
4U & 6U: No stealing. 8U: Limited. 10U–14U: Standard PONY rules.
What equipment is required?
Approved bats, batting helmets, and full catcher’s gear.
Are baseball umpires trained?
Yes. Games are officiated by trained umpires following 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. Questions may be directed to [email protected] .