USA Softball Names Athletes To 2012 Women’s National Team

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Twelve athletes have been named to the 2012 USA Softball Women’s National Team, the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America announced today. An additional five athletes will be named to the squad, which will compete at the International Softball Federation (ISF) Women’s World Championship, following a 2012 USA Softball Women’s National Team and USA Softball Women’s Elite National Team Selection Camp in June. … Continue Reading

May-Johnson Leads USA Softball Athlete Of The Year Awards

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Stacy May-Johnson has been named the 2011 USA Softball Female Athlete of the Year while Greg Connell was selected as the Male Athlete of the Year, the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America announced today. Cheyenne Cordes has also been selected as the Athlete of the Year from the Junior Women’s National team program.

Rookie infielder May-Johnson (Reno, Nev./Iowa assistant coach), who saw time at shortstop and third base, came out of retirement in 2011 to make her first USA Softball Women’s National Team at 27-years-old. … Continue Reading

Assistant Coaches Named For The 2011 USA Softball Women’s National Team program

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America and USA Softball announced today the full coaching staffs for the USA Softball Women’s National Team and USA Softball Junior Women’s National Team for competitions in 2011. With Ken Eriksen (Tampa, Fla./Head Coach at USF) and Karen Johns (Whippany, N.J.) … Continue Reading

ASA/USA Softball Announces 2010 Athletes Of The Year

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America announced today that shortstop Natasha Watley (Irvine, Calif.) and outfielder Johnny McCraw (Lake Wylie, S.C.) have been selected as the USA Softball 2010 Female and Male Athlete of the Year. Third baseman Lauren Chamberlain (Trabuco Canyon, Calif.) has also been selected as the Athlete of the Year from the Junior Women’s National Team program. … Continue Reading

Jennie Finch Announces Retirement From USA

OKLAHOMA CITY – Arguably the most recognized softball player in the World, Jennie Finch (La Mirada, Calif.) will hang up her Red, White and Blue uniform as she announced her retirement from USA Softball effective after the 2010 KFC World Cup of Softball presented by Six Flags, announced today by the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America. During her 10 year career with USA Softball, Finch has emerged as an icon bringing recognition to the sport on levels transcending the diamond. … Continue Reading

Junior WNT Campers Chosen

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America announced today the 42 athletes who have accepted an invitation to attend the 2010 USA Softball Junior Women’s National Team selection camp, June 10-13, at the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, Calif. The athletes, who are age 18 and under, represent 13 states: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas and Utah. … Continue Reading

USA Softball Announces 2009 USA Softball Athletes Of The Year

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) and USA Softball are pleased to announce that Jennie Finch (La Mirada, Calif.) and Matt Palazzo (Des Moines, Iowa) were named the USA Softball Female and Male Athlete of the year, respectively, for their accomplishments during the 2009 season.

Finch saw time as both a pitcher and at first base on defense and made an impact at the plate on offense. Finch’s hits in the Championship Game of both the Japan Cup and Canada Cup secured the USA victory. She was voted the Japan Cup MVP after she not only threw a one-hitter to defending Olympic Gold Medalist Japan but also drove in the only two runs scored, with a double, to help lead the team to a 2-0 victory. In the Championship game of the Canada Cup with two outs left in the seventh, Finch hit a walk-off single that would push a run across the plate and give the United States a 3-2 victory.

Offensively, Finch was in the Top five in all three events in batting average with a summer average of .447. Her best event was at the World Cup of Softball where Finch hit .500 with a home run and three runs scored. During the summer of 2009, she made an appearance in all 18 games with 17 starts with three home runs and 17 hits. As a pitcher, she was 5-0 with a 0.54 ERA and 43 strikeouts. Finch allowed only two earned runs in 26.0 innings pitched. … Continue Reading

ASA Announces World Cup Tickets On Sale

OKLAHOMA CITY — International softball returns to the Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) Hall of Fame Complex in Oklahoma City when the 2010 USA Softball Women’s National Team takes on Canada, Japan and the USA Futures Team at the 5th World Cup of Softball, July 22-26.

“There is nothing like the World Cup,” said two-time Olympian Jennie Finch. “It is the best environment and my favorite event each year. I look forward to competing at the greatest softball complex in the World and in front of the World’s Greatest Fans. I get chills just thinking about it again and am really looking forward to returning to Oklahoma City.” … Continue Reading

Top 50 Watch List for 2010

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA), the National Governing Body of Softball in the United States, has selected its initial “Watch List” for the 9th Annual USA Softball National Collegiate Player of the Year Award. This award, which is considered the most prestigious honors in Division I women’s collegiate softball, is designed to recognize outstanding athletic achievement by female collegiate softball players across the country. Past winners of this award include UCLA’s Stacey Nuveman, Florida State’s Jessica Van der Linden, three-time winner Texas pitcher Cat Osterman, Tennessee’s Monica Abbott, Virginia Tech’s Angela Tincher and 2009 winner Washington pitcher/hitter Danielle Lawrie.

The 2010 Pre-Season Watch List is comprised of 50 players representing 35 schools and 14different NCAA Division I Conferences. The list includes 27 seniors, 17 juniors and six sophomores. … Continue Reading

ASA 18U Gold Tournament Moves to Marietta, Georgia in 2010

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America announced today that Marietta, Ga. will be the new site for the 2010 ASA Girls’ 18-Under GOLD National Championships August 1-7. With an ASA Code decision recently passed by the ASA Council, the 18-U GOLD will move to the Lost Mountain Softball Complex in Marietta in 2010, a to be determined west coast site in 2011 and return to the ASA Hall of Fame Complex in Oklahoma City in 2012.

“With the changes that occurred in Reno at the ASA Annual Meeting, we decided that moving the GOLD to the east would be a great first step towards the new rotation,” said ASA Executive Director Ron Radigonda. “Marietta has proven to be a successful host for ASA National Championships especially as the 2004 hosts of the GOLD National. We are excited to move this tournament next year to the west and then every third year return to our home in Oklahoma City. We feel this is the best solution to meet the needs of the teams and everyone else involved in the success of the GOLD.” … Continue Reading

2010 ASA Rule And Code Changes

RENO, Nev. — The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America concluded the 78th Annual Council Meeting in Reno, Nev. On Thursday afternoon with decisions being voted on that affect the ASA Official Rules of Softball and the ASA Code.

Added Nov. 18: A list of 2010 ASA code and rule changes is now avaliable on the ASA Web site. For code changes with comments, please click here or to view the playing rule changes with comments … Continue Reading

ASA President Dooley Begins Term

RENO, Nev. — Piedmont Virginia Amateur Softball Association commissioner Andy Dooley (Bedford, Va.) began his two-year term as President of the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America earlier this week. Dooley previously served as President Elect since 2007 and now has started his term as President which will run through November of 2011.

“This is one of the greatest moments of my career and one of the most challenging,” said Dooley. “As thrilled and honored as I am by the confidence you have shown by electing me, I am also profoundly aware of the great responsibility the council entrusts in me in the coming years. I am confident that, with the help of everyone on the council, we will raise the ASA to new heights.” … Continue Reading

ASA Inducts 2009 HOF Class

RENO, Nevada – The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) inducted eight members on Wednesday evening to its National Softball Hall of Fame as ASA celebrated its 29th Annual Hall of Fame Induction celebration. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the 2010 class was announced with 10 members nominated for induction next year.

The four players inducted this evening included Leah O’Brien Amico, Corona, Calif. (Fast Pitch Player); Al Yeager, Seymour, Conn. (Fast Pitch Player); Allyson Rioux, (Deceased)-Stamford, Conn. (Fast Pitch Player); Jeff Seip, Boyertown, Pa. (Fast Pitch Player).

The non-players inducted were Benny Bunch (Deceased) of Enid, Okla., (meritorious service), R.B. Thomas of Manassas, Va. (manager) and umpires Newton Buckner of Brooklyn, N.Y and Tony Walsh of Memphis, Tenn. … Continue Reading

2011 ASA Championships Announced

RENO, Nevada – The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) announced today the host sites for the 2011 National Championship season as part of the annual Council Meeting in Reno, Nevada. Along with over 90 tournament sites awarded, voting was held for the 2011 ASA Council Meeting site as well as positions for the Board of Directors.

Six cities showed up to bid on the 2011 ASA National Council Meeting site; San Diego, Calif., Buffalo, N.Y., Tucson, Ariz., Orlando, Fla., Louisville, Ken., and Myrtle Beach, S.C. After the cities presented to the council, the field was voted down to two cities with Myrtle Beach and San Diego remaining. With 120 votes (55.4%), the 2011 ASA National Council Meeting site was awarded to Myrtle Beach. … Continue Reading

ASA Readies For Reno

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) continues its preparation for the 78th Annual Council Meeting as it is just days from kicking off the meeting in Reno, Nev. Hosted at the Peppermill Resort, Nov. 6-14, the Annual Council Meeting brings together administrators, players and tournament hosts from around the country to evaluate the needs of the association along with proposed rule and code changes for all divisions of softball.

The majority of the council meeting will consist of breakout sessions for the different committees and regions. However, several special events will be held throughout the week including the Wilson Sporting Goods Awards Luncheon on Monday, the “Fun Walk” sponsored by Central Screen Printing on Tuesday morning (click here for a flyer) and the National Softball Hall of Fame banquet and reception on Wednesday evening. … Continue Reading

Sorcerer Phil Wins 18U GOLD

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Behind the pitching and batting of left-hander Keilani Ricketts (San Jose, Calif.), Sorcerer Gold-Phil of Vallejo, Calif. completed an unbeaten sweep through the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) 18-under Girls’ GOLD National Championship Sunday afternoon at the ASA Hall of Fame Complex in Oklahoma City, Okla.

To go 7-0 for their first ASA GOLD national title, Sorcerer Gold defeated the defending 2008 GOLD National Champions, the Gold Coast Hurricanes (Plantation, Fla.) 3-1, in the championship game. … Continue Reading

USA Softball to Compete at Japan Cup and Pan American qualifier

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – With two tournament championship titles on its resume, the USA Softball Women’s National team program will now send two teams out to compete with one heading to Sendai City, Japan for the Japan Cup and the other to Maracay, Venezuela, for the Pan American qualifier. The Pan American qualifierwill consist of 22 teams and will qualify the USA for the ISFWomen’s Fast PitchWorld Championships next year in Oklahoma City as well as the Pan American Games in 2011 held in Guadalajara, Mexico. … Continue Reading

ASA 18U Gold Nationals Start August 2nd.

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The 64-team field is complete for the 2009 ASA 18-Under GOLD National Championship scheduled to take place August 2-9 at the ASA Hall of Fame Complex in Oklahoma City, Okla. Pool play draws were completed on Monday by tournament officials as 16 pools of four teams each kick off the tournament action before the 64-team championship bracket is drawn on the evening of Monday, August 3.

Be sure to follow all the tournament action at http://gold.asasoftball.com/ where LIVE STATS and LIVE STREAMING of the stadium field will take place. … Continue Reading

41 Headed To 2009 USA Softball Women’s National Team Selection Camp

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) announced today the final list of attendees to the 2009 USA Softball Women’s National Team Selection Camp, June 8-12, at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, Calif. These 41 athletes will compete to earn a spot on one of two teams set to compete this summer at four events including the KFC World Cup of Softball in Oklahoma City.

On June 15, two rosters will be announced that include the USA Softball Women’s National Team and the USA Softball Women’s Elite Team. The USA Softball Women’s National team will represent the U.S. at the Canada Cup (July 4-12) and the World Cup (July 16-20). The rosters for the Japan Cup (July 31- Aug. 2) and the Pan American Qualifier (July 31- Aug. 9) will be a combination of athletes from the Women’s National team and the Elite team. … Continue Reading

Lawrie named 2009 USA Softball Player Of The Year

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA), the National Governing Body of Softball in the United States, announced today the selection of Washington’s Danielle Lawrie (Langley, British Columbia) as the recipient of the 8th Annual USA Softball National Collegiate Player of the Year Award. The Pac-10 leader in wins, ERA, strikeouts and shutouts, Washington’s Lawrie is also among the nation’s top three in all four categories.

“First of all I have to say congratulations to both Kaitlin (Cochran) and Stacey (Nelson) on a great season. It very well could have been either of them standing up here instead of me. I have to say thanks to my dad who has been such a great supporter of my career and also to my teammates, as I could not be here without them. They allow me to stand up here and receive this award so I am very grateful to them. Also a thanks to Coach Tarr who has helped me throughout my career to be the player I am.” … Continue Reading

Top Three Finalists for Player Of The Year

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA), is pleased to release its Top Three Finalists for the 2009 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year, which will be announced on Tues., May 26 at the NCAA Women’s College World Series Party at the Park at ASA Hall of Fame Complex. The hunt for the Player of the Year started with a Top 50 Watch list and has been narrowed down to three; Arizona State’s Kaitlin Cochran, Washington’s Danielle Lawrie and Florida’s Stacey Nelson. … Continue Reading

Field Narrowed to 10 for the Finalists for the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA), the National Governing Body of Softball in the United States, has selected its 10 Finalists for the 8th Annual USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year Award. This award, which is considered the most prestigious honors in Division I women’s collegiate softball, is designed to recognize outstanding athletic achievement by female collegiate softball players across the country. Past winners of this award include UCLA’s Stacey Nuveman, Florida State’s Jessica Van der Linden, three-time winner Texas pitcher Cat Osterman, Tennessee’s Monica Abbott and Virginia Tech’s Angela Tincher. … Continue Reading

WCWS Heading to ASA HOF

The University of Florida was named the No. 1 seed in the NCAA Division I Softball Championship today when the NCAA Division I Softball Committee announced the 64-team field. The Gators, champions of the Southeastern Conference, are 55-3 and will play Florida A&M University, an automatic qualifier from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, May 15, in front of a home crowd in Gainesville.

Thirty conferences were awarded automatic qualification, and the remaining 34 slots were filled with at-large selections to complete the bracket. The top 16 teams were seeded nationally and will play at campus sites this weekend. … Continue Reading

Kentucky’s Johnson Named USA Softball Player of the Week

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – The Amateur Softball Association is pleased to announce that Kentucky’s Molly Johnson (Tucson, Az.) has been named the USA Softball Player of the Week for the week of April 20-26. Johnson helped lead her team to a sweep over SEC-opponent Mississippi State for the first time since the 1998-99 season.

The junior shortstop led the team with a .692 batting average as UK won all four games, including earning a sweep of Mississippi State for the first time since 1998-99. UK’s three SEC wins also helped clinch just the third appearance in the SEC tournament in school history. … Continue Reading

ASA Announces USA Softball Women’s National team coaching assignments for 2009

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) announced today the USA Softball Women’s National team coaching assignments for the 2009 season. The following coaches were selected by the Women’s National Team Selection Committee from the 14 coaches named to the Women’s National team selection pool. Leading the way will be Jay Miller (Starkville, Miss.) who was named the USA Softball Women’s National team head coach on February 16. … Continue Reading

2009 ASA Rules Approves Gorilla Gold for Softball Pitchers

(Approved by ASA at 2009 Council Meeting in Oklahoma City)

Resin-based grip enhancer can be kept in pocket

The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) 2009 Rule Book has included Gorilla Gold, the world’s leading producer and marketer of resin-tackified grip towels, as the only approved drying agent allowed in a pitcher’s pocket.

The new ruling aligns the ASA with NCAA Softball, which has allowed pitchers to use Gorilla Gold for the past four years. … Continue Reading

Arizona’s Stacie Chambers named USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Week

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association announced today that Arizona’s Stacie Chambers (Glendale, Ariz.) was named the USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Week for her offensive efforts at the Judi Garman Classic in Fullerton, Calif.

“It really is an honor and a great feeling,” said Chambers. “But it only raises the bar for myself and makes me want to work harder. Our team is going to come out and work hard as we head into Pac-10 play next week, and we are all driven to make it back to Oklahoma City.”

The junior catcher tallied 15 RBI and seven runs scored in 14 at-bats. In total, three players tallied seven RBI in the tournament, which was the second-highest output, but Chambers had 15. She nabbed six hits over the tournament – all home runs – bringing her season total to 19 and her RBI total to 66, leading the Pac-10 conference. … Continue Reading

USA Softball Announces 2009-2012 Women’s National Team Coaching Pool

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) and USA Softball announced today the 14 coaches selected to the 2009 Women’s National team coaching pool. The coaches have been selected for the 2009-2012 quadrennium and are responsible for the training and preparation for the Women’s National team program. The head coach selection will be announced at a later date.

Listed below are the coaches selected: … Continue Reading

ASA Announces Top 50 Watch List for the 2009 USA Softball Collegiate Player of the Year

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA), the National Governing Body of Softball in the United States, has selected its initial “Watch List” for the 8th Annual USA Softball National Collegiate Player of the Year Award. This award, which is considered the most prestigious honors in Division I women’s collegiate softball, is designed to recognize outstanding athletic achievement by female collegiate softball players across the country. Past winners of this award include UCLA’s Stacey Nuveman, Florida State’s Jessica Van der Linden, three-time winner Texas pitcher Cat Osterman, Tennessee’s Monica Abbott and Virginia Tech’s Angela Tincher. … Continue Reading

The 2009 ESPN.com/USA Softball Collegiate Top 25 pre-season Poll

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association announced today the Florida Gators at No. 1 in the 2009 ESPN.com/USA Softball Collegiate Top 25 pre-season Poll. A 2008 Women’s College World Series contender, the Gators return all but one starter from the 2008 squad and received 18 first-place votes this week. Led by the pitching efforts of senior Stacey Nelson (Los Alamitos, Calif.), the Gators will look to their five returning All-Americans as they fight for a return trip to Oklahoma City.

Close behind Florida is SEC conference foe the University of Alabama at No. 2. The Crimson Tide also reached the WCWS in Oklahoma City, but fell short to the 2008 NCAA defending champion Arizona State who comes into the poll at No. 3 while also earning one first place vote. … Continue Reading

How To Win, Even If The Team Loses

Why do 35 million U.S. children participate in organized youth sports each year? To start, sports give boys and girls an array of exciting “firsts”—the first game, the first big score and the first team victory. For every first win, however, there is also a child’s first big loss and the question that follows: How can I guide my child through the disappointment of defeat?

While such comforts as juice boxes and granola bars provide a good start, only an adult mentor can show a young athlete how even a 1 and 10 season can be full of fun memories and positive learning experiences. … Continue Reading

Today In History – Amateur Softball Association Moves to Oklahoma

The ASA moved to Oklahoma City January 1, 1966 after having its offices in Newark, NJ. The decision to establish a Hall of Fame Building in OKC was made in January of 1965.

The National Softball Hall of Fame was officially dedicated May 26, 1973 in Oklahoma City. The building was opened to the public July 1, 1973.

The first of two additions to the ASA Hall of Fame/ASA Headquarters was started July 5, 1976 and completed July 13, 1977 for an additional 4,350 square feet of space. Dedication ceremonies for the expansion were held July 23, 1977. Counting the Hall of Fame/ASA Headquarters and the ASA Hall of Fame, there is 28,406 square feet of space. … Continue Reading

ASA Announces Mike Candrea As Director Of Coaching Education

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association recently named Mike Candrea of Tucson, Ariz. as the new ASA Softball Director of Coaching Education effectively immediately. A new position within the Amateur Softball Association, the former 2004 and 2008 USA Softball Olympic team head coach will continue to enhance the ACE Coaching Certification program as well as integrate instructional opportunities to educate ASA coaches across the country. Candrea will remain the head coach at the University of Arizona and will assist ASA in this new role when he is not obligated to his duties at Arizona.

“I am really excited for this new position within the ASA,” said Candrea. “As an organization, they bring a high level of commitment to further the education and development of our grassroots coaches. As a softball coach for over 28 years, I still learn new things and have ideas every year and I look forward to the sharing those with others.”

His duties will include content oversight of the ACE (Achieve, Certify, Educate) Coaching program, writing monthly articles describing various coaching experiences, online interview segments with responsiblesports.com, regional coaching and athlete clinics, speaking engagements, developing a practice planner and other duties as assigned.

“We are thrilled to have Mike on board in this position,” said ASA Executive Director Ron Radigonda. “He brings a wealth of knowledge and success to the table that will provide a framework and foundation for our young ASA coaches.”

Candrea’s coaching success speaks volumes as a two-time Olympic head coach earning a gold medal in 2004 and a silver medal in 2008. He has also led the Arizona Wildcats to eight NCAA Women’s College World Series National championships in 18 seasons. He reached 1,100 career Division I victories faster than any coach in history and has 20 trips to the WCWS over the last 21 years. He is currently in his 22nd season as the head coach of the Wildcats and retired from the head coaching reigns of USA Softball in September of 2008.

Responsible Coaching Awards

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association and Liberty Mutual announced today the Summer 2008 Responsible Coaching award winners for the sport of softball. Winners will soon receive a $250 gift card and personalized Responsible Coaching trophy from Liberty Mutual and recognition on ResponsibleSports.com and ASASoftball.com.

The Responsible Coaching Awards were established by Liberty Mutual’s Responsible Sports program to recognize the men and women who volunteer their time to coach Junior Olympic ASA Softball. Liberty Mutual realizes that these individuals are an integral part of the fabric of the community and are key to instilling in our children the lessons learned from softball, both on and off the field.

Below are the 2008 Award winners:

Ronald Aoki

Mililani, Hawaii

Team: Island Ladies Softball

Nominated by a Head Coach

His coaching philosophy:

My philosophy in coaching is to keep everything positive. By being a positive coach and giving positive feedback the girls will in turn become positive players. I feel I have been successful all these years due to the fact that I have earned the girls respect. I feel that if the players do not have your respect, which to me is earned, not a right, then you don’t have much of anything.

Katie Duffin

St. Louis, Missouri

Team: St. Louis Classics

Nominated by a Player’s Parent

Her coaching philosophy:

My coaching philosophy is centered around creating a positive environment for success for the athletes that play for me. I try to create an environment of personal responsibility for team success as well as create awareness of the world outside softball. Our team building activities are centered around volunteering for the community, as I believe that the girls need to have a healthy respect for those less fortunate.

Joy Marie Galliart

Tulsa, OK

Team: Comets of Bishop Kelley High School

Nominated by a Colleague

Her coaching philosophy:

I expect and demand my players give their very best effort at all times. There are things in softball we have no control over – the other team (their strengths and weaknesses), the officials, the weather, etc. But, there are as many things we can control (our attitude, our hustle, our heart, our pride, our effort). I want my kids to control the things they can, and do everything in their power for the good of team rather than for themselves.

Dave Gray

Salt Lake City, Utah

Team: Utah Shock

Nominated by a Player’s Parent

His coaching philosophy:

To teach all of my players the fundamentals of the game and to have them perform to the best of their ability. To be disciplined athletes that show respect to the game ,officials, their team mates, as well as their opponents. To be their friend, as well as their coach. To earn my players respect through example, hard work and knowledge. To help each of my players to reach the next level–whether it be college or their high school team.

David Jett

Valley Mills, TX

Team: Texas Thunder

Nominated by a Player’s Parent

His coaching philosophy:

Do no harm. Keep it as simple as possible and always explain “why” we do or do not do something a certain way. Provide a sound foundation of proven fundamentals. Call on elite level playing friends and former students as much as possible. When talking to a player always find something positive about their performance first, then tell them what they did wrong and how to correct it.

Danielle Lopez

Concord, MA

Team: Concord Raiders

Nominated by an Assistant Coach

Her coaching philosophy:

I’m the head coach of a 12U softball team in Massachusetts. My coaching philosophy encompasses the development of not only skill but character, work ethic and sportsmanship. With young kids it is especially important to instill the value of working together to achieve a goal. As a softball coach, one of the greatest challenges and goals is maintaining self-confidence and pride in a sport where failure happens more than 50% of the time.

John McManus

Rochester, NY

Team: NY Nitro 16U

Nominated by an Assistant Coach

His coaching philosophy:

To teach sound fundamentals and never expect a player to execute something they haven’t been taught. To lead by example, own your mistakes and learn from them, to never give up & always be able to say I did my best. Stay positive, focus and leave the negative energy behind; competition is no place for temper tantrums, inflated egos & self pity. Respect all opponents but fear none. For myself, never stop being a student of the game.

Beth Singleton

Lincoln, NE

Team: Nebraska Nemesis 98′s

Nominated by a Player’s Parent

Her coaching philosophy:

I coach fast pitch teams that compete at the A level which allows players to gage themselves against the best the game has to offer and encourages them to be the best they can be. I believe that teaching girls to compete as a team and to push themselves to improve their individual skill sets teaches them lifelong lessons about perseverance, heart, work ethic, drive, goal setting and ultimately confidence and self esteem.

Ed Winchester

Fresno, CA

Team: Teague Elementary Knights

Nominated by an Administrator

His coaching philosophy:

I suppose my coaching philosophy can best be expressed by the statement “Learn the fundamentals, practice and play hard, give the best you have to give, have fun and we win!” I believe the main responsibility of a coach is to create a learning environment where players can learn the game, develop character and learn the value of team work. All my players play in every game and I constantly remind them that no one player wins or loses games.

Kevin Wise

Pocatello, Idaho

Team: Diamond Queens

Nominated by a Player’s Parent

His coaching philosophy:

It is my personal belief that softball, or any sport, involves so much more than just participation. Any athletic event that children can participate in is a segway to the real world. Athletes learn skills such as hard work, commitment, team work, perseverance, and how to deal with, and overcome, failure. These skills will be beneficial in the classroom, both high school and college, and in the real world.

John Woods

Pe Ell, Washington

Team: Pe Ell High School Trojans

Nominated by a Fellow Coach

His coaching philosophy:

My philosophy is to lead by example. It’s not all about winning or losing but learning to work together as a team to respect self and others to set team goals as well as personal goals. I also enforce the importance of a education and hopefully what the kids learn on the field and court will follow them into the classroom and community.

2009 ASA Playing Rule Changes

As normal there were new rule changes at the National ASA Conference. I have included all the rule changes below.

2009 Playing Rule Changes

Rule 1 Definition Charged Conference: When team representative requests a suspension of play or delays the game for the purpose of delivering a message to another team member, unless the pitcher is removed from pitching position.
Comment: This allows the coach to talk to their pitcher before deciding to remove the pitcher without being charged a conference.

Rule 2 Section 1: Men’s Modified fence distance to be a max of 325 Feet.
Comment: Modified Players requested this to add more defense to the game.

Rule 3 Section 1 A 1: Remove the word “or” and replace with “and”.
Comment: All approved bats must have the certification mark and be on the list of approved bats. Item 3 of the rule about the bats manufactured before 2000 still applies.

Rule 3 Section 1 F: The bat shall be free of burrs, DENTS and visible cracks…
Comment: This adds to the call out of the surface of the bat to be free if dents. Umpires will no longer have to identify if a dent is small enough to for the bat ring to fit over the bat. If it has a dent the bat shall be removed from competition.

Rule 3 Section 1 K: The official bat shall be of one piece construction,
multi-piece permanently assembled or two piece interchangeable
construction. If the bat is designed with interchangeable components it
must meet the following additional criteria:
1. Mating components must have a unique locking key to prevent uncertified equipment combinations in the field.
2. All component combinations must meet the one piece bat rules.
3. Manufacturer must demonstrate that the interchangeable bat fails
in a safe manner. (i.e. visible damage before locking feature’s)
fail’s)
4. Bat components must be designed in a way to prevent uncertified equipment alterations.
Comments: This allows for new bat technology that the Equipment
Standards Committee has studied for several years before approving it.

Rule 3 Section 3 B: The Optic yellow ball shall be used in National Championships beginning in 2010 for all Slow Pitch, including Coed, Masters, and Seniors.
Comment: The Slow Pitch players wanted this because the yellow ball is easier to see as the game goes on.

Rule 3 Section 6 G: Effect: Players wearing metal cleats after being warned by the umpire not to do so shall be ejected.
Comment: This adds a penalty for players who wear metal cleats where not allowed and have been asked not too.

Rule 4 Section 2 I: Allow a courtesy runner for an ADA player.
Comment: This allows a courtesy runner for ADA player who is on base. The rule will be the same as the Seniors rule.

Rule 4 Section 6 C 1: Removes the penalty of disqualification from the
Substitution Rule.
Comment: This only removes the disqualification portion of the rule, the balance of the penalties still apply. The unreported substituent is now in the game and all rules regarding reentry still apply.

Rule 5 Section 8 A: Adds home run limits to Women’s Slow Pitch in classifications as follows:
1) Women’s Open Unlimited
2) Women’s Class C 4
3) Women’s Class D 2
Comment: Sets new limits for the number of Home Runs in Women’s Slow Pitch

Rule 5 Section A 1: Move Slow Pitch Coed Major Classification to the 8 Home Run limit category.
Comment: The Slow Pitch Task Force asked for this based on the players input.

Rule 5 Section A 2: Move Men’s Slow Pitch B Classification to the 6 Home Run limit category.
Comment: The Slow Pitch Task Force asked for this based on the players input.

Rule 5 Section 8 A: Move Men’s C Slow Pitch Classification and Coed A Slow Pitch Classification to the 4 Home Run limit category.
Comment: The Slow Pitch Task Force asked for this based on the players input.

Rule 5 Section 8 A: Move Men’s D Slow Pitch Classification and Coed B Classification to the 2 Home Run limit Category.
Comment: The Slow Pitch Task Force asked for this based on the players input. This also removes the ½ inning out for the D classification.

Rule 5 Section 8 A 6: Add Men’s E/Rec. Slow Pitch Classification of play and establish a zero Home Run limit. Any over the fence Home Run is a ½ Inning ending out.
Comment: The code added a new classification of Men’s Slow Pitch, and
restricted their home runs.

Rule 5 Section 9 A 1: Men’s Fast Pitch Only: the Run Ahead Rule is now 15 after 3, 12 After 4 and 7 after 5.
Comment: This changes Men’s Fast pitch from 8 after 5 innings to 7 after 5 innings.

Rule 5 Section 9 A 3: Men’s A Slow Pitch Only, 20 after 4 and 15 after 5.
Comment: This changes Men’s A Slow Pitch Run Ahead Rule from 20 after 3 to 20 after 4.

Rule 5 Section 11: Add the 45 –O Men’s Classification to the Tie-Breaker rule.
Comment: The 45 – 0 Classification of Men’s Fast Pitch will play under the same Tie-Breaker rule as Junior Olympic Girls .

Rule 6 Section 1 A Fast Pitch and Modified: The pitcher must take the position on the pitcher’s plate with the hands separated and the ball in the glove or the pitcher’s
hand.
Comment: This only clarifies a rule that Fast Pitch and Modified have enforced for years.

Rule 6 Section 3 O Fast Pitch and N Modified: Effect: A ball called on
the batter.
Comment: The Effect of Letter O in Fast Pitch and N in Modified was an Illegal pitch and were always intended to be a ball on the batter only.

Rule 6 Section 6 A Fast Pitch: …. an Approved manufactured drying agent that is included on the list published by the ASA, may be used by the pitcher. The
Resin must be left on the ground and the approved drying agent in the pitcher’s pocket. Effect: … If any other substance is found in the pitcher’s pocket the pitcher shall be ejected.
Comment: Some drying agents are resign and need to submitted to ASA for approval before they can be used by the pitcher. Currently only Gorilla Gold is
approved.

Rule 7 Section 3 B: Prior to the pitch in adult Slow Pitch the batter will enter the batters box with a one ball one strike count.
Exception: Masters and Seniors
Comment: The Slow Pitch Players wanted this rule.

Rule 8 Section 1 C 2: add to the exception 16” Slow Pitch the ball remains live.
Comment: In 16” Slow Pitch runners can lead off and can be picked off therefore the ball should remain live.

Rule 8 Section3 I Exception: Add Masters.
Comment: The Masters Division can now hit an over the fence home run and not run the bases.

Rule 8 Section 5 I: When a fair batted ball deflects off a fence then off the fielder before going over the home run fence. Effect: The ball is dead. All runners and or batter-runner are awarded two bases from the time of the pitch.
Comment: This should be a two base award since it can not be caught for an out. We are now consistent with other organizations.

Rule 8 Section 7 I 2: If properly appealed by any defensive player during a live ball the runner is out.
Comment: This is a clarification of the rule as it has been called by umpires.

Rule 8 Section 10: (All Fast Pitch)
Comment: All Fast Pitch will follow the Courtesy runner rule previously used only by the Junior Olympic Classification of Girls and Boys.

ASA 2008 HOF Members Inducted

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) inducted 11 members on Wednesday evening to its National Softball Hall of Fame while also announcing the eight members nominated to be inducted in 2009.

The Class of 2008 included five players and six others for dedicated service to the ASA. The newly inducted members include Mitch Munthe, Modesto, Calif. (Fast Pitch Player); Jim Marsh, Yukon, Okla. (Fast Pitch Player); Jenni Harp Oliver, Chattanooga, Tenn. (Slow Pitch Player); Roberta (Robbie) Mulkey, California (Fast Pitch Player); Kermit Lynch of Oklahoma City, Okla. (Fast Pitch Player); Jerry Stewart, Arcola, Ill. (meritorious service); Freddie and Virginia Ezell, Midland, Texas (meritorious service); Garland Thompson of Wilmore, Ky. (commissioner); Kevin Ryan of Stanley, NC (umpire) and Ron Galemore of Gaithersburg, Md. (umpires).

The 2009 Class includes eight people that were selected at the 77th ASA National Council meeting this week in Oklahoma City, Okla. The eight people will be enshrined next year in Reno, Nev. when the ASA celebrates its 29th Annual Hall of Fame Induction celebration.

The four players selected include Leah O’Brien Amico, Corona, Calif. (Fast Pitch Player); Al Yeager, Seymour, Conn. (Fast Pitch Player); Allyson Rioux, (Deceased)-Stamford, Conn. (Fast Pitch Player); Jeff Seip, Boyertown, Pa. (Fast Pitch Player).

Four people were elected in the non-playing category and include Ben Bunch, Enid, Okla. (Meritorious Service); Tony Walsh, Memphis, Tenn. (Umpire); R.B. Thomas, Manassas, Va. (Manager); and Newton Buchner, Brooklyn, NY (Umpire)

The ASA National Softball Hall of Fame was established in 1957 and honors players and non players during annual induction ceremonies held at the ASA National Council Meeting each year. With these eight inductees, the Hall of Fame will have 340 members.

2010 ASA Tournaments Awarded

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – The Amateur Softball Association (ASA) announced today the sites for the 2010 National Championships as part of the 2008 Council meeting in Oklahoma City, Okla.

Over 100 cities were awarded National Championships. The fastpitch list is below with several Championships’ location being decided at a later time.

Girls Championships

USA/ASA Girls’ Class “A” 10-U Fast Pitch – Chattanooga, Tenn.

USA/ASA Girls’ Class “A” 12-U Fast Pitch – Bloomington, Ind.

USA/ASA Girls’ Class “A” 14-U Fast Pitch – Moline, Ill.

USA/ASA Girls’ Class “A” 16-U Fast Pitch – College Station, Texas

USA/ASA Girls’ Class “A” 18-U Fast Pitch – Hemet-Menitee, Calif.

Girls’ 18-U GOLD Fast Pitch – Oklahoma City, Okla.

Girls’ 10-U Class A Fast Pitch Western – Medford, Ore.

Girls’ 12-U Class A Fast Pitch Western – Spokane, Wash.

Girls’ 14-U Class A Fast Pitch Western – Aurora, Calif.

Girls’ 16-U Class A Fast Pitch Western – Fresno, Calif.

Girls’ 18-U Class A Fast Pitch Western – Hayward, Calif.

Girls’ 10-U Class A Fast Pitch Eastern – York, Pa.

Girls’ 12-U Class A Fast Pitch Eastern – York, Pa.

Girls’ 14-U Class A Fast Pitch Eastern – Salisbury, Md.

Girls’ 16-U Class A Fast Pitch Eastern – York, Pa.

Girls’ 18-U Class A Fast Pitch Eastern – Sterling, Va.

Girls’ 10-U Class A Fast Pitch Northern – Topeka, Kan.

Girls’ 12-U Class A Fast Pitch Northern – Kimberly, Wis.

Girls’ 14-U Class A Fast Pitch Northern – North Mankato, Minn.

Girls’ 16-U Class A Fast Pitch Northern – Bowling Green, Ken.

Girls’ 18-U Class A Fast Pitch Northern – Novi, Mich.

Girls’ 10-U Class A Fast Pitch Southern – Cumming, Ga.

Girls’ 12-U Class A Fast Pitch Southern – Fort Worth, Texas

Girls’ 14-U Class A Fast Pitch Southern – Ridgeland, Miss.

Girls’ 16-U Class A Fast Pitch Southern – Fort Myers, Fla.

Girls’ 18-U Class A Fast Pitch Southern – Raleigh, NC

Girls’ 10-U Class B Fast Pitch Northern – Topeka, Kan

Girls’ 12-U Class B Fast Pitch Northern – Kimberly, Wis.

Girls’ 14-U Class B Fast Pitch Northern – Terre Haute, Ind.

Girls’ 16-U Class B Fast Pitch Northern – North Mankato, MN

Girls’ 18-U Class B Fast Pitch Northern – St. Joseph, Mo.

Girls’ 10-U Class B Fast Pitch Southern – Gadsden, Ala.

Girls’ 12-U Class B Fast Pitch Southern – Marietta-Powder Springs, Ga.

Girls’ 14-U Class B Fast Pitch Southern – Killeen, Texas

Girls’ 16-U Class B Fast Pitch Southern – Broken Arrow, Okla.

Girls’ 18-U Class B Fast Pitch Southern – Gadsden, Ala.

Girls’ 10-U Class B Fast Pitch Eastern –Sterling, Va.

Girls’ 12-U Class B Fast Pitch Eastern – Sterling, Va.

Girls’ 14-U Class B Fast Pitch Eastern – York, Pa.

Girls’ 16-U Class B Fast Pitch Eastern – Dayton, Ohio

Girls’ 18-U Class B Fast Pitch Eastern – Dayton, Ohio

Girls’ 10-U Class B Fast Pitch Western – Tucson, Ariz.

Girls’ 12-U Class B Fast Pitch Western – Las Cruces, NM

Girls’ 14-U Class B Fast Pitch Western – Roseville, Calif.

Girls’ 16-U Class B Fast Pitch Western – Hillsboro, Ore.

Girls’ 18-U Class B Fast Pitch Western – Yakima, Wash.

Women’s Championships

Women’s Class A Fast Pitch – Salem, Ore.

Women’s Class B Fast Pitch – Salem, Ore.

Women’s 23-U Fast Pitch – Spokane, Wash.

Oklahoma City Ready To Host 77th Annual ASA Council Meeting

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association continues preparation for the 77th Annual Council Meeting as it is just days from kicking off in Oklahoma City, November 7-14. Hosted in downtown OKC, administrators, players and tournament hosts from around the country to will travel to the ‘Softball Mecca’ in the United States and have the opportunity to visit the ASA Hall of Fame Museum and complex.

ASA is also pleased to announce the release of the book “The Game America Plays; Celebrating 75 Years of the Amateur Softball Association” and that it will be on sale during the 77th annual ASA Council meeting this weekend. The book chronicles the journey of ASA as it is has become the leader in the sport of softball.

With a forward by two-time Olympian Jennie Finch (La Mirada, Calif.), the book is written by Bill Plummer III. The book begins in the 1930s at the development of the organization and wraps up in 2008 when the USA Softball Women’s National team had secured four Olympic medals. Plummer encompasses all facets of the sport and the book is a great treat for the loyal softball fan or those who would like to know more about the growth of the sport.

Books will be sold during the Council Meeting at a 20% discount so that Council members can enjoy the book for only $20.00. They will be sold at the ASA office at the Sheraton Hotel as well as at the National Office gift shop.

A silent auction on behalf of USA Softball will also be held on Monday and Tuesday at the Sheraton with items from this year’s 2008 KFC Bound 4 Beijing Tour up for auction. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the special programs fund.

The ASA council meets annually to evaluate the needs of the association along with rule and code changes for all divisions of softball. The ASA will award over 100 National Championships to cities across the U.S. for the 2010 season while the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame Committee considers the nominations of individuals for possible induction into the National Softball Hall of Fame in 2009.

More than 100 exhibitors from throughout the United States are expected to attend the annual ASA Trade Show, which will be held in conjunction with the 77th ASA National Council Meeting in Oklahoma City. The Trade Show will be held at the Cox Convention Center on Saturday, November 8, and will feature exhibits from cities bidding on National Championships, equipment manufacturers and softball suppliers with more than 1,000 council members, association delegates and visitors passing through.

On Tuesday cities across the country will make their pitch to the 280 plus ASA Council members to try and win their support to bring one of the ASA National Championships to their respective cities.

A complete schedule of events can be found at www.asasoftball.com

Oklahoma City Selected To Host 2010 ISF Women’s World Championship; Marks The first World Championship For Softball In U.S. In Almost 15 Years

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association and the city of Oklahoma City are proud to announce they have been awarded the 2010 ISF XII Women’s World Championship by the International Softball Federation. Oklahoma City will play host July 9-19, 2010 to the top 16 women’s fast pitch softball team’s in the world. Qualifying tournaments will take place around the world to determine the 16 teams that will compete in the 2010 event. Representation comes from five regions: Africa, Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania.

“We are thrilled for an event of this caliber to be held here in Oklahoma City,” said ASA/USA Softball Executive Director Ron Radigonda. “We have demonstrated in past World Cup and NCAA Women’s College World Series competitions that the city of Oklahoma City is a strong supporter of this sport and knows how to host an event on the world’s stage. The four fields at ASA Hall of Fame Complex including Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame stadium will provide both players and spectators with the best softball experience imaginable. We are honored to have received this bid and look forward to the months of preparation.”

“Since this event hasn’t been held in the U.S. in 20 years, first and foremost I am glad we can bring it back to the United States,” said Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett. “Secondly, the fact that it is going to be held in our city certainly validates that we have one of the top softball venues in the world.”

“It’s very exciting to have the World Championships in our home country and for the ASA to host the second largest event for our sport other than the Olympics,” said 2004 & 2008 Olympian Cat Osterman (Houston, Texas). “With the 2009 World Cup coming soon and now the World Championships, I think the teams coming to the U.S. over the next couple years will be able to see the support of U.S. fans and we will have an opportunity to reclaim the No. 1world rankingon our home soil.”

The 2010 fast pitch event will mark the first time that any of the ISF’s four world championships (men’s, women’s, junior men’s, and junior women’s) will have been played in the United States since the IX Men’s World Championship in Michigan in 1996.

“Other than the Olympics, the women’s world championship is probably our highest profile event,” said ISF president Don Porter. “Oklahoma City has experience with hosting major softball tournaments and the facilities there are excellent. This will surely be a memorable event for the participants as well as the spectators and media.”

“I love wearing red, white and blue and to wear those colors in our home country while competing for a World Championship is something I thought I would never be a part of,” said two-time Olympian Jessica Mendoza (Camarillo, Calif.) “I know the ASA will host a great event in Oklahoma City and I know the fans will come out in great support. With softball out of the Olympics in 2012, this is the ultimate opportunity to see the best softball teams in the world compete for the top crown in sports.”

Team USA is the defending ISF world champion, having won the eleventh edition of the event in 2006 in China when they broke a scoreless tie after five innings, scoring three runs in the top of the sixth en route to a 3-0 victory over Japan in the gold medal game.

KFC B4B Tour Wins Award

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – The Amateur Softball Association is proud to announce the 2008 KFC Bound 4 Beijing tour was awarded the 2008 SportsTravel Award for Best Amateur Sports Event Series or Circuit on Friday afternoon. Other events nominated in the category were the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup, the 2007 Little League Baseball World Series, 2008 City Chase USA, 2008 Kick It; 3v3 Soccer Tour, and the 2008 Muddy Buddy Series.

“This is such a tremendous honor for our association,” said ASA Executive Director Ron Radigonda. “The time and support of the local associations of ASA, our sponsors, the 42 cities, and ESPN was overwhelming. Everyone came together to make this tour one of the best. We also want to extend our appreciation and thanks to SportsTravel magazine and the TEAMS Conference for this opportunity and the 18-member USA Softball National team who were the heart and soul of the tour.”

The SportsTravel awards recognizes excellence in the management and promotion of sporting events and for the Bound 4 Beijing tour to win this award it shows how people in this industry view softball,” said Timothy Schneider, Publisher of SportsTravel magazine. “For softball, this is an important indication that softball holds a strong place in the minds of sport organizers.”

Criteria for nomination and voting included superior organization of and attendance at the event, a superior experience for the competitors and/or spectators at the event, and how the site or venue served to enhance the event.

“It is very exciting for the Bound 4 Beijing tour to receive this award,” said two-time Olympian Cat Osterman (Houston, Texas). “This honor is much deserved for the hard work and dedication put into the structure and planning of the tour. This award goes to all the cities and volunteers who spent countless hours to welcome the National team to their city.”

Throughout the 60 games, beginning in Tucson, Ariz., and wrapping up in Irvine, on tour the team played in front of over 200,000 people in 45 cities. In front of amazing crowds and supportive fans, the team kicked off competition Feb. 19 and experienced a diverse amount of USA hospitality. The team surpassed many records during this tour including setting a Tour record attendance of 8,724 in Bowie, Md. It was the largest crowd in pre-Olympic Tour and was just shy of the all-time attendance record; at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games as 8,750 people were in attendance at the gold medal game as the U.S. defeated China 3-1 for their first Olympic Gold.

The ratings for the eight original games that aired on ESPN averaged a 0.55 national rating while the 11 original airings on ESPN2 averaged a 0.28. In total, over 10 million households tuned to watch the KFC Bound 4 Beijing US Tour in over 25 different airings on the ESPN family of networks.

“The KFC Bound 4 Beijing US Tour impacted millions of American households as our USA Softball team prepared for Beijing,” said Director of Marketing Kelly McKeown. “Seeing and hearing the inspiring stories of little girls that dream to become members of Team USA is at the heart of this property and why the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) will continue to drive the development of the USA Softball program.”

ASA Complex of the Year

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.—The Amateur Softball Association of America announced today its 2008 ASA Complex of the Year presented by Stabilizer Solutions Ballyard Products. The Twin Creeks Softball Complex in Woodstock, Ga., is the winner of this award which will be presented during the General Session of the ASA Council Meeting being held in Oklahoma City, Okla. In addition to being named as the 2008 ASA Complex of the Year, the Twin Creeks Softball Complex will receive approximately $2,000 in field maintenance products from Stabilizer Solutions.

“This award notices and awards all of the attention and dedication we put into the facility. The best thing about the complex is there are so many user groups and also we have great communications between the parks and rec department and the maintenance so that we host great events which sets us apart, “ said Parks Manager Ben Brown. “We all get out there together and work the grounds to make it work. Its not uncommon to see someone rake fields that has nothing to do with maintenance. Everyone pitches in to make it a positive experience for local and also other states who come here.”

The Twin Creeks Softball Complex, operated by the Cherokee Recreation and Park Agency was originally constructed in the fall of 2004 with five Championship lighted fields in the venue. The complex lies on 12 acres with approximately 500 hours per year of events. Under the operation of Brown, the staff has faced several obstacles over the years but always been able to maintain a great facility. Brown considers his staff highly skilled at preparing wet ball fields to satisfactory playing conditions which leads to the facility having no rain outs since the complex was opened. On the opposite end of the spectrum, there has been a level four drought in Woodstock since October 2007, a complete outdoor watering ban. The staff has had to take special efforts in making sure the field is playable under these conditions. Helping Brown maintain and operate the facility is Bill Shiflet and Wayne Cagle.

Just footsteps away from the Complex is the Valley Playground, a 20,000 square foot playground that is one of the largest in the state of Georgia. The complete also has six batting cages as well as an affordable concession stand.

ASA 2008 Council Meeting in OKC

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Just a month shy of the Opening Session, the Amateur Softball Association is preparing for its 77th Annual Council Meeting in Oklahoma City November 7-14. Hosted in downtown OKC, administrators, players and tournament hosts from around the country to will travel to the ‘Softball Mecca’ in the United States and have the opportunity to visit the ASA Hall of Fame Museum and complex.

“Oklahoma City is proud to play host to the ASA’s council meeting as they commemorate 75 years as the world’s top softball organization,” said Oklahoma City’s Mayor Mick Cornett. “The ASA has provided many big league opportunities for Oklahoma City and is one of our leaders in attracting out- of-town visitors through their marquee events played annually at the Hall of Fame Complex. I personally look forward to welcoming them to town.”

“We are thrilled to be bringing our association to our National headquarters here in Oklahoma City,” said Ron Radigonda, Executive Director of ASA/USA Softball. “This city and community has embraced this sport and we are grateful for all they have done. We encourage all attendees to take the time to see the facility and Hall of Fame.”

The ASA council meets annually to evaluate the needs of the association along with rule and code changes for all divisions of softball. The ASA will award over 100 National Championships to cities across the U.S. for the 2010 season while the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame Committee considers the nominations of individuals for possible induction into the National Softball Hall of Fame in 2009.

More than 100 exhibitors from throughout the United States are expected to

attend the annual ASA Trade Show, which will be held in conjunction with the 77th ASA National Council Meeting in Oklahoma City. The Trade Show will be held at the Cox Convention Center on Saturday, November 8, and will feature exhibits from cities bidding on National Championships, equipment manufacturers and softball suppliers with more than 1,000 council members, association delegates and visitors passing through.

On Tuesday cities across the country will make their pitch to the 280 plus ASA Council members to try and win their support to bring one of the ASA National Championships to their respective cities.

Below is the 2008 Schedule of Events (Items are subject to change):

****Please make a note that all Championship bids will be completed either on Monday at the National Championship Finals Awards as prescribed by the ASA Code or during the General Session on Tuesday – this includes the Territorial bids and Territorial Vice President Elections. The Territorial Meetings on Thursday are for business only, other than championship selections and vice president elections. Those meeting could be moved to earlier on the week if needed.

Friday, November 07, 2008

2:00 pm -7:00 pm Registrations

2:00 pm – 7:00 pm Exhibitor Registrations

Saturday, November 08, 2008

8:00 am - 5:30 pm Registrations

8:00 am - 2:00 pm Exhibitor Registrations / Set Up Exhibit Hall 1 & A

2:30 pm - 4:30 pm ASA Board of Directors

6:00 pm -8:00 pm Exhibits (Council Members Only) Exhibit Hall 1 & A

8:00 pm -10:00 pm Exhibits (Open) Exhibit Hall 1 & A

REGION MEETINGS

8:30 pm -10:00 pm Texas Region Meeting

8:30 pm -10:00 pm Northwest Region Meeting

Sunday, November 09, 2008

7:00 am -Noon Registration

7:00 am -7:45 am Committee Chair Breakfast

8:00 am -9:00 am Orientation for First Time Attendees

8:00 am -Noon Ethics Committee

8:30 am -10:00 am Insurance Workshop

10:00 am-11:30 am Insurance Workshop

12:30 pm-2:00 pm General Council Session

2:30 pm -6:30 pm Commissioners Meeting

2:30 pm -6:30 pm Past Presidents Committee

2:30 pm -6:30 pm Junior Olympic Committee

2:30 pm -6:30 pm Player Representatives Committee

2:30 pm -6:30 pm Umpire Staff Meeting

2:30 pm -6:30 pm Commissioner Emeritus Committee

2:30 pm -6:00 pm Allied Members Red Carpet

REGION MEETINGS

7:00 pm-8:30 pm Great Lakes Region Meeting

7:00 pm -8:30 pm Midwest Region Meeting

7:00 pm -8:30 pm Northern Region Meeting

7:00 pm -8:30 pm Mid America Region Meeting

7:00 pm -8:30 pm Central Atlantic Region Meeting

7:00 pm -8:30 pm Southern Region Meeting

Monday, November 10, 2008

8:00 am -11:00 am Tournament Programs Committee

8:00 am -11:00 am National Championship Finals Awards

PLAYING RULES SUBCOMMITTEES

8:30 am -10:00 am Fast Pitch Rules Committee

8:30 am -10:00 am Slow Pitch Rules Committee

8:30 am -10:00 am Modified Pitch Rules Committee

9:00 am -10:00 am Equipment Testing and Certification

11:30 am-1:30 pm Wilson Sporting Goods Luncheon

1:30 pm -4:30 pm Hall of Fame Selection Committee

1:30 pm -3:30 pm Tournament Directors / ASA Representative Seminar

1:30 pm -4:30 pm Umpire Committee

1:30 pm -4:30 pm Masters – Seniors Committee

1:30 pm-4:30 pm Girls’ / Women’s Fast Pitch Task Force

1:30 pm-4:30 pm Slow Pitch Task Force

1:30 pm -3:00 pm Boys Fast Pitch Committee

3:00 pm -4:30 pm Adult Fast Pitch Committee

3:30 pm -5:30 pm ACE Information

6:00 pm -10:00 pm Hospitality and Free Time

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

6:45 am -7:15 am FUN WALK

8:15 am -2:00 pm General Council Session

3:00 pm -7:00 pm Long Range Planning

3:00 pm -7:00 pm Critical Issues Committee

3:00 pm -7:00 pm Publications and Internet Committee

REGION MEETINGS

7:30 pm -9:00 pm New England Region Meeting

7:30 pm -9:00 pm Mid Atlantic Region Meeting

7:30 pm -9:00 pm South Atlantic Region Meeting

7:30 pm -9:30 pm Southwestern Region Meeting

7:30 pm -9:00 pm East Central Region Meeting

7:30 pm -9:00 pm Rocky Mountain Region Meeting

7:30 pm -9:00 pm Pacific Coast Region Meeting

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

8:30 am -4:00 pm Legislative Committee

9:00 am -4:00 pm Membership Committee tee

Noon -4:00 pm Commissioner Appointment

1:00 pm -3:00 pm Special Programs Committee

1:00 pm -4:00 pm Playing Rules Committee

HALL OF FAME FESTIVITIES

5:00 pm -6:00 pm Hall of Fame Banquet Reception

6:00 pm -9:00 pm Hall of Fame Banquet

Thursday, November 13, 2008

8:30 am -1:00 pm General Council Session

TERRITORY MEETINGS

1:00 pm -5:00 pm Eastern Territory

1:00 pm -5:00 pm Southern Territory

1:00 pm -5:00 pm Northern Territory

1:00 pm -5:00 pm Western Territory

Friday, November 14, 2008

8:30 am -6:00 pm Commissioner’s Meeting

Noon-1:00 pm Commissioner’s Luncheon

Saturday, November 15, 2008

8:30 am -5:00 pm ASA Board of Directors

11:30 am-12:30 pm ASA Board of Directors Luncheon

ASA National Coaching School

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — The Amateur Softball Association, the National Governing Body of Softball in the United States, announced today the official date of the first USA Softball Coaching School presented by Liberty Mutual Group. Hosted and locally sponsored by Maryland- D.C. and Piedmont ASA, the Coaching School will take place November 21-23 at the Mattapeake Elementary School in Kent Island, Md.

The school will consist of first hand instruction from the 2008 U.S. Olympic softball team coaching staff and their daily preparation for international competition. The school will be limited to only 250 coaches and cost is $175.00 before October 1 and $200.00 after.

Coach Mike Candrea will also host a ‘Hitting Clinic’ in conjunction with the coaching school. The clinic will take place from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. as Session #1 and 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. for Session #2. Each session will have a maximum of 64 students. Once the clinic is filled there will be no walk-ins accepted. Cost of the hitting clinic will be $200.00 per player for five hours of instruction. Each participant will receive a clinic shirt, snacks and water.

For more information, please contact Jack Hutcherson at jocommish@mddcasa.org.

USA Softball Nominated For 2008 Billie Jean King Contribution Award

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – The Amateur Softball Association is pleased to announce that ASA/USA Softball, as the National Governing Body ofSoftballin the United States, has been nominated for the 2008 Billie Jean King Contribution Award.The ASA joins exclusive company as past winners include LPGA, ABC Sports and McDonalds.

The Billie Jean King Contribution Award is presented to a corporation, organization or individual who has made significant contributions to the development of women’s sports. The winner of this award will have also demonstrated a continuing and exceptional commitment to the realm of women’s sports and physical activity.

The Women’s Sports Foundation Trustees and Advisory Board members determine the winner. The prestigious award will be presented to one winner andthe recipient will be honored at the Annual Salute to Women in Sports Award Dinner on Monday, Oct. 14, 2008 at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City. The 2008 USA Softball Women’s Silver medal team will also be in attendance at the dinner to take part in honoring the accomplishments of 2008 in women’s sports.