
Timbits Softball - Learn-to-Play
Welcome to Timbits Softball!
Timbits Softball is SBR’s Learn-to-Play Program that aims to introduce all young children to the joy of softball in a fun, active and positive way. The LTP program helps little athletes to develop the foundational skills and build player confidence by providing many opportunities to touch the ball. The LTP program welcomes all children born in 2015 & 2016 to participate in the 2022 softball season.
What you can expect
The LTP program will run twice weekly for approximately 8 weeks beginning in May:
Mondays and Wednesday from 6:00pm -7:30pm
Or
Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00pm -7:30pm
Players will work on skill development for the first 45 minutes followed by a 45 minute coach-pitch mini-game to introduce them to the concept of game play. This modified game introduction will set them up for league games when they enter the U9 division.
Players will learn to:
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Throw a softball
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Catch a softball
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Swing a bat
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Hit a ball
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Run the bases
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Be part of a team
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Have FUN!
Equipment
Each player will receive a Timbits Softball t-shirt, SBR baseball hat and a pair of SBR sunglasses included in their registration fee. At the end of the season, they will also receive a sport medal. Players will provide their own:
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Softball glove
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Batting helmet with cage
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Running shoes or baseball cleats
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Fielder’s mask (optional in LTP, but recommended to reduce fear of catching while building confidence in the skill)
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Water bottle
SBR provides bats for the players to use if they don’t have their own. A complete list of required and optional equipment can be found under Players and Parents here.
Try before you commit
Each year SBR will host a ‘Come Try Softball’ event, prior to the season.
Volunteer coaches are key to the success of the program
Community softball wouldn’t exist without parent volunteers! Timbits Softball is designed to be easily administered with little or no coaching experience. Each head coach is provided with the Timbits Softball manual complete with lesson plans, easy to follow instructions, progressions for teaching basic skills and lead up games.
SBR also supports coaches with training opportunities and mentorship. Many parents will begin coaching at the LTP level and progress as their child progresses. Interested in coaching? We’d love to have you! Find more information under ‘Coaches and Managers’ here.
Key Dates
Registration Opens - January 3, 2022
Come Try Softball Event - March 12, 2022
Level 1 Coach Training (optional) - April 2 &3, 2022
Registration Closes - April 15, 2022
Player Picture Day - May 2 & 3, 2022
Season begins - May 2, 2022
Season ends - June 24, 2022
FAQs
What is the cost?
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The cost is $225.
When does registration close?
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LTP registration will close on April 15. You can register here.
When does the season start?
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The 2022 season will kick off on Monday, May 2nd and finish by Thursday, June 23rd.
How often do they play?
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LTP will play 2 days per week.
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Players have the choice to register on Mondays & Wednesdays OR Tuesdays & Thursdays.
What times do they play?
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Players should arrive and be ready to participate at 6:00PM. They will practice basic skills for the first 45 minutes and then play a mini-game against another SBR Timbits team for the second half of the evening.
Which diamonds do we play at?
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The LTP program takes place at the Riverbend Diamonds located across the street from 180 Riverbend Dr SE.
What happens if to cancelled sessions (due to weather)?
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Cancelled games will not be rescheduled. On average, 1-2 evenings are cancelled due to weather.
Where do I buy equipment?
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You can purchase most softball equipment at any major sporting goods store.
What kind of glove should I look for?
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Make sure to purchase a softball glove (rather than a baseball glove) as they have a larger pocket to accommodate larger balls. Check out this blog to learn more and visit your local sporting goods store for sizing.
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Look for a softer leather that your player can squeeze.
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Look for a glove that stays firmly on and easy to grip and release. If uncertain ask for assistance at the store. Make sure that the glove can fit an 11" softball.
What size softball do they play with?
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LTP uses an 11” training softball, which has a bit more ‘squish’ compared to a regular softball and helps to build confidence while developing skills.
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Look for the Rawlings Reduced Injury Factor or 11” (NC11S) softballs.
I have questions. Who can I talk to?
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Feel free to email the Learn to Play Coordinator at learntoplay@sbrsoftball.com