top of page

Search Results

43 results found with an empty search

  • U11-U19 | sbrsoftball

    SBR Rockies Softball fosters sportsmanship, personal and athletic growth and community spirit through the lens of Softball Canada’s Long Term Player Development (LTPD) framework and the Athlete Development Matrix. U11-U19 SBR Rockies Softball fosters sportsmanship, personal and athletic growth and community spirit through the lens of Softball Canada’s Long Term Player Development (LTPD) framework and the Athlete Development Matrix. Softball Canada LTPD model identifies the optimal training, competition, and recovery principles and practices for players through sequential stages from childhood through to adulthood. It recognizes there are two distinct streams in softball – the lifelong recreational sport and the elite competitive arena – and it is designed to promote and support players in both. What You Can Expect SBR Rockies athlete placement and team creation will take place after evaluations. All athletes will be assessed on the following criteria: - Hitting - Fielding (infield and outfield) - Throwing - Leadership/contribution to team chemistry - Present and projected development and/or improvement - Experience LEARN MORE Season Information To register for South Bow River Softball (Fastpitch) 2026 season, you will need the following information: - Respect In Sport - Proof of Age Document MORE ABOUT THE SEASON League Play All teams will play in the Calgary Minor Softball League and are placed in the appropriate division based on their evaluations ranking. MORE ABOUT EVALUATIONS Provincial Play Softball Alberta offers provincial play in categories A through D. Teams may be required to play in a zone play down to earn a birth to provincials. MORE ABOUT PROVINCIALS Equipment Players will receive a Rockies game day jersey and a ball cap. Jerseys must be returned at the end of the season. A $100 uniform bond must be committed by post-dated cheque prior to collecting jersey for the season. A list of required and optional equipment can be found on our Equipment page. MORE ABOUT EQUIPMENT Key Dates Keep an eye on our Key Dates page for insight on what's happening when, including picture day, uniform pick up, and more! KEY DATES HERE Bonds Uniform bond - $200 – to cover the cost to replace unreturned or destroyed (beyond expected wear and tear) jerseys. Volunteer bond - $450 – your commitment to provide service or money towards the operation of the organization. MORE ABOUT BONDS Parental Requirements Parents must complete the RC Respect in Sport online course before you'll be able to register your player. Your RIS# will be valid for 3 years. All players are required to provide the following bonds. Bonds represent your commitment to: 1) return your jersey at the end of the season and 2) fulfill required volunteer hours to support the operations of SBR Bond cheques will only be cashed by SBR if the commitments are not fulfilled by the end of the season. Only post-dated cheques will be accepted. Ensure you have cheques on hand prior to uniform pick up. MORE ABOUT RESPECT IN SPORT (RIS) Become a Coach The success of our program is based on parent volunteers! If you’re interested in becoming a coach, head on over to our Coaches & Managers page to learn more and apply. MORE ABOUT COACHING AND MANAGERS U11 Advanced/Developing More information to come MORE ABOUT U11 Division 1 SBR believes that every athlete deserves a right to play with other athletes that approach the game in the same way. They also deserve a coach that will provide the best atmosphere for them to improve as much as they are willing to put effort into their own development. Division 1 teams consist of athletes that are highly competitive in nature that want to get the most they can out of softball. They will be challenged by the coaches to improve every time they are on the field and so must be able and willing to accept advanced instruction and feedback. This requires a full commitment from the family and the athlete. MORE ABOUT DIV 1

  • Coach Resources | sbrsoftball

    Empower your coaching journey with our comprehensive girls' softball resources! Unlock a treasure trove of expert tips, training drills, and strategic insights tailored to coaches at every level. From beginner fundamentals to advanced techniques, discover the tools you need to inspire and develop your team to their fullest potential. COACHES RESOURCES A collection of drills and videos to support you in leading your team through a great season! Videos Practice Outlines Softball Fielding Drills: Triangles Play Video Ground Ball Work - Mike Candrea Play Video How to Field Groundballs in Softball with Mike Candrea Play Video Top 6 To Watch Videos Watch Now Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Share Channel Info Close General Videos General Videos Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... Now Playing How to Catch a Fly Ball in Softball 02:17 Play Video Now Playing How to Field a Grounder in Softball 03:20 Play Video Now Playing How to Hit a Softball: The Stance & Grip 03:15 Play Video Now Playing How to Catch a Softball 02:57 Play Video Now Playing Throwing Mechanics with Jen Schroeder 01:31 Play Video Now Playing How to Hit a Softball 02:14 Play Video Now Playing How to Bunt for a Base Hit in Softball 03:14 Play Video Now Playing Softball Throwing Drills: One-knee Snaps & The Figure-eight 03:52 Play Video Now Playing Softball Fielding Drills: Triangles 02:06 Play Video Sue Enquist UCLA Head Coach Sue Enquist UCLA Head Coach Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... Now Playing Softball Hitting Clinic Part 1 - Sue Enquist 30:28 Play Video Now Playing Softball Hitting Clinic Part 2 - Sue Enquist 37:06 Play Video Now Playing Hitting Drills by Sue Enquist 06:00 Play Video Now Playing Softball Hitting Drills - Fixing The #1 Mistake Hitters Make 04:02 Play Video Now Playing How to Hit a Softball 03:15 Play Video Mike Candrea (U of Arizona Head Coach) Videos Mike Candrea (U of Arizona Head Coach) Videos Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... Now Playing How to Field Groundballs in Softball with Mike Candrea 20:17 Play Video Now Playing How to Throw a Softball with Mike Candea 13:41 Play Video Now Playing Ground Ball Work - Mike Candrea 06:09 Play Video Now Playing USA SOFTBALL Infield Position Play - Short Stop - Part 2 of 6 06:45 Play Video Now Playing Softball Instruction Infield Fundamentals Part 8 - Fielding Slow Rollers 04:11 Play Video Now Playing USA SOFTBALL Infield Position Play - Middle Infield Play - Part 5 of 6 11:20 Play Video Now Playing USA Softball Instruction Fundamentals of Outfield Play - 02 05:33 Play Video Now Playing USA Softball Instruction Fundamentals of Outfield Play - 04 04:27 Play Video Now Playing USA Softball Instruction Fundamentals of Outfield Play - 06 06:35 Play Video Now Playing Mike Candrea -Walk Thru Drill 01:26 Play Video Now Playing Softball Infield Fundamentals Instructional Series - Part 1 - The introduction 02:45 Play Video Now Playing USA SOFTBALL Infield Position Play - Second Base - Part 3 of 6 06:41 Play Video Now Playing Softball Instruction Infield Fundamentals Part 7 - Fielding back-hand side 04:57 Play Video Now Playing How to Pitch a Softball with Mike Candrea 11:25 Play Video Now Playing USA Softball Instruction Fundamentals of Outfield Play - 01 02:24 Play Video Now Playing USA Softball Instruction Fundamentals of Outfield Play - 03 08:17 Play Video Now Playing USA Softball Instruction Fundamentals of Outfield Play - 05 03:02 Play Video Now Playing Hitting - Mike Candrea 02:08 Play Video Now Playing Softball Hitting Instruction by Mike Candrea - 4X6 Drill 00:49 Play Video Other Useful Material Other Useful Material Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... Now Playing Hitting The Change Up - Lisa Fernandez 09:58 Play Video Now Playing Proper Footwork For Fastpitch Softball Catchers - Courtney Scott 21:29 Play Video Now Playing Jen Schro Catching Workout 04:06 Play Video Now Playing Jen Schroeder Catching Lesson 06:31 Play Video Now Playing Catchers Training Secrets Revealed by Megan Willis 08:52 Play Video Now Playing Catching 101 - Baseball Catcher Receiving Drills 02:00 Play Video Now Playing Fastpitch Softball Hitting Clinic Part One - Jenny Dalton-Hill 12:38 Play Video Now Playing Softball Hitting Tips: Batter's Box Routine - Amanda Scarborough 04:11 Play Video Now Playing Coaching Softball Hitters Part 3 - Jennie Dalton Hill 14:25 Play Video Now Playing Fastpitch Softball Hitting Clinic Part Two - Jenny Dalton-Hill 12:02 Play Video Practice Outlines 01 Practice Plans Practice Plan Template Practice Plan 2 Practice Plan 3 Practice Plan 4 Practice Plan 5 Practice Plan 6 02 Skills Manuals SBR Skills Manual USA Elite Manual 03 Drills Essential Softball - Free Drills Softball Drills by Coach Beck Wittenburg Drills Document

  • U9 Modified | sbrsoftball

    The U9 program is designed to foster a love of the game through fundamental skill development and learning how to play the game in a modified and fun environment that will build confidence and friendships and keep them coming back year after year. U9 MODIFIED Many athletes in U9 are picking up a glove for the first time. The U9 program is designed to foster a love of the game through fundamental skill development and learning how to play the game in a modified and fun environment that will build confidence and friendships and keep them coming back year after year. What You Can Expect - Players will learn and develop the fundamentals of throwing, catching, hitting and base running - Players will get to experience all infield positions, including pitcher and back catcher - Being part of a team and building friendships with common interests - Parents are encouraged to help coaches with drills, field set up, bench assistance, and more - Pre-game warmups (approx. 30-45 mins) - Modified game rules to increase the pace of play, including homerun line and coach pitch. - Home games and away games across south Calgary and Okotoks - Option for additional practices to focus on skill development - Potential for tournament play MORE ABOUT MODIFIED RULES What You Need to Know - Birth years: 2017 & 2018 - Registration fee: $275 - Season dates: TBD - Game nights: Mondays and Wednesdays - Game duration: 90 min - Game start time: 6:45PM - Players per team: 7-9 (depending on registrations) - Players on the field: 6 (home run line replaces outfielders) - Softball size: 11” training softballs (softer, indoor balls. Look for NC11S) - Deadline to register: TBD - U9 Senior team tryouts: March 11, 2025 REGISTRATION CLOSED Divisions The 2026 season will run 2 divisions in U9: one Senior team and multiple Junior teams. To be considered for the Senior team: - Your player must attend the U9 Senior Team tryout - The Senior team will be made up of players who have a good foundation of the fundamental skills and understanding of game play. - The team will be selected by the Senior team’s Head Coach. Note: U9 does not participate in the SBR Evaluations process. REGISTER FOR THE U9 SENIOR TRYOUTS Equipment All players will receive a Rockies game day jersey and ball cap. The jersey must be returned at the end of the season while the hat is yours to keep. All other equipment is provided by the player. A list of required and optional player equipment can be found on our Equipment page. MORE ABOUT EQUIPMENT Key Dates Keep an eye on Key Dates on the home page for insight on what's happening when, including picture day, uniform pick up, and more! KEY DATES HERE Bonds Uniform bond - $100 – to cover the cost to replace unreturned or destroyed (beyond expected wear and tear) jerseys. Volunteer bond - $250 – your commitment to provide service or money towards the operation of the organization. MORE ABOUT BONDS Parental Requirements Parents must complete the RC Respect in Sport online course before you'll be able to register your player. Your RIS# will be valid for 3 years. All players are required to provide the following bonds. Bonds represent your commitment to: 1) return your jersey at the end of the season and 2) fulfill required volunteer hours to support the operations of SBR Bond cheques will only be cashed by SBR if the commitments are not fulfilled by the end of the season. Only post-dated cheques will be accepted. Ensure you have cheques on hand prior to uniform pick up. MORE ABOUT RESPECT IN SPORT (RIS) Become a Coach The success of our program is based on parent volunteers! If you’re interested in becoming a coach, head on over to our Coaches & Managers page to learn more and apply. MORE ABOUT COACHING AND MANAGERS

  • U15 Teams | sbrsoftball

    SBR ROCKIES U15 TEAMS All 2026 teams will be posted once announced.

  • Police Check | sbrsoftball

    Coaches and Managers must be registered with a Calgary Minor Softball district and assigned to a current team roster before applying for a police check. If you have never had a police check, or your name is on the expiry list below, you need to complete a new application. Police checks are valid for 3 years. POLICE CHECKS Calgary Minor Softball Association requires all Coaches and Managers to have a a current and valid vulnerable sector check completed to ensure the safest possible environment for our minor players. Coaches and Managers must be registered with a Calgary Minor Softball district and assigned to a current team roster before applying for a police check. If you have never had a police check, or your name is on the expiry list below, you need to complete a new application. Police checks are valid for 3 years. To begin, you'll need to request a volunteer voucher from Calgary Minor Softball. Be sure to indicate whether you are a head coach, assistant coach or manager. For complete instructions, please visit Calgary Minor Softball's Police Checks page at the link below. EXPIRED POLICE CHECK LIST POLICE CHECK INSTRUCTIONS

  • Come Try Softball | sbrsoftball

    Do you know any 5 – 12 year old athletes that are curious about softball and would like to give it a try before they commit to a season? COME TRY SOFTBALL An event for athletes aged 5 – 12 years old that are curious about softball and would like to give it a try before they commit to a season. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO CAME AND THOSE WHO VOLUNTEERED FOR OUR 2026 COME TRY SOFTBALL EVENT. WHAT A HUGE SUCCESS. SBR is hosting a FREE event for future players (U7 to U13) who have never played softball to Come Try Softball. This event aims to: Introduce kids to the foundational skills of the game Keep them moving and engaged Have a LOT of fun! The event combines basic skill development with playful gross motor challenges that will have them working hard and playing hard. Participants will be led through a series of stations by SBR player volunteers and wrap up with a softball cheer. Participants should come with: Indoor running shoes Loose clothing (leggings, sweat pants, t-shirt, etc) Softball glove (if you have one) Batting helmet (if you have one) Water bottle Participants are encouraged to bring their own softball glove, however, SBR will have some loaner gloves on hand for players who do not yet have their own glove. Feel free to bring your own bat and helmet, if you have them. SBR will provide these items at the stations if participants do not have their own. While this is a FREE event, registration is required as space is limited. If you are unable to join us after you register, please cancel your registration. DETAILS Date: February 1, 2026 Time: 9:30 - 11:30am (check in 9:00 - 9:15) Location: The Calvary FC Regional Fieldhouse 125 Fieldhouse Dr. Okotoks, AB Note: U7 (Learn to Play) is for girls born in 2019 & 2020. Learn more about the program here. U9 is for girls born in 2017 & 2018. Learn more about the program here. U11 & U13 girls born between 2013 - 2016 who are curious about the sport and haven't played before are welcome to join us. If you have any questions, reach out to us at coordinator@sbrsoftball.com . We can’t wait to welcome your child to the field and share the excitement of softball! REGISTRATION CLOSED

  • Season Information | sbrsoftball

    Unlock the excitement of the upcoming girls' softball season with our comprehensive guide! From schedules to team rosters, equipment needs to game-day strategies, find everything you need to prepare for a successful season on the diamond. Stay ahead with our latest updates, expert insights, and resources tailored to girls' softball. Whether you're a player, coach, or dedicated fan, get ready to make this season one for the record books. Explore now and gear up for a winning journey ahead! 2026 SOFTBALL SEASON REGISTRATION CLOSED Learn to Play REGISTRATION CLOSED U9 REGISTRATION CLOSED U11-19 REGISTRATION CLOSED To register for South Bow River Softball (Fastpitch) 2026 season, you will need the following information: Respect In Sport Proof of Age Document ** Please note - Division 1 ID camps took place in September and those teams have been formed. January evaluations for the 2026 season are for Divison 2 and 3 teams. ** Where do my registration fees go? Find out here . RIS Lookup LOOKUP HERE RIS Info FOR MORE INFO 2026 Age Categories NOTE* A $25 late fee will be applied to registration requests for U11 - U19 after January 25, 2026. Game nights start at 6:45pm across all Calgary Minor Softball games. Learn to Play program starts at 6:00pm. Players are expected to arrive 30 to 60 minutes prior for warm-up & preparation, based on their age category & level. 2026 Season Dates Download detailed CMSA 2026 season shedule here. Learn to Play Our Learn to Play program is run locally within SBR Softball and does not participate in a Calgary Minor Softball league play. Learn more... Equipment Players will receive a Rockies game day jersey and a ball cap. Jerseys must be returned at the end of the season. A $100 uniform bond must be committed by post-dated cheque prior to collecting jersey for the season. A list of required and optional equipment can be found on our Equipment page. Learn more... U9 The Modified game (6 players on field, home run line, Coach pitch) will be used for the U9 age category. There will be a Senior team and multiple Junior teams. Learn more... Key Dates Stay in the know about registration dates, evaluations, uniform pickup and more by referencing our Key Dates section on the home page often. Learn more... Evaluations The objective of the evaluations process is to identify all the players in an age category (U11+) that fit into the top third, middle third and bottom third of the group. All registered players for U11-U19 MUST attend at least one evaluation session. Only U13+ pitchers will be evaluated. ID camps for Division 1 (A & B level) are hosted in September. Division 2 & 3 evaluations are hosted in January of the season year. Learn more... Bonds Volunteer Bond - $450 per player. Uniform Bond - $200 per player. Only postdated cheques will be accepted. Learn more...

  • About Evaluations | sbrsoftball

    The objective of the Evaluations process is to identify all the players in an age category that fit into the top third of the group, the middle third of the group and the bottom third. EVALUATIONS METHODOLOGY Our Responsibility At SBR, we take the responsibility to provide a fair and transparent evaluation process for all players very seriously. The objective of the Evaluations process is to identify all the players in an age category that fit into the top third of the group, the middle third of the group and the bottom third. No teams have been pre-selected prior to all evaluation sessions being completed. The players selected at the ID Camp the previous fall are not automatically placed on the Division 1 team. They must evaluate at the same time and the same way as all other SBR players. How Do We Evaluate? All registered players must attend at least one evaluation session. Players may attend a second evaluation session if they feel they didn’t perform at their best AND there is capacity in the second session. A fee of $30 will be charged for the second session. That player’s overall score will be used. We do not use the best score at each station, simply the best “day”. We have 4 stations that assess the following skills: Fielding ground balls Throwing accuracy Fielding pop flies Hitting Each station has 2 - 4 evaluators assessing performance and collecting scores for each player according to a pre-set rubric. The Objective evaluators score the attempt at a station (eg. whether they hit the ball). Subjective evaluators score the overall performance of an athlete at one station (eg. do they use proper mechanics to field the ball). At times, we have coach observers on the field taking notes and watching all players' behavior and level of interest, specifically for the Division 1 teams. SBR leadership team members participate in the evaluations as well, either as evaluators or observers. If a player cannot attend either evaluation session, their evaluation scores from the previous year as well as coach ranking will be used (please see Missing Evaluations process for more information) Team Selection & Drafts Following Evaluations, each player is ranked based on the combined weighted average of their objective and subjective scores across all evaluators. Players ranking in the top 25 within each age group are provided to the Division 1 Coach to review and select between 15-25 players to come back for a second look. Callbacks are usually run more like a practice and allow the Division 1 coach to see how the players interact with each other and evaluate their technical competency and game sense. Once the Division 1 team is selected, the Board Executive tiers the remaining players onto Division 2 and Division 3 teams. The Board Executive conducts team creation in this manner to ensure that players who have earned the right to be at a certain level can play at that level. Player Information About Evaluations Evaluation Volunteers

  • U9 Teams | sbrsoftball

    SBR ROCKIES U9 TEAMS Teams will be posted once announced.

  • SBR Diamonds | sbrsoftball

    Explore our meticulously curated list of fields equipped with top-notch facilities and amenities. From well-maintained pitches to spectator-friendly seating, find the ideal setting for your team to shine. Whether you're a local squad or traveling from afar, our comprehensive guide ensures you'll find the perfect venue to play your best game. Explore now and uncover the ultimate destinations for unforgettable softball experiences. SBR DIAMONDS Diamonds are assigned to each team every year. Check the following table for 2025's diamond assignments, locations and related permits. For a bird's eye view of diamond locations, please see the map below. 2026 diamonds assignments will be out soon. Note: Some locations have multiple diamonds. Please use the 'Get Directions' link in the table and cross-reference the diamond tag to confirm correct diamond location. Helpful tip: if there's no SBR equipment box at the diamond, you're at the wrong diamond. Questions? Check our Frequently Asked Questions and then reach out to the Diamond Coordinator at diamonds@sbrsoftball.com . 2025 Diamond Assignments COMMUNITY DIAMOND ADDRESS DIAMOND TAG PERMIT CODE DIRECTIONS Auburn Bay Auburn Bay 430 Auburn Bay Dr. SE B1AUB08 AUB020 Directions Chaparral St. Sebastian (SE Diamond) 65 Chaparral Drive SE B1CHA02 CHA283 Directions Cranston Christ the King 333 Cranston Way SE B1CRA05 CRA135 Directions Deer Ridge Don Bosco (NW Diamond) 13615 Deer Ridge Drive SE B1DRG03 DRG543 Directions Douglasdale South East Douglas Park Douglas Park Blvd & Douglas Shore Close SE B1DDG09 DDG818 Directions Douglasdale Monsignor JS Smith 2919 Douglasdale Blvd. SE B1DDG01 DDG714 Directions Douglasdale Douglasdale Elementary 400 Douglas Park Blvd. SE B1DDG13 DDG746 Directions Lake Bonavista Nickel Junior High (West diamond) 2500 Lake Bonavista Drive S.E. B1LKB25 LBK482 Directions Lake Bonavista Nickle Junior High (East Diamond) 2500 Lake Bonavista Drive SE B1LKB26 LBK482 Directions Lake Bonavista St. Bonaventure Junior High (South Diamond) 1710 Acadia Drive SE B1LKB34 LBK465 Directions Legacy Legacy View/Glen Legacy Glen Terr. SE & Legacy Glen Cmn. SE B1LEG08 McKenzie Lake Mt. Park School 312 Mt. Douglas Close SE B1Mck11 MCK721 Directions McKenzie Towne St. Albert the Great School 225 Prestwick Ave SE B1MCT10 MCT821 Directions McKenzie Towne S. Prestwick Prestwick Park SE & McKenzie Towne Blvd. B1NEB08 MCT821 Directions New Brighton St. Marguerite School 1100 New Brighton Dr. SE B1NEB08 NEB702 Directions Riverbend Riverbend Community Association 19 Rivervalley Dr. SE B1RIV01 RIV880 Directions Riverbend Holy Angels Elementary 275 Riverglen Dr. SE B1RIV13 RIV848 Directions Riverbend Riverbend Drive SE (SW diamond) Riverbend Drive SE B1RIV05 Directions Riverbend Riverbend Drive SE (NE Diamond) Riverbend Drive SE B1RIV06 Directions Sundance Sundance Elementary 200 Sunmills Drive SE B1SDC20 SDC 398 Directions Sundance Centennial High School (NE Diamond) 55 Sun Valley Blvd. SE B1SDC04 SDC396 Directions Sundance Father Whelihan School 70 Sunmills Drive SE B1SDC02 SDC399 Directions

  • Contact Us | sbrsoftball

    Connect with us effortlessly! Whether you have questions, feedback, or simply want to get involved, our girls' softball team is here to assist you. Explore our contact page to find convenient ways to reach out, including email, phone, or through our online form. Experience responsive and friendly assistance as we strive to address your inquiries promptly. Join our vibrant softball community today and let's shape an exciting future together. Reach out now and let's start the conversation! CONTACT US Feedback As our SBR Association continues to grow we understand the value of feedback from our athletes, parents, volunteers and coaches. Your feedback allows us to improve our programming, and address any issues as they arise. It also allows us to recognize those people who are doing an amazing job. Therefore we would like to present this outlet as a place where you can share you feedback: Positive, comments or opportunities. Below is a link to confidential form to which you can use to share your thoughts. You can share your feedback anonymously, or provide your contact information. If you provide your contact information it will stay anonymous and it enables us to ask clarifying questions. For a formal complaint contact information is needed so that we can address the complaint, and do an investigation if warranted. SBR LEADERSHIP TEAM FEEDBACK FORM General Information For more information and general inquiries into SBR or any of the information you've seen on the site please email us today! P.O. Box 19504 3000, 356 Cranston Road SE Calgary AB T3M - 0G0 GENERAL INQUIRIES

  • Team Umpire | sbrsoftball

    It’s no secret that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to maintain a sustainable number of umpires and referees for kids’ sports. To help address this, SBR Rockies will be piloting a Bonded Umpire Program—a low-stress opportunity for parents, siblings, grandparents, or family friends to step up and make a difference. BONDED UMPIRE PROGRAM It’s no secret that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to maintain a sustainable number of umpires and referees for kids’ sports. To help address this, SBR Rockies will be piloting a Bonded Umpire Program—a low-stress opportunity for parents, siblings, grandparents, or family friends to step up and make a difference. We in the SBR Rockies association are committed to supporting the Calgary Minor Softball Association (CMSA) and the Calgary Minor Umpires Association (CMUA) in their recruitment efforts. Please review the information below and consider whether this role might be a good fit for you. You’ll also have the full backing of the SBR Board, as we are implementing a behavior management system this year for both spectators and players. This will include a newly introduced, signed SBR Rockies Code of Conduct. Advocate Policy + Alberta Softball Umpires Yellow Card Program Umpire Advocate Video JUMP TO JUNIOR UMPIRE TRAINING Disclosure One Umpire Bond will be offered to each team in the following divisions: U9, U11, U13 Div 2/3, U15 Div 2/3, U17 & U19 Div 2/3. Outcome To foster a fun, safe, and fair playing environment for players, umpires, coaches, and families. Objectives Deliver quality, confident, and consistent umpiring at Rockies home games and potentially beyond, depending on umpire participation. Successfully execute the pilot umpire program during the 2025 Spring/Summer season. When proved successful, present the program to CMSA, CMUA, and other softball affiliations with the goal of city-wide adoption. Benefits of Becoming an SBR Rockies Bonded Umpire Help resolve a pressing issue facing CMSA/CMUA by providing a low stress environment to gain experience. Which in turn will hopefully get more people to get certified under CMUA. Once certified, it will provide umpires—whether minors or adults—with a primary or secondary source of income. (This does not refer to games that fall within your bond obligation) Fulfill your SBR Rockies volunteer bond of $250. Support your daughter’s coaches by relieving them of umpiring concerns, giving them more time to mentor your players. Count your umpired games toward an official, carded umpire designation. Set a great example—your kids and peers will remember your contribution to this initiative. Bond Fulfillment Requirements Commit to umpiring the majority of your player’s SBR Rockies home games (if a CMUA umpire is not assigned). If you are unavailable for a game, it is your responsibility—not the coaches’ or manager’s—to find a replacement (either another parent or a bonded umpire). If a sibling or family friend is fulfilling the role, they must be in the age group above the player’s division (e.g., must be 16+ to umpire a U15 game). Attend the mandatory 2–2.5 hour in-person training session provided by SBR and hosted by Jim Portman, President of the Calgary Minor Umpires Association. This session will build your confidence and cover key rules and on-field positioning. You’ll also receive CMSA and Softball Canada rulebooks. Reporting A member of the coaching staff or team manager will track which games are umpired by whom. This record will determine bond fulfillment at the end of the season. How to Sign Up See below for Umpire Training Clinic information and sign up or reach out to SBR Umpire and League Support at respectthegame@sbrsoftball.com Junior Umpire Training Jim Portman (President of Calgary Minor Umpire Association) has kindly provided us with resources to help you feel confident and comfortable behind the plate, or along the base paths. These resources cover the basics of umpiring, including rules, positioning, and making confident calls. Perfect for those looking to support their team and gain a better understanding of the game. No prior experience needed! JUNIOR CLINIC POWERPOINT PRE-RECORDED JUNIOR CLINIC MODULES PRE-RECORDED DISTRICT/CLUB UMPIRE CLINIC VIDEO *Note that there are rule changes for this year, this would be useful to show at the end of the district umpire clinic video, I recorded a 13 minute video specifically for the rule changes which you can find here: Module 5 - 2024 Rule Changes.mp4 ONCE AGAIN, WE CANNOT DO THIS WITHOUT ALL OF OUR WONDERFUL VOLUNTEER UMPIRES. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO!

bottom of page