
Timbits Softball
Welcome to Timbits Softball!
Timbits Softball aims to introduce all young children to the joy of softball in a fun, active and positive way. The Timbits program helps little athletes to develop the foundational skills and build player confidence by providing many opportunities to touch the ball. We welcome all children born in 2016, 2017 & 2018 to participate in the 2023 softball season.
What you can expect
The Timbits program will run twice weekly for approximately 8 weeks from May 1 - June 22:
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:
-
Throw a softball
-
Catch a softball
-
Swing a bat
-
Hit a ball
-
Run the bases
-
Be part of a team
-
Have FUN!
Equipment
Each player will receive a Timbits Softball t-shirt and baseball hat included in their registration fee. At the end of the season, they will also receive a sport medal. Players will provide their own:
-
Softball glove
-
Batting helmet with cage
-
Running shoes or baseball cleats
-
Fielder’s mask (optional in Timbits, but recommended to reduce fear of catching while building confidence in the skill)
-
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 on the Equipment page.
Try before you commit
Each year, SBR hosts a ‘Come Try Softball’ event prior to the season kick off, where children are immersed in the fundamental skills of the game in a fun and interactive way. Mark your calendar for March 11, 2023 and watch for more information about how to register for this event on the website as well as on social media.
Volunteer coaches are key to the success of the program
Interested in coaching? We’d love to have you! Find more information under ‘Coaches and Managers’ here.
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.
Softball Canada has also launched a Timbits Softball e-Clinic to help you feel confident taking the field this season to deliver a successful experience.
SBR also supports coaches with training opportunities and mentorship. Many parents will begin coaching at the Timbits level and progress as their child progresses. See Coach Info & Training for current opportunities.
Key Dates
Registration Opens - December 3, 2022
Come Try Softball Event - March 11, 2023
Registration Closes - April 15, 2023
Player Picture Day - May 10 & 11, 2023
Season begins - May 1, 2023
Season ends - June 22, 2023
FAQs
What is the cost?
-
The cost is $150.
When does registration close?
-
Timbits registration will close on April 15. You can register here.
When does the season start?
-
The 2022 season will kick off on Monday, May 1 and finish by Thursday, June 22.
How often do they play?
-
Timbits will play 2 days per week.
-
Players have the choice to register on Mondays & Wednesdays OR Tuesdays & Thursdays.
What times do they play?
-
Players should arrive and be ready to participate at 6:00PM. They will practice foundational skills for the first 45 minutes and then play a mini-game against another SBR Timbits team for the second half of the evening program.
Which diamonds do we play at?
-
The Timbits program takes place at the Riverbend Diamonds near 180 Riverbend Dr SE. Click here for directions.
What happens to cancelled sessions (due to weather)?
-
Cancelled games will not be rescheduled. On average, 1-2 evenings are cancelled due to weather.
Where do I buy equipment?
-
You can purchase most softball equipment at any major sporting goods store.
What kind of glove should I look for?
-
Make sure to purchase a softball glove (rather than a baseball glove) as they have a larger pocket to accommodate the larger softballs. Check out this guide to learn more and visit your local sporting goods store for sizing.
-
Reminder: your child will wear their glove on the non-dominant hand! Eg. if your child writes (and throws) with their right hand, they'll wear the softball glove on their left hand.
-
Look for a softer leather that your player can squeeze.
-
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 10" softball.
What size softball do they play with?
-
Timbits uses an 10” training softball, which has a bit more ‘squish’ compared to a regular softball and helps to build confidence while developing skills.
-
Look for the Rawlings Reduced Injury Factor or 10” (NC10S) softballs.
I have questions. Who can I talk to?
-
Feel free to email the Learn to Play Coordinator at learntoplay@sbrsoftball.com