Frequently Asked Questions

What ages are players eligible for charge fastpitch?

• Charge fields teams in 14U and 16U. Tryouts are held near the beginning of August every year. Coaches may hold make up tryouts at their discretion.

What age group is my player in?

• A player's softball age  is the age of the player on September 1 of the calendar year in which they are playing.

How many games do the travel teams play?

• Each team's schedule will vary. The major difference in the number of games between rec and travel is that rec teams play single games, and travel teams play double headers and tournaments. Over the course of the calendar year Charge teams play 20 - 30 softball games.

How long is the season?

• September - Director enters players for the  season into USA softball program. Fall Ball begins for our 14U team.

• October  - Off season strength and conditioning begins at North Idaho Athletic Club twice a month, and continues through February.

• September - February - Indoor practices begin twice a month at a facility in Colfax, Pullman, or Moscow. 

• March - 14U begins more regular practices and first tournament. 18U players begin High School seasons.

• April - May - 14U plays 2 - 3 tournaments and competes in 1- 3 scrimmages depending on field availability.

• June - July - 14U plays 2 - 3 tournaments and 18U plays 3 - 4 tournaments. Occassionally both teams may scrimmage.

• August - Tryouts, first or second week of August. Charge players are encouraged to take this month off of softball.

We have an annual vacation over the summer.  Does this measn a player should not try out?

• We ask that players are fully committed to the teams while "in season." With that, exceptions can be made. Let the coach know as early as possible about vacation plans so tournaments can be scheduled.

What family commitments are expected?

• Charge does two fundraisers a year, and seeks sponsorships to defray costs. It is expected that all families participate in the fundraisers and help with finding sponsors. Without this the cost to play would increase for all players.

How much does it cost to play for Charge Fastpitch?

• Charge Fastpitch registration fees are $250 plus $200 in fundraising or sponsorship funds. Familes must pay $25 upon being selected for a team to reserve a players spot. The remaining balance is due at various dates prior to the start of the season.*Other costs of travel softball will be paying for player equipment and possibly hotel rooms, depending on where the tournaments are scheduled.

  • *These dates are determined by Director and Board in August of each year.

  • *If a player joins after uniforms are ordered there will be a $150 cost for uniforms.

If a travel player pulls out midseason will a refund be provided?

• Unfortunately, there are no refunds. Charge makes a commitment to the players who commit to the team when they are selected. The decision to include palyers on the team is based on filing an entire roster and includes factors such as player positions, experience, character, and team make-up. Some girls are turned away because there are not enough spots on a team. It is unfair to the girls who did not make the team, the remaining girls, families, coaches, and organization when players abandon the team after the player year has begun in September. Most of the fees are for the practice facility, field equipment and maintance, uniforms, USA Softball Insurance, and tournament dues are incurred upfront.

How far does Charge Fastpitch travel to tournaments?

• Each team's schedule will vary. The teams typically travel locally around the state. Occasionally teams will travel to a tournament that requires a hotel, please check with your coach about tournament schedule. 

How much playing time will a player get?

• In travel softball, playing time for each player will depend on several variables including but not limited to: attitude, ability, performance at practice and games, and hustle. There is no guaranteed playing time or batting order. The Head Coach makes all decision on playing time. 

Can a travel softball player participate in other sports throughout the year?

• Yes, and it is encouraged in the off season, September - March. The player is expected to be committed when their Charge team is in season. We understand that players on 14U and 16U may also play softball in rec league and for a high school or middle school, and the coaches of Charge will set expectations at the beginning of the season for those players.