Q: What is fastball?
A:Description from Softball Ontario
Q:How long does the season last?
A:The outdoor spring season lasts from mid April until the end of June. Some teams that participate in tournaments and provincials may play into July.
KMFA has been working on building a fall season. Typically the games/practices are held Sept/Oct but may start as early as midaugust depending on the season.
We try to host winter indoor practices for U10 - U19, these typically lasts from January until March (ending just before school spring break.)
Q:Where are games played?
A: U6 & U8 practices are held on school fields (often George Hilliard and Ralph Bell, depending on field availability) and the final fun day is typcailly held at Albert McGowan.
U10 is played at a variety of fields
U12 and older play at Exhibition Park/Charles Anderson as well as travelling to nearby communitites such as Barriere and Merritt for league games
Q: What equipment is needed?
A: A softball glove, helmet with cage, fielders mask and cleats or good runners. Players in U12 and older are also required to wear a facemask while playing on the infield. KMFA supplies bats and catchers gear, although some players do choose to purchase their own.
Q: Where can I get equipment?
A: In Kamloops you can shop at Players Bench, Consignor Sports, Sport Chek and any store that carries sporting equipment. KMFA tries to hold an annual gear swap prior to the beginning of the season. If you cannot find what you are looking for, MVP Athletic Supply in Langley is also a great resource.
Q:Who can play for KMFA?
A: Kamloops Minor Fastball accepts kids of all skill levels from ages 5 - 19 (as of December 31st of the current year)
Q:How can I register?
A: Nearly all of our registration takes place through our website, look for the 'Registration' tab at the top of the screen or in the mobile drop down menu.
Q: What if a player doesn't have or has forgotten their Softball BC number?
A: You can sign up for a lifetime membership (just $10) or search for your number - HERE.
This is required for all players and coaches.
Q: Do younger kids hit off a tee? Is this tee ball?
A: A tee is a really great training tool which coaches at all levels tend to utilize. However KMFA does try to introduce players to pitching as soon as possible. At the youngest levels, coaches start by pitching to kids and as they get older players will start to develop pitching skills and pitch to one another. The goal is to ensure that kids feel successful, have fun and find a love for the game.
Q: Is parent participation required?
A: Yes! When players are starting out, coaches need help on the field from parents.
Q: How can a parent/adult get involved?
A: KMFA is a volunteer run association, without volunteers such as yourself, we would not be able to support our young athletes. Becoming a board director is a great way to help out, other opportunities include (but not limited to); coaching, managing a team, score keeping, event organizing, and helping at our annual tournament. If everyone does a little we are able to accomplish a lot! Email president@kamloopsminorfastball.com for more information.
Q: Is it safe to play fastball during a pandemic?
A: Yes! KMFA in partnership with Softball BC and Viasport are doing everything to ensure players safety amidst the covid 19 pandemic. We have safety precautions in place, including an up to date safety plan and adhere to EVERY procedure required.