Mahtomedi Fastpitch Association Frequently Asked Questions

My daughter wants to play “softball”.  What’s the difference between softball, slowpitch and fastpitch?

A softball is the big yellow ball that is used in both the slowpitch and fastpitch sport.  The difference between slowpitch and fastpitch is the technique used when the ball is pitched to the batter.   In the MFPA, coaches pitch at the 8U level and kids start to learn the fastpitch pitching techniques once they get to the 10U level. 

How old do you have to be to start in Mahtomedi Fastpitch?

The 8U level is for girls in kindergarten through 8 years old and girls can play up until  14U when they’re ready to move on to the high school level.  Girls can start at any age, regardless if they’re new to the sport and have never played or if they’ve been playing since kindergarten.   All skill levels welcome!

What League do the Mahtomedi Fastpitch Association teams play in?

8U: Centennial Lakes League – Comprised of team from Centennial, White Bear Lake, Mahtomedi

10U & above: Tri –County Fastpitch (http://www.tricountyfastpitch.com/ )

When does the season start?

8U: Practices start in April, Games start in early May

10U: Practices start in April, Games start in early May

12U: Practices start in April, Games start in early May

14U & above: Practices start in early May, Games start in Mid-May

When are games played?

All games start at 6:00 p.m. on the following days:

8U – Tues/Thurs, one game per night

10U – Tues/Thurs, double headers

12U – Mon/Wed, double headers

14U- Tues/Thurs, double headers

How long are games?

8U: 60 minute games

10U & Above: 65 minutes or seven innings

Are there weekend Tournaments?

8U:  There is an end-of-season playoff

10U & Above: Teams generally participate in 2-3 tournaments as well as Tri-County League Qualifier and State Tournament.   Teams may qualify for National Tournament.