RSPA Info Package 2024
Updated April 4, 2024All info is still subject to change due to the merger of SPN and SPOA.
1. Welcome to RSPA Slo-Pitch for 2024!
RSPA is a coed (7M + 3F) non-profit, slo-pitch league for adults (16+/18+) based in Mississauga and Etobicoke.The League is entering its 40th year, and offers all levels from competitive to fun divisions.
RSPA also offers a Mens Masters 50+ Rec/Int division on Wednesday nights. - Masters 50+
No matter what the skill level, we have a division for you!
2. Table of Contents/This Package Contains:
- Welcome to RSPA Coed Slo-Pitch for 2024!
- Table of Contents/This Package Contains
- RSPA League Calendar/Schedule 2024
- RSPA 2024 League Executive
- RSPA League Fees for 2024
- RSPA Receipts/Write-Offs
- What do RSPA League Fees Include
- First Team Rep Meeting - Tuesday, April 9, 2024
- Final Team Rep Meeting - Tuesday, April 30, 2024
- What's New For 2024
- What Will Be Stressed for 2024
- Team Requirements
- RSPA Team Suggestions/Hints
- RSPA New Team Rep Suggestions/Hints
- How To Start a New Team
- Frequently Asked Questions for New Teams
- Team Information Form
- Team Park/Night Request Form
- Parks/Diamonds — Nights & Maps
- RSPA League Schedules
- RSPA Schedule Dates with No Games
- RSPA Divisions/Levels of Play
- RSPA Tentative Divisions for 2024
- RSPA League Rules
- RSPA Master 50+ Rules
- RSPA Bat Rules
- Protective Equipment Statement
- RSPA League Rule Changes for 2024
- RSPA League Rules to be Stressed for 2024
- Zero Tolerance/Incidents
- RSPA Game Report Forms
- RSPA/SPN Rosters
- RSPA 2024 Summer Slo-Pitch Tournaments
• (Saturday, one-day) • May 4 • June 8
• July 6 • July 20 • August 17
• September 21 • September 28 • 2024. - Fall Ball and Dome Tournaments/Leagues
- SPN Provincial Championships
- Slo-Pitch Tournament Players
- RSPA New Player List
- New Player Open Practices
- Frequently Asked Questions for New Players
- RSPA All-Star Night - Friday, July 12, 2024
- RSPA Banquet & Awards Dance
• Saturday, Oct 19 • Saturday, Oct 26 • Saturday, Nov 2 - Other RSPA Social Activities
- RSPA Umpires
- RSPA Team Sponsors
- RSPA Constitution & By-Laws
- RSPA on the Internet
3. RSPA League Calendar / Schedule 2024
www.slopitch1.com/rspa/calendar.htmlAll dates are subject to change due to the merger of SPN and SPOA.
February
March
2024
March
2024
Contact Existing & Potential New Teams:
All existing teams and potential new teams will be contacted by the end of March;
If you have not been contacted, or if you know of any potential new teams or players looking for a team, please contact the League.
— RSPA Info Package
— New Team Info
— Team Info/Application Form pdf
— New Player Looking For A Team Info
Tuesday
April 9
April 9
First Team Rep Meeting: —
RSPA Meeting Info;
RSPA first team rep meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 9, drop-in style, anytime from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
RSPA MEETING: A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND one of the RSPA league meetings.
RSPA deadline for initial team deposit and team info forms.
Pre-order your equipment to be picked up at either RSPA meeting: RSPA Equipment Order Form
Confirm team entries; hand in Team Info forms; vote for 2024 League Executive, deposit required. RSPA Meeting Info
RSPA first team rep meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 9, drop-in style, anytime from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
RSPA MEETING: A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND one of the RSPA league meetings.
RSPA deadline for initial team deposit and team info forms.
Pre-order your equipment to be picked up at either RSPA meeting: RSPA Equipment Order Form
Confirm team entries; hand in Team Info forms; vote for 2024 League Executive, deposit required. RSPA Meeting Info
Sunday
April 14
April 14
RSPA Sunday Open Practice - for new players Sunday morning 10:00 am to 12:00 noon,
(weather & field conditions permitting),
2024: Sunday, April 14 • Sunday, April 21 • Sunday, April 28 • last practice Sunday, May 5.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
2024: Sunday, April 14 • Sunday, April 21 • Sunday, April 28 • last practice Sunday, May 5.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
Thursday
April 18
April 18
RSPA Thursday Open Practice
— Practices for new players Thursday night, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm (weather permitting),
2024: Thursday, April 18 • Thursday, April 25 • Thursday, May 2.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
2024: Thursday, April 18 • Thursday, April 25 • Thursday, May 2.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
Sunday
April 21
April 21
RSPA Sunday Open Practice - for new players Sunday morning 10:00 am to 12:00 noon,
(weather & field conditions permitting),
2024: Sunday, April 14 • Sunday, April 21 • Sunday, April 28 • Sunday, May 5.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
2024: Sunday, April 14 • Sunday, April 21 • Sunday, April 28 • Sunday, May 5.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
Thursday
April 25
April 25
RSPA Thursday Open Practice
— Practices for new players Thursday night, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm (weather permitting),
2024: Thursday, April 18 • Thursday, April 25 • Thursday, May 2.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
2024: Thursday, April 18 • Thursday, April 25 • Thursday, May 2.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
Sunday
April 28
April 28
RSPA Sunday Open Practice - for new players Sunday morning 10:00 am to 12:00 noon,
(weather & field conditions permitting),
2024: Sunday, April 14 • Sunday, April 21 • Sunday, April 28 • Sunday, May 5.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
2024: Sunday, April 14 • Sunday, April 21 • Sunday, April 28 • Sunday, May 5.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
Tuesday
April 30
April 30
Final Team Rep Meeting: —
RSPA Meeting Info & Map
RSPA final team rep meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, drop-in style, anytime from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
RSPA MEETING: A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND one of the RSPA league meetings.
LOCATION - The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Pick up balls, schedules, forms, etc. Second deposit is required.
RSPA final team rep meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, drop-in style, anytime from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
RSPA MEETING: A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND one of the RSPA league meetings.
LOCATION - The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Pick up balls, schedules, forms, etc. Second deposit is required.
Wednesday
May 1
6:00 pm
May 1
6:00 pm
RSPA/SPN Umpires Clinic: tentatively Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 6:00 pm;
LOCATION - The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Umpires clinic, review rules, write tests. Anyone wishing to become a carded umpire should contact the League.
E-mail: accent@slopitch1.com - RSPA Umpire's Page
LOCATION - The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Umpires clinic, review rules, write tests. Anyone wishing to become a carded umpire should contact the League.
E-mail: accent@slopitch1.com - RSPA Umpire's Page
Thursday
May 2
May 2
RSPA Thursday Open Practice
— Practices for new players Thursday night, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm (weather permitting),
2024: Thursday, April 18 • Thursday, April 25 • Thursday, May 2.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
2024: Thursday, April 18 • Thursday, April 25 • Thursday, May 2.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
Saturday
(one-day)
May 4
(one-day)
May 4
RSPA Spring Slo-Pitch Tournament - May 4, Saturday, one-day: open for all league teams and open to outside teams.
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+ Rec/Int. - ADDED LADIES D, E.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+ Rec/Int. - ADDED LADIES D, E.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Sunday
May 5
May 5
RSPA Sunday Final Open Practice - for new players Sunday morning 10:00 am to 12:00 noon,
(weather & field conditions permitting),
2024: Sunday, April 14 • Sunday, April 21 • Sunday, April 28 • Sunday, May 5.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
2024: Sunday, April 14 • Sunday, April 21 • Sunday, April 28 • Sunday, May 5.
By invitation only, prefer females, couples and high level males, park TBA.
Email accent@slopitch1.com -- practice info -- new player info
Monday
May 6
May 6
RSPA 2024 Regular Season starts Monday, May 6, 2024.
RSPA 2024 Schedule - coming soon — RSPA Parks & Maps
RSPA 2023 Final Standings — RSPA 2024 Preliminary Divisions/Standings
RSPA 2024 Schedule - coming soon — RSPA Parks & Maps
RSPA 2023 Final Standings — RSPA 2024 Preliminary Divisions/Standings
Monday
May 13
May 13
SPN official on-line roster is due in by Monday, May 13 (no exceptions).
Changes may be made after this date until July 15. Roster changes after July 15 require League approval. RSPA Roster Info
Changes may be made after this date until July 15. Roster changes after July 15 require League approval. RSPA Roster Info
Friday
May 17
May 17
Victoria Day holiday long weekend.
RSPA Friday night games are optional.
RSPA Friday night games are optional.
Monday
May 20
May 20
Victoria Day holiday long weekend.
RSPA Monday night games are optional.
RSPA Monday night games are optional.
Friday
May 24
May 24
First scheduled RSPA Dunton party Friday night.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
Friday
May 31
May 31
RSPA Dunton party Friday night.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
Monday
June 2
June 2
RSPA League payment is due.
We are the only league that allows team reps until June to collect money from teammates.
We highly recommend that payments be made by post-dated cheques at the league meetings.
Wednesday
June 5
June 5
RSPA Umpires Meeting:
Umpires schedules and review League rules. Free beer and wings for umpires who attend.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Umpires schedules and review League rules. Free beer and wings for umpires who attend.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Saturday
(one-day)
June 8
(one-day)
June 8
RSPA Slo-Pitch Tournament: open for all league teams and open to outside teams;
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+, 60+.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+, 60+.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
June 13
to July 11
to July 11
Doubleheaders: Doubleheaders scheduled on unlit diamonds from June 13 to July 11.
Time limit will be in effect.
Time limit will be in effect.
Friday
June 14
June 14
RSPA Dunton party Friday night.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
Monday
June 17
June 17
Uniform Deadline: Deadline for players to be in uniforms.
RSPA has a preferred uniform supplier:
Home Run Sports, 1911 Dundas Street East, Unit 15/16, Mississauga ON L4X 1M1 — MAP
Home Run Sports, 1911 Dundas Street East, Unit 15/16, Mississauga ON L4X 1M1 — MAP
Friday
June 21
June 21
RSPA Dunton party Friday night.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
Friday
June 28
June 28
Canada Day holiday long weekend.
RSPA Friday games are optional.
RSPA Friday games are optional.
Monday
July 1
July 1
Canada Day holiday long weekend.
RSPA Monday night games are optional.
RSPA Monday night games are optional.
Wednesday
July 3
July 3
RSPA Umpires Meeting:
Umpires schedules and review League rules. Free beer and wings for umpires who attend.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Umpires schedules and review League rules. Free beer and wings for umpires who attend.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Saturday
(one-day)
July 6
(one-day)
July 6
RSPA Slo-Pitch Tournament:
Slo-pitch tournament open for all league teams and open to outside teams;
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+, 60+.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+, 60+.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
June 13
to July 11
to July 11
Doubleheaders: Doubleheaders scheduled on unlit diamonds from June 13 to July 11.
Time limit will be in effect.
Time limit will be in effect.
Friday
July 12
July 12
RSPA League All-Star Night & Barbecue:
League All-Star Night & Free Barbecue —
Paul Coffee Park (formerly Wildwood Park) on Friday, July 12, 6:30 pm.
(will have available slots for late entries)
Includes: free barbecue, home run contest (male & female), baserunning contest (male & female),
team throwing contest, individual throwing contest, pitching contest, etc. — an amazing night!
— All-Star Night info and map
Monday
July 15
July 15
RSPA final Roster Deadline — Monday, July 15
— Deadline for team roster to be frozen.
Roster changes after this date require League approval.
Roster changes after this date require League approval.
Saturday
(one-day)
July 20
(one-day)
July 20
RSPA Slo-Pitch Tournament:
Slo-pitch tournament open for all league teams and open to outside teams;
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+ Rec/Int.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+ Rec/Int.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Friday
July 26
July 26
RSPA Dunton party Friday night.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
Wednesday
July 31
July 31
RSPA Umpires Meeting:
Umpires schedules and review League rules. Free beer and wings for umpires who attend.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Umpires schedules and review League rules. Free beer and wings for umpires who attend.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Thursday
August 1
August 1
RSPA banquet deposit payment is due; All teams are required to purchase a minimum of four (4) tickets.
This is a separate payment and is due August 1, 2024. (4 tickets at $60.00 = $240 deposit).
This is a separate payment and is due August 1, 2024. (4 tickets at $60.00 = $240 deposit).
Friday
August 2
August 2
Civic holiday long weekend. Also SPN National Championships.
RSPA Friday games are optional.
RSPA Friday games are optional.
Monday
August 5
August 5
Civic Day long weekend. RSPA Monday games are optional.
SPN National Championships (across Canada, including Brampton).
SPN National Championships (across Canada, including Brampton).
Friday
August 9
August 9
RSPA LAST scheduled Dunton party Friday night.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
RSPA Friday theme night: Latino night, Asian Night (with Latino music), Tier 1 night, etc.
Saturday
(one-day)
August 17
(one-day)
August 17
RSPA Slo-Pitch Tournament:
Slo-pitch tournament open for all league teams and open to outside teams;
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+ Rec/Int.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+ Rec/Int.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Monday
August 18
August 18
RSPA League 2024 Playoffs Start:
Playoffs start approximately Monday, August 18 and finish late September, (maybe early October).
Playoffs start approximately Monday, August 18 and finish late September, (maybe early October).
Friday
August 23
August 23
If you need this Friday off because of SPN Masters Provincials,
you must request it scheduled off at least 3 weeks in advance.
Only ONE Friday request off allowed per team.
Fri-Sat-Sun
Aug 23-24-25
Aug 23-24-25
SPN Masters Provincial Championships in Niagara Falls.
August 23-24-25, Friday-Saturday-Sunday.
August 23-24-25, Friday-Saturday-Sunday.
Thursday
August 29
August 29
RSPA Umpires Meeting & Umpires Appreciation Night:
Umpires schedules and review League rules. Free beer and wings for umpires who attend. Umpire appreciation gift!
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Umpires schedules and review League rules. Free beer and wings for umpires who attend. Umpire appreciation gift!
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Friday
August 30
August 30
RSPA Friday games are optional.
Labour Day long weekend.
Labour Day long weekend.
Sat-Sun-Mon
Aug 31-Sept 2
Aug 31-Sept 2
SPN Coed Provincial Championships: Divisions: Coed (6M + 4F) - Comp, Comp, C, D, E, F.
Saturday-Sunday-Monday, August 31-September 2. Labour Day long weekend. No Friday games.
SPN Provincial Championships dates and divisions may change as a result of SPN-SPOA merger!
Saturday-Sunday-Monday, August 31-September 2. Labour Day long weekend. No Friday games.
SPN Provincial Championships dates and divisions may change as a result of SPN-SPOA merger!
Monday
September 2
September 2
Labour Day long weekend. RSPA Monday games are optional.
SPN Coed Provincial Championships in BRAMPTON.
SPN Coed Provincial Championships in BRAMPTON.
Friday
September 6
September 6
If you need this Friday off because of SPN Provincial Championships,
you must request it scheduled off at least 3 weeks in advance.
Only ONE Friday request off allowed per team.
Fri-Sat-Sun
Sept 6-7-8
Sept 6-7-8
SPN Provincial Championships in Niagara Falls. September 6-7-8, Friday-Saturday-Sunday.
Mens C & Mens D & Womens D & Womens E.
SPN Provincial Championships dates and divisions may change as a result of SPN-SPOA merger!
SPN Provincial Championships dates and divisions may change as a result of SPN-SPOA merger!
Friday
September 13
September 13
If you need this Friday off because of SPN Provincial Championships,
you must request it scheduled off at least 3 weeks in advance.
Only ONE Friday request off allowed per team.
Fri-Sat-Sun
Sept 13-14-15
Sept 13-14-15
SPN Provincial Championships in Niagara Falls.
Friday-Saturday-Sunday, September 13-14-15.
Mens A, B & E & Mens Seniors 55+ & 60+; Womens A, B & C & Womens Masters 50+.
SPN Provincial Championships dates and divisions may change as a result of SPN-SPOA merger!
Mens A, B & E & Mens Seniors 55+ & 60+; Womens A, B & C & Womens Masters 50+.
SPN Provincial Championships dates and divisions may change as a result of SPN-SPOA merger!
Saturday
(one-day)
Sept 21
(one-day)
Sept 21
RSPA Slo-Pitch Tournament:
Slo-pitch tournament open for all league teams and open to outside teams.
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+, 60+.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+, 60+.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Wednesday
September 25
September 25
Final RSPA Umpires Meeting:
Free beer and wings for umpires who attend.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Free beer and wings for umpires who attend.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
Saturday
(one-day)
September 28
(one-day)
September 28
RSPA Slo-Pitch Tournament:
Slo-pitch tournament open for all league teams and open to outside teams.
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+, 60+.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Divisions: Coed D, E, F (6M-4F) - Mens D & E - Mens Masters 50+, 60+.
Slo-Pitch Tournament Info — Tournament Flyer — Frequently asked questions for tournaments
Saturday
October 19
October 26
November 2.
October 19
October 26
November 2.
RSPA 2024 Banquet and Awards Dance
with open bar is split into THREE (3) great nights.
A great party to end the season with open bar, all you can eat buffet and tons of DOOR PRIZES!
LOCATION: Lions Banquet Hall, 45 Avondale Blvd, Brampton, ON L6T 1H1 map
RSPA Banquet Info & Map
A great party to end the season with open bar, all you can eat buffet and tons of DOOR PRIZES!
LOCATION: Lions Banquet Hall, 45 Avondale Blvd, Brampton, ON L6T 1H1 map
RSPA Banquet Info & Map
4. RSPA 2024 League Executive
One of the requirements for our league status is that the league executive must be elected. A vote will be taken at the first League meeting. Any player wishing to run for the League Executive, or wishing to help out with any of the functions, please contact the league.RSPA Executive 2024 Ballot
Proposed RSPA 2024 League Executive:
President: Randy Warren
e-mail preferred: accent@slopitch1.com
Cell: 416-930-6124
Krista Currie - Secretary
Terry Jackson - Executive Assistant
Irene Quon - Executive Assistant
Joe Vu - Executive Assistant
Eric Vale - RSPA Umpire-in-Chief
5. RSPA League Fees for 2024
With further increases in park fees, insurance, SPN registration, umpires and other costs, the RSPA team fees:Returning teams league fees are $1800.00, still one of the lowest league fees in the GTA and a great value for what is included.
New teams pay $1800.00 and are not required to pay the new team fee.
RSPA league fees includes parks, permits, insurance, SPN registration, carded umpires, game balls
and also subsidizes the league banquet, All-Star night, Dunton party nights, etc.
As well, all teams MUST PAY:
Tournament Fee: all teams - due June 10 — $ 400.00 (One RSPA tournament is mandatory for all league teams)
Banquet deposit is MANDATORY for 2024, and tickets will sell out quickly. Only THREE banquets for 2024.
Banquet deposit is minimum 4 tickets per team $240 required for 2024.
PLEASE NOTE: The tournament fee and banquet deposit are an integral part of the league and the league fees. We only keep them separate for financial control reasons. If your team is not prepared to pay tournament and banquet fees, please find another league.
Due | Returning Team | New Team | Payment |
April 9, 2024 | $300.00 | $300.00 | 1st payment |
April 30, 2024 | $500.00 | $500.00 | 2nd payment |
June 1, 2024 | $1000.00 | $1000.00 | 3rd payment |
LEAGUE FEES: | $ 1800.00 | $ 1800.00 | League fees |
plus | |||
June 8, 2024 | $400.00 | $400.00 | Tournament fee |
August 1, 2024 | $ 240.00 | $ 240.00 | Banquet deposit |
TOTAL | $ 2440.00 | $ 2440.00 |
- RSPA league fees are payable by cheque, money order, cash or Interac money transfer.
- No debit cards, Mastercard or Visa accepted.
- Cheques are payable to RSPA.
- Post-dated cheques are recommended for final payment & tournament.
- $20 fine for all late payments.
Teams with late payments will NOT be scheduled. - League fines for game defaults $50 first time, $100 for 2nd time, $200 for 3rd game default.
- League fines $10 for uniform fine or no bases, no pitching mat or no game ball.
- All default fines and late payment fines will be strictly enforced.
All fees and fines must be paid before play-offs start or teams do not play. - Any team that does not get league fees and payments to the league on time will be fined and suspended.
- It is YOUR responsibility to get the fees in. It is not our responsibility to chase you for it.
- Invoices and/or receipts are available. Somebody on your team may be able to write it off.
- League deposit payments are non-refundable.
6. RSPA Receipts/Write-Offs
Did you know that you, or someone on your team can write off all or a portion of the RSPA league fees?Receipts are available made out to the person or company of your choice.
7. What do RSPA League Fees Include
What do your RSPA League fees include? and where does the money go?Parks, permits, liability insurance, SPN carded umpires, game balls are supplied, web site, league awards,
RSPA Banquet & Awards Dance, All-Star Night & Free Barbecue and other social activites.
Also, the RSPA League banquet is subsidized (did you really think we could have all you can eat, all you can drink, open bar and give away all those door prizes including large screen HD TV's, microwaves, Kuerigs, etc. for $60 per person?)
8. First Team Rep Meeting - Tuesday, April 9, 2024
The first RSPA League meeting for team reps is scheduled for Tuesday, April 9, 2024.Meeting will be drop-in style, anytime from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm,
at The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
RSPA First Meeting Agenda
The team rep meeting is for team reps only (not players looking for a team).
RSPA MEETING: A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND one of the RSPA league meetings.
At This Meeting: RSPA team reps will review RSPA League info for 2024; confirm team entry; pick-up SPN package, including rule book and scorebook; RSPA Info Package; pick up balls; submit team contact info; preliminary park & night preferences.
• Vote for your RSPA 2024 League Executive.
• Baseball equipment will be available for sale - RSPA Equipment Order Form
RSPA Meeting Info
League deposit required - $300 for new team; $300 for returning team;
Payments by cash, cheque or Interac email money transfer (no debit or credit cards).
We strongly recommend leaving post-dated cheques for final payment and tournament fee.
Late payment of fees will result in late payment fines and automatic suspension of schedule.
Please Note: If team package and balls are not picked up by June 10, they will be defaulted.
Every team rep who attends the meeting will be given
an RSPA and/or SPN T-shirt (and maybe other gifts, while supplies last).
PLUS - team rep appreciation draw;
one team rep will win a bat for team rep appreciation.
Equipment will be available for sale at the meeting:
- bases, bats, extra balls, pitching mat, used ball gloves, etc.
We have a bunch of used gloves available - dirt cheap!
Pre-order your equipment: RSPA Equipment Order Form
Pitching mats will be without the cutout for home plate (the plate will be a strike).
New mats will be available for sale at both league meetings.
Old mats with cutout may still be used for 2024 with cutout placed over homeplate.
Bat specials! Best prices anywhere. While supplies last.
Bat and equipment special pricing only available at the meeting!
RSPA Team Rep Meeting - Checklist:
Read all new RSPA information |
• RSPA Info;
• RSPA Complete Info Package;
• RSPA Rules;
• RSPA Parks;
• RSPA Calendar; • RSPA Team FAQ; • RSPA New Team Info. |
Submit RSPA Team Info Forms | RSPA Team Info Forms |
Vote for 2024 RSPA Executive | RSPA Executive 2024 Ballot |
Submit first RSPA league payment |
Submit first RSPA league payment by Interac email money transfer to accent@slopitch1.com.
See above for RSPA 2024 League Fees. |
Pre-order any equipment | RSPA Equipment Order Form |
9. Final Team Rep Meeting - Tuesday, April 30, 2024
The Final RSPA League meeting for team reps is scheduled for Tuesday, April 30, 2024.Meeting will be drop-in style, anytime from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm,
at The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map
RSPA MEETING: A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND one of the RSPA league meetings.
At This Meeting:
RSPA team reps will review RSPA League info for 2024; confirm team entry; pick-up RSPA Info Package; SPN package, including rule book, scorebook, etc., pick up balls; submit team contact info; preliminary park & night preferences.
RSPA Final Meeting Agenda
League payment required - League fee payment (second payment) is required - $500.00
Payments by cash, cheque or Interac email money transfer (no debit or credit cards).
We strongly recommend leaving post-dated cheques for final payment, tournament fee and banquet deposit.
Late payment of fees will result in late payment fines and automatic suspension of schedule.
EQUIPMENT: will be available for sale at the meeting
- bases, bats, extra balls, pitching mat, uniforms, used ball gloves, etc.
Pre-order your equipment: RSPA Equipment Order Form
Please Note: If team package and balls are not picked up by June 8, they will be defaulted. RSPA Meeting Info
10. What's New For 2024
All info is subject to change due to the merger of SPN and SPOA.RSPA Rule Changes for 2024: subject to change due to the merger of SPN and SPOA.
• If you have any suggested rule changes please submit them. E-mail: accent@slopitch1.com
• We will discuss the following possible rule change:
- going to 1 and 1 count.
- using "big ball-small ball".
- home run rule change from an out to a single.
See RSPA League Rules.
RSPA MEETING: A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND one of the RSPA league meetings.
• 2022: RSPA will now use a full pitching mat with no cut out (covering homeplate/homeplate will be a strike)
• 2022: If available, we will allow the use of a strike zone BOARD.
New mats will be available for sale at both league meetings.
But you can still use the old mat, just place it over the homeplate.
• 2022: Walk off home run will be allowed if EITHER team REQUESTS it. No out called for untouched base.
• Team photo required again for 2024. Make sure you take and submit your team photo.
ROSTERS - Random roster checks on all playoff games.
Teams must submit playoff eligible roster.
Even more stringent on rosters completed and roster checks.
We told everyone about roster checks last year and still teams were eiminated from playoffs for roster violations.
• No more SPN "Player Pool Roster" and RSPA "League/Event Roster" - all one roster now.
RSPA MEETING: A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND one of the RSPA league meetings.
TEAM PICTURE - Team photos are required again for 2024.
Considering fine or penalty for no team photo or failure to respond to league emails.
RSPA SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
All RSPA social activities including All-Star Night, banquets, and Friday Dunton parties are back for 2024.
Friday Dunton Parties: with several theme nights including Latino night, Asian night and Tier 1 night with FREE barbecue etc.
Select from several tentative/available Friday dates:
Friday, May 24, May 31, June 14, June 21, July 26 & August 9.
Pick your Friday night now before they are all booked.
Si usted puede entender esto, usted está invitado a la barbacoa de viernes por la noche
en el Parque Dunton para los equipos latinos. Ooh qué noche!
RSPA All-Star Night Friday, July 12 will include FREE BARBECUE and home run hitting contest (male & female),
base running (male & female), pitching contest, individual and team throwing contests, games, etc.
RSPA Tournaments: (Saturday, one-day) • May 4 • June 8 • July 6 • July 20 • August 17 • September 21 • September 28.
SPN-SPOA Merged Coed Provincial Championships - REVISED FOR 2024!
They have increased the number of Provincials with two separate Coed Provincials. SPN-SPOA Play Slo-Pitch 2024 Provincial Championships
• The "regular" coed provincials that we are used to is now held earlier in the year August 10-11, Saturday-Sunday only.
and is located in Slo-Pitch City in Dorchester/London. And no Coed F.
• A second coed provincials is held in Brampton on the Labour Day weekend as usual
August 31-September 1. Labour Day long weekend. Two days Saturday-Sunday only.
No Friday games. Sesquicentennial Park, Brampton. With division Coed F.
- But will now be SPOA style with "big ball-small ball".
Female batters will be pitched to with the Ladies 11" softball while male batters will use the regular 12" softball.
RSPA Awards Banquet and Dances:
3 banquets - Saturday, October 19 and Saturday, October 26 and Saturday, November 2, 2024.
RSPA banquets are mandatory for 2024 but only THREE dates so will sell out fast.
Teams MUST respond and confirm to banquet emails and banquet dates will be set for every team.
All teams must pay the $240 banquet deposit (4 tickets) before they are eligible for the RSPA playoffs.
A great party to end the season with great food, drinks, dancing and door prizes!
RSPA Umpires: Always need more umpires. We will train. RSPA Umpire clinic Wednesday, May 1.
Mens Masters 50+: RSPA has a Mens Masters 50+E/Int division on Wednesday nights.
11. What Will Be Stressed for 2024
The first thing that we will address in 2024 is the RSPA Code of Conduct.We are really going to clamp down on incidents, trash talking and umpire abuse.
Player ejection for umpire abuse will result in an automatic 3 game suspension.
UMPIRES: All umpires make mistakes, even the major league umpires. They do not deserve to be abused, yelled at or threatened.
- Roster: All teams/players must complete the SPN on-line roster with complete info and on time.
- Payments MUST be in on time. Teams with unpaid fees and fines will be suspended.
- All default fines and late payment fines will be strictly enforced.
- All beverages must be in cups. Infraction will result in player ejection.
- If balls and/or team packages are not picked up by June 8, the team will forfeit their supply of balls.
- We offer optional games Monday nights and Friday nights on holiday long weekends .
- Doubleheaders will be scheduled on unlit diamonds from Monday, June 13 to Thursday, July 11. Time limit will be in effect.
- Team photos required for 2024.
- Umpires needed for 2024.
- Any player ejected for any reason will automatically be suspended for one additional game (as per SPN rules).
- Fair play and gamemanship stressed for 2024.
- REMEMBER - it's only a game!
12. Team Requirements
Each team is required to supply the following:- Pitching mat, with no cut out around home plate (Mat must be a legal mat as per RSPA rules)
- Bases, including a double safe-base at first.
- Balls are supplied by the League. It is the teams' responsibility to take them to the game.
Home team supplies one new ball plus one used ball.
Official ball for 2024 is the Worth 12" Hot Dot. - Uniform tops (after the June 15 uniform deadline) may be as simple as matching colour t-shirts.
- Teams supply their own bats, baseball gloves, etc.
- See also Team Suggestions & Hints and Team F.A.Q.
13. RSPA Team Suggestions/Hints
- Always carry a spare team shirt (just a t-shirt of the same colour).
- Keep spare balls for parks where balls get lost.
- Always carry bases. It is a double default if neither team has bases.
- Get decent spikes and a hammer to put in bases.
- Carry extra cups.
- Check directions to parks you have not been to.
- Park away from the ball diamonds. Balls will break car windows! Player's car windows are NOT covered by our insurance.
- 6:30 is game start time - not arrival time. Be there early, and if you are home team, make sure that the bases are in before 6:30.
- Know the league rules, there are some differences.
Always carry your rule book and a copy of the RSPA rules.
RSPA 2024 Rules (one page) pdf — RSPA 2024 Rules (8 pages) pdf - SPN Rule Book - If you are not sure ... ask. umpires and other team reps are very helpful.
- If the team rep goes away on holidays, please designate an alternate team rep for the time, and inform the League.
- Use the Game Report Forms. We want the input, what's good, and what's bad.
- Check the other teams' lineup/batting order before the game starts.
If you notice an illegal lineup halfway through the game, everything up to that point counts.
If you don't notice an illegal lineup until the game is over, the game still counts. - Check the score after every inning.
- DO NOT CALL TO INQUIRE IF A GAME IS RAINED OUT!
Only the umpire has the ability to call a rain-out at the park.
It may be raining where you are, but may be dry a mile away. If in doubt, check the web site.
Any possible league wide rain-outs will be posted on the web site at 3:00 pm of game day and all team reps will be e-mailed. - REMEMBER - the goal is to have fun! It is only a game!
14. RSPA New Team Rep Suggestions/Hints
- DELEGATE: Delegate certain duties: - equipment, batting order, finances.
- MONEY: Make sure that you collect money BEFORE they play.
You do not want to be chasing players for money halfway through the season.
Include tournament fee and a portion of the banquet ticket in the player’s league fees.
If they have to pay for it, they will find a way to participate. - Tell everybody to arrive early, time to warm up and chat before you play.
- After the game, do something, go somewhere and socialize, if not a bar, then somebody's house.
- Stress the fact that it is not just about showing up, playing ball and leaving.
15. How To Start a New Team
How To Start a New Team16. Frequently Asked Questions for New Teams/Players
Frequently Asked Questions for New TeamsFrequently Asked Questions for New Players
17. Team Information Form
RSPA Team Information Form- The "Team Information Form" must be completed by each team and submitted to the League.
- Please inform us of any changes in info.
- All teams MUST have a minimum of two valid e-mail contacts.
- A team may have as many e-mail contacts as you wish.
- All teams must have two cell phone contacts for emergencies.
18. Team Park/Night Preference Request Form
RSPA 2024 Team Park/Night Preference Request Form — (may be revised if more parks are added)- The "RSPA Team Park/Night Preference Form" must be completed by each team.
- Park/Night Preference Form MUST be resubmitted with every change.
- We offer set night divisions for all nights, Monday to Friday.
- Teams that play on Friday nights NO WEEKS OFF FOR PLAYOFFS FOR ANY PROVINCIALS EXCEPT COED.
- Teams that play on Monday nights MUST be flexible in order to get the required number of games in.
If you play only Monday nights, with all the long weekends and possible rainouts, you will not get your minimum 16 games in.
Monday teams may be required to play extra Friday nights or holiday Mondays to get 16 games in.
We offer Monday night games optional on holiday long weekends. - All teams must be available for three nights during playoffs if rainouts or cancellations force a revised schedule.
- If you choose a set night, you must be flexible with your park choices.
- If you prefer a set park, you must be flexible with your night choices.
19. Parks/Diamonds — Nights & Maps
RSPA Parks & Maps- Maps and list of parks are attached to info package.
(parks subject to change, even after season starts).
See RSPA 2024 Team Park/Night Request Form - PDF - (may be revised if more parks are added) - All teams are required to play Max Ward, West Deane, Fleetwood and/or Dunton Park, as these parks are considered "central".
- Please keep in mind that certain park/nights (such as Thursday night at Fleetwood Park) are requested by almost every team, and will have to be shared.
- Max Ward on Thursday night is reserved mainly for Comp and high-level teams.
20. RSPA League Schedules
RSPA 2024 Schedule (2024 schedule coming soon)- Each team will have minimum 16-22 scheduled games over 14 weeks.
Some divisions have more games.
We are trying to increase the number of games for certain divisions.
Higher divisions have more games. Friday division has more games as they play all double-headers.
If teams do not want to play Friday nights or do not want double-headers, they will play less games. - All teams will make the playoffs.
- We do not schedule games on Friday nights of long weekends (or games are optional).
- We offer Monday night games optional on holiday long weekends. Monday night games on long weekends are optional, but if you do not play Monday long weekends, you will need to play more Friday nights in order to get your 16 games in.
- Teams will play either double-headers to make the schedule or may play more than one night in a week.
A question on the "Team Info Form" will give you the choice of your preference. - We will try to grant schedule requests as much as possible. However, teams will need to be flexible, especially during playoffs.
- All teams must be available for three nights during playoffs if rainouts or cancellations force a revised schedule.
- If you choose a set night, you must be flexible with your park choices.
- If you prefer a set park, you must be flexible with your night choices.
- All teams are required to play a minimum of TWO (2) Friday nights per season.
If this is a problem, please contact me.
We will even let you pick your choice of Friday night if you get me the info early enough.
We will inform each division what their scheduled Friday nights are as soon as they are available.
Ask about our Friday Dunton Party nights with FREE barbecue! - We offer set night divisions for all nights.
- Teams that play on Friday nights NO WEEKS OFF FOR PLAYOFFS FOR ANY PROVINCIALS EXCEPT COED.
Friday teams play all double-headers, usually 7:30 pm start, no time limit. - If you request late games, expect to play single games at 9:30 pm start. There are very few single game starts at 8:00 pm. Double-headers are usually 8:00 and 9:30 pm. Teams that request late games will get late games for playoffs. Teams that request early games may be required to play late games in playoffs if they meet a team that can only play late games.
- See below for holiday weekends and no game dates for 2024.
- Doubleheaders will be scheduled on unlit diamonds from June 14 to Thursday, July 11. Time limit will be in effect.
- League schedules will be available at the first league meeting.
We will schedule for the first three (3) weeks. The schedule will be handed out in thirds
- first third of the schedule at the final league meeting.
- the 2nd third will be handed out June 1.
- the final third will be handed out in mid-July. - All League schedules and results are available on the web site, and are updated almost daily.
21. RSPA 2024 Schedule Dates with No Games
Day | Date | Park | No Games | Description |
---|---|---|---|---|
Friday | May 17 | All Parks | Games optional | Victoria Day Long Weekend |
Monday | May 20 | All Parks | Games optional | Victoria Day Long Weekend |
Friday | June 28 | All Parks | Games optional | Canada Day Long Weekend |
Monday | July 1 | All Parks | Games optional | Canada Day Long Weekend |
Friday | July 12 | All Parks | No Games | RSPA All-Star Night & BBQ |
Friday | August 2 | All Parks | Games optional | Civic Holiday Long Weekend |
Monday | August 5 | All Parks | Games optional | Civic Holiday Long Weekend |
Friday | August 23 | SPN Mens Masters Provincial Championships: please advise if your team needs Friday off. | ||
Friday | August 30 | All Parks | Games optional | Labour Day Long Weekend |
Monday | Sept 2 | All Parks | Games optional | Labour Day Long Weekend |
Friday | Sept 6 | SPN Provincial Championships: please advise if your team needs Friday off. | ||
Friday | Sept 13 | SPN Provincial Championships: please advise if your team needs Friday off. |
22. RSPA Divisions/Levels of Play
- In 2023, RSPA had 128 teams in 22 playoff divisions which is the largest coed league in Ontario!
- Tentative 2024 divisions - see below.
- a) all teams will have only one preferred night of play for playoffs.
b) All teams must be available for three nights during playoffs if rainouts or cancellations force a revised schedule.
c) top divisions have more regular season games.
d) top divisions may be smaller with a better chance of winning the division.
e) top divisions offers better awards and may offer increased number of games.
f) Friday divisions will be all double-headers with more regular season games.
g) we will try to increase the number of games for most higher divisions, depending on the preferred night of play. - RSPA places new teams in a division according to the information received about their level of play.
- However, if we find that the team is not competitive in that division, we will move them up or down to suit.
- Also, there is division 'cross-over' where teams play teams from other divisions, usually the division up or the division down.
- If a team wins a division championship, they must compete in a higher division playoffs for the following season.
Last place team in a division will usually be moved down a division for the following season. - Higher divisions offer better awards, better parks and may offer increased number of games.
23. RSPA Tentative Divisions for 2024
RSPA Tentative Divisions for 2024RSPA Final Standings/Divisions for 2020
The proposed divisions for 2024:
- Mon-1; Tue-1; Wed-1; Thu-1; Fri-1; (Coed C/D)
- Mon-2; Tue-2; Wed-2; Thu-2; Fri-2; (Coed E)
- Mon-3; Tue-3; Wed-3; Thu-3; Tue-4; Tue-5 (Coed E/F)
- Mon-Rec; Tue-Rec; Wed-Rec; Thu-Rec; Fri-Rec; (Coed F)
- Wed - Mens Masters 50+E/IM
24. RSPA League Rules - Coed 2024
RSPA League rules are modified SPN rules:Basic Rules are:
- Maximum 10 players on the field with maximum 7 males on the field.
You may only have 4 more males than females on the field or in the batting order. - Batting Order: no maximum in the batting order.
The basic line-up would be 7 males and 3 females (7M-3F).
The line-up may be expanded. For every male added, you must add a female,
or 8M-4F, 9M-5F, 10M-6F, etc.
You may only have 4 more males than females in the batting order.
You may always bat with more females - 6M-4F, 5M-5F, 7M-4F, etc.
You may add an automatic out in the batting order to bat an extra male. - No restrictions on batting sequence. You may bat as many males in a row as you wish.
- Unlimited defensive substitution with players in the batting order (maximum 7 males on the field).
- Standard SPN rule for single re-entry after substitution.
- Balls and strikes are called by the umpire using a mat (no cut out).
- If a male batter is walked, with a female batter (or automatic out for a missing female batter) following,
the male batter is awarded first and second base and the female batter has to bat,
unless the male batter was walked on a 4-0 count (4 straight balls and no strikes),
then the female batter has the choice of batting or a free walk.
We recommend that during the regular season, all female batters bat whenever possible. - 150/175 foot rule in the outfield IS NOT IN EFFECT. - We will not restrict where the outfielders may play. They do not have to play beyond the 150 or 175 foot mark. BUT outfielders do have to be in the outfield. *** RSPA ***
- No outfielder may make a force out on the batter-base runner at first base, nor may an outfielder relay the ball in order to make a force out on the batter-base runner at first base. There is no penalty for attempting to throw the batter-baserunner out. Once the batter-baserunner has rounded first base they may be thrown out.
- A player will be deemed an "outfielder" if they are playing a defensive position that would be on the grass on a normal softball diamond. A team may NOT play with a 5 player (or more) infield by moving in an outfielder. *** RSPA ***
- No time limit on games on unlit diamonds (exceptions may apply).
Doubleheaders will be scheduled on unlit diamonds from Monday, June 16 to Wednesday, July 16. Time limit will be in effect. - One hour & a half game slot* on lit diamonds.
- Home Run Rule: match plus 2 in all fenced parks.
Home run rule applies to balls hit over the fence, or into a designated "out of play" area. Home runs hit within the park, or on an open field, do not count toward home-run totals. Walk off homerun will not be used in RSPA. - Grace period 10 minutes.
- Inning Mercy Rule: maximum 6 runs per inning.
- the last inning is open (no limit).
- 6 run maximum is exempt to avoid a mercy rule.
- maximum 6 runs, even if a home run is hit that would put the max over 6 runs. - Mercy rule 12 runs after 5 innings
- Courtesy Runners: SEVEN per game, male for male,
female for female, or female for male.
You MAY use the same runner more than once. - SPN affiliated; SPN carded umpires; SPN insured.
- See complete RSPA League rules
- RSPA Rules (one page) pdf
- RSPA Rules (8 pages) pdf
- SPN Rulebook on line
25. RSPA League Rules - Masters 50+ 2024
RSPA Rules for the Masters 50+ division are modified SPN rules:- Minimum age is 50 years or turning 50 in the calendar year.
- Age exception of players 47-49 years or turning 47-49 in the calendar year may be allowed with league approval.
- COURTESY RUNNERS: Unlimited courtesy runners. Cannot use the same runner twice in the same inning.
- Team level must be E/Rec or low Intermediate. Rosters must be approved by the league.
26. RSPA Bat Rules for 2024
RSPA will continue to allow BOTH the USSSA & ASA stamp on approved bats.
Slo-Pitch National bat rules allow ONLY bats with the USSSA ("thumbprint") stamp.
All RSPA approved bats must carry the "NEW" USSSA ("thumbprint") stamp and/or the ASA 2004 logo.
27. Protective Equipment Statement
As per SPN Rule 2, Sec 8 – Protective Equipment Statement: Any player who has a concern about an injury occurring from being struck with a ball during SPN sanctioned play should address that concern by the use of protective equipment which is available and is allowed in Slo-Pitch National sanctioned play. For safety reasons, RSPA and SPN strongly recommends that all players wear protective equipment while playing both defensive and offensive positions. Protective equipment including masks, headwear, catchers equipment and soccer style shin guards may be used by all players in any SPN sanctioned event.28. RSPA League Rule Changes for 2024 - TBA
Possible Rule Changes for 2024 include:• starting batter with a 1-1 count
• Other rule changes - TBA.
29. RSPA League Rules to be Stressed for 2024
The following rules will be stressed for 2024:- ROSTERS: All teams/players must complete the official SPN on-line roster.
- Rosters must be submitted by the deadline and team reps MUST carry a copy of the team roster to every game.
- Roster checks will be done on every team.
- Playoff Rosters: Teams MUST submit playoff eligible roster. *** RSPA ***
- Any player not in uniform for playoff games must submit photo ID. *** RSPA ***
- Scoresheets: Teams MUST submit photo of all scoresheets for PLAYOFF games. *** RSPA ***
- Roster Checks: An umpire may request a roster check for 5 games played in all playoff games.*** RSPA ***
- Team Photo: Considering fine or penalty for no team photo or failure to respond to league emails.
- All league fees must be paid on time. We highly recommend using post-dated cheques.
All default fines and late payment fines will be strictly enforced. Teams with unpaid fees and fines will be suspended. - The official ball is the Worth "Hot Dot". Balls are supplied by the league.
- If balls are not picked up by June 8, the team will forfeit their supply of balls.
- Illegal batting order/line-up: If a team is discovered with an illegal line-up with more than four more males than females
in the batting order, the following penalty will be applied:
A male batter will be declared out:
• If a male batter is at bat at the time of the discovery, that batter will be declared out.
• If a male batter has just batted and got on base at the time of the discovery and before the pitch to the next batter, that batter will be declared out.
• If a female batter is at bat at the time of the discovery or in all other cases, the next male batter will be declared out.
• An automatic out will added to the bottom of the batting order for every illegal male batter.
• The umpire will have the right to bring any illegal batting order to the attention of the opposing team, and apply the penalty.
• The umpire will report all instances of illegal batting orders to the league executive
and further penalties will be assessed for second and third offences.
• A second offence will result in a one game suspension for the team rep or team coach.
• A third offence will result in game default, plus a three game suspension for the coach. - All beverages must be in cups.
- There is zero tolerance for verbal abuse to umpires and other players.
- We stress "fair play and gamesmanship".
- SPN has added a "Code of Conduct" which RSPA will adhere to. - SPN Code of Conduct
30. Zero Tolerance/Incidents
RSPA has zero tolerance for any incidents regarding physical or verbal abuse to umpires and other players.This is a recreational league, and everybody is out to have fun. Any incident must be reported, no matter how minor.
Any incident will be dealt with swiftly and harshly. A ban by RSPA will be honoured by both SPN and SPOA
for all leagues and tournaments across Ontario.
Any player ejected for any reason will automatically be suspended for one additional game (as per SPN rules).
Any player ejected for umpire abuse or any physical altercation will be suspended for a minimum of 4 games.
31. RSPA/SPN Rosters
- RSPA requires all teams to complete the SPN on-line roster.
• Information must include: first name, last name, sex, date of birth, active email address and postal code.
• We must include name and postal code information in order to apply for our park permits.
• Other information is required in order to complete roster checks.
• Failure to complete this information makes the player ineligible to play.
• Your information will NEVER be shared or sent to a third party. - This will require all players to complete their information on-line.
- This will require all players to have an active email address.
- Deadline for SPN on-line roster is May 13, 2024.
- Roster changes and additions will be allowed up to July 15.
After July 15, league approval is required for all league roster changes.
Changes will still be allowed for tournament rosters.
Tournament roster may be different from league roster. - Teams may be required to submit a playoff roster of playoff eligible players.
- Roster checks will be done at random in all of the playoff series,
and roster checks will be done for all final championship games. - Teams must maintain scorebooks if required to prove that a player is playoff eligible with a minimum of 5 regular season games.
32. RSPA Game Report Form
RSPA Game Report Form - PDF- Game Report Forms are available for a team rep to complete and may be submitted by e-mail or may be handed in to the umpire.
- They are also available for download from the web site.
- Game Report Forms should be completed any time a team is not satisfied with the umpire, the other team's behaviour, or if they have any comments or suggestions for the League.
- Game Report Forms are used to criticize or praise umpires or other teams.
- No verbal or telephone complaints are accepted.
- I don't want to hear three or four weeks later that some umpire (you can't remember who by then) made such and such a call.
Send me a Game Report Form while it is fresh in your mind. - The Game Report Form is also used for praise.
If an umpire does a good job, let us know.
If a team is really fun to play, let us know.
33. RSPA 2024 Summer Slo-Pitch Tournaments
(Saturday, one-day) May 4 • June 8 • July 6 • July 20 • August 17 • Sept 21 • Sept 28, 2024SPN Provincial & National Qualifiers - First place hoodies!
Coed (6M-4F) D, E, F • Mens D, E • Mens Masters 50+, 60+
Etobicoke-Mississauga Parks - Centennial, Max Ward, Dunton, Fleetwood, etc.
Etobicoke-Mississauga - Headquarters: Irish Shebeen Pub
Free pitcher voucher for every team (min 6 players) • Food & drink specials at the HQ bar!
Divisions offered in - Coed D, E, F; & Mens D, E & Mens Masters 50+, 60+
the only tournaments where a true Coed F division is offered;
enough coed teams to ensure true divisions; usually no combined divisions.
Largest coed tournaments in the GTA!
All RSPA League teams MUST enter a team in ONE of the RSPA tournament dates.
- Slo-pitch tournaments are great for getting 3 or 4 games in one day, and helps with team bonding.
- Any team that enters two tournaments will automatically qualify for the SPN/Molson Slo-Pitch Coed Provincial Championships,
Saturday-Sunday-Monday (no Friday games), September 2-3-4, 2024.
Coed Provincials in BRAMPTON! offers Coed F Provincials! - RSPA League fees include the SPN membership which entitles your league team to enter any SPN slo-pitch tournament.
- Remember that RSPA tournament rules and other tournament rules vary from RSPA League rules:
- set batting order with maximum two males batting in a row.
- 6M-4F in the field; may bat twice as many males as females, 6M-4F, 8M-4F, 10M-5F.
- female has to bat after a preceding male batter is walked.
- 175 foot rule is NOT in effect, but cannot throw out the batter-baserunner at first from the outfield.
- 7 courtesy runners but cannot use the same courtesy runner more than once.
- Pitching mat with NO cutout will be used for strike zone. Plate is a strike. - If you have trouble fielding a team for the tournament, look for another league team that would like to combine with your team for the tournament, or check with me for a list of players looking to play.
- If you have players looking to play as an individual player in the tournament, contact me and I will put them on the list.
- great way to meet new people and expand your horizons! - Come on out! and have some fun!!!
- Contact: Randy Warren — e-mail preferred: accent@slopitch1.com.
34. Fall Ball Tournaments & Dome Ball & Sno-Pitch Tournaments/Leagues
Fall Ball Tournaments, Indoor dome ball tournaments and league are available in all areas of the GTA.Contact me and I will send you the info. accent@slopitch1.com
35. SPN Provincial Championships
All dates and information may change as a result of SPN-SPOA merger.Date | Days | City | Divisions |
August 23-24-25 | Friday-Saturday-Sunday | Niagara Falls | Mens Masters 35A, 35C, 35D, 35E; Mens Masters 50A, 50IM & 50E;
Womens Masters 35A, 35IM & 35E. |
Aug 31-Sept 2 | Saturday-Sunday-Monday | Brampton | Coed Comp, C, D, E & F. |
September 6-7-8 | Friday-Saturday-Sunday | Niagara Falls | Mens C & Mens D with Womens D & Womens E. |
September 13-14-15 | Friday-Saturday-Sunday | Niagara Falls | Mens A, B & E & Mens Seniors 55+ & 60+;
Womens A, B & C & Womens Masters 50+. |
- The SPN Coed Provincial Championships are in Brampton on the Labour Day long weekend,
Saturday-Sunday-Monday, September 2-3-4, (no games on the Friday, but games on the Monday). - Teams wishing to play in the Provincials are required to play a minimum of two SPN slo-pitch tournaments
See my list of SPN tournaments - (Saturday, one-day) May 4 • June 8 • July 6 • July 20 • August 17 • Sept 21 • Sept 28, 2024. - If you have difficulty entering two tournaments, but still wish to play in the Provincials, please contact me.
- If you need players for the Provincials, check with me for a list of players looking to play.
- If you have players looking to get on a team in the Provincials, contact me and I will put them on the list.
36. Slo-Pitch Tournament Players
Any individual players looking to play slo-pitch tournaments this summer,contact me (by e-mail only please) as I always have teams asking me for players.
37. RSPA New Player List
- Teams looking for new players should request the "Players Looking For a Team List".
- Players looking to be put on an RSPA coed team should request to be put on the "Players Looking For a Team List".
- See below for information on RSPA open practices for new players looking for a team.
38. New Player Open Practices
See RSPA Practice page- Open practices for new players looking for a team are:
2024 Sunday morning practices are every Sunday morning 10:00 am to 12:00 noon (weather and field conditions permitting)
• Sunday, April 14 • Sunday, April 21 • Sunday, April 28 • Sunday, May 5.
2024 Thursday night practices are Thursday night 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm (weather and field conditions permitting)
• Thursday, April 18 • Thursday, April 25 • Thursday, May 2.
For more practice status, information, maps, etc. see RSPA Open Practice Info. -
See RSPA New Player for new player info and FAQ. - Team reps are allowed out to practices to observe and request players.
Team reps are not allowed to approach new players without consent.
- First off, it's nice to go out and get into some sort of shape before the season starts.
Too many new players underestimate the physical requirements of playing softball. - Secondly, the league needs to rate all new players to see what level of ball they can play,
so that they can be put into the correct division. - Thirdly, we want to see the committment that means that you will show up for a 16 game schedule plus playoffs.
If you can't make a couple of practices, you probably won't make all the league games. - Also, it is nice to meet the players, since team reps show up at the practices, and pick players from the field that they can see, rather than from a list that doesn't give any indication of true level or personality.
- Yes personality counts! We sometimes put together a new team from the players looking for a team. They usually are players that have shown up and bonded with each other at the open practices.
- Male players have a much better chance of making a team, if they can make more practices.
- If you do not go out to an open practice, you will probably NOT be placed on a team.
- Females and couples have a 90% chance of making a team.
In fact, I like to say that all females and couples will be offered a spot, either on an existing team, or with the new team that gets formed. However, if you can't make certain nights, or don't want to travel to certain parks, your opportunites may be limited. - Male players have about a 30-40% chance of making a team. Better players will get more offers. and male players have a much better chance of making a team if they can make more practices.
- We have 180 teams (pre-covid) (60 teams in covid 2020 and 101 teams in 2021) in the league, and usually 15-20 of those teams are looking for players.
- If you do not go out to an open practice, you will probably NOT be placed on a team.
39. Frequently Asked Questions for New Players
RSPA Frequently Asked Questions for New Players40. RSPA All-Star Night & Barbecue - Friday, July 12, 2024
See RSPA All-Star Night page- The RSPA All-Star Night & Barbecue returns for 2024 tentatively on Friday, July 12 at Paul Coffey Park.
- All-Star Night will include a FREE BARBECUE, and beverages.
- CONTESTS: home run hitting contest, base running and team throwing contests, individual throwing, pitching contest, etc.
- This event is also optional for all teams, but again, if you ask anybody who has attended, they will tell you what a fun night it is!
- Also, this event is subsidized by league fees, so come out and get your money's worth!
- We are looking for prizes, volunteers, ideas, etc.
- The RSPA All-Star Night is a result of a lot of work and cannot be succesful without the help we get from the amazing crew of volunteers! Why don't you step up and help?
- Give us your input!
41. RSPA Banquet & Awards Dance
See RSPA Banquet page- Because of the great demand for this event, the RSPA Awards Banquet & Dance is split into THREE (3) nights.
• Saturday, October 19
• Saturday, October 26 (Halloween banquet with prizes for best individual costumes and best team costumes)
• Saturday, November 2. - Banquet tickets are first come, first serve. If you do not confirm your date and number of tickets in time, your team may have to schedule the banquet for another date or even default your banquet tickets. And just because you request a banquet date in time does not mean that you are guaranteed that date. If you do not confirm the quantity by the required date, your team may have to schedule the banquet for another date or may have to default their banquet tickets. Banquet deposits WILL NOT BE REFUNDED.
- Teams or individual players may attend more than one date if tickets are available.
- LOCATION:
Lions Banquet Hall, 45 Avondale Blvd, Brampton, ON L6T 1H1
south side, just west of Bramalea Road, 3 blocks north of Steeles Ave (just north of the airport) map - Tickets are $60 per person and include open bar (all you can drink) and all-you-can-eat buffet.
- Banquet deposit $240 required for 2024.
- All teams are required to purchase a minimum
of four (4) tickets (4 x $60 = $240.00).
(Banquet deposit is usually minimum 6 tickets per team; for 2024 only will be 4 tickets per team) REQUIRED FOR 2024. - Banquet tickets will not be printed. We will use on-line/email pdf tickets.
Banquet info will be hand out at the league meetings.
PDF tickets are for info and map only. Tickets are not required to gain entry into the banquet.
Extra tickets can be paid for by etransfer or by cheque or cash at the banquet door. - Teams must confirm the banquet date 11 days before the scheduled banquet.
Teams must confirm the required number of tickets 7 days before the scheduled banquet.
These events are organized in advance and require more planning than we have allowed in the past. - Tickets should be sold throughout the season.
- Team are also required to donate a door prize (all teams have somebody that can get a door prize) valued $25.00-30.00.
- A great party to end the season with great food, drinks, dancing and tons of door prizes!
With main door prizes, large screen HD TV's, microwaves, Kuerigs, crockpots, and a ton more prizes! - RSPA Banquet info page
- The best party of the year!!!
42. Other RSPA Social Activities
- RSPA Events page
- Over and beyond the RSPA All-Star Night and RSPA Dunton Friday Nights,
we are looking for other RSPA social activities:
Poker night; Euchre night; Casino-Rama trip; Casino Niagara; Blue Jays game; golf tournament; New Years Eve party, etc. - Looking for volunteers to help with the RSPA social activities.
- Give us your ideas!
43. RSPA Umpires
See RSPA Umpire page- RSPA uses SPN carded umpires for all games.
- We also develop umpires from within the league. Anybody wishing to become an umpire should contact us. We will assist in training and carding. Please ask if any players on your team wishes to become an umpire. Have fun and earn money!
- The RSPA Umpires clinic makes you eligible to umpire any SPN league or tournament in Canada.
- The RSPA "Game Report Form" is used to rate and evaluate umpires.
Umpires Wanted / Umpires Clinic - see info
SPN carded umpires wanted for recreational coed league. We will train and card.You will become a fully sanctioned SPN umpire, eligible to umpire any SPN league or tournament in Canada.
Cost for umpire carding and accreditation is $118.65 and includes: SPN umpire card, rulebook, hat, instruction clinic and umpire test. The RSPA umpire clinic is free.
If you attend the RSPA umpire clinic, we will guarantee umpire bookings of at least your clinic cost
(we cannot guarantee parks or nights).
RSPA is a recreational, coed league, with parks in Mississauga-Etobicoke, Monday to Friday, weekend tournaments available.
See RSPA Umpire page for more information - or e-mail: accent@slopitch1.com
44. RSPA Team Sponsors
- Check with your players if they have a contact that can write off the team league fees.
- RSPA supplies a list of recommended bar sponsors.
- We just supply a list of bars that are looking for teams to sponsor.
- Most sponsors will not give money up front.
- Most sponsors are only looking for teams to go back and drink,
and will usually pay the team a percentage of money spent at the bar,
and can offer it one of two ways:
- off the bill each night, or save it up as a total at the end of the season.
Save it up as a total and you can use it for a year end party or forward it to next year's league fees. - The percentage varies, the normal is 10%; some may give 15%.
- Most sponsors don't care about the name on the shirt, but some do.
Ask if they have a deal on shirts; if they don't, the league will. - If they provide shirts, they will probably take it off whatever else they are going to give you.
- Also push for a team freebie - free pizza, plate of wings or nachos, whatever the bar specializes in.
- They will stipulate a minimum number of players each night, usually 8, maybe as low as 6, before your sponsorship kicks in.
- The tentative list of sponsors to date: TBA
- If you know of any sponsors that should be added to this list, please let me know.
45. RSPA Constitution & By-Laws
See RSPA Constitution & By-Laws page or available upon request.46. RSPA on the Internet
- Check out RSPA Slo-Pitch on the internet at: http://www.slopitch1.com/rspa
Contact: Randy Warren — accent@slopitch1.com - The web site includes all information:
- RSPA 2024 League Schedule and Results - 2024 info coming soon
- RSPA 2024 League Standings - preliminary 2024 divisions
- RSPA League Calendar
- RSPA League Rules
- RSPA Parks & Maps
- RSPA New Team Info
- RSPA New Player Info
- RSPA League Forms
- RSPA League Photos
- RSPA League History
- etc.
- Scores, results and standings from league games are posted daily.
- Available on the web site are downloadable forms for player release forms, game report forms, scoresheets, tournament entry form, etc.
- For teams or players that are looking to hook up with me, my availability is listed on the web site. RW Availability
- Also available on the web site are individual team pages. If your team wishes to have a team web page, send me your information and I will create your team web page, or send me your completed web pages, and I will post them.
Looking forward to a great 2024 slo-pitch season!
This 2024 RSPA Info Package may be updated as more information becomes available.
Revised: November 9, 2023
Randy Warren,
President - RSPA Slo-Pitch
E-mail: accent@slopitch1.com
8 Buxton Court, Brampton, Ontario L6Z 3H9
Cell: (416) 930-6124
RSPA Home - SloPitch1.com Home - Site Map
For more information about RSPA Slo-Pitch
please contact: Randy Warren
e-mail: accent@slopitch1.com
RSPA 2024 Slo-Pitch Tournaments
All tournaments tentatively Saturday one-day.Saturday, May 4 • June 8 • July 6 • July 20
• August 17 • September 21 • September 28