RSPA Info Package 2013

Updated March 27, 2013

1. Welcome to RSPA Slo-Pitch!

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 31st year, and offers all levels from competitive to fun divisions.
No matter what the skill level, we have a division for you!

2. Table of Contents/This Package Contains:

3. RSPA League Calendar / Schedule 2013

www.slopitch1.com/rspa/calendar.html

4. RSPA 2013 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.

5. RSPA League Costs for 2013

Due to further increases in park fees, umpire rates, insurance and SPN registration, we have raised the RSPA team fees for returning teams to $1400.00, still one of the lowest league fees in the GTA. New teams pay $1400.00 + $250.00 = $1650.00
Includes parks, permits, insurance, SPN registration, carded umpires, game balls and also subsidizes the league banquet, All-Star night, volleyball night, etc.

As well, all teams MUST PAY:
Tournament Fee: all teams - due June 8 — $ 325.00 (Tournament is mandatory for all league teams)
Banquet deposit: due August 1, 2013 — $ 200.00 (Banquet deposit 4 tickets x $50.00 = $200.00)
(Banquet deposit is usually minimum 6 tickets per team; for 2013 only will be 4 tickets per team)

Due	Returning Team	New Team	Payment
April 2, 2013	200.00	300.00	1st payment
May 7, 2013	500.00	500.00	2nd payment
June 1, 2013	700.00	850.00	3rd payment
LEAGUE FEES:	$ 1400.00	$ 1650.00	League fees
plus
June 8, 2013	325.00	325.00	Tournament fee
August 1, 2013	200.00	200.00	Banquet deposit
TOTAL	$ 1925.00	$ 2175.00

1. RSPA league fees are payable by cheque, money order, cash or Interac money transfer.
2. Cheques are payable to RSPA.
3. No Mastercard or Visa accepted.
4. Post-dated cheques are recommended for final payment, tournament & banquet deposit.
5. $20 fine for all late payments.
6. Umpires will not accept cheques.
7. Invoices and/or receipts are available.
8. League fines for game defaults $25 first time, $50 for 2nd time, $100 for 3rd game default.
   All default fines and late payment fines will be strictly enforced.
9. League fines $10 for uniform fine or no bases, no pitching mat or no game ball.
10. All fees and fines must be paid before play-offs start or teams do not play.
11. Any team that does not get league fees and payments to the league on time will be fined.
12. All default fines and late payment fines will be strictly enforced.
13. It is YOUR responsibility to get the fees in (it's not our responsibility to chase you for it).
14. 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, Volleyball Night, Poker Night, 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 three large screen HD TV's for $50 per person?)

8. First Team Rep Meeting - Tuesday, April 2, 2013

The RSPA first Team Rep Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 2, 2013, 7:00 pm.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map

At This Meeting:

1. You are required to bring cash, cheque or money order: $300 for new teams, $200 for returning teams.
2. RSPA league fees are payable by cheque, money order, cash or Interac money transfer.
3. Cheques are payable to RSPA.
4. No Mastercard or Visa accepted.
5. Receipts will be issued.
6. You can pick up: League information, balls, maps, League rules, player release forms, banquet tickets, etc.
7. We will have a display of team uniforms and new & used baseball equipment for sale, etc.
8. Also for "Team Rep Appreciation", every team rep who attends the meeting will receive a free RSPA and/or SPN T-shirt! (or new gift for 2013)

RSPA Meeting Info

9. Final Team Rep Meeting - Tuesday, May 7, 2013

The RSPA final Team Rep Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 7, 2013.
Drop in style: anytime from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
The Irish Shebeen Pub, 5555 Eglinton Ave. W., Etobicoke ON M9C 5M1 — map

At This Meeting:

1. You are required to bring cash, cheque or money order: $500 for second league payment; $500 for new teams;
   plus post-dated cheques for the balance of league fees, tournament fee and banquet deposit.
   Pay by cash, personal cheque, money order or Interac money transfer.
   No credit cards, Visa or Mastercard accepted.
2. You can pick up: League schedules, roster forms, league information, balls, maps, rules, SPN rulebooks, scorebooks, player release forms, banquet tickets, etc.
   If balls and/or team packages are not picked up by June 9, they will be defaulted. ***new 2013
3. We will have a display of team uniforms and new & used baseball equipment for sale, etc.
4. Also, for "Team Rep Appreciation", every team rep who attends the meeting
   will receive a free RSPA and/or SPN T-shirt! (or new gift for 2013).

RSPA Meeting Info

10. What's New For 2013

1. New jewellery rules for 2013 - SPN has removed the jewellery rule. Jewellery may be worn (as per SPN rules).
   However, we strongly recommend that all jewellery be removed when playing.
2. The current wording of the SPN "Team Roster" shall be amended so that all future references shall be "SPN Team Waiver Form".
3. All league teams, as well as all Provincial and National Championship teams must register on-line.
4. All default fines and late payment fines will be strictly enforced.
   Teams with unpaid fees and fines will be suspended.
5. If balls and/or team packages are not picked up by June 9, the team will forfeit their supply of balls.
6. Doubleheaders will be scheduled on unlit diamonds from Wednesday, June 12 to Wednesday, July 3. Time limit will be in effect.
7. Team photos required for 2013.
8. Umpires needed for 2013.

11. What Will Be Stressed for 2013

1. Rosters MUST be in on time. Both SPN "Team Waiver Form" and text version rosters must be submitted.
2. Payments MUST be in on time.
3. All default fines and late payment fines will be strictly enforced.
4. If balls and/or team packages are not picked up by June 9, they will be defaulted.
5. Team photos required for 2013.
6. Fair play and gamemanship stressed for 2013.
7. REMEMBER - it's only a game!

For 2013 in RSPA, we want to stress fair play and gamesmanship. We want all the players to remember that it is just a game, and we all have to get up in the morning and go to work. We want all the players to remember the reason they are out on the field - to have fun!

12. Team Requirements

Each team is required to supply the following:

1. Mat, with a cut out around home plate (Mat must be a legal mat as per RSPA rules)
2. Bases, including a double safe-base at first.
3. 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 2013 is the Worth 12" Hot Dot (Grey Dots may be used up for this year)
4. Uniform tops (after the June 15 uniform deadline) may be as simple as matching colour t-shirts.
   see the new RSPA uniform order form. — RSPA uniforms
5. Teams supply their own bats, baseball gloves, etc.
6. See also Team Suggestions & Hints and Team F.A.Q.

13. RSPA Team Suggestions/Hints

1. Always carry a spare team shirt (just a t-shirt of the same colour).
2. Keep spare balls for parks where balls get lost.
3. Always carry bases. It is a double default if neither team has bases.
4. Get decent spikes and a hammer to put in bases.
5. Check directions to parks you have not been to.
6. Park away from the ball diamonds. Balls will break car windows! Player's car windows are NOT covered by our insurance.
7. 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.
8. Know the league rules, there are some differences. Always carry your rule book and a copy of the RSPA rules.
   RSPA Rules (one page) pdf — RSPA Rules 2013 (8 pages) pdf
9. If you are not sure ... ask. umpires and other team reps are very helpful.
10. If the team rep goes away on holidays, please designate an alternate team rep for the time, and inform the League.
11. Use the Game Report Forms. We want the input, what's good, and what's bad.
12. 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.
13. Check the score after every inning.
14. 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.
15. REMEMBER - the goal is to have fun! It is only a game!

14. RSPA New Team Rep Suggestions/Hints

1. DELEGATE: Delegate certain duties: - equipment, batting order, finances.
2. Stress the fact that it is not just about showing up, playing ball and leaving.
   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.

15. How To Start a New Team

How To Start a New Team - web page — How To Start a New Team - PDF

16. Frequently Asked Questions for New Teams

Frequently Asked Questions for New Teams - web page
Frequently Asked Questions for New Teams - PDF
Frequently Asked Questions for New Players

17. Team Information Form

RSPA 2013 Team Information Form - pdf — RSPA 2013 Team Information Form - docx

1. The "Team Information Form" must be completed by each team and submitted to the League.
2. Please inform us of any changes in info.
3. All teams MUST have a minimum of two valid e-mail contacts.
4. A team may have as many e-mail contacts as you wish.
5. All teams should have two cell phone contacts for emergencies.

18. Team Park/Night Preference Request Form

RSPA 2013 Team Park/Night Preference Request Form - pdf — (Tentative only - 2013 final info coming soon)

1. The "RSPA Team Park/Night Preference Form" must be completed by each team.
2. Form MUST be resubmitted with every change.
3. We offer set night divisions for most nights.
4. Teams that play on Friday nights may have to play playoffs on a different night, as we lose most of our Friday nights
   during the playoffs to the long weekend and the SPN Provincial Championships.
5. If you choose a set night, you must be flexible with your park choices.
6. If you prefer a set park, you must be flexible with your night choices.

19. Parks/Diamonds — Nights & Maps

RSPA Parks & Maps

1. Maps and list of parks are attached to info package. (parks subject to change, even after season starts).
   See RSPA 2013 Team Park/Night Request Form - PDF - (Tentative only - 2013 final info coming soon)
2. All teams are required to play Max Ward, West Deane, Fleetwood and/or Dunton Park, as these parks are considered "central".
3. 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.

20. RSPA League Schedules

RSPA 2013 Schedule (2013 schedule coming soon)

1. Each team will have 16 scheduled games over 14 weeks. Some divisions have more games. We are trying to increase the number of games for certain divisions.
2. All teams will make the playoffs.
3. We do not schedule games on Monday or Friday of long weekends.
4. 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.
5. We will try to grant schedule requests as much as possible. However, teams will need to be flexible, especially during playoffs.
6. If you choose a set night, you must be flexible with your park choices.
7. If you prefer a set park, you must be flexible with your night choices.
8. 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.
9. League schedules will be available at the first league meeting.
   We will schedule for the first four (4) weeks. The schedule will be handed out in thirds
   - first third of the schedule at the May 7 meeting.
   - the 2nd third will be handed out June 1.
   - the final third will be handed out in mid-July.
10. We offer set night divisions for most nights.
11. Teams that play on Friday nights may have to play playoffs on a different night, as we lose most of our Friday nights
    during the playoffs to the long weekend and the SPN Provincial Championships.
12. 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.
13. See below for holiday weekends and no game dates for 2013.
14. Doubleheaders will be scheduled on unlit diamonds from Wednesday, June 12 to Wednesday, July 3. Time limit will be in effect.
15. All League schedules and results are available on the web site, and are updated almost daily.

21. RSPA 2013 Schedule Dates with No Games

Day	Date	Park	No Games	Description
Friday	May 17	All Parks	No Games	Victoria Day Long Weekend
Monday	May 20	All Parks	No Games	Victoria Day Long Weekend
Friday	June 28	All Parks	No Games	Canada Day Long Weekend
Monday	July 1	All Parks	No Games	Canada Day Long Weekend
Friday	July 19	All Parks	No Games	RSPA Volleyball Night
Friday	August 2	All Parks	No Games	Civic Holiday Long Weekend
Monday	August 5	All Parks	No Games	Civic Holiday Long Weekend
Friday	August 9	All Parks	No Games	RSPA All-Star Night & BBQ
Friday	August 23	SPN Coed Provincial Championships: please advise if your team needs this Friday off.
Friday	August 30	All Parks	No Games	Labour Day Long Weekend
Mon	Sept 2	All Parks	No Games	Labour Day Long Weekend
Friday	Sept 6	SPN Mens Provincial Championships: please advise if your team needs this Friday off.
Friday	Sept 13	All Parks	No Games	Dunmore Memorial Tournament

22. RSPA Divisions / Levels of Play

1. In 2012, RSPA had 148 teams, which is the largest coed league in Ontario!
   Teams were in 18 divisions of play for the regular season,
   and split into 22 divisions for the playoffs.
2. Tentative 2013 divisions - see below.
3. a) all teams will have only one preferred night of play for playoffs.
   b) top divisions have more regular season games.
   c) top divisions will be smaller with a better chance of winning the division.
   d) top divisions offers better awards and may offer increased number of games.
   e) we will try to increase the number of games for most higher divisions, depending on the preferred night of play.
4. RSPA places new teams in a division according to the information received about their level of play.
5. 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.
6. If a team wins a division championship, they must play up one division for the following season.
   Last place team in a division will usually be moved down a division for the following season.
7. Higher divisions offer better awards, better parks and may offer increased number of games.

23. RSPA Tentative Divisions for 2013

RSPA Tentative Divisions for 2013
RSPA Final Standings/Divisions for 2012
The proposed divisions for 2013:
- Comp (Coed D)
- Mon-1; Tue-1; Wed-1; Thu-1; Fri-1;
- Mon-2; Tue-2; Wed-2; Thu-2;
- Tue-3; Wed-3; Thu-3; Tue-4;
- Mon-Rec; Tue-Rec; Wed-Rec; Thu-Rec; Fri-Rec;

24. RSPA League Rules - 2013

RSPA League rules are modified SPN rules:
Basic Rules are:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. No restrictions on batting sequence. You may bat as many males in a row as you wish.
4. Unlimited defensive substitution with players in the batting order (maximum 7 males on the field).
5. Standard SPN rule for single re-entry after substitution.
6. Balls and strikes are called by the umpire using a mat.
7. 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.
8. 150/175 foot rule in the outfield is not in effect. - We will not restrict where the outfielders may not play. They do not have to play beyond the 150 or 175 foot mark.
9. 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. ***redefined for 2013
   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.
10. 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 play with a 5 player (or more) infield by moving in an outfielder. The umpire should be informed when a team elects to play a 5 player (or more) infield. ***redefined for 2013
11. No time limit on games on unlit diamonds (exceptions may apply).
    New for 2013: Doubleheaders will be scheduled on unlit diamonds from Wednesday, June 12 to Wednesday, July 3. Time limit will be in effect.
12. One hour & a half game slot* on lit diamonds.
13. 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.
14. Grace period 10 minutes.
15. 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.
16. Mercy rule 12 runs after 5 innings
17. Courtesy Runners: 3 per game, male for male, female for female, or female for male. You MAY use the same runner more than once.
18. SPN affiliated; SPN carded umpires; SPN insured.
19. See complete RSPA League rules
20. RSPA Rules (one page) pdf
21. RSPA Rules (8 pages) pdf

25. RSPA Bat Rules for 2013

25. RSPA League Rule Changes for 2013

1. JEWELLERY: The jewellery rule has been removed. Jewellery may be worn (as per SPN rules).
   However, we strongly recommend that all jewellery be removed when playing.
2. 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.***redefined for 2013***
3. A team may play with a 5 player (or more) infield by moving in an outfielder.
   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. The umpire should be informed when a team elects to play a 5 player (or more) infield. ***redefined for 2013***
4. All default fines and late payment fines will be strictly enforced.
   Teams with unpaid fees and fines will be suspended.
5. If balls and/or team packages are not picked up by June 9, they will be defaulted.***new 2013
6. If you have any rule changes that you would like to see, please forward them to the League Executive.

26. RSPA League Rules to be Stressed for 2013

The following rules will be stressed for 2013:

1. Check that the proper line-up is used.
2. ROSTERS:
   1. The wording of "Team Roster" shall be amended so that all future references shall be "Team Waiver Form".
   2. "Team Waiver Form" must be handed in and team reps MUST carry a copy of the "Team Waiver Form" to every game.
   3. Individual "Player Release/Registration Forms" must be handed in before they participate in any RSPA activity.
   4. Official SPN roster has been changed to on-line registration of SPN "Team Waiver Form" for 2013.
      Deadline for SPN "Team Waiver Form" is Friday, May 24, 2013.
   5. Deadline for RSPA text version of the roster is July 1st.
   6. Roster checks will be done on every team.
3. Zero tolerance for verbal abuse to umpires and other players.
4. Stress "fair play and gamesmanship".

27. 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.

28. RSPA Game Report Form

RSPA Game Report Form - PDF

1. Game Report Forms are available for a team rep to complete and may be submitted by fax, 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.
2. No verbal or telephone complaints are accepted.
3. 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.
4. 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.

29. RSPA Player Release Form

RSPA Player Release Form - PDF

1. Every player and/or coach must complete a "Player Release Form" BEFORE participating in any game or league activity.
2. These forms may be completed and handed in to the umpire before the start of the game.
3. It is important that both your home and work addresses are filled out, as we need this info for both Toronto and Mississauga Park & Rec.
   We will not contact you at either address. If either address is a city other than Toronto or Mississauga, the city alone will do. E-mail addresses must be completed so a team may be notified of any last minute changes. You will not be e-mailed for anything other than league activities and your e-mail will not be given to any other group or individual.
4. Player Release Forms are available to pick up at the League meetings, and are also available to download off the web site.

30. RSPA/SPN Team Rosters and "Team Waiver Form"

1. RSPA requires player information in three (3) formats
   1. Individual Player Release Forms RSPA Player Release Form - PDF
   2. Official SPN roster has been changed to on-line registration of SPN "Team Waiver Form" for 2013.
   3. Text version of the roster in Excel, Word or text format which may be posted on line.
2. All players must complete the on-line official SPN (Slo-Pitch National) "Team Waiver Form".
3. Initial SPN "Team Waiver Form" are due by Friday May 25.
   Final roster is due by July 1.
   Roster changes after July 1 require League approval.
4. Team reps must have a copy of the team roster at all games.
5. All teams must also e-mail a text version of the roster in text,
   Word or Excel format, to include address, postal code and e-mail address.
6. We will try to put all rosters on line this year.
   On line rosters will be pass code protected so that only team reps may access them.
7. Roster checks will be done at the first games of all playoff series,
   and roster checks will be done for all final championship games.

31. RSPA Umpires

See RSPA Umpire page

1. RSPA uses SPN carded umpires for all games.
2. 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!
3. The RSPA Umpires clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, May 1, 2013, 6:00 pm at Diamond Beach. This clinic makes you eligible to umpire any SPN league or tournament in Canada.
4. The RSPA "Game Report Form" is used to rate and evaluate umpires.

Umpires Wanted / Umpires Clinic Wednesday, May 1, 2013

SPN carded umpires wanted for recreational coed league. We will train and card.
SPN sanctioned Umpire Clinic Wednesday, May 1, 2013, 6:00 pm,
at Diamond Beach, Etobicoke, 575 Centennial Park Blvd., Etobicoke Ontario, M9C 5M3 — map

You will become a fully sanctioned SPN umpire, eligible to umpire any SPN league or tournament in Canada.
Clinic cost is $100 and includes: - SPN umpire card, rulebook, hat, instruction clinic and umpire test.
If you attend the RSPA umpire clinic, we will guarantee umpire bookings of at least double 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.
e-mail: accent@slopitch1.com —

32. RSPA 2013 Slo-Pitch Tournaments

May 11-12 & June 8-9 & July 13-14 & August 17-18, 2013
SPN National & Provincial Qualifiers!
Divisions: Coed D, E, F & Mens D, E

Contact: Randy Warren — e-mail preferred: accent@slopitch1.com; —
Tel 905-840-7206 (e-mail preferred); Fax 905-840-4189;

33. RSPA 2013 Sno-Pitch Tournaments

34. SPN Provincial Championships

Niagara Falls - Friday-Saturday-Sunday, August 23-24-25;

1. The SPN Coed Provincial Championships are in Niagara Falls on the weekend before the Labour Day long weekend, Friday-Saturday-Sunday, (teams must play Friday daytime, but no games on the Monday), on Friday-Saturday-Sunday, August 23-24-25.
2. 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).
3. If you have difficulty entering two tournaments, but still wish to play in the Provincials, please contact me.

35. Slo-Pitch Tournament Players

1. Any 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.
2. I have tournament teams in Coed D/C & Coed E, Mens D/E and Mens Masters 50+ in the SPN Provincial and National Championships.
3. Plus, I always get e-mails from other teams looking for players.

36. RSPA Volleyball Night, Friday, July 19, 2013

37. RSPA All-Star Night & Barbecue - Friday, August 9, 2013

See RSPA All-Star Night page

1. The RSPA All-Star Night & Barbecue returns for 2013 on Friday, August 9 at Wildwood Park.
2. All-Star Night will include a FREE BARBECUE, home run hitting contest, base running and team throwing contests, individual throwing contest, pitching contest, games, etc.
3. 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!
4. Also, this event is subsidized by league fees, so come out and get your money's worth!
5. We are looking for prizes, volunteers, ideas, etc.
6. 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?
7. Give us your input!

38. RSPA Poker Night

The RSPA Texas Hold'em Poker Night schedule for Saturday, June 15
at location Diamond Beach in Etobicoke - map ; -- Info coming soon to RSPA Poker Night

39. RSPA Blue Jay Day

We would like to get a group together to go see the Toronto Blue Jays.
I will send out an e-mail to see if there is any interest.

40. RSPA Banquet & Awards Dance

See RSPA Banquet page

1. Because of the great demand for this event, the RSPA Awards Banquet & Dance is split into THREE (3) nights.
   1. Saturday, October 12 will be scheduled for all lower and middle divisions,
   2. Saturday, October 19 will be scheduled for the upper-middle divisions,
   3. Saturday, October 26 will be scheduled for higher divisions
      Comp, Mon-1, Tue-1, Wed-1, Thu-1, Fri-1;
      or for any "party" team that wants to attend a Halloween themed banquet.
      - as an added bonus for the October 26 banquet date, prizes for best individual costumes and best team costumes.
2. Teams may request to switch dates if they prefer, but date switches must be approved.
   Teams or individual players may attend more than one date if tickets are available.
3. Location: Westwood Arena (upstairs), 90 Woodbine Downs Blvd., Etobicoke ON M9W5S6 — map
4. Tickets are $50 per person and include open bar (all you can drink) and all-you-can-eat buffet.
5. All teams are required to purchase a minimum of four (4) tickets (4 x $50 = $200.00).
   (Banquet deposit is usually minimum 6 tickets per team; for 2013 only will be 4 tickets per team)
   This is a separate payment and is due August 1, 2012.
6. Banquet tickets are non-transferable (this is one of the ways that helps to keep our costs down)
7. Any team that has not paid the banquet deposit, will not be eligible to participate in the League playoffs.
8. Tickets will be handed out at the two league meetings. Each team will be given 20 tickets (more tickets are available if required).
   Tickets should be sold throughout the season and unsold tickets must be returned at the banquet.
9. Team are also required to donate a door prize (all teams have somebody that can get a door prize) valued $25.00-30.00.
10. A great party to end the season with great food, drinks, dancing and door prizes!
    Now with THREE (3) main door prizes, large screen HD TV's!
11. RSPA Banquet info page
12. The best party of the year!!!

41. Casino-Rama and/or Niagara Fallsview Casino Bus Trip

We are to looking for someone to organize an RSPA bus trip to Casino-Rama or Niagara Fallsview Casino.

42. RSPA Euchre Night

We are to looking for someone to organize an RSPA Euchre Night.

44. Other RSPA Social Activities

1. Other RSPA social activities are proposed for the 2013 season, including:
   Euchre night; Casino-Rama trip; Casino Niagara; Blue Jays game; golf tournament; etc.
2. Looking for volunteers to help with the RSPA social activities.
3. Give us your ideas!

45. New Player List

1. Teams looking for new players should request the "Players Looking For a Team List".
2. Players looking for a team should request to be put on the "Players Looking For a Team List".
3. See below for information on RSPA open practices for new players looking for a team.

46. New Player Open Practices

See RSPA Practice page

1. Open practices for new players looking for a team are every Sunday morning (weather permitting) at 10:00 am to 12:00 noon, from Sunday, April 7 to Sunday, May 12 at Lavington Park. map & practice info
2. Thursday night open practices for new players looking for a team are every RSPA Thursday night open practices are ONLY FOR PLAYERS LOOKING FOR A COED TEAM (no team reps, please; no players already on a team).
3. Thursday practices are every Thursday night (weather permitting) at 6:30 pm at Fleetwood Park on Burnhamthorpe Road in Mississauga — Fleetwood map
4. Thursday practices are for NEW RSPA players only. No players who are already on a team - please.
   Team reps are allowed out to practices to observe and request players.
5. There are only 3 Thursday practices - Thursday, April 18, April 25 & Thursday, May 2 at Fleetwood Park; map & practice info

Why do new players have to go to open practices?

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. Also, it is nice to meet the players, since team reps show up at the practices, and sometimes 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.
5. Yes personality counts! We also 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.
6. Male players have a much better chance of making a team, if they can make more practices.
7. If you do not go out to an open practice, you will NOT be placed on a team.

Will I definitely be put on a team?

1. 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.
2. Male players have about a 50-60% 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.
3. We have 148 teams in the league, and usually 15-20 of those teams are looking for players.
4. If you do not go out to an open practice, you will NOT be placed on a team.

47. Frequently Asked Questions for New Players

RSPA Frequently Asked Questions for New Players

48. RSPA Team Sponsors

RSPA supplies a list of recommended bar sponsors.

1. We just supply a list of bars that are looking for teams to sponsor.
2. Most sponsors will not give money up front.
3. 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.
4. The percentage varies, the normal is 10%; some may give 15%.
5. 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.
6. If they provide shirts, they will probably take it off whatever else they are going to give you.
7. Also push for a team freebie - free pizza, plate of wings or nachos, whatever the bar specializes in.
8. 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.

49. RSPA Constitution & By-Laws

See RSPA Constitution & By-Laws page or available upon request.

50. RSPA on the Internet

1. Check out RSPA Slo-Pitch on the internet at:
   http://www.slopitch1.com/rspa
   Contact: Randy Warren — e-mail preferred: accent@slopitch1.com — — tel 905-840-7206 (e-mail preferred) — fax 905-840-4189.
2. The web site includes all information:
   1. RSPA 2013 League Schedule and Results - 2013 info coming soon
   2. RSPA 2013 League Standings - preliminary 2013 divisions are posted
   3. RSPA League Calendar
   4. RSPA League Rules
   5. RSPA Parks & Maps
   6. RSPA New Team Info
   7. RSPA New Player Info
   8. RSPA League Forms
   9. RSPA League Photos
   10. RSPA League History
   11. etc.
3. Scores, results and standings from league games are posted daily.
4. Available on the web site are downloadable forms for player release forms, game report forms, scoresheets, tournament entry form, etc.
5. For teams or players that are looking to hook up with me, my availability is listed on the web site. RW Availability
6. 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 2013 slo-pitch season!

This 2013 RSPA Info Package may be updated as more information becomes available.
Revised: January 22, 2013

Randy Warren,
President - RSPA Slo-Pitch
E-mail: accent@slopitch1.com
8 Buxton Court, Brampton, Ontario L6Z 3H9
Tel.: (905) 840-7206; Cell: (416) 930-6124