RSPA Info Package 2026

1. Welcome to RSPA Slo-Pitch for 2026!

RSPA is a coed (7M + 3F) non-profit, slo-pitch league for adults (16+/18+) based in Mississauga and Etobicoke 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:

3. RSPA League Calendar / Schedule 2026

www.slopitch1.com/rspa/calendar.html

4. RSPA 2026 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 RSPA 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 2026 Ballot

5. RSPA League Fees for 2026

With further increases in park fees, insurance, team registration, umpires and other costs, the RSPA team fees:
For both new and returning teams league fees are $2000.00,
still one of the lowest league fees in the GTA and a great value for what is included.
RSPA league fees includes parks, permits, insurance, SPN registration, carded umpires, game balls
and also subsidizes the league banquet, All-Star night, Dunton BBQ party nights, etc.

As well, all teams MUST PAY:
Tournament Fee: all teams - due June 6 — $ 450.00 (One RSPA tournament is mandatory for all league teams)
Banquet deposit is REQUIRED for 2026, and tickets will sell out quickly. Only TWO banquets for 2026.
Banquet deposit is minimum 4 tickets per team $240. Banquet dates MUST BE booked in advance.

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 14, 2026	$300.00	$300.00	1st payment
April 28, 2026	$700.00	$700.00	2nd payment
June 1, 2026	$1000.00	$1000.00	3rd payment
LEAGUE FEES:	$ 2000.00	$ 2000.00	League fees
plus
June 6, 2026	$450.00	$450.00	Tournament fee
August 1, 2026	$ 240.00	$ 240.00	Banquet deposit
TOTAL	$ 2690.00	$ 2690.00

1. RSPA league fees are payable by cheque, money order, cash or Interac money transfer.
2. NO debit cards, Mastercard or Visa accepted.
3. Cheques are payable to RSPA.
4. Post-dated cheques are recommended for final payment & tournament.
5. $20 fine for all late payments.
   Teams with late payments will NOT be scheduled.
6. League fines for game defaults $50 first time, $100 for 2nd time, $200 for 3rd game default.
7. League fines $10 for uniform fine or no bases, no pitching mat or no game ball.
8. 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.
9. Any team that does not get league fees and payments to the league on time will be fined and suspended.
10. It is YOUR responsibility to get the fees in. It is not our responsibility to chase you for it.
11. Invoices and/or receipts are available. Somebody on your team may be able to write it off.
12. 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, NSA carded umpires, game balls are supplied, web site, league awards,
RSPA Banquet & Awards Dance, All-Star Night & Free Barbecue and other social activities.
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, door prizes, etc. for $60 per person?)

8. RSPA Team Rep Meeting - Tuesday, April 28, 2026

The ONLY RSPA League meeting for team reps is scheduled for Tuesday, April 28, 2026.
Meeting will be drop-in style, anytime from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm,
LOCATION: The Bull Pub & Grill; 2800 Skymark Ave, Mississauga, ON L4W 5A6 • map
(at Commerce Court, north side of Eglinton, by the McDonalds)
RSPA 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 the RSPA league meeting.
AT THIS MEETING: RSPA team reps will review RSPA League info for 2026;
pick-up RSPA info package; pick up balls; submit team contact info; preliminary
park & night preferences; vote for RSPA 2026 Executive.

League 2nd payment required - $700 for new team; $700 for returning team.
(Initial deposit of $300 should have been paid by Tuesday, April 14)
Payments by cash, cheque or Interac email money transfer (no debit or credit cards).
We strongly recommend paying by Interac or leaving post-dated cheques
for final payment, tournament fee and banquet deposit.
Banquet deposit is minimum 4 tickets per team $240.
Banquet dates MUST BE booked in advance.
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, they will be defaulted.
Vote for your RSPA 2026 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 2026 Ballot

Every team rep who attends the meeting will be given
an RSPA and/or NSA (or other) T-shirt (WHILE SUPPLIES LAST).
PLUS - team rep appreciation draw;
one team rep will win a bat for team rep appreciation.

Baseball equipment will be available for sale at the RSPA league meeting:
- bases, bats, extra balls, pitching mats, etc.
Pre-order your equipment: RSPA Equipment Order Form
Complete the equipment pre-order form and the equipment will be ready for pick up at the meeting.
Pitching mats will be without the cutout for home plate (the plate will be a strike).
New mats will be available for sale at the RSPA league meeting.
Old mats with cutout may still be used with cutout placed over homeplate.

RSPA Team Rep Meeting - Checklist:

Read all new RSPA information	• RSPA Info Summary; • RSPA Info; • RSPA Complete Info Package; • RSPA Rules; • RSPA Parks; • RSPA Calendar; • RSPA Team FAQ; • RSPA New Team Info.
Read/check RSPA Meeting Agenda	RSPA Meeting Agenda
Submit RSPA Team Info Forms	RSPA Team Info/Application Form PDF
Vote for 2026 RSPA Executive	RSPA Executive 2026 Ballot
Submit first RSPA league payment $300	Submit first RSPA league payment $300 by Interac email money transfer to [email protected]. Submit by Tuesday, April 14. See below for RSPA 2026 League Fees.
Submit second RSPA league payment $700	Submit second RSPA league payment $700 by Interac email money transfer to [email protected]. Submit at the RSPA meeting or submit by Tuesday, April 28. See below for RSPA 2026 League Fees.
Pre-order any equipment	RSPA Equipment Order Form

9. What's New For 2026

RSPA Rule Changes for 2026: see #23 RSPA Rules Changes. Also see RSPA League Rules.
RSPA MEETING: ONE MEETING ONLY. A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND the RSPA league meeting.
RSPA ROSTERS
RSPA will use custom RSPA roster form (Excel or writeable pdf). RSPA League Roster Form
and must include name (first and last), email, date of birth, M/F, postal code and current level of play.
LEVEL OF PLAY: If you do not know your level of play you are E level.
- You are not A level (except for the 2 or 3 players that actually are A level),
- You are not B level (except for the few players that actually are B level),
- You are not even C level (unless you are playing on a certified C level team),
ROSTER MAXIMUM: A maximum of TWENTY (20) players may be registered on the RSPA roster.
Exceptions may be made upon request and with league approval.
ROSTERS - Random roster checks on all playoff games.
We warned everbody and still eliminated teams from the playoffs for roster violations.
Even more stringent on rosters completed and roster checks.
TEAM UNIFORMS - Team uniforms (matching colour shirt) WILL BE ENFORCED for 2026.
TEAM PHOTO - Team photos are required again for 2026. Make sure you take and submit your team photo.
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 2026.
Friday Dunton Parties: with several theme nights including Latino night and Tier 1 night with FREE barbecue etc.
Select from several tentative/available Friday dates: Friday, May 29, June 12, June 26, July 17 & August 7.
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 TBA 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) •
RSPA TOURNAMENTS 2026: May 2 • June 13 • July 4 • July 25 • August 15 • Sept 12 • Sept 26 • Oct 3.
NSA Coed Eastern World Championships - Friday, August 28 to Monday, August 31, 2026; Oshawa.
NSA Coed Provincial Championships - Friday, September 18 to Sunday, September 20, 2026; Turner Park, Hamilton.
Let's see how many RSPA teams we can get out to these amazing events!
RSPA Awards Banquet and Dances:
ONLY TWO BANQUETS SCHEDULED FOR 2026. -- Saturday, October 17 and Saturday, October 24.
Halloween banquet Saturday, October 31 is tentative if we get enough support.
RSPA banquets are mandatory for 2026 but only TWO 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 2025 Banquet & Awards Night info
RSPA Umpires: Always need more umpires. We will train. RSPA Umpire clinic Wednesday, April 29.
Mens Masters 50+: RSPA has a Mens Masters 50+E/Int division on Wednesday nights.
Looking for new 50+ teams and new 50+ players.

10. What Will Be Stressed for 2026

The first thing that we will address in 2026 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.

1. Roster: All teams/players must complete the RSPA roster (Excel or writeable pdf) with complete info and on time.
2. Payments MUST be in on time. Teams with unpaid fees and fines will be suspended.
3. All default fines and late payment fines will be strictly enforced.
4. All beverages must be in cups. Infraction will result in player ejection.
5. If balls and/or team packages are not picked up at the meeting, the team will forfeit their supply of balls.
6. We offer optional games Monday nights and Friday nights on holiday long weekends .
7. Doubleheaders will be scheduled on unlit diamonds from June 11 to July 23. Time limit will be in effect.
8. Team photos required for 2026.
9. Umpires needed for 2026.
10. Any player ejected for any reason will automatically be suspended for one additional game.
11. Fair play and gamemanship stressed for 2026.
12. REMEMBER - it's only a game!

We will once again stress fair play and gamesmanship. All players must 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!

11. Team Requirements

Each team is required to supply the following:

1. Pitching mat (or board), with no cut out around home plate (Mat or board must be legal 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 2026 is the Louisville Slugger NSA Canada 12" COR.52/300 Softball Optic Yellow- LSSB52CALYL.
   Teams may still use up Worth "Hot Dot" balls.
4. Uniform tops (after the June 15 uniform deadline) may be as simple as matching colour t-shirts.
   Uniform rule will be enforced for 2026.
5. Teams supply their own bats, baseball gloves, etc.
6. See also Team Suggestions & Hints and Team F.A.Q.

12. 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. Carry extra cups.
6. Check directions to parks you have not been to.
7. Park away from the ball diamonds. Balls will break car windows! Player's car windows are NOT covered by our insurance.
8. 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.
9. Know the league rules, there are some differences. Always carry your rule book and a copy of the RSPA rules.
   RSPA 2026 Rules (one page) pdf — RSPA 2026 Rules (8 pages) pdf
   The NSA Official Slo-Pitch Rule Book is available at: NSA Rulebook
10. If you are not sure ... ask. umpires and other team reps are very helpful.
11. If the team rep goes away on holidays, please designate an alternate team rep for the time, and inform the League.
12. Use the Game Report Forms. We want the input, what's good, and what's bad.
13. 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.
14. Check the score after every inning.
15. 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 4:00 pm of game day and all team reps will be e-mailed.
16. REMEMBER - the goal is to have fun! It is only a game!

13. RSPA New Team Rep Suggestions/Hints

1. DELEGATE: Delegate certain duties: - equipment, batting order, finances.
2. 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.
3. Tell everybody to arrive early, time to warm up and chat before you play.
4. After the game, do something, go somewhere and socialize, if not a bar, then somebody's house.
5. Stress the fact that it is not just about showing up, playing ball and leaving.

14. How To Start a New Team

How To Start a New Team

15. Frequently Asked Questions for New Teams/Players

Frequently Asked Questions for New Teams
Frequently Asked Questions for New Players

16. Team Information Form

RSPA Team Information Form

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 must have two cell phone contacts for emergencies.

17. Team Park/Night Preference Request Form

RSPA 2026 Team Park/Night Preference Request Form — (may be revised if more parks are added)

1. The "RSPA Team Park/Night Preference Form" must be completed by each team.
2. Park/Night Preference Form MUST be resubmitted with every change.
3. We offer set night divisions for all nights, Monday to Friday.
4. Teams that play on Friday nights NO WEEKS OFF FOR PLAYOFFS FOR ANY PROVINCIALS EXCEPT COED.
5. 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.
6. All teams must be available for three nights during playoffs if rainouts or cancellations force a revised schedule.
7. If you choose a set night, you must be flexible with your park choices.
8. If you prefer a set park, you must be flexible with your night choices.

18. 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 2026 Team Park/Night Request Form - PDF - (may be revised if more parks are added)
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 are requested by almost every team, and will have to be shared.
4. Max Ward on Thursday night is reserved mainly for Comp and high-level teams.

19. RSPA League Schedules

RSPA 2026 Schedule (2026 schedule coming soon)

1. 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.
2. All teams will make the playoffs.
3. We do not schedule games on Friday nights of long weekends (or games are optional).
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. We will try to grant schedule requests as much as possible. However, teams will need to be flexible, especially during playoffs.
7. All teams must be available for three nights during playoffs if rainouts or cancellations force a revised schedule.
8. If you choose a set night, you must be flexible with your park choices.
9. If you prefer a set park, you must be flexible with your night choices.
10. 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!
11. We offer set night divisions for all nights.
12. 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.
13. 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.
14. See below for holiday weekends and no game dates for 2026.
15. Doubleheaders will be scheduled on unlit diamonds from June 13 to July 17. Time limit will be in effect.
16. 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.
17. All League schedules and results are available on the web site, and are updated almost daily.

20. RSPA 2026 Schedule Dates with Optional Games

Day	Date	Park	No Games	Description
Friday	May 15	All Parks	Games optional	Victoria Day Long Weekend
Monday	May 18	All Parks	Games optional	Victoria Day Long Weekend
Friday	June 26	All Parks	Games optional	Canada Day Long Weekend
Monday	June 29	All Parks	Games optional	Canada Day Long Weekend
Friday	July 10	All Parks	No Games	RSPA All-Star Night & BBQ
Friday	July 31	All Parks	Games optional	Civic Holiday Long Weekend
Monday	August 3	All Parks	Games optional	Civic Holiday Long Weekend
Friday	Sept 4	All Parks	Games optional	Labour Day Long Weekend
Monday	Sept 7	All Parks	Games optional	Labour Day Long Weekend

21. RSPA Divisions/Levels of Play

1. In 2025, RSPA had 134 teams in 24 playoff divisions which is the largest coed league in Ontario!
2. Tentative 2026 divisions - see below.
3. 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.
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.
6. Also, there is division 'cross-over' where teams play teams from other divisions, usually the division up or the division down.
7. 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.
8. Higher divisions offer better awards, better parks and may offer increased number of games.
9. AWARDS: Level of awards is based on strength of division, number of teams in the division, length of service, etc. and availability of awards.

22. RSPA Tentative Divisions for 2026

RSPA Tentative Divisions for 2026
RSPA Final Standings/Divisions for 2024
The proposed divisions for 2026:
- 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

23. RSPA League Rule Changes for 2026

RSPA RULE CHANGES FOR 2026:
• Home Run Rule: Change to a single (instead of an out) for match plus 2 homeruns on fields with fences less than 260 feet.
• Mercy Rule: Change to 10 runs after 5 innings; no mercy rule after 4 innings.
• Commitment Line: Use SPN rule commitment line 20 feet from home plate.
• Pitcher with equipment walk rule: Pitcher with equipment 2 out walk rule in effect. (Pitcher with safety equipment MUST take FREE courtesy runner when on base with two out.)
• Uniform Rule: Will be in effect for RSPA teams as of June 15.
• Pitchers Mask: Still HIGHLY RECOMMENDED but not mandatory.
• Female Walk: Female batter option to walk after male batter walked on 4-0 count - Will stay the same.

• We revisited the following possible rule changes:
- going to 1 and 1 count - NO;
- using "big ball-small ball" - NO;
- pitchers mask mandatory - NO;
- female batter option to walk - yes/same;
- male/female pitcher-catcher combination - NO;
- pitching arc 6’-10’ or 6’-12’ - stay 6-12';
- bunting - NO;
- stealing - NO;
See RSPA League Rules.
• If you have any suggested rule changes please submit them. E-mail: [email protected]
The official ball for 2026 will be the Louisville Slugger NSA Canada 12"
COR.52/300 Softball Optic Yellow- LSSB52CALYL. Teams may use up Worth "Hot Dot" balls.
If balls and/or team packages are not picked up the team will forfeit their supply of balls.
TEAM UNIFORMS - Team uniforms (matching colour shirt) WILL BE ENFORCED for 2026.
RSPA MEETING: ONLY ONE TEAM REP MEETING FOR 2026.
A team rep or team member MUST ATTEND the RSPA league meeting.
Headquarters: The Bull Pub & Grill; 2800 Skymark Ave, Mississauga, ON L4W 5A6 • map
(at Commerce Court, north side of Eglinton, by the McDonalds)
A representative from every team MUST attend the RSPA meeting.
If balls and/or team packages are not picked up the team will forfeit their supply of balls.
See RSPA League Rules.
• If you have any suggested rule changes please submit them. E-mail: [email protected]

24. RSPA League Rules - Coed 2026

RSPA League rules are modified NSA rules:
All information is tentative and may change. Some 2026 info still in progress.
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 rule for single re-entry after substitution.
6. Balls and strikes are called by the umpire using a mat (no cut out).
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 play. They do not have to play beyond the 150 or 175 foot mark. BUT outfielders do have to be in the outfield. *** RSPA ***
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. 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 NOT play with a 5 player (or more) infield by moving in an outfielder. *** RSPA ***
11. No time limit on games on unlit diamonds (exceptions may apply).
    Doubleheaders will be scheduled on unlit diamonds from Monday, June 11 to Thursday, July 23. Time limit will be in effect.
12. One hour & a half game slot* on lit diamonds (some exceptions).
13. Home Run Rule: match plus 2 in all fenced parks.
    Fenced Parks with fence 260 feet or greater: Homeruns after that are an OUT.
    Fenced Parks with fence LESS THAN 260 feet : Homeruns after that are a SINGLE.
    Unfenced diamonds: Home run rule applies to balls hit out of designated "out of play" area.
    Walk off homerun IS USED in RSPA. No out called for untouched base.
14. Grace period 10 minutes (umpires discretion). Time is taken off game time.
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; no mercy rule after 4 innings. - REVISED for 2026.
17. Courtesy Runners: SEVEN per game, male for male, female for female, or female for male.
    You MAY use the same runner more than once but not in the same inning.
18. Pitcher with equipment walk rule: Pitcher with equipment 2 out walk rule in effect. (Pitcher with safety equipment MUST take FREE courtesy runner when on base with two out.)
19. • Commitment Line: Use SPN rule commitment line 20 feet from home plate.
20. • Uniform Rule: Will be in effect for RSPA teams as of June 15.
21. • Pitchers Mask: Still HIGHLY RECOMMENDED but not mandatory.
22. RSPA RULE DIFFERENCES/RSPA Will NOT Use the Following NSA Rules:
    • RSPA mercy rule will be 12 runs after 5 innings (4-1/2 innings if home team is ahead).
    • RSPA allows 7 courtesy runners, can run female for male.
    can use the same runner twice, but cannot use the same runner twice in the same inning.
    • RSPA will not start batters with a 1-1 count.
    • RSPA will not use big ball-small ball.
    • Protective masks for pitchers is highly recommended but NOT mandatory.
    • RSPA will not use the NSA male/female pitcher-catcher combination rule.
    • RSPA will not allow bunting or stealing.
    • RSPA will maintain the pitching arc at 6"-12'.
23. NSA affiliated; NSA carded umpires; NSA insured.
24. See complete RSPA League rules
25. RSPA Rules (one page) pdf
26. RSPA Rules (8 pages) pdf
27. The NSA Official Slo-Pitch Rule Book is available at: NSA Rulebook

25. RSPA League Rules - Masters 50+ 2026

RSPA Rules for the Masters 50+ division are modified NSA rules:

1. Minimum age is 50 years or turning 50 in the calendar year.
2. Age exception of players 47-49 years or turning 47-49 in the calendar year may be allowed with league approval.
3. COURTESY RUNNERS: Unlimited courtesy runners. Cannot use the same runner twice in the same inning.
4. Team level must be E/Rec or Intermediate. Rosters must be approved by the league.

26. RSPA Bat Rules for 2026

27. Protective Equipment Statement

Protective Equipment Statement: Any player who has a concern about an injury occurring from being struck with a ball during RSPA sanctioned play should address that concern by the use of protective equipment which is available and is allowed in NSA, SPN and SPOA sanctioned play. For safety reasons, RSPA 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 RSPA sanctioned event.

28. RSPA League Rules to be Stressed for 2026

The following rules will be stressed for 2026:

1. ROSTERS: All teams/players must complete the RSPA roster (Excel or writeable pdf).
2. Rosters must be submitted by the deadline and team reps MUST carry a copy of the team roster to every game.
3. Roster checks will be done on every team.
4. Playoff Rosters: Teams MUST submit playoff eligible roster. *** RSPA ***
5. Any player not in uniform for playoff games must submit photo ID. *** RSPA ***
6. Scoresheets: Teams MUST submit photo of all scoresheets for PLAYOFF games. *** RSPA ***
7. Roster Checks: An umpire may request a roster check for 5 games played in all playoff games.*** RSPA ***
8. Team Photo: Considering fine or penalty for no team photo or failure to respond to league emails.
9. 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.
10. The official ball is the Louisville Slugger NSA Canada 12" COR.52/300 Softball Optic Yellow- LSSB52CALYL.
    Teams may use up Worth "Hot Dot" balls. Balls are supplied by the league.
11. If balls are not picked up by June 6, the team will forfeit their supply of balls.
12. 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.
13. All beverages must be in cups.
14. There is zero tolerance for verbal abuse to umpires and other players.
15. We stress "fair play and gamesmanship".

29. 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 forwarded to NSA, SPN and SPOA
for all leagues and tournaments across Ontario.
Any player ejected for any reason will automatically be suspended for one additional game.
Any player ejected for umpire abuse or any physical altercation will be suspended for a minimum of 4 games.

30. RSPA Rosters

RSPA ROSTER RULES FOR 2026:
RSPA will use custom RSPA roster form (writeable pdf). RSPA League Roster Form
and must include name (first and last), email, date of birth, M/F, postal code and current level of play.
LEVEL OF PLAY: If you do not know your level of play you are E level.
- You are not A level (except for the 2 or 3 players that actually are A level),
- You are not B level (except for the few players that actually are B level),
- You are not even C level (unless you are playing on a certified C level team),
ROSTER MAXIMUM: A maximum of TWENTY (20) players may be registered on the RSPA roster.
Exceptions may be made upon request and with league approval.
ROSTERS - Random roster checks on all playoff games.
We warned everbody and still eliminated teams from the playoffs for roster violations.
Even more stringent on rosters completed and roster checks. This will require all players to have an active email address.
• Deadline for RSPA roster is May 13, 2026.
• 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.

Roster maximum is TWENTY (20) players. Exceptions may be granted.

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.

31. 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 e-mail or may be handed in to the umpire.
2. They are also available for download from the web site.
3. 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.
4. Game Report Forms are used to criticize or praise umpires or other teams.
5. No verbal or telephone complaints are accepted.
6. 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.
7. 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.

32. RSPA 2026 Summer Slo-Pitch Tournaments

(Saturday, one-day) May 2 • June 13 • July 4 • July 25 • August 15 • Sept 12 • Sept 26 • Oct 3, 2026
NSA Provincial & National Qualifiers - First place hoodies!
Coed (6M-4F) 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!
Etobicoke-Mississauga Parks - Centennial, Max Ward, Dunton, Fleetwood, etc.
HEADQUARTERS: The Bull Pub & Grill; 2800 Skymark Ave, Mississauga, ON L4W 5A6 • MAP
(at Commerce Court, north side of Eglinton, by the McDonalds)

All RSPA League teams MUST enter a team in ONE of the RSPA tournament dates.

1. Slo-pitch tournaments are great for getting 3 or 4 games in one day, and helps with team bonding.
2. Any team that enters will automatically qualify for the NSA Slo-Pitch Coed Provincial Championships,
3. RSPA League fees include the NSA membership which entitles your league team to enter any NSA slo-pitch tournament.
4. Remember that RSPA tournament rules and other tournament rules vary from RSPA League rules:
   - All divisions the batter will start with a 1-1 count..
   - 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.
5. 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.
6. 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!
7. Come on out! and have some fun!!!
8. Contact: Randy Warren — e-mail preferred: [email protected].

33. NSA Provincial & World Championships

Tournament	Date	Days	City	Divisions
Mens-Womens Worlds	July 31-Aug 4, 2026	Thu-Fri-Sat-Sun-Mon	Turner Park, Hamilton -- map.	Divisions: Mens, Womens.
NSA Eastern Worlds	August 29-Sept 1, 2026	Fri-Sat-Sun-Mon	Lakefront West Park, Oshawa -- map.	Divisions: Mens, Womens, Coed, Masters.
Coed Provincials	September 19-20-21, 2026	Friday-Saturday-Sunday	Turner Park, Hamilton -- map.	Divisions: All Coed.
Masters / Seniors	September 20-21, 2026	Saturday-Sunday	Turner Park, Hamilton -- map.	Divisions: Mens, Womens.
Mens-Womens	September 26-27-28, 2026	Friday-Saturday-Sunday	Turner Park, Hamilton -- map.	Divisions: Mens, Womens.

1. The NSA Coed Provincial Championships are September 19-20-21, 2026 at Turner Park in Hamilton -- map.
2. See my list of RSPA tournaments - (Saturday, one-day) May 2 • June 6 • July 4 • July 18 • August 15 • Sept 12 • Sept 26 • Oct 3, 2026.
3. If you need players for the Provincials, check with me for a list of players looking to play.
4. If you have players looking to get on a team in the Provincials, contact me and I will put them on the list.

34. 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.

35. RSPA New Player List

1. Teams looking for new players should request the "Players Looking For a Team List".
2. Players looking to be put on an RSPA coed 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.

36. New Player Open Practices

See RSPA Practice page

1. Open practices for new players looking for a team are:
   2026 Sunday morning practices are every Sunday morning 10:00 am to 12:00 noon (weather and field conditions permitting)
   • Sunday, April 13 • Sunday, April 20 • Sunday, April 27 • Sunday, May 4.
   2026 Thursday night practices are Thursday night 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm (weather and field conditions permitting)
   • Thursday, April 17 • Thursday, April 24 • Thursday, May 1.
   For more practice status, information, maps, etc. see RSPA Open Practice Info. -
   See RSPA New Player for new player info and FAQ.
2. Team reps are allowed out to practices to observe and request players.
   Team reps are not allowed to approach new players without consent.

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 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 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.
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 probably 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 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.
3. We have 134 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 probably NOT be placed on a team.

37. Frequently Asked Questions for New Players

RSPA Frequently Asked Questions for New Players

38. RSPA All-Star Night & Barbecue - Friday, July 11, 2026

See RSPA All-Star Night page

1. The RSPA All-Star Night & Barbecue returns for 2026 tentatively on Friday, July 10 at Paul Coffey Park.
2. All-Star Night will include a FREE BARBECUE, and beverages.
3. CONTESTS: home run hitting contest, base running and team throwing contests, individual throwing, pitching contest, etc.
4. 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!
5. Also, this event is subsidized by league fees, so come out and get your money's worth!
6. We are looking for prizes, volunteers, ideas, etc.
7. 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?
8. Give us your input!

39. 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 TWO (3) nights.
   • Saturday, October 17
   • Saturday, October 24
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.
3. Teams or individual players may attend more than one date if tickets are available.
4. 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
5. Tickets are $60 per person and include open bar (all you can drink) and all-you-can-eat buffet.
6. Banquet deposit $240 required for 2026.
7. 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 2026 only will be 4 tickets per team) REQUIRED FOR 2026.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. Tickets should be sold throughout the season.
11. Team are also required to donate a door prize (all teams have somebody that can get a door prize) valued $25.00-30.00.
12. 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!
13. RSPA Banquet info page
14. The best party of the year!!!

40. Other RSPA Social Activities

1. RSPA Events page
2. 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.
3. Looking for volunteers to help with the RSPA social activities.
4. Give us your ideas!

41. RSPA Umpires

See RSPA Umpire page

1. RSPA uses NSA 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 makes you eligible to umpire any NSA league or tournament in Canada.
4. The RSPA "Game Report Form" is used to rate and evaluate umpires.

Umpires Wanted / FREE Umpires Clinic - see info

NSA carded umpires wanted for recreational coed league. We will train and card.

You will become a fully sanctioned NSA umpire, eligible to umpire any NSA league or tournament in Canada.
Cost for umpire clinic is FREE
NSA umpire carding is $85 and includes: NSA umpire card, rulebook, hat, instruction clinic and umpire test.
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: [email protected]

42. RSPA Team Sponsors

1. Check with your players if they have a contact that can write off the team league fees.
2. 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.
9. The tentative list of sponsors to date: TBA
10. If you know of any sponsors that should be added to this list, please let me know.

43. RSPA Constitution & By-Laws

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

44. RSPA on the Internet

1. Check out RSPA Slo-Pitch on the internet at: http://www.slopitch1.com/rspa
   Contact: Randy Warren — [email protected]
2. The web site includes all information:
   1. RSPA 2026 League Schedule and Results - 2026 info coming soon
   2. RSPA 2026 League Standings - preliminary 2026 divisions
   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 2026 slo-pitch season!

This 2026 RSPA Info Package may be updated as more information becomes available.
Revised: March 18, 2026

Randy Warren,
President - RSPA Slo-Pitch
E-mail: [email protected]
8 Buxton Court, Brampton, Ontario L6Z 3H9
Cell: (416) 930-6124