Rules & Resources

Tournament Rules

Official rules, conduct guidelines, and resources for the tournament. All participants are expected to have read and understood these rules before game day.

General Tournament Rules

  • All games are governed by Softball Canada official rules unless otherwise specified.
  • Each team must provide 1 scorekeeper and 1 base umpire per game.
  • A minimum of 8 players are required to start a game; fewer than 8 results in a forfeit.
  • Teams must be ready to play 10 minutes before their scheduled game time.
  • A 10-run mercy rule applies after 4 innings (3.5 innings if home team is ahead).
  • Games are 6 innings or 90 minutes maximum. No new inning starts after time expires.
  • Protests must be filed with the tournament director before the end of the disputed game.

Eligibility & Age Divisions

  • Players must meet the age requirement for their division as of January 1st of the tournament year.
  • U11: Ages 9–11 | U13: Ages 11–13 | U15: Ages 13–15 | U17: Ages 15–17 | U19: Ages 17–19
  • Each player may only be registered on one team per division.
  • Proof of age (birth certificate or government ID) may be requested at any time.
  • Player callups from lower divisions require tournament director approval.
  • Overage players are not permitted under any circumstances.

Code of Conduct

  • Respect for all players, coaches, umpires, and spectators is mandatory.
  • Any player, coach, or spectator ejected from a game may not return to the facility that day.
  • Aggressive or threatening behaviour will result in immediate removal from the tournament.
  • Consumption of alcohol or use of tobacco/cannabis is strictly prohibited in the playing area.
  • All disputes must be handled through official channels — no confrontations with umpires.
  • Coaches are responsible for the behaviour of their players and spectators.

Equipment & Uniforms

  • All bats must be certified for play under current Softball Canada regulations.
  • Players must wear matching team uniforms with visible numbers.
  • Helmets with face guards are mandatory for all batters and base runners.
  • Catchers must wear full protective equipment (helmet, chest protector, shin guards).
  • Cleats with metal spikes are NOT permitted for U11 and U13 divisions.
  • Teams must supply their own game balls — one new ball per game minimum.

Note: These rules are subject to change at the discretion of the tournament director. Updates will be posted on the News & Announcements page. For questions or clarifications, contact the tournament office at info@b2cowan.com.