RSPA Info Package 2025

1. Welcome to RSPA Slo-Pitch for 2025!

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 2025

www.slopitch1.com/rspa/calendar.html
All dates are subject to change due to the merger of SPN and SPOA.

4. RSPA 2025 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 2025 Ballot

5. RSPA League Fees for 2025

With further increases in park fees, insurance, NSA registration, umpires and other costs, the RSPA team fees:
Returning teams league fees are $1900.00, still one of the lowest league fees in the GTA and a great value for what is included.
New teams pay $1900.00 and are not required to pay the new team fee.
RSPA league fees includes parks, permits, insurance, NSA 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 7 — $ 400.00 (One RSPA tournament is mandatory for all league teams)
Banquet deposit is MANDATORY for 2025, and tickets will sell out quickly. Only THREE banquets for 2025.
Banquet deposit is minimum 4 tickets per team $240 required for 2025.

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 15, 2025	$300.00	$300.00	1st payment
April 29, 2025	$600.00	$600.00	2nd payment
June 1, 2025	$1000.00	$1000.00	3rd payment
LEAGUE FEES:	$ 1900.00	$ 1900.00	League fees
plus
June 7, 2025	$400.00	$400.00	Tournament fee
August 1, 2025	$ 240.00	$ 240.00	Banquet deposit
TOTAL	$ 2540.00	$ 2540.00

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 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, door prizes, etc. for $60 per person?)

8. RSPA Team Rep Meeting - Tuesday, April 29, 2025

The ONLY RSPA League meeting for team reps is scheduled for Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
Meeting will be drop-in style, anytime from 4:00 pm to 11:00 pm,
at location: TBA;
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 2025; confirm team entry; pick-up NSA package, including rule book and scorebook; RSPA Info Package; pick up balls; submit team contact info; preliminary park & night preferences.
• Vote for your RSPA 2025 League Executive.
• Baseball equipment will be available for sale - RSPA Equipment Order Form
RSPA Meeting Info

League deposit required by April 15: - $300 for new team; $300 for returning team;
League deposit required by April 29: - $600 for new team; $600 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 at the meeting, they will be defaulted.

Every team rep who attends the meeting will be given
an RSPA and/or NSA T-shirt (and maybe other gift, 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 2025 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 2025 RSPA Executive	RSPA Executive 2025 Ballot
Submit RSPA league payment	Submit RSPA league payment by Interac email money transfer to accent@slopitch1.com. See above for RSPA 2025 League Fees.
Pre-order any equipment	RSPA Equipment Order Form

9. What's New For 2025

All information is tentative and may change as a result of the switch to NSA.
RSPA Rule Changes for 2025:
All rules are tentative and may change as a result of the switch to NSA.
• 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 the RSPA league meeting.
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.
TEAM PHOTO - Team photos are required again for 2025. 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 2025.
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 30, June 13, June 20, July 25 & August 8.
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 11 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 3 • June 7 • July 5 • July 19 • August 16 • September 20 • September 27.
NSA Coed Provincial Championships - NEW FOR 2025! NSA Slo-Pitch 2025 Provincial Championships
Location: Turner Park, Hamilton.
RSPA Awards Banquet and Dances:
3 banquets - Saturday, October 18 and Saturday, October 25 and Saturday, November 1, 2025.
RSPA banquets are mandatory for 2025 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, April 30.
Mens Masters 50+: RSPA has a Mens Masters 50+E/Int division on Wednesday nights.

10. What Will Be Stressed for 2025

The first thing that we will address in 2025 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 NSA on-line roster 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 12 to July 17. Time limit will be in effect.
8. Team photos required for 2025.
9. Umpires needed for 2025.
10. Any player ejected for any reason will automatically be suspended for one additional game.
11. Fair play and gamemanship stressed for 2025.
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 2025 is the TBA.
4. Uniform tops (after the June 15 uniform deadline) may be as simple as matching colour t-shirts.
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 2025 Rules (one page) pdf — RSPA 2025 Rules (8 pages) pdf - SPN Rule Book
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 3:00 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 2025 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 2025 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 2025 Schedule (2025 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 2025.
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 2025 Schedule Dates with Optional Games

Day	Date	Park	No Games	Description
Friday	May 16	All Parks	Games optional	Victoria Day Long Weekend
Monday	May 19	All Parks	Games optional	Victoria Day Long Weekend
Friday	June 27	All Parks	Games optional	Canada Day Long Weekend
Monday	June 30	All Parks	Games optional	Canada Day Long Weekend
Friday	July 11	All Parks	No Games	RSPA All-Star Night & BBQ
Friday	August 1	All Parks	Games optional	Civic Holiday Long Weekend
Monday	August 4	All Parks	Games optional	Civic Holiday Long Weekend
Friday	August 22	SPN Mens Masters Provincial Championships: please advise if your team needs Friday off.
Friday	August 29	All Parks	Games optional	Labour Day Long Weekend
Monday	Sept 1	All Parks	Games optional	Labour Day Long Weekend
Friday	Sept 5	SPN Provincial Championships: please advise if your team needs Friday off.
Friday	Sept 12	SPN Provincial Championships: please advise if your team needs Friday off.

21. RSPA Divisions/Levels of Play

1. In 2024, RSPA had 134 teams in 24 playoff divisions which is the largest coed league in Ontario!
2. Tentative 2025 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.

22. RSPA Tentative Divisions for 2025

RSPA Tentative Divisions for 2025
RSPA Final Standings/Divisions for 2024
The proposed divisions for 2025:
- 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 Rules - Coed 2025

RSPA League rules are modified NSA rules:
All rules are tentative and may change as a result of the switch to NSA.
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 (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 16 to Wednesday, July 16. 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. Walk off homerun will not be used in RSPA.
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: SEVEN per game, male for male, female for female, or female for male.
    You MAY use the same runner more than once.
18. NSA affiliated; NSA carded umpires; NSA insured.
19. See complete RSPA League rules
20. RSPA Rules (one page) pdf
21. RSPA Rules (8 pages) pdf
22. SPN Rulebook on line

24. RSPA League Rules - Masters 50+ 2025

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.

25. RSPA Bat Rules for 2025

26. 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.

27. RSPA League Rule Changes for 2025 - TBA

Possible Rule Changes for 2025 include:
• starting batter with a 1-1 count
• Other rule changes - TBA.

28. RSPA League Rules to be Stressed for 2025

The following rules will be stressed for 2025:

1. ROSTERS: All teams/players must complete the official NSA on-line roster.
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 Worth "Hot Dot". Balls are supplied by the league.
11. If balls are not picked up by June 8, 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".
16. SPN has added a "Code of Conduct" which RSPA will adhere to. - SPN Code of Conduct

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 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.

30. RSPA/NSA Rosters

1. RSPA requires all teams to complete the NSA 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.
2. This will require all players to complete their information on-line.
3. This will require all players to have an active email address.
4. Deadline for NSA on-line roster is May 13, 2025.
5. 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.
6. Teams may be required to submit a playoff roster of playoff eligible players.
7. Roster checks will be done at random in all of the playoff series,
   and roster checks will be done for all final championship games.
8. 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 2025 Summer Slo-Pitch Tournaments

(Saturday, one-day) May 3 • June 7 • July 5 • July 19 • August 16 • Sept 20 • Sept 27, 2025
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.
Etobicoke-Mississauga - Headquarters: TBA

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 two tournaments 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:
   - 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: accent@slopitch1.com.

33. NSA Provincial & World Championships

Date	Days	City	Divisions
TBA	Friday-Saturday-Sunday	Hamilton	Divisions: TBA.

1. The NSA Coed Provincial Championships are in Hamilton,
   See my list of RSPA tournaments - (Saturday, one-day) May 3 • June 7 • July 5 • July 19 • August 16 • Sept 20 • Sept 27, 2025.
2. If you need players for the Provincials, check with me for a list of players looking to play.
3. 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:
   2025 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.
   2025 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 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.
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, 2025

See RSPA All-Star Night page

1. The RSPA All-Star Night & Barbecue returns for 2025 tentatively on Friday, July 11 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 THREE (3) nights.
   • Saturday, October 18
   • Saturday, October 25
   • Saturday, November 1 (Halloween banquet with prizes for best individual costumes and best team costumes).
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 2025.
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 2025 only will be 4 tickets per team) REQUIRED FOR 2025.
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 / 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 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: accent@slopitch1.com

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 — accent@slopitch1.com
2. The web site includes all information:
   1. RSPA 2025 League Schedule and Results - 2025 info coming soon
   2. RSPA 2025 League Standings - preliminary 2025 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 2025 slo-pitch season!

This 2025 RSPA Info Package may be updated as more information becomes available.
Revised: November 9, 2024

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