Alameda Blaze

What are the AGSA Blaze teams?
The Blaze teams are the ASA “B” tournament teams that participate under AGSA.  Players on the Blaze teams are selected from the AGSA league or from our interleague partners.  They play competitive softball, traveling to between 5 and 10 weekend tournaments during the summer season.  One of the goals of the Blaze teams is to qualify to play in the ASA Regional and National tournaments each year.  AGSA fields Blaze teams in the 10U, 12U and 14U age divisions.  A girl’s “playing age” is her age on December 31 of the prior year as per ASA rules.

How are Blaze teams different from Recreation League?
AGSA’s recreation league focuses on the player’s development of basic softball skills and offers a fun environment where teams are comprised of players with all levels of playing skill.  The Blaze tournament teams offer a more competitive level of softball play.  Players must tryout, are not guaranteed equal playing time and are expected to compete at a higher level.  Blaze players often specialize in particular field positions.  Tournament games are played by ASA rules, so free substitution and continuous batting are not permitted.

The Blaze coaches will instruct the players in advanced softball skills and strategy beyond what they encounter in the recreation league.  A higher level of commitment is necessary from the players and families in order to participate on a Blaze team.

How are the Blaze teams selected?
All players that are registered with AGSA or one of our interleague partners in that year’s recreation league are eligible to try out.  The Blaze team coaches select the players based on tryouts, their observations of the players during advanced skills clinics and league games.  Players are selected based on skill level, attitude, overall athletic ability, commitment to the Blaze program and team chemistry. Availability for practices and tournaments are also considered.

What is the time and financial commitment?
The Blaze teams are selected in early May and begin practices immediately.  The players are expected to continue their commitment to their AGSA Spring league team while practicing at least once per week with the Blaze team.  During the summer the Blaze teams practice 2-3 times per week, in addition to playing and traveling to tournaments 5 -10 weekends.  Players and families are expected to commit to the practice and tournament schedules and attendance is mandatory unless previously excused by the Blaze Manager.

There is a participation fee that in years past has ranged between $300 and $350. In addition to the participation fee other expenses include purchasing the Blaze uniform as well as related tournament travel expenses. The individual Blaze teams do their own fundraising to help defray costs.

Interested in being a Blaze Sponsor?
Blaze sponsorships help the team cover tournament expenses as well as scholarships for players.  Be a Blaze sponsor for $200 and have your company name listed on the Blaze practice shirts worn throughout the season. To be a Blaze sponsor, download the Blaze Sponsor form.