SPRING 2012

The Mars Girls Fastpitch Softball Association (MGFSA) enters its 16^th year of operation this year. We serve girls ages 8 through 18 in Mars, Adams Township, Middlesex Township and adjacent areas. Our mission is to provide girls with the opportunity to learn and master the skills necessary to play fastpitch softball, to practice teamwork, and above all, to enjoy the game.

We will not refuse any girl the opportunity to play as long as her registration materials are on time and there is an opening on a team roster. We currently have approximately 70 girls playing in the spring and/or fall seasons with the Greater Pittsburgh Girls Softball league (GPGSL).

The MGFSA was started in 1996 to address the increasing popularity of fastpitch softball in the region and across the nation. The goal of the association was the same then, as it is now, to prepare local players to compete at the Middle and High School levels. The MGFSA enjoys positive relations with the Mars Area school coaches.

As the MGFSA grew, so did the skill level of our players. Today, our girls are very well represented on the Mars Middle and High School rosters. We also have a number of players competing on area tournament teams at various age levels including the Pittsburgh Power, the Valley Rage, the Pittsburgh Spirit and others. Many MGFSA alumni have played, or continue to play, for Division I, Division II and Division III college teams. With the current talent level and excellent coaching at every age group, we are confident that the MGFSA will continue to produce young ladies that will competitively compete for college scholarships.

This spring we will field teams in each of the age groups: 10U (two teams), 12U, 15U and 18U. A player’s age group is determined by her age as of January 1^st, however girls are sometimes asked or permitted to play up an age level.

Teams typically play 14 regular season games in the GPGSL. Each team plays seven games at home on one of several Mars area fields and seven away games. All spring games and practices are held Monday through Friday. Fall games are held on Saturdays or Sundays. Home games are held at one of four local fields: Adams Community Park, Adams Elementary School Fields, Middlesex Township Community Park or the Warrendale Community field. Away games are typically played in North Allegheny, Pine-Richland, Cranberry, Butler and other locations within a half-hour drive.

The 10U and 12U teams begin practices around April 1^st, games begin in mid-April and conclude with playoffs in mid-to-late-June. So as not to conflict with the WPIAL Middle and High School seasons, the 15U and 18U teams begin practicing in mid-May, games begin in late-May, early-June and conclude with playoffs in mid-to-late-July.

While we teach all basic skills and position fundamentals, each team is limited to approximately two practices per week in pre-season, and few practices once games begin. However, because of the time it takes for coaches to run team practice drills, girls who also work on their individuals skills outside of practices and games will definitely progress faster than others. As you might expect, teams with a good combination of pitchers and catchers can dominate the opposition. These positions require even more individual practices and/or lessons. Many parents do not understand the need for outside work. Your coaches can help advise you on where and how to work on individual skills.

Attendance at all practices and games are a prerequisite for a successful season. While we understand and encourage planned absences for family vacations and functions, other activities and commitments, and illnesses, each family must also understand that they have a commit to their fastpitch softball team. Occasional absences are fine as long as your daughter’s coach knows in advance. And please understand that your daughter should not expect to play in her familiar position and batting spot upon immediately returning from a two-week vacation. Of course absences due to illness, injuries and emergencies are always understood.  Current officers of Mars Fast Pitch Softball Association are:  Jacque Marsh, President; Bob Weaver, Vice-President; Teri Douglas and Doug Olshenske.

For more information contact Jacque Marsh at 724-234-5424.