Softball
Dear OBA Community,
We’re excited to announce that registration for the 2026 OBA Softball season is officially open, with enrollment running now through January 9, 2026. This year marks the launch of an exciting new chapter as we work to grow and strengthen softball opportunities for girls in Orinda and Lafayette.
A New Collaborative Model for 2026
For this inaugural year, OBA will partner with Lafayette Little League (LLL) to offer a unified, competitive, and community-centered softball experience. While OBA players will register directly through OBA, our teams will participate in Lafayette Little League as satellite Orinda teams—practicing on Orinda fields and playing alongside Orinda friends and classmates.
This structure provides access to interleague play, all-stars, and full Little League benefits, while preserving the identity and culture of OBA softball.
Divisions & Program Details
Minors (AAA Division) — Ages 7–10
Player Pitch • Development-Focused • Modified Rules
The Minors Division is full player-pitch softball with rules designed to support development as players transition into more advanced gameplay. Emphasis is placed on pitching fundamentals, baserunning, situational awareness, and overall softball IQ.
Key Details:
- Ages: 7–10
- Format: Regulation softball with development-based modifications
- Schedule: Two practices per week and 1–2 games per week starting in March
- Competition: Game scores and standings recorded
- Player Placement: Skills assessments followed by a draft to create balanced teams
This division is ideal for players building confidence in player pitch and preparing for the full intensity of Majors play.
Majors Division — Ages 9–12
Full Little League Rules • Competitive Play • Leadership & Sportsmanship
The Majors Division plays under full Little League International rules and offers a higher level of competitive play. Players refine advanced skills while learning teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship as they prepare for tournament play and future middle and high school softball.
Key Details:
- Ages: 9–12
- Format: Full Little League rules
- Schedule: Two practices per week and 1–2 games per week starting in March
- Competition: Game scores and standings recorded
- Player Placement: Skills assessments followed by a manager/coaches draft to form balanced, competitive teams
Season Timeline
Skills Evaluations: end of January 2026
Regular Season Dates: February–May
- Practices begin in February (two per week)
- Games begin in March (1–2 per week) depending on division and weather
League Structure & Growth Vision
- OBA and LLL will each field multiple teams per division (Minors and Majors).
- Teams will compete as part of the Hwy 24 league, which includes:
- Lafayette Little League
- Orinda Baseball Association
- Walnut Creek Little League
- Teams may also play additional District 4 opponents throughout the season.
- We will play on our home fields whenever possible to keep things as local as possible.
This model strengthens competition, expands interleague opportunities, and ensures our players benefit from the depth and structure of the Little League system—while remaining part of their home community’s teams.
Important Note About Team Formation
In the unlikely event that we are unable to roster sufficient teams by the January 9 deadline, we will notify families immediately so they can pivot to other softball opportunities without delay.
Given the strong number of girls already registered for LLL softball—and the interest we’re hearing locally—we are confident we can field competitive Orinda teams through community word of mouth.
Please spread the word! Tell your friends, classmates, and teammates from other sports. The more girls who join, the stronger our program becomes.
Why This Collaboration Works
Competitive Depth
More teams and players create stronger gameplay and accelerated development.
Community Cohesion
Girls stay with their Orinda teammates while gaining broader interleague exposure.
Efficient Use of Resources
Shared access to fields, uniforms, umpires, and equipment helps streamline operations and manage costs.
Preserved Local Identity
Orinda-specific teams maintain their own culture, coaches, and pride.
Our Shared Vision
Our goal is to provide an exceptional softball experience that inspires participation, develops young athletes, and strengthens both the Orinda and Lafayette softball communities. As interest continues to grow, OBA Softball has the potential to evolve into its own fully independent league in future years.
We’re thrilled to launch this new model and hope your family will join us for a fantastic 2026 season!
Register today and be part of the next chapter of OBA Softball!
Warm regards,
OBA Softball
Please contact Renee McKim (OBA Softball Commissioner) with any questions. (510) 812-6205 or by email at: Volunteers@obabaseball.com