Rockets Select Softball

The Rockets Select Softball (RSS) is Needham’s premier travel program, designed for the most competitive softball players seeking the highest level of player development. Through extensive training and game experience.

Through extensive training and competition, RSS players participate in a comprehensive softball journey that includes:

  • Winter practices to build skills and prepare for the season
  • Spring participation in the Needham town recreation league
  • Spring practices focused on advanced development
  • Late spring/early summer tournament season against top-level competition

RSS travel teams are designed for dedicated athletes who want to compete at the highest level against other towns’ travel programs and club teams. The program is structured to complement Needham Softball’s Spring season, coordinating schedules so that travel and recreation commitments work together whenever possible.

Age Divisions
We typically field one team in each age division: 16U, 14U, 12U, and 10U. In some seasons, we may include a second team in a division or add an 8U team when there is enough interest. Teams are formed based on the USA Softball Age Chart.

For the 2026 playing season, age eligibility is as follows:

  • 16U: 9/1/2008 – 8/31/2010
  • 14U: 9/1/2010 – 8/31/2012
  • 12U: 9/1/2012 – 8/31/2014
  • 10U: 9/1/2014 – 8/31/2016
  • 8U: 9/1/2016 – 8/31/2018

USA Softball Tournaments
Rockets Select Softball (RSS) competes in USA Softball and Fastpitch Nation tournaments, with the season running from May through July, depending on the age group.

  • 12U and 14U teams participate in USA Softball “C” level
  • 16U teams compete in USA Softball “B” level
  • Tournaments are typically Friday through Sunday, and players are expected to be available for the full weekend.
  • Tournament locations vary across New England

Tryouts & Team Selection
Tryouts for 16U, 14U, and 12U teams are held in late summer, while 10U tryouts take place in the fall. A limited roster of approximately 12 players will be selected for each team through the tryout process.

Team formation is based on:

  • Tryout evaluation data
  • Coach evaluations from the spring league
  • Performance on previous tournament/travel teams

After all tryouts are completed, player roster decisions and team invitations will be announced. Families are asked to confirm their daughter’s commitment shortly after receiving an offer so that team planning and season preparations can begin.

Coaching
Each RSS team is led by a paid Head Coach, supported by parent assistant coaches. To ensure a positive and safe experience for all players:

  • All coaches must complete SafeSport training, and CORI background checks.
  • Head Coaches must also complete annual USA Softball training courses and receive approval from the NB&S Board.

Fees and Costs
The RSS registration fee is reassessed each season, with final costs based on factors such as:

  • Indoor winter practice facility rentals (secured by fall)
  • Training and clinic costs
  • Tournament and umpire fees
  • Coaching fees
  • Insurance, field maintenance, and other facility expenses

Once rosters are finalized, player fees are divided among the teams based on the season’s total costs.

Note: Uniforms and Spring Recreational (Town Softball) are not included in the registration fee and are purchased separately.