Classifications

Team classifications are based on power ratings, tournament results and by overall team performance on the field.

 Any team that is reforming from the 2023 season must start the 2024 season in the B division until 1-2 tournaments are played. We will re-evaluate the teams as the season progresses.

In most cases, second year teams in a division should play open to prepare them for the next season.

The State Office will make final classification adjustments around the beginning of June each season.  This should give teams ample time to prepare for State and National Championship plans.  Please note that teams may be reclassified at any time by the USSSA Louisiana State Office or by the National Fastpitch Committee.

Team Classifications

USA Elite Select Classification
Most elite level of play within USSSA Fastpitch. This class allows you to enter in USAES Qualifications, Tournaments, WFC, Team Points, and more.

A Classification
This division is for highly competitive travel ball teams looking for the best competition. At the older age, this division features athletes aspiring to play collegiately.


B Classification - This division is for teams who are looking for good competition but not at the highest level within USSSA. Reserved for teams who have progressed beyond our C level of play. Teams in B generally play a limited to moderate travel schedule

C Classification - This division is reserved for teams looking to play competitively with limited travel ball experience and is often an introduction to tournament play. Teams cannot self-register C. They must register B and contact their respective State Director and request to be moved to this classification. Please note that requests for reclassification will only be discussed with the head coach of the team.

Undoubtedly, not everyone will agree with classifications.  Any team wishing to appeal a reclassification may do so after playing a minimum of six to eight USSSA tournament games after August 1, 2023 against teams in their new classification.  Once the results for these games have been posted to the USSSA system, a review will be completed to determine if the team is competitive at the new level. 

The term "competitive" is and always will be subjective.  A team that plays a little below or above .500 in any classification is competitive. A team that loses every game by one run is also competitive. 

IMPORTANT !!
Tournament Directors are also being told this is a requirement of them hosting USSSA events now.  The class system of play works if you are part of the accountability mechanism.  USSSA is the only organization in the country that can make class play work as it should and monitor it.