IDAHO CHALLENGE CUP GUIDELINES

The Challenge Cup has grown immensely over the past few seasons, and rightfully so, as it is an amazing event! With the growth, the interest from players has increased, and we wanted to put forth some requirements for eligibility! Tournaments take place in January at the conclusion of the 2026 season. The location for the tournaments is in Viera, FL at the USSSA Space Coast Complex.

This event is the Olympics of Softball, and we want individuals that are honored to represent the Idaho USSSA/GSL program and their State.  This event is not about “Buddy Ball”, but instead the best of the state.

2027 Challenge Cup Teams for Idaho:

• Men’s: E, D, and C (1 Per Division only)
• Women’s E, D, and C (1 Per Division only)
• Mixed: E, D, and C (1 Per Division only)
• First Defense Men’s Team
• Senior’s – Depending on number of registered teams

To Qualify As A Player:

Idaho USSSA wants an individual male or female player to be considered for this annual event based on the following criteria:

• Demonstrates good sportsmanship on and off the field.
• Plays the game right, with positivity, enthusiasm and honors the true spirit of the game while playing USSSA/GSL.
• An individual strives to do their best and bring out the best in their teammates.
• Displays respectful and positive communications with USSSA Staff
• Supportive of their respective USSSA/GSL Program.
• Be in Good Standing with Idaho USSSA
• An ambassador to the game and considered one of the best at their respective position within their class.
• Must have a PRV equal to or lower than the level they are representing.
• All Challenge Cup Players will need to be approved by State Director.

Men’s & Women’s

• Each Player will have to play in Four (4) USSSA/GSL Qualifier Events
• Draft Tournaments do not count for Men’s or Women’s Teams
• Required Three (3) of Four (4) Qualifying Tournaments: Idaho USSSA State, Idaho GSL State, Idaho Bat Wars, or USSSA Liam Legacy Spud Regional Tournaments

Mixed Teams & First Responder Team

• Each Player will have to play in Three (3) USSSA/GSL Events
• Required Three (3) Qualifying Tournaments: Must play in Mixed State Championships (Idaho Bat Wars) as 1 of 3 qualifying tournament.

Challenge Cup Coaches & Assistant Coaches Selections:

We want the coaches to pick the best to represent all of us. Coaches will be selected in June 2026. This year the State Director will select and appoint BOTH the Head Coach/Manager and the Assistant Coaches.

The Head Coach/Manager & Assistant Coach will pick players based on skill level, and qualifying tournaments played. All rosters will need to be approved by State Director will “sign-off” on the final rosters, due to the Idaho State Office by September 15th 2026.

We want the coaches to pick the best to represent all of us. In addition to the PRV and player qualifications. Building of Team Guidelines will need to be followed like the number of players from each team. More information can be found here: https://challengecup.usssa.com/

Do you want to Coach?

• Tell us about you?
• How Would you communicate with players?
• How will you promote Idaho USSSA & GSL?
• How would you pick players?
• What plans do you have to help raise money or get sponsors for Challenge Cup? (Flights, lodging, transportation, Entry fees & Uniforms)
• Tell us why you want to coach a Challenge Cup team?
• Coaches should have the faith that the players he/she chooses will want to play for the coach based on experience with the CC tournament or normal tournament teams. (Keep that in Mind)

Coaches should be there to Coach and not play. We need them to be leaders on the team and not be worried about playing.

Please email [email protected] if you’re interested in coaching a Challenge Cup team. Even if you are interested in just being the Assistant Coach, please reach out.

All applications for coaching will be concluded by May 15th, 2026 for the 2027 Tournaments.