Inaugural 8u Championship Tournament December 7-9, 2019 in Pearland
The City of Pearland has been selected by the United States Fastpitch Association (USFA) to be the host city for the 8u United States Championship for three years. The 2019 USFA 8u Championship is the division’s inaugural event. Pearland will welcome athletes, coaches and families December 7-9, 2019.
For 20 years USFA has advocated for equality in sports for girls. Championship tournaments are organized by USFA for girls fastpitch softball players, 8u through 18u. Players in each division are ranked by age and skill, including a newly created Elite Division starting at age 10 (10u). USFA also works with college coaches in recruiting players.
Pearland’s proximity to Hobby Airport and its central location were among reasons USFA picked Pearland. 45 teams and approximately 2,500 visitors are expected to attend the 8u Championship. Participating teams represent Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana and other states. In addition, registered Texas teams from Dallas, San Antonio, Houston, Austin and central Texas will be visiting Pearland.
“Pearland is the perfect location for USFA’s 8u inaugural Championship,” said Robert Guerrero, USFA National Director. “Fields will be specifically set up for 8u play with fences set at 175-ft. That’s a huge effort on the city’s part. Pearland is a hotbed for softball, we belong there.”
Sports fields
Games will be played at Centennial Park and the Sports Complex at Shadow Creek Ranch starting on Saturday, December 7. The Sports Complex at Shadow Creek Ranch is a 65-acre multi-purpose sports complex that includes three Little League fields, one Pony field, four Adult softball fields, and multi-purpose fields. The newly renovated Centennial Park features six lighted high-quality softball fields. Both parks have covered pavilions and other amenities.
The five divisions in the 8u US Championship Division are classified by player skill and age from elite to beginner. “8u” means players are 8 years are under, most are 7 and 8 years of age. The format selected by USFA guarantees that teams will be able to play at least six different teams. Champions and runners-up in each division will receive a US 8u Championship Commemorative ring.
Pearland hotels
Pearland hotels hosting player families include Courtyard Marriott Pearland Town Center, host hotel and coaches meeting location; Springhill Suite close to the Sports Complex at Shadow Creek Ranch; and Holiday Inn Express & Suites near Centennial Park.
For information on the United States 8u Championship in Pearland visit the web site bit.ly/2Oo3snt for general information about events, restaurants and things to do in Pearland go to visitpearland.com.