Mankato Peppers Softball

Program Overview

Mankato Peppers In-House league is for beginner to intermediate skill levels. This is a fun, developmental fastpitch softball program. Teams will be registered to play in the Southern Star Softball League. Games will be played against town teams from around southern Minnesota. Some of the towns that teams may travel to are, but not limited to; Albert Lea, Blooming Prairie, Blue Earth Area, Cleveland, Essig, Fairmont, Jackson County Central, Janesville, Kasson-Mantorville, Lake Crystal, Le Sueur-Henderson, Mankato, Maple River, Marshall, Martin County West, Medford, Minneota, MN Misfits, Mountain Lake-Comfrey, New Ulm, Nicollet, NRHEG.

Eligibility: Girls ages 7-18 years old. 

Registration Information

Cost:

8U - $200

10u/12u/14u/HS - $300.

Includes program participation and a team jersey. Players must provide their own navy blue pants, orange belt and orange socks 

Registration Window:

● Opens: January 28, 2026
● Closes: February 28, 2026
● Late Registration: Additional $20.00 fee after February 28, 2026. Team placement request is not guaranteed. Late registrants will be placed if there is availability.
● Refunds are permitted until March 5, 2026.

Team Formation:

Teams (10–14 players) are formed following a scheduled evaluation day for pitchers and catchers ONLY held on Sunday, March 1st (see information below). *2nd year players may be moved up to the next age group depending on registration numbers and positions needed.

Registration is open to all girls regardless of school attended or town residing.
● Coaches will receive assignment notifications by March 5th
● Teams will be announced by March 16th
● Scholarships: Available for families in need through Connecting Kids and will be issued on a "first come, first served" basis.
● Players are encouraged to bring their own bat, glove, helmet, and fielder’s mask.
Team Picture Night: Date TBD (cost not included in registration).

Season Schedule

8U

Teams will play one night a week. Teams will play in 2 weekend tournaments; 1 in Nicollet or Mankato and 8u Jamboree hosted by SSL.

10u/12u/14u/HS

Teams will play one night a week and practice one night a week. Teams will play in 3 tournaments; the Peppers Showdown, State Qualifier and State Tournament.

Game Days

● Dates: Late May to early July
○ 8U Monday
○ 10u & 14u Monday or Wednesday
○ 12u & HS Tuesday or Thursday
● Time: 5pm
● Locations: Varies
● Travel: Yes, locations could be about an hour away

Volunteer Expectations

Each family will be required to volunteer at least 2 hours during one of the Summer 2026 tournaments.  

Coaching Expectations

MAGFA is committed to selecting coaches who model positivity, leadership, and strong character. All coaches must complete a background check and concussion training prior to approval.
The head coach will have their registration fees waived and receive a Peppers t‐shirt.
The assistant coach will also receive a Peppers t-shirt.

Coaching Standards

Coaches are expected to represent both MAGFA and themselves in a professional, respectful manner at all times. This includes modeling positive behavior, managing player conduct, maintaining constructive interactions with opposing coaches, and helping ensure that fan behavior remains appropriate and supportive throughout all practices and games.