With the softball season in full swing, some things never change. Practices move outside, games inevitably get rained out and softball diamonds across the state are filled with cheering fans, competitive games, and hamburgers on the grill. This year however, one thing is different. No, we haven't found a way to stop the rain from falling or the wind from blowing in Tooele. So what's the big change? As of January 1, 2017, ASA softball has been renamed/rebranded to USA Softball.

Why the rebrand?

ASA/USA President Warren Jones explains: “"This is an exciting time for ASA/USA Softball as the rebrand to USA Softball reflects our vision for the growth of the sport. For over 80 years, ASA/USA Softball has been the driving force behind the sport of softball, and this new logo truly embodies that character and legacy.”"

So what does this mean for you?

There are new websites (local and national) to register teams, sign up for events, and get info on USA Softball. They are:

1. USA Softball of Utah: http://www.usasoftballutah.com
2. USA Softball: http://www.teamusa.org/USA-Softball.aspx/
3. Team Registration: https://registerusasoftball.com/
4. Tournament Lists/Registration: http://www.tournamentusasoftball.com

Another change which will begin in the 2017 season is the realignment of the USA Softball regions from 15 to 10. This regional realignment better serves teams and umpires, providing you with better opportunities to play, qualify and umpire within your respective regions.




"“The evolution of our brand to USA Softball showcases our organization to its fullest potential,"” said ASA/USA Softball Executive Director Craig Cress. "“Rebranding shows our members, teams, umpires, players and fans that we are continually evolving and furthering the softball community while connecting and unifying them under the USA Softball brand. I’'m excited for our fans, members and administrators to connect and identify with our new look and the USA Softball brand.”"

In addition to rebranding, ASA/USA Softball has also unveiled a new redesigned logo, approved by the ASA/USA Softball Board of Directors at its April 2016 board meeting, which will replace the ASA/USA Softball split logo throughout the transition to USA Softball. The redesign contains several key elements of previous ASA/USA Softball logos, while clearly identifying the USA Softball brand as the organization evolves towards the future. The home plate shape embodies the sport, while bold, block USA Softball lettering symbolizes USA Softball’s authority as the NGB. Along with the redesigned prominent features of the logo, the stars and stripes pay homage to the U.S. flag and classic American iconography, connecting fans and members with the USA Softball brand. Several subtleties also lie within the new logo, as the three red stripes reference 1933, the year ASA/USA Softball was founded, and the stars represent the four territories of ASA/USA Softball.