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 2022 season must start the 2023 season in the same classification (or higher) that they finished the 2022 season unless otherwise noted in 2023 team year start classifications.

For purpose of classifications, if six (6) or more players from a 2022 team are on a 2023 team, they are considered the same team regardless of the TEAM NAME, MANAGER, COACHING STAFF or SPONSOR.

The State Office will make final classification adjustments around the middle 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 New Mexico 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 and some limited travel ball and 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.

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 January 1, 2022 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 !!
Do your part to help the accountability of the USSSA system.  View the rosters of the teams in your age division before you play them to make sure that they are compliant with roster rules.  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.