Player Skills Assessments

PROMOTING PLAYER DEVELOPMENT, INCLUSION, AND FAIR COMPETITION

The WESA SQs — Skills Questions for Player Assessments

TL;DR: This page explains how WESA evaluates player softball skills and uses that information to create fair, inclusive competition while supporting player development.

Upcoming clinics:

WESA Skills Assessment Online Learning Clinic
Tentatively- Wednesday, 18 February, 2026 at 630pm.
This 50 minute clinic is recommended for all WESA members motivated to gain a deeper understanding of assessing slo-pitch softball skills. The clinic will introduce the process and concepts of the WESA SQs (Skills Questions for Player Assessments) that the league uses as a guide for Skill Development and division eligibility.  Participants will gain an understanding of how the system helps leagues to bolster fairness and inclusivity, and how the Questions are answered by the volunteer committee members.
Registration will be available early January.

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Understanding ASSESSMENTS

Learning Resources

“These questions are intended to be used as a tool to assist those responsible for rating players so ratings may be fair and consistent across all levels of play and across all leagues.” — iPride Softball

Why WESA Uses the Skills Questions System

As a competitive league, WESA groups players by skill level to ensure safety, fair play, and fun for everyone. This practice is common across North America and is supported by the objective iPride Softball (formerly NAGAAA) Skills Questions system.

“Everyone, no matter their skills, belongs in WESA. We’re a vibrant rainbow coalition — we connect and compete with those whose colours align most closely with our own.” — WESA

Getting It Right

In 2025–26, WESA completes a multi-year process to refine how player assessments are conducted. While we continue using iPride’s benchmarked system, our approach is now unified, objective, and consistent across all divisions.  The league has linked the Skills Assessment Process with our Skills Development efforts. Read more about our unified Field Days Here.

Previously, assessments were handled mainly by teams with limited oversight — leading to inconsistencies. Now, assessments are centralized, standardized, and conducted by trained volunteers on the SQ Committee.

A key improvement: We focus on objective observation, not subjective “intangibles” like attitude or potential. The goal is accuracy, fairness, and transparency.

Start with the Process, Not the Number

It’s natural to focus on your final SQ rating — but that’s the result, not the process. The process begins with observing measurable skills: batting, fielding, throwing, and running.

Each “Yes” answer represents a skill you consistently perform at the level described. Your total “Yes” responses = your SQ rating.

Modified Batting Average (MBA)

For international tournaments (e.g., the Gay Softball World Series), iPride requires including your Modified Batting Average (MBA) in your overall rating. WESA does not use the MBA in regular league play.

Intangibles and Limitations

The Skills Questions are the most objective method available for evaluating softball ability, but they don’t measure everything. Team value also includes leadership, teamwork, and spirit — qualities assessed during the draft process, not through SQs.

“Our goal is to keep the league fair and fun for everyone.” 
- WESA

Reviews & Assessments

• All players are reviewed annually by the WESA SQ Committee, with input from team managers.
• New players receive a full assessment.
• Returning players are reviewed and may have specific skills re-evaluated.
• Assessments use multiple observations — not just one game.
• Certain skills may be reviewed during Field Days; others must be observed in gameplay.

Each question has a performance benchmark (e.g., “Can the player do this 60% of the time?”). Consistency matters.

If You Disagree With Your Assessment

If you believe your rating is incorrect, you may appeal during the official appeals window:

• Email commission@wesa.net
• Include your full name
• List the specific questions you’re appealing
• Explain why you believe the assessment is incorrect

For appeals involving Running or Throwing, you must attend a SQ Field Day.

Appeals Deadline: TBD
Clinic: Skills Assessment Clinic at 12:00pm (NW Field)

In cases of major injury or significant fitness change, a follow-up review may be considered.

Who Reviews the Assessments

Assessments are conducted by the WESA SQ Committee, a group of experienced volunteer evaluators who observe players, take notes, and ensure fairness and consistency.  The Committee makes recommendations to the League Commissioner who audits the process and approves the results prior finalizing for the season.  

If you have a passion for fair competition and sportsmanship, check out joining the WESA Competition Team. More HERE.

Transparency & Contact

Have questions? Reach out any time at commission@wesa.net.

Safety Equipment
WESA encourages all players to use protective equipment for safety and comfort, including: face masks, cups, shin guards, cleats, and helmets.

Everyone Belongs
Everyone — regardless of skill — has a place in WESA. We’re a rainbow coalition, and each of us plays with and against the colours that most closely match our own.

For more information, contact:
Commissioner@WESA.net
Commission@WESA.net