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 measures and assesses player softball skills — and how those results are used for fair and inclusive competition.

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Understanding ASSESSMENTS

Every WESA member has both a WESA SQ total and an iPride Rating. While these numbers are typically the same, the iPride Rating includes a Modified Batting Average (MBA). This MBA can affect tournament eligibility and ratings (including for the Gay Softball World Series), but WESA does not use the MBA for league play.

“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.”

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 SQ Committee, a group of experienced volunteer evaluators who observe players, take notes, and ensure fairness and consistency.

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.

“We encourage members who want to know more about the SQs to learn more about the player assessment process.” — WESA

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