2026 Utah USSSA Challenge Cup Eligibility Guidelines

The Challenge Cup continues to grow as one of the most prestigious events in the nation, showcasing the best players from each state. To ensure Utah sends its top representatives, the following eligibility guidelines outline the requirements for both players and managers/coaches.

PLAYER ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

1. Men’s & Women’s Events Requirements

Players must participate in at least 2 of the following 5 qualifiers:

• Qualifier #1

• Qualifier #2

• Qualifier #3

• Utah USSSA State

• Super Regional

Note: Participation in at least two of these events is mandatory for eligibility.

2. Mixed/Coed Events Requirements

Players must participate in at least 2 of the following 5 Mixed/Coed events:

• New Beginnings 3.0

• Umpire Training

• BBQ Shootout Bounty

• Bumps & Bruises

• Mixed/Coed State

          Note: Participation in at least two of these events is mandatory for eligibility.

3. Seniors Events Requirements

Players must participate in at least 1 of the following 2 Seniors events:

• June 26th–28th

• August 14th–16th

4. First Defense Guidelines

Players must participate in at least 1 of the following events:
(Must also be listed on a 2026 online Utah roster)

• Qualifier #1

• Qualifier #2

• Qualifier #3

• Utah USSSA State

• Super Regional

• First Responders

GENERAL PLAYER QUALIFICATIONS

All players must demonstrate:

• Sportsmanship & Positive Play: Exemplify good sportsmanship and positivity both on and off the field.

• Teamwork: Contribute to a positive team environment and bring out the best in teammates.

• Respectful Communication: Maintain respect toward teammates, staff, officials, and opponents.

• Good Standing: Remain in good standing with Utah USSSA and adhere to all league standards.

• Position Excellence: Be regarded as one of the top players in their position within their class.

• PRV Requirement: Maintain a Player Rating Value (PRV) equal to or lower than the division represented.

MANAGER & COACH ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Managers and coaches must embody the same values expected of Challenge Cup players:

• Sportsmanship & Teamwork: Demonstrate integrity, fairness, and leadership.

• Program Support & Ambassadorship: Actively support Utah USSSA/GSL programs and represent the state with pride.

• Good Standing: Be in good standing with Utah USSSA.

• PRV Requirement: Must meet PRV standards for the division they will manage or coach.

APPLICATION PROCESS FOR 2027 CHALLENGE CUP COACHES

Those interested in applying to coach for the 2027 Challenge Cup must email
📧 [email protected]
by March 1st, 2026, with responses to the following:

1. First and Last Name

2. Current Team You Are Coaching or Playing On

3. Division You Would Like to Coach

4. How You Would Help the Utah USSSA Local Program

5. How You Would Select Local Players

6. Plans for Team Fundraising to Travel to Florida

7. What Sets You Apart as a Candidate

TEAMS REPRESENTING UTAH AT THE 2027 CHALLENGE CUP

Men’s Teams

• 2 – E Teams

• 2 – D Teams

• 1 – C Team

• 1 – Major or B Team

Women’s Teams

(Dependent on registration numbers)

• 2 – E Teams

• 2 – D Teams

• 1 – C Team

• 1 – Major Team

Mixed/Coed Teams

• 1 – E Team

• 1 – D Team

• 1 – C Team

• 1 – Major Team

Seniors Teams

• 1 – 35 Men’s AAA & Major

• 1 – 40 Men’s AAA & Major

• 1 – 50 Men’s AAA & Major

• 1 – 35 Women’s AAA & Major

• 1 – 40 Women’s AAA & Major

• 1 – 50 Women’s AAA & Major

First Defense

• 1 – Men’s Rec

• 1 – Men’s Comp

• 1 – Women’s Rec

• 1 – Women’s Comp

Black America

• 1 – Men’s

• 1 – Women’s

Indigenous

• 1 – Men’s

• 1 – Women’s