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Classification Basics |
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Annually, the most difficult job for the State Office is the reclassification of teams, (i.e.; leveling the playing field). So many variables work into the equation that at times it is mind boggling. In addition, due to the continued growth in the state program, the time has come to adopt a fourth classification; single A. So, on top of all the normal issues associated with this task, there is a new classification to also contend with.
In total, 500+ teams have changed classification with the overwhelming majority (85%) moving down to facilitate single A. This situation will be very similar to the 2004 season when we officially added AA in that many roster issues will arise with regards to player classification eligibility and each shall have to be dealt with on a “one-on-one” basis with no precedents to be set by any final decisions.
With all the above stated the basic criteria for reclassification hasn’t changed yet the single largest misconception still remains that teams choose their classification; nothing could be further from the truth! A team’s classification is determined by the their ability and performance on the field which can be calculated using Power Ratings, In Class Records and Winning Percentages, Overall Records and Winning Percentages, Eligible Player Roster Information in addition to the following guidelines: |
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A team forming with six (6) or more players from the same frozen 2009 roster regardless of previous or current TEAM NAME, previous or current MANAGER NAME, prevuois or current COACH'S NAME(S), and / or previous or current SPONSORS NAME(S) is considered a returning team and must start the 2010 season at the new classification assigned to the 2009 team or higher. |
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The size of a community or geographic location of a community has no bearing on a team's proper classification or ability. Many great teams have come from small towns, as well as large cities. Just because a team is from a certain area of the state does not make the team a specific classification. |
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Classification perception is not based on a post-season destination. Just because a team wants to go to the AA World Series in a specific town does not mean the team should be classified as AA. |
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Prevention of SANDBAGGING IN ALL CLASSIFICATIONS IS THE TOP PRIORITY! Since every team's ability is subjective, USSSA reserves the right pursuant to Rules Section 3.00 to reclassify a team up or down at any time which demonstrates a skill level and ability, which in the sole opinion and discretion of USSSA, is over or under qualified for a specific classification of play.
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SANDBAGGING SHOULD BE MONITORED BY ALL TEAM MANAGERS AND REPORTED TO THE STATE OFFICE IMMEDIATELY VIA EMAIL AT info@gausssabaseball.com. TROPHY HUNTERS AND SANDBAGGING WILL NOT BE TOLERATED IN USSSA!!! | | |
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Appeals Process |
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Any team that opposes their new classification has the right to file an appeal with the State Office. Appeals MUST be sent via email by the Team Manager of Record in the USSSA.com system ONLY. |
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Teams wishing to be classified up (above their assigned classification) may do so by emailing the State Office requesting a variance. |
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Teams wishing to be classified down (below their assigned classification) may ONLY appeal AFTER they have competed in a minimum of SIX tournament games against teams in their new classification. Games must be played in Georgia USSSA Baseball sanctioned events between January 1 and May 31 of the current season. Games played outside the authority of Georgia USSSA Baseball and / or played between August 1 and December 31 absolutely will not be considered.
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UNTIL the minimum of six tournament games against teams in their new classification requirement is met, NO appeal will be adjudged. | | |
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Classification Details |
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Under the new four (4) classification system, the Majors now consist of the top 10% of teams in the state; these are the teams that should be pursuing the Elite 32 World Series. The AAA classification consists of the next 30% of teams in the state and the AA classification encompasses the following 30%. The remaining 30% of teams make up the new A classification. These percentages are only a “Rule of Thumb” and could vary as much as +/- 10% per age division and / or classification.
Because the Major classification is the smallest in team quantity, a conscientious effort has been made to make sure these teams have somewhere to play every week. The 2010 Reclassification Report contains a partial list of premiere Major / Open classification events in Georgia and surrounding states. A complete listing can be seen on USSSA.com. In addition, any team may play up in age division in their own classification as well as play up one age division and down one classification or play up two age divisions and down two classifications. |
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2010 Reclassification Report |
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To view the 2010 Reclassification Report, click here. |
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