What Is ASA Softball? | The Old Name, The Current Rules

ASA softball is the older common name for USA Softball-sanctioned rules, equipment standards, and competition in the United States.

If you’ve played recreational softball over the last few decades, you’ve probably played under ASA rules. That’s because the Amateur Softball Association — the governing body founded in 1933 — was rebranded to USA Softball in 2017. The organization is still headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and its rulebook still governs the vast majority of organized softball leagues across the country.

Understanding the difference between the old name and the current one clears up a lot of confusion at the equipment store. Those “ASA approved” bats and balls you see aren’t relics — they’re the same certification standard USA Softball still enforces today, just under a legacy label.

Where The ASA Name Comes From

The Amateur Softball Association was founded in 1933 and grew to become the sport’s national governing body. In 2017, the organization officially rebranded from ASA/USA Softball to simply USA Softball. The change was cosmetic — same organization, same rules, same staff lineage.

The rulebook itself carries a historical note: the Official Rules were assigned to ASA Softball in 1980. That original ownership explains why “ASA rules” still appears in league handbooks and on equipment packaging years after the name change.

What Equipment Does ASA Softball Require?

These rules apply whether you call it ASA or USA Softball — the standards are identical.

• Balls: Only softballs bearing an ASA or USA Softball certification mark are approved for play. Official balls must have leather or synthetic covers with a smooth-seamed, regular finish.
• Bats: ASA Championship Play bats must carry the approved ASA certification mark and appear on the approved bat list. Altered bats are disallowed under the 2025 and 2026 rulebooks.
• Helmets: Batting helmets must be NOCSAE approved, with a certified face mask and chin strap required.
• Cleats:

If you’re in the market for game-ready gear, our roundup of the best ASA softballs covers the top options that meet current certification standards.

Common Mistakes Players Make

Three mix-ups trip up players more than anything else. The first is assuming ASA is still a current governing body’s name. It’s not — USA Softball is the official name now, though “ASA” remains common shorthand. The second is grabbing any bat labeled “softball” and expecting it to be legal. ASA-sanctioned play requires the specific approved certification mark and a spot on the model list.

The third mistake involves balls. Non-certified balls without the required ASA/USA mark won’t pass inspection in sanctioned games.

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