WELCOME TO THE NAPERVILLE DIAMOND CHIPS - CHICAGOLAND'S PREMIER DEVELOPMENTAL SOFTBALL PROGRAM!

Since 2003, the Diamond Chips program has introduced hundreds of young athletes to the game of softball, producing more future high school, collegiate, and even professional players than any other developmental program in the area.

The Diamond Chips program is open to girls ages 6–8, with 8-year-olds eligible if their birthday falls on or after September 1. The Chips serve as the 7U division of the Naperville Diamonds organization, and players who are older may advance into our 8U or 9U Diamonds teams.

Program Philosophy

The Chips program was created for families with daughters interested in learning fastpitch softball in a developmental yet competitive environment. Instruction is provided by both Diamonds and Chips coaches across the fall, winter, and spring seasons. Unlike other programs in the area, the Chips follow a carefully designed competitive structure that balances fundamentals, skill growth, and game experience.

This program gives players the opportunity to build a strong foundation while discovering where their softball journey may lead — whether to Diamonds travel teams or league play.

Training & Season Structure

• Fall Clinics: Players begin with skill-building clinics focused on hitting, pitching, fielding, and game awareness.

• Team Formation: From these clinics, teams are formed heading into spring competition.

• Spring & Summer Games: Chips teams compete against each other on weekends, with practices and games that mirror the structure of Diamonds Travel and League teams.

• Season Timeline: Games begin the first weekend in May and conclude with a season-ending double-elimination tournament in late June. Selected All-Star players continue through mid-July.

• Fall League (Optional): Runs from late August through early October.

Traditionally, the Diamonds field 5–6 Chips teams, depending on the number of players and qualified coaches. All games are played at local parks in Naperville.

Player Experience

• Balanced Playing Time: While not every player will experience all positions, playing time is balanced with the focus on fun and learning.

• Team Placement: The Diamonds retain full discretion over player placement, regardless of special requests.

• Development First: The program emphasizes building confidence, teamwork, and skills while introducing the expectations of higher-level Diamonds play.

The Naperville Diamond Chips program is where future fastpitch stars take their first steps — learning the game, growing their skills, and developing a love for softball in a fun, structured, and supportive environment.

CHIPS PROGRAM CONTACT