COMMON FAQs: Logistics, Fees, Cancellations
Updated: Aug 31, 2021
Our trips are lifechanging opportunities for athletes and families to connect and compete with those who have a shared love of sports, comradery, and community empowerment.
Many of our athletes, past and present, experienced their first international competition through ABSA, so we understand that this may be new territory for a large number of parents.
More importantly, we understand that life happens.
That's why we've put together a guide to help you proactively plan for your next competition with us.
REGISTRATION
“Does ABSA require a membership to participate in competitions?”
Not at all! In fact, there is no membership. Therefore, you can rest assured there's no commitment beyond the tour that you select. Of course, we would love for you to continue competing with us because our athletes build bonds that motivate them to play together; however, you are only committed to the tour you select.
“Am I able to register more than one athlete for a tour?”
Yes, if you have more than one competitive-minded athlete and would like to see them both play abroad, you may sign up both players.
Please note: We cannot guarantee that they will play on the same team during the tour as we typically take two full teams per tour.
PAYMENT: DEADLINES, CANCELLATIONS, AND PLANS
“When is my full balance due?”
For those on payment plans, your full balance is due no later than 30 days before the competition. Otherwise, you can pay in full at the final check-out of your registration.
“What happens if there is a last minute emergency and we are unable to attend?”
If written notification of cancellation is received more than 60 days, but less than 90 days prior to departure for the trip: 75% of total cost (less the $500 non-refundable deposit). Refunds will be processed within 90 days of request.
Therefore, there are no refunds for cancellation within 60 days of trip departure.
ABSA's trips are sold as packages, and there will be no refunds to individuals who leave a trip early, arrive late, or independently modify the trip itinerary. Once travel has commenced, no refunds will be given. This includes any unused portion of the tour.
Exceptions to the above cancellation policies cannot be made for any reason, including weather and personal emergencies.
All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to info@softballoverseas.com. (This policy is subject to change.)
“Are payment plans available?”
Yes, we offer payment plans with four installments.
LOGISTICS: TRAVEL INSURANCE AND FLIGHT INQUIRIES
“Does the listed fee include the flight?”
No, the fee covers lodging, food, and travel accommodations. You must book your flights separately, but our team can assist you in completing this.
“Is travel insurance required?”
ABSA STRONGLY RECOMMENDS that you purchase a travel insurance policy that INCLUDES trip cancellation AND interruption insurance. Individual or group travel insurance is NOT provided by ABSA.
“How are airline connections managed?”
If you are part of the group flight with ABSA from a gateway destination to your international destination, it will be each passenger’s responsibility to meet the group on time for departure.
ABSA will not be responsible for missed connections or flights. It is recommended that passengers arrive at least 4 hours prior to take off to make their connections.
Please note: Airlines reserve the right to change flight times and ABSA will only be able to provide you with the most current flight schedule. Should airlines change our groups’ flight time, it will be your responsibility to amend changes to your arrival times to meet the schedule provided by the airlines.
Please do not purchase your connecting ticket until ABSA has confirmed the tour will be traveling and when the departure flight will take place (usually 5-6 months prior to departure).
AGE LIMIT
“Is there an age limit to register?”
Our teams accept competitors who are ages 11+. Our oldest athletes have usually completed high school, and some are already in college.
To keep our teams competitive, we try to group them by age range to allow for quality growth and sportsmanship.
WHO CAN ATTEND?
“Can I bring an additional family member?”
Yes, we normally allow for two family members per athlete; however, with ample notice we cannot accommodate other family members as well.
A deposit for each traveling member of the family is required.