With the summer season beginning to wind down for many select softball and baseball teams, tryouts for the upcoming season are slowly approaching. With many tryouts happening at the same time or on the same day, it can be challenging to determine which ones your child should go to. Whether you're aging out of your current team or looking to dip your toes into the travel ball world for the first time, there are different factors to consider when planning which tryouts are best for your baller to attend.
Competition Level
Perhaps one of the most important things to consider when trying out for a team is what competition level your athlete is looking for. Most select teams operate on a scale of A-C, with "A" teams competing in mainly showcase events that offer a high-level of recruitment potential for college and travel out of state. Teams with a "B" classification are typically middle-tier, playing in a mixture of tournaments that continue to further refine skills to a more advanced level, while also playing in exposure events that allow athletes to be recruited, as well. "C" teams are typically designed for a beginner-level athlete that is just learning about select travel ball and still needs work on basic and intermediate skills.
All skill levels play an important role in select baseball and softball but finding the right fit for your athlete is critical in their development. In addition to their physical abilities, talk to your athlete about what kind of commitment they want to make. Even with advanced physical skills, an athlete that doesn’t want to commit to year-round or an entire fall and summer of tournaments may want to consider a different level of competition.
Also, make sure you realistically look at what your child’s physical ability is and weigh that into the team decision. If your athlete still has skills to work on, playing on a higher-level team may mean sitting more than they would if they played for one at their current level. There isn’t a right or wrong answer to this question, it’s just an important factor so you can keep your athlete motivated and developing.
Coaching Staff
Tryout out for a team and being selected requires a nearly year-long commitment for your family and child, so pay close attention to the coaching staff that will be managing your team. Athletes look for different traits in coaches, but there are always important considerations to make. When comparing opportunities, pay attention to how the coach interacts with your child – do they give them both positive and constructive feedback? Does their presence or demeanor fall in line with what your individual athlete needs?
Additionally, depending on your child’s goals, make sure you look for a coaching staff that is versed in the level of play needed and understands the process. For example, if your baseball or softball player has aspirations to play in college, look for a staff that has been through the recruiting process with other athletes or has college coaching or playing experience. On the other hand, if your athlete requires more skill development or is still young, make sure they find a coach that knows how to teach these basics in a way your child will understand.
The Fine Details
While they shouldn’t be the only determining factors, make sure you pay attention to the fine details of the tryout and the program's plans. While a team two hours from home may be able to offer everything your athlete needs, it may not be something you’re willing to commit to for an entire year. Additionally, ask what fees are associated as these can range drastically depending on things like how many tournaments they will play, what kind of events they play, if the organization has its own fields or indoor facilities, uniforms and equipment. Talk to the coach about fundraising expectations and opportunities, and make sure these commitments are also conducive for your family.
Tryouts can be an exciting time of the year if you take the time to hone in on finding a program that fits your specific needs. Don’t be afraid to attend tryouts for multiple teams or multiple days for the same team to ensure you find the environment that will help your athlete thrive.
This is part one of our series detailing the best ways to help your athlete get prepared for the upcoming select softball and baseball tryout season. If you’re looking for ways to help your child physically get better, contact Elevate Sports Training for information on catching, fielding, pitching and hitting lessons in Dayton. You can reach us by emailing elevatesportsdayton@gmail.com or calling (937) 848-1990
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