JBO provides opportunities for players 9-14 years of age. Players are grouped into three distinct age divisions: Midget, Junior and Senior. The Midget Division is made up of players aged 9 and 10, Juniors are aged 11 and 12, and Seniors are aged 13 and 14. The age of the players is generally determined by their age on August 1st of the year of the baseball season.
The goal of JBO is to provide each child, regardless of skill level, an ability to compete in baseball against other players of similar skill and age. As such, players are divided into separate divisions based on age and skill level, allowing players of similar skills to work together. JBO games are played according to the rules of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) with some modifications to tailor the rules to the age and skill level of the players. For example, JBO base lengths and pitching distances are reduced from the High School level to accommodate younger players, but increase progressively with the age of the players. The intent is to provide all players the opportunity to play the complete game of baseball (leading off, stealing, etc.), but to progressively increase playing distances as the age and skill of players increase.
JBO believes that the jump from 60-foot bases to a full-sized field is difficult for players. JBO fields start at 60 feet, move to 70 for Juniors, 80 feet for Senior National and Senior Americans and 90 feet for the Senior Federal teams. This helps growing players compete on a field that is more suited to their size. This system is used by nearly all national leagues.
The primary difference between JBO and other leagues is that JBO plays by amended high school rules. One of the most prominent rule differences regards base stealing. In other traditional leagues, a player cannot steal a base on a pitched ball until the ball crosses home plate. In JBO, a player may take a lead off the base and steal at any time during the pitch. As players get older and more experienced, the "base stealing" rule makes for some very exciting baseball. The rule also teaches the kids smart base-running techniques. They will need the techniques if they continue playing baseball as they get older.
Possibly the best thing about Junior Baseball is that when it comes to playoff time, a team goes as a unit. No "All-Star" team is created. All teams, of every age and skill group, stay together throughout the entire season. We believe in the positive aspects of each team competing as a team and earning the right to be in the Northwest Championship. We do not subscribe to the model other leagues use by focusing their entire efforts on one selected all-star team. Our league efforts and funds go towards the success of every player and every team. Our player- and team-positive JBO program provides a way for every skilled player to be a champion.
JBO is played later in the year when the weather is better. For ages 9-14, practices begin within two weeks after tryouts, and league games start in May and run through mid-July. For ages 4-8, the season begins in April and runs until the last week of school. This later season works well for multi-sport athletes, including those who play lacrosse or soccer.
JBO believes the team divisions, progressive field expansion and warmer weather make for a great program. The JBO system provides a natural ladder of development for those who aspire to play high school baseball, as well as a fun environment with lots of games for those with a strong desire to advance in baseball.
When comparing our baseball program to other leagues, we are playing the game as it was intended to be played. We do not pretend to play the game by using softball rules. We are one of the many grass roots youth baseball organizations across the county teaching our children to play real baseball. Having fun, playing, and learning baseball is what we are all about.