Summer ball is the most competitive season of baseball for EBYBS. The divisions are based solely on the age of the players participating. The demands of each level will vary depending on the age and the coach's discretion. Coaches are interviewed and selected by the EBYBS executive board and players are selected to those teams by the coaches and board members of EBYBS. This season starts directly after the spring season with practices often starting before the spring season ends. EBYBS will send out a league wide notice once signups for summer ball are available.
The following teams are typically formed each summer (the 'U' stands for under - 12U is 12 and under):
Generally enough interest is generated for each age range that 10U, 11U, and 12U will only have players within that league age. Determine your player's league age by referencing the Babe Ruth Age Chart.
Important considerations for parents and players interested in summer ball:
- Summer baseball requires a commitment to play/practice the entire month of June, July, and possibly into August.
- Practices will be 2-4 times per week, any time of day or night, depending on the coach's discretion.
- Games are usually on weekends beginning on Thursday and sometimes ending on Sunday. A minimum of 4 games per tournament will be played with an average summer baseball season having anywhere from 20-36 games, depending on the success of the team.
- Regional travel may be involved for certain tournaments.
- Money is a major factor in summer baseball as you can expect a certain amount of travel expenses and time off of work to attend games and/or practices.
- There is no playing time requirement for summer baseball. Your child could play more or less than they did during the regular season. There could be players that do not get to play in certain games.
- Not every player that signs up for summer baseball is guaranteed a spot on a team. Only 12 players per age group. A second 'Outlaw' team may be formed if enough interest is generated.
- Be certain your player is committed enough for this level of competition and is willing to give time and effort both at practices and games for the duration of the season.
- Consider the time spent on sports and its impact on your family’s vacation plans. The team needs your commitment to be successful.
- Please adjust your family travel plans to not conflict with competition, if at all possible.
- Be cognizant of the coach’s requirements and goals, so you can better understand his/her methods and emphasis.
- Evaluate the financial cost for participation in this team. Generally around $250 to $300, depending on the number of tournaments the teams participates in.
- Be willing to support the team in whatever you can (i.e. transportation, refreshments, encouragement, attendance at contests, etc).
Summer baseball is an opportunity and privilege for players to experience baseball at a higher level of competition. It can be both very rewarding and disappointing.