General Questions
Q: What is a travel baseball team?
A: A travel baseball team is a competitive team that plays against other teams regionally or nationally. Players often travel to tournaments or games outside their local area, offering higher levels of competition than recreational leagues.
Q: How is travel baseball different from recreational baseball?
A: Travel baseball is more competitive, time-intensive, and often includes higher-level competition, and more opportunities for exposure to scouts. Recreational leagues are typically more casual and locally focused.
Joining a Team
Q: How can my child join EP travel baseball?
A: To join the 10U or 12U team, your child will need to attend tryouts. Coaches assess players based on their skills, athleticism, and potential to contribute to the team.
Q: At what age can my child start playing travel baseball?
A: 10U Travel baseball will allow for 8, 9, and 10 years olds to tryout. Your child cannot turn 11 before August 31, 2025.
12U Travel baseball will allow for 11 and 12 year olds to try out. Your child cannot turn 13 before August 31, 2025
Q: What skills should my child have before trying out?
A: Key skills include proper throwing mechanics, batting fundamentals, good fielding techniques, and an understanding of the game. Effort and coachability are also crucial.
Cost and Commitment
Q: How much does travel baseball cost?
A: Registration fee is $600 which includes uniforms. Travel, hotel accommodations, and meals are an additional cost to you.
Q: How much time is required for travel baseball?
A: Team practices will vary. Tournaments can last all weekend or one day (see flyer for schedule).
Q: Is a payment plan available?
A: Yes, a payment plan for the registration fee is available upon request.
Benefits
Q: What are the benefits of playing travel baseball?
A: Benefits include improved skills, higher-level competition, exposure to college or professional scouts, teamwork, and the opportunity to build friendships with teammates.
Tournaments and Schedules
Q: How often do travel baseball teams play tournaments?
A: Most teams participate in tournaments every few weeks during the season, which typically runs from spring to mid summer.
Q: What is the typical format of a travel baseball tournament?
A: Tournaments usually include pool play followed by elimination rounds, with teams guaranteed a minimum number of games.
Parent and Player Expectations
Q: What is expected of parents in travel baseball?
A: Parents are often expected to assist with logistics, provide support, ensure their child attends practices and games, and maintain a positive attitude during competitions.
Q: What is expected of players?
A: Players are expected to work hard, attend all practices and games, show good sportsmanship, respect coaches and teammates, and be committed to improving their skills.
Coaching and Training
Q: How can I ensure my child improves in travel baseball?
A: Regular practice, listening to coaching advice, maintaining physical fitness, and working on weaknesses outside of team practices are essential for improvement.