How are players selected for the Travel program?

Players for Travel are selected through a systematic process that aims to identify and form the best teams at each level. The selection process typically follows these steps:

  • Registration and Tryout Announcement: Registration for the Spring season opens in early September. The Long Valley Baseball Club (LVBC) announces the tryout dates for each age level, usually scheduled for the end of September or early October.

  • Tryouts: The tryouts are conducted for each age group and typically last about an hour. During the tryouts, potential players showcase their baseball skills, including hitting, fielding, throwing, and running. Evaluations are carried out in an organized manner by a team of impartial evaluators.

  • Unbiased Evaluation: The LVBC ensures that the tryout evaluators are unbiased and focused on assessing each player's abilities objectively. The goal is to identify players who demonstrate the necessary skills and potential to compete at the Travel level.

  • Team Formation: After the tryouts, the LVBC board reviews the evaluation results carefully. They consider factors such as player skills, potential, and positions to form the best teams at each level.

  • Finalizing the Teams: The team formation process may take a few weeks to finalize, as the board meticulously assesses each player's performance and suitability for their respective teams.

  • Player Notifications: Once the teams are decided, the head coach of each team reaches out to the selected players. This communication typically occurs around November, informing the players of their inclusion on the team.

The selection process is designed to ensure fair and comprehensive evaluations, ultimately forming competitive teams that represent the Long Valley Baseball Club at various age levels. The LVBC strives to create a positive and rewarding experience for players, coaches, and families involved.

Can my child "play up" to an older age group in the Travel?

Yes. However, the decision is not determined by the player or parent. While parents can certainly request their child to play up, the final decision rests with the LVBC board.

The LVBC board carefully evaluates such requests to ensure that the player's safety, development, and overall experience are prioritized. Factors such as the player's skill level, physical development, and readiness for the higher age group are taken into consideration before making a determination.

The decision to allow a player to "play up" is made with the player's and league's best interests in mind. The board's primary objective is to ensure that all children are placed in a suitable and challenging environment that fosters growth and development.

What are the expectations for travel teams regarding tournaments and games?

The expectations for Travel teams in the LVBC are centered around commitment and dedication to the team. As outlined in the bylaws, all players who make the team are expected to fully commit to their responsibilities, including attending practices, meetings, and games.

Players are expected to be punctual and arrive on time for all scheduled practices, meetings, and games. In the event that a player must miss a practice or game due to any reason, it is essential for them to inform the team manager as early as possible. Failure to notify the team manager prior to missing an event will result in an unexcused absence.

While the LVBC recognizes the value of multi-sport participation, players who engage in other sports or commitments are expected to prioritize their commitment to their LVBC team above other athletic obligations. Any unexcused absence from a practice or game to participate in another (non-LVBC) sporting event will be charged accordingly.

Maintaining a high level of attendance is crucial for the success of the team. Receipt of three unexcused absences in a season may lead to the player's removal from the roster. Players are expected to maintain an absolute minimum of 50% attendance in all travel-related baseball activities. Coaches will monitor attendance closely, and falling below the 50% attendance threshold may result in immediate removal from the roster.

The LVBC takes these expectations seriously to ensure a positive and rewarding experience for all players. The commitment and dedication of each player contribute to the team's success and growth throughout the season. By upholding these expectations, players are better able to develop their skills, form strong bonds with teammates, and create lasting memories on and off the field.

How often do Travel teams practice and play games?

During the regular season, teams usually practice twice a week, providing ample time for skill development, team bonding, and strategic preparation.

Teams generally play one game per week. In the Fall season, games are often scheduled on Saturdays, while in the Spring season, they are commonly played on Sundays. However, it is important to note that due to various external factors, scheduling conflicts, or weather conditions, games may occasionally be rescheduled to different days.

The players are expected to arrive at the games 1 hour prior to game time for warm-ups.

In addition to regular games, teams in the Spring season participate in a minimum of two tournaments. These tournaments offer an opportunity for players to challenge themselves against teams from other regions and provide a more competitive environment. Tournaments also serve as a great platform for showcasing players' skills and fostering a sense of sportsmanship and camaraderie.