The Benefits of Having Options by Trying Out for Multiple Club Teams
Club ball tryouts are nearing as the transition from summer ball to fall ball has officially begun. Club ball tryouts for most programs are taking place over the next few weeks. Club tryouts occur shortly after the summer season concludes so that teams can be formed and play fall and winter ball together.
Every year, more and more club teams emerge across the country. Association teams are entering the club scene at various age groups to try to keep the teams they already have together and to keep players in their programs. Club ball has become incredibly watered down compared to where it used to be 10 years ago when there were half as many teams, and only the best players who tried out made the team.
With club tryouts looming, many hopefuls will try out for multiple teams. Many positives come with trying out for more than one team. This gives the players and the parents options, as well as some peace of mind and having control of the ultimate decision.
Club ball offers many different things which set it apart from an association or developmental ball. Most club programs will hire experienced coaches to lead their programs. Club teams will usually ask for a year round commitment so teams can train together in the off-season months and play together throughout the fall, winter, and summer. There is much more travel at the club softball level as teams will qualify for and compete at out of state tournaments. The cost of club ball is going to be higher than that of association because of the paid coaches, year round training, fall, winter, and summer ball expenses, and out of state tournament travel.
Each club program is unique and will have something to offer everyone. The key is identifying these things and determining which is the right fit for the player. Trying out for multiple club programs will allow the player to experience the coaches, the other players, and the atmosphere. Players will know what feels right to them after stepping on the field.
Parents and players should make a list of what they look for in a club program and what they hope to gain from the experience before heading out to tryouts. Once the player completes the tryout process, revisit the list. Chances are, one or more of the teams the player tried out for will be crossed off the list. There is always a right fit out there for everyone, and the tricky part is finding the one. Also, do some research on clubs before the tryout dates. Everyone is going to have a different experience on whichever team they play on. If players and parents put in the effort, do some research, and at the end of the day go with their gut, they will be setting their daughter up for a successful and enjoyable club ball experience.
