FAQs
We are a dynamic baseball and softball organization in the Cary-Grove area that are committed, above all else, to the development of our players and instilling the love for the game. We value teamwork, work ethic, discipline and sportsmanship in our players and coaches.
We are actively trying to grow our program and are open to any and all teams. The program offers teams at the 9U-18U Age Level in baseball and softball. If you would like to coach or join a team, please reach out to Travel Director Kyle Frangiamore at 847-772-6866.
Yes! We have teams at the 15U-18U Age Level (Incoming Freshman-Seniors). These teams train together in the winter and play during the summer after high school baseball/softball has concluded. These teams will be primarily play in showcase tournaments where the players will be exposed to scouts from college and professional organizations.
Check out the "Tryouts" page on our website for up to date information on tryouts. Please contact the Travel Director Kyle Frangiamore at 847-772-6866 for further information.
In-House baseball/softball provides typical recreation type play that is open to anyone who wants to play. Travel baseball/softball is for players who want to develop their skills and knowledge of the game. Travel players will be exposed to more structured practices and play more games each season against better competition. Travel players will get coaching and experiences that will challenge them to become better players. Travel players are expected to work hard and develop as time goes on. Travel players will typically see their playing time reflect their abilities and effort in practice and games.
This would be evaluated on a case by case basis by the travel director and applicable coaches. We generally try to keep kids within their grade and/or age group. However, we may allow a player to play up based on a thorough evaluation if we feel it is appropriate for that team and player
Teams must have a minimum of 11 players on each team with a maximum of 16. The program encourages 11-13 players as the optimal number due to playing time issues. Development of the players is the most important goal of our program, so optimal playing time splits are encouraged.
Each team will make its own schedule depending on facility and field availability. All of our travel teams practice indoors 2 times a week at the FattFro facility in Lake Barrington during the winter months (Dec - April). Teams generally move outdoors as soon as possible (usually early April) and practice 2-3 times a week before the season starts. Once the season starts, teams are encouraged to practice at least one time per week. Sometimes during the season, games/tournaments do not allow for teams to practice every week, but the program wants to continue development throughout the season. Practices vary between teams, but can be any day of the week.
Most teams' games will start in April and end in July. Some teams enter pre and post-season tournaments which could include indoor tournaments in late winter or late summer and fall tournaments. Expect at least 2-4 scheduled games a week for most teams, but this can vary depending on tournaments entered. 8U-14U teams will join a league, such as Mid-Suburban Baseball League (MSBL), usually play 16-18 league games, plus a league tournament. Generally, those age groups also enter 5-7 weekend tournaments. The program encourages 8U-14U teams to play 45-60 games, but this can vary depending on how the teams perform in tournaments. The High School Age Teams will start tournaments in June and will play into Mid/Late July (typically 25-30 games). Talk to your Head Coach regarding what they plan on doing as far as tournaments/league games.
All Home Games are played in Cary and Fox River Grove. League away game locations are generally in the Chicagoland area, but tournaments can be more regional (such as Wisconsin Dells or Bettendorf, Iowa) or national (like Cooperstown) depending which one your team chooses to enter. High school age teams play at locations based on the tournaments they register for.
Yes. Each team is encouraged to participate in at least 1 out of town tournament that requires an overnight stay. There are no limitations on where teams can go for tournaments. Generally, out of town tournaments are decided prior to the season by the coaches and parents.
Team budgets may vary depending on the leagues and tournaments they select to play in. Talk to your coach or the travel director for further information.
Fundraising is always encouraged to help pay for non-budgeted items that a team wants. Teams in the past have used fundraising to pay for extra equipment, additional tournaments, team parties or dinners and extra uniforms or jerseys. Please consult with the Head Coach at your appropriate age level. Fundraising is not mandatory for each team and it is not mandatory that each player/family participates.
We do! Please speak with your manager and team coaches and ask them what you can do to help them. If it's been raining recently, some work will have to be done in order to play.
If you have any additional questions, please contact Travel Director, Kyle Frangiamore at 847-772-6866.