CP 8u - League Age 7 / 8
What is skills evaluation (STEP - Spring Training Evaluation Program) /player draft?
Competition begins at this age group. To keep the division competitive we need to divide the teams by skill level. Early February ASBL conducts skills evaluations (STEP) for all volunteer coaches. Every player in the division is required to participate in STEP. Once STEP is completed, coaches will meet for a draft. All players will go into the draft except the coaches dependent/s. Each team is allowed 1 Head Coach and 2 Assistants.
What is the game and practice schedule at this level?
Teams begin practices in March (right after draft) and games on Opening Weekend in early April. The season ends in mid- to late May. Teams have pre-season practice at least 2 times per week, typically on weeknights but may include additional weekend days. Games are played on weeknights and some Saturday mornings or afternoons; game schedules will be made available in late March. Games typically last approximately 1.25 hours.
When will I hear from a coach? What is STEP (Spring Training Evaluation Program)?
Players new and returning to CP 8u will be required to attend skills evaluation session (STEP - Spring Training Evaluation Program). All players are expected to attend STEP.
STEP will be (weather permitting) mid-February. At STEP, coaches and league officials confirm together that players are registered for the appropriate level of play. Coaches and league officials prepare for a draft right after STEP; the aim of the draft – results of which are kept confidential by coaches and league officials – is to strike a good balance between the desire to ensure that each team is competitive and the ability to continue playing with friends, schoolmates, and past teammates. Teams are formed soon thereafter and your coach will reach out to you.
What does a typical game look like?
Coaches pitch a regulation Baseball. Official USSSA Baseball rules except of a few minor grounds rules, (your head coach will go over the ground rules at your first practice)
What does my player need?
The league provides a team uniform shirt, belt, socks and a hat for each player, and catcher’s gear. Players at this level need their own glove, bat, batting helmet, pants and will need to bring their own water, juice, etc. to each game. Cleats should be worn at this level. Visit this link to view bat requirements.
What else is required?
Your participation as a parent. Even if you don’t step up as a head coach, parents should be present at these games to cheer on their players and help the coaches.
Mandatory Volunteer Application must be filled out before an adult can be on field working with players.