How did tryouts go?

[EzOut.EzOut]

How did So Cal tryouts go? Do teams take credit cards for tryout fees or is it cash only?

Most interested in 14U - pure 1996 birthdates. Everyone says they're going to be playing up in the 16U division but are they going to come down for ASA States and PGF? So, what happened out there this weekend?

[EzOut.EzOut]

Chirp, chirp...

[EzOut.EzOut]

Thanks for the reply SDad. As the girls are getting older, I'm really wondering how much true developing will be going on and how much is now just recruiting. I see a big difference between a good coach and a good recruiter.

[Rico Suave]

Its all about the draft.

[hotwheels]

Thanks for the reply SDad. As the girls are getting older, I'm really wondering how much true developing will be going on and how much is now just recruiting. I see a big difference between a good coach and a good recruiter.

Just depends on what type of team you're looking for...I would say there wasn't more than about 25% of the teams in 12U last year MAX that spent any time whatsoever on developing...Most coaches just recruit from other teams unfortunately...

It is what it is...Accept it or quit! I think my figure is generous...

[Fifteen's]

Thanks for the reply SDad. As the girls are getting older, I'm really wondering how much true developing will be going on and how much is now just recruiting. I see a big difference between a good coach and a good recruiter.

Just depends on what type of team you're looking for...I would say there wasn't more than about 25% of the teams in 12U last year MAX that spent any time whatsoever on developing...Most coaches just recruit from other teams unfortunately...

It is what it is...Accept it or quit! I think my figure is generous...

EXACTLY! That is why I chose a team for my DD where she will get great instruction and development, over how many games the team might win and medals she is going to have( she has her share already ). In the big picture, who cares. I will take development over "wins" any day, in 12's and 14's. In 16's and 18's, that is a different animal. JMO

[EzOut.EzOut]

So, do you think development is pretty much done at 16U?

[Fifteen's]

So, do you think development is pretty much done at 16U?

No, not at all. I just feel that at 16's and 18's you have alot more on your plate, at that point. Showcases, recruitment, being on the right team/organization to get "invited to the dance", so to speak. Plus, at 16's and 18's, instructing and developing becomes a little more difficult to do with teenage girls who "know it all( so they think )" and are pretty much set in their ways. Hopefully, the majority of the developing has been done by that point. But, it is still important no matter what age. IMO

[chippingaway]

So, do you think development is pretty much done at 16U?

I want to say yes, but find it quite difficult. Teams are recruited and assembled based on skill level. Parents at 16u are expecting showcases, ASA or Premier Nationals top 10 finishes. It is a performance driven age group. Who cares if the throwing motion is wrong or swing is jacked up, as long as plays are made and the ball is hit hard and often the parents will support the team and drive the age group. And the great thing is, the girls are told to smile, and hustle off the field because the college coaches are looking for great attitudes.

I don't think the coaches are to blame. I think it's the early recruiting as well as, its us idiot parents who take the development and "the game" out of the girls. We are tired and want the "pay off" and read everyday how 9th and 10th graders are committing. We want that so desperately for our DD's that it becomes more of a job.

That being said. IF a DD finds great coaches, and there are a lot of them. And, if she can be more mature than the parents and her teammates and ASK FOR HELP, she will find it. Then, if she applies herself to develop she will find herself out performing many other girls and have plenty off colleges noticing her growth.

My advice. Remind your daughter, and yourself, that the colleges don't want performance they want development, growth and a "teachable" attitude. If she is willing to learn there plenty of coaches willing to teach. They are just waiting for students.

[CheckWriter]

I heard some teams had great turnouts while others were not as well attended.
There were some really strong players at some while others struggled to draw the talent needed to assemble a competitive team.
Pitching was mixed with some "studs" that will excel at 43' while others will be challenged by their choice to move up.
Speedy slappers could be found while others that are attempting the art would be better served working on their full swing.
There were catchers with sub 1.8 guns and others that you could steal on at will.
All in all a good weekend and I hope all the players find teams that are a good fit for them and continue to develop.

I am impressed!
You must have gone to endless tryouts with note pad and video camera in hand to make such astute and specific observations about tryouts!