What to know about Tryouts, Saturday, Feb. 23 and Sunday, Feb. 24, Mile High Little League Field, Juan Tabo & Lomas in Albuquerque.
With EMLL’s Tryouts getting underway, many parents and players—especially those who are new to the Little League game—are wondering what it’s all about. Here are a few basics to help you and your child.
-TRYOUTS ARE NOT ABOUT “MAKING THE TEAM”:
Every year parents ask us, “What if my child doesn’t have a good tryout, will he still make the team?” Although the term “tryout” implies that your child may or may not make the team, that’s not what Little League tryouts are about. In Little League EVERYONE MAKES THE TEAM! Our Tryouts are only to evaluate skill level.
-WHO MUST ATTEND:
The Tryouts are NOT for all players, but it is mandatory that players who are league-age 9 and up (players who will be at least 9 years old by August 31 of this year) attend one of the Tryouts. Any child who is league age 8 and wants to play in the Minors Baseball Division must also attend Tryouts. Players DO NOT have to attend both Tryouts. Come to which ever date is convenient for your family.
Please note that softball Tryouts will be held in early March; and due to EMLL’s lower numbers in 2019, we will also be postponing Tryouts for teenage divisions until a later date. The Tryouts on Feb. 23 and Feb. 24 WILL ONLY BE FOR BASEBALL PLAYERS in the Minors & Majors Divisions.
*TRYOUTS FOR INTERMEDIATE, JUNIOR & SENIOR HAVE BEEN POSTPONED!
-WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
We will start at noon for 9 year olds and any 8 year olds who want to play up in Minors; 10, 11 & 12 year olds will go at 2 p.m.
We have the kids run the bases, field groundballs and fly balls, throw, and bat.
-WHAT TO BRING:
Your child does not have to wear a baseball uniform (of course, it’s OK if they want to!) but they should dress appropriately to run around and play ball: athletic shoes, loose pants like sweatpants, etc., and don’t forget about the weather! Please dress your child appropriately for whatever curveball Mother Nature may throw!
Mile High has artificial turf so any athletic shoes will be fine, except metal cleats, they are not allowed. Your child should also bring their baseball glove. If they have their own baseball helmet it’s OK to bring that; if your child brings his own bat it MUST BE A USA BAT.
And don’t forget to have your child bring water or something to drink!