ALTBSA Age Groups
Baseball
7U · 8U · 9U · 10U · 11U · 12U · 13U · 14U
Softball
10U · 12U · 14U
2027 Season
Player Eligibility Guide
Avon Lake Travel Baseball and Softball Association, Inc.
We want to make the age group placement process as clear and transparent as possible for families.
League Age Cutoff Dates
ALTBSA participates in multiple leagues, each with their own age eligibility rules. For which leagues our teams compete in, see League Affiliations.
| League | Sport | Age Cutoff Date | How Age is Determined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cuyahoga Valley Baseball Assoc. | Baseball | May 1, 2027 | Player’s age on May 1, 2027 |
| Ohio Prospects League | Baseball | May 1, 2027 | Player’s age on May 1, 2027 |
| Lorain County Hotstove | Baseball | May 1, 2027 (expected) | Player’s age on May 1, 2027 |
| Emerald Necklace | Softball | September 1, 2026 | Player’s age on September 1, 2026 (year prior to the 2027 season) |
See our League Affiliations page for links to each league. Emerald Necklace softball age rules are described in the Emerald Necklace Fastpitch FAQ.
How to Determine Your Child’s Age Group
Baseball example (May 1, 2027 cutoff)
- A player who turns 10 years old on April 15, 2027 → they will be 10U for the 2027 season.
- A player who turns 10 years old on June 10, 2027 → they will be 9U for the 2027 season.
Softball example (September 1, 2026 cutoff)
- A player who turns 10 years old on August 20, 2026 → they will be 10U for the 2027 season.
- A player who turns 10 years old on September 15, 2026 → they will be 9U for the 2027 season.
Important Notes
- Players are generally placed in the age group matching their league age.
- The Board may allow a player to play up one age level when it benefits the athlete’s development and team needs.
- Playing down an age level is not typically permitted.
Tryout & Placement Process
- All players must attend tryouts to be evaluated.
- Final roster and age group decisions are made by the ALTBSA Board and coaching staff.
- Placement is based on skill, athleticism, maturity, team needs, and roster balance — not solely on age.
Questions?
Check our FAQ for answers to common questions. If you are unsure which age group your child qualifies for, use our online contact form with your child’s date of birth. We will be happy to help.
Developing Character Through Competition
Avon Lake Travel Baseball and Softball Association, Inc. · 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization