Frequently Asked Questions

ALTBSA is the Avon Lake Travel Baseball & Softball Association, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality, competitive travel baseball and softball opportunities for youth in Avon Lake. We focus on player development, sportsmanship, teamwork, and representing our community with pride. Starting with the 2027 season, ALTBSA operates independently from the City of Avon Lake Recreation Department.

Avon Lake Recreation programs are in-house/rec leagues focused on fun, fundamentals, and equal playing time with no tryouts. ALTBSA Travel offers a more competitive environment with focused player development, experienced coaching, and participation in travel leagues and tournaments. Travel teams are formed through tryouts for players with the appropriate skill level, commitment, and passion for the game.

Baseball: July 13 & 14, 2026 at Weiss Field, 5:30–8:30 PM (times tentative — final schedule by age group to be announced)
Softball: August 2026 (specific dates to be announced soon)

Tryouts are station-based and coordinated by ALTBSA with evaluations performed by volunteers from the Avon Lake High School programs.

Learn more about 2027 tryouts →

Players are expected to attend the scheduled tryout session for their age group. If you are unable to attend, please contact us at online contact form as soon as possible to discuss options.

Evaluations are conducted by experienced volunteers from the Avon Lake High School baseball and softball programs. Final roster decisions are made by the ALTBSA Board (or a designated committee) based on evaluation results, positional needs, team balance, and overall fit with ALTBSA values. Prior-year performance may be considered, but all players must try out.

Tryouts use a station-based format focusing on:

• Hitting (power, contact, mechanics, approach)
• Fielding (footwork, glove work, range)
• Throwing (arm strength and accuracy)
• Baserunning (speed and instincts)
• Athleticism and intangibles (effort, attitude, coachability, and baseball awareness)

We evaluate the whole player.

Baseball: 7U through 14U
Softball: 10U, 12U, and 14U

Multiple teams per age group may be formed depending on registration numbers, talent level, and coaching availability. Avon Lake residents receive priority placement.

No — teams are formed fresh each year through the tryout and evaluation process. Roster spots are not guaranteed from prior years. We understand that relationships are formed, and kids grow and develop at different speeds. This is often a difficult conversation, but the process should be fair to all kids on an annual basis.

Kids are often playing more than one sport and seasons are blending into each other more and more. While we would hope that players prioritize ALTBSA games, practices, and team events, communicating with team coaches around availability is important. We understand families have other commitments (school, family, other sports). We aim for a balanced approach, especially at younger age levels, while encouraging strong commitment as players get older and the environment gets more competitive.

Details for the 2027 season (including indoor/outdoor practice schedules) will be shared with rostered families after team formation. Practices typically begin in winter with a mix of indoor and outdoor sessions. Typically the off-season runs January through mid/late April, when the season starts.

Registration fees (to be announced) typically cover league fees, umpires, insurance, and administrative costs. Uniforms are usually purchased separately through our supplier. Additional items (bags, helmets, etc.) may be supported through team fundraising.

Teams play in local/regional leagues such as the Cuyahoga Valley Baseball Association (CVBA), Ohio Prospects League, Lorain County Hot Stove, and Emerald Necklace (softball). A typical season includes 18–25+ games plus tournaments. More competitive teams may travel farther for select tournaments. See our league affiliations for details and official league websites.

Avon Lake residents (and those attending Avon Lake schools) receive priority. Non-residents may be considered on a case-by-case basis with Board approval, subject to league rules and roster space.

ALTBSA will have league-wide and team fundraising opportunities. Details will be shared with rostered families. Participation helps keep costs down and supports the program.

Bats must meet the rules of the specific league(s) in which the team participates (e.g., USSSA, USA Baseball, or BBCOR standards depending on age group). Specific requirements will be communicated to rostered families.

Lindsay’s Law (parents & athletes): Ohio law requires families to review sudden cardiac arrest materials and sign an acknowledgment form each year before participation. See our Lindsay’s Law page for warning signs, requirements, and official ODH resources.

Concussion training (coaches): ALTBSA coaches must complete Ohio-approved concussion training every three years. See our Concussion Training page for course steps, NFHS registration, and certificate requirements.

ALTBSA is governed by a Board of Directors. We operate with strong financial controls, transparent policies, and a focus on safety and child protection. Our full Bylaws and governing documents are available on our website.