At AYBA, our hearts have always been with the kids. Every decision we make — every program we design — is built around one simple goal: helping each child grow, develop, and stay connected to the joy of baseball.

This year, we’re excited to share that we’ll be introducing a new pilot Spring program for our 9/10U division: the National and American Leagues. This structure is designed to give every player the right opportunities for growth — whether that’s through more competitive play or extra time to develop skills and confidence.

Both leagues will continue to practice and play right here at Wills and Webb Parks as usual, keeping our players together in the community that makes AYBA so special.

As the board, our mission is always to improve the players' experience and keep our park programs current with other leading youth leagues in the area. The other local parks in our area have implemented a National/American League structure and it has worked well for them all, and we believe it will offer our players more meaningful opportunities to learn positions, compete, and have fun.

Most importantly, it helps us meet kids where they are — giving each player a place to grow, feel challenged, and stay in the game.

Registration for either league is the same, through the same registration links. Please register accordingly based on your players' age. There will be no refunds for players that attend National League tryouts but are not selected. If your player attends National League tryouts but is not selected for the National League, they will automatically have a spot in our American League and are encouraged to attend the American League evaluation dates.

Whether your child is playing in the National or American League, they’ll have access to excellent coaching, consistent practice time, and a supportive team environment.

 Because we care about creating the best possible experience for every player. The new structure gives us more flexibility to balance competition with development, ensuring all players continue to improve while enjoying the game they love.

 Every player is encouraged to attend tryouts — even if you’re unsure of the outcome. Tryouts are a great learning experience for your kid, and you never know what a coach might see in your child! No matter the placement, both leagues provide meaningful opportunities to play, learn, and grow.

 Absolutely, families who prefer their players not to be considered for the National League, simply Not attend the National League tryout. Players will definitely get more opportunities to develop at certain positions in comparison as if they play in the National League.

 This is a pilot for 9/10U only this Spring as it has the most registered kids in AYBA. After we see how it benefits our players and families, we will decide as a board whether to extend it to other groups.

 No — Summer All-Star selections are based on a separate process. Players from both leagues will be eligible for Summer All-Stars, and sometimes American League players shine in ways that make them perfect candidates for Summer All-Stars, especially after all the reps they will be getting at different positions.

 AYBA is blessed with wonderful volunteer coaches who give their time to help kids grow. Coaches receive training and support from AYBA, so no prior experience is required — just enthusiasm, patience, and a love for helping kids. If you’re interested in coaching, we’d love to have you join us!

 In the National League, team selections are based on the draft process, so requests aren’t available. The American League allows for more flexibility, though carpool requests aren’t guaranteed and not recommended, coaches will vote on approval draft night. Sibling pairings will be honored in the American League only.

 How many teams will there be?

 The number of teams depends on player registration. As our park continues to grow, we’ll adjust to make sure each child gets the best possible experience — balanced teams, fair playtime, and plenty of field time.

The AYBA board is deeply committed to building a program that keeps kids in the park, growing their love for baseball, and preparing them for the next level — both on and off the field.

We know this pilot will help us continue that mission: giving every child a place to belong, a chance to improve, and the support of a community that cares about their development.

We’re grateful for your trust, your involvement, and your partnership as we continue to make AYBA the best possible place for kids to learn, play, and grow together.

REMINDER: To be a part of this National League, your player MUST be at the National League tryouts as detailed above.

 

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Spencer Ripley