General Program Questions
1. What is travel baseball, and how is it different from recreational or Little League baseball?
Travel baseball is more competitive and involves playing against higher-level teams, often in tournaments outside the local area. It typically requires more time, commitment, and financial investment than recreational leagues.
2. What age groups do you offer teams for?
We currently offer travel teams for (rising) 10U and 14U players. Age groups are determined by the player’s age as of a specific cutoff date (usually May 1 of the season year).
3. How are players selected for the team?
Players are selected through tryouts, where we evaluate skills, attitude, coachability, and overall fit for the team. We look for talent, but also strong character and a willingness to learn.
4. Is your team open to players from any location?
Yes, most travel teams accept players from a wide geographic area, depending on travel feasibility and commitment.
Time & Travel Commitment
5. How much travel is involved?
Travel varies by age group and team level. Our 10U team plays tournaments that are primarily around Goldsboro, Fayetteville, or her in the Triangle. Our 14U team might travel further. For both teams, there could be an “out of town” tournament or two each season, that would require an overnight/weekend stay. Parent’s feedback will be considered before committing to those tournaments.
6. How long is the season?
Our season formally kicks off in late February, running through July. Our Coaches also hold off-season conditioning and practices at an indoor training facility.
7. How often do teams practice?
Teams typically practice 2–3 times per week, both in and out of season.
8. Can my child participate in other sports or activities while playing travel baseball?
We encourage multi-sport athletes, but we do ask for a high level of commitment during the season. Communication with coaches is key to managing multiple schedules.
Financial Commitment
9. What is the cost to join the team?
BYBA holds fundraisers throughout the year, to help with facility, uniform, and tournament costs. This allows us to offer travel baseball at little to no cost to families. We do require that each player provide their own: pants (color and style determined by Head Coach), socks and belt (color determined by Head Coach).
Coaching & Development
10. Who are the coaches, and what is their background?
Our coaches are experienced in high-level baseball as players, coaches, or both. Many have played and/or coached at the high school or collegiate level and are committed to developing players on and off the field.
11. What kind of training and development do players receive?
We focus on fundamentals, advanced skills, game IQ, and physical conditioning. We also emphasize character, leadership, and spiritual growth.
12. Will my child get equal playing time?
Travel baseball is competitive, and playing time is generally earned through performance, effort, and attitude. However, our coaches strive to develop all players and ensure they get meaningful opportunities.
Christian Principles
13. What does it mean that your team is “Christ-centered”?
We integrate faith into our program through prayer, devotions, and encouraging players to live out Christian values like integrity, humility, and respect. Our mission is to glorify God through the game of baseball.
14. Do players or families need to be Christian to join?
No, we welcome all families, regardless of their faith background. However, our team culture and activities are rooted in Christian principles, and we expect all participants to respect that.
15. Are faith-based activities mandatory?
While we encourage participation in devotions, prayer, and team-building activities, we are respectful of each family’s comfort level and beliefs.
