Dear Jr. High Parents,
This past Spring/Summer we launched the first season of Cole Valley Club Baseball for the 7th and 8th grade boys interested in playing competitive baseball. Those of you familiar with club baseball in the valley know that there are many options to choose from when it comes to playing competitive baseball, however the values of many of those clubs do not align with the values of the Cole Valley family.
Our goal was to create a Christ centered environment for young baseball players that want to compete at a high level while also learning what it means to be men of character. Middle school is a critical period in a young man’s life and having Godly coaches influencing them in ways that we as parents may be unable to was a huge blessing. The club also allowed us to begin the process of fostering the relationship between the varsity Cole Valley baseball program and the Jr. High ball players. Nathan Hoiosen, the head coach of Cole Valley’s varsity team, was a frequent fixture at both games and practices.
Given the success of this year’s club teams, we will be forming both a 13U (7th grader) and 14U (8th grader) team to compete in the Spring and Summer of 2023. Both teams will be playing in competitive leagues and tournaments throughout the Spring and Summer that will provide ample opportunities for the boys to play against other competitive teams not just in the Valley but the entire Pacific Northwest region.
It’s important to note a couple of things before you decide if trying out for the Cole Valley Club Baseball team would be a good fit for your family. First, Cole Valley Club Baseball does not fall under the umbrella of the school so all costs associated with the club program are the responsibility of the parents and are not included in the tuition you pay to Cole Valley Christian School. There will be per player fees to be part of the club team. These fees will help cover uniforms, team gear, equipment, facilities as well as coaching. There will also be additional fees for any tournaments that we play and you as parents will be responsible for all travel expenses you incur for out of town tournaments. We will be able to provide more details on the fees later this Fall. Secondly, this is a tryout and not a signup. As Cole Valley continues to grow, it is becoming increasingly difficult to accommodate every student in every athletic sport. We will be able to suggest some alternative recreational options for those boys that do not make the team but are interested in continuing to develop their baseball skills.
Tryout Details
When: August 13th from 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Where: Storey Park
Check-In Time: 12:30 at the concession stand behind home plate
Attire: Baseball pants, cleats, hat
Equipment Needed: Gloves, bats, catchers gear (if you own a set)
NOTE: Please ensure at least one parent is present for the first hour of the tryout as well will conduct a parent meeting to discuss the goals of the club in more detail as well as provide a better understanding of the commitment for both families and players.
Sincerely,
Jeff Morgan
208-272-0802