FAQ’s

What is Southies Baseball?

Southies Baseball is a club organization that offers a competitive alternative for players seeking more advanced competition than recreational baseball, while still providing the flexibility to also participate in local leagues and enjoy the community aspect they offer.

Is Southies associated with South Sunrise Little League?

Southies has a cooperative agreement with South Sunrise Little League (SSLL). While both entities support each other and share many of the same resources, fields, coaches, and players, the two organizations are managed and governed separately. While we encourage our players to also participate in SSLL during the Spring, it is not a requirement to play for Southies.

When and where are tryouts?

Open tryouts for our Fall 2026–Spring 2027 season will take place this June/July. Dates and times are currently TBD. To get on the list to try out, please fill out the New Player Interest Form..

How many players will make the team?

Our goal is to assemble at least one squad of 12 players per age group (9u-12u). We may form additional squads in certain age groups if there is sufficient interest and talent.

How long does the season run?

The season runs August 2026 – May 2027. Practices begin in mid-August. Games and tournaments start in September, with the Fall season concluding the weekend before Thanksgiving. All teams observe a winter break in December and resume practices, games and tournaments in January. The Spring season typically concludes in late May or June for most squads.

Will there be travel involved?

Most games and tournaments will take place within or near Orange County. In March 2027, all teams will travel to Arizona for a Spring Training tournament. Additionally, 12u teams will travel to Cooperstown, New York, in Summer 2027 for a week-long national tournament. Some squads may have additional out-of-state tournaments depending on team interest.

When and where are practices and games?

In the Fall, expect at least two workouts per week (days determined by the team manager). In the Spring, practices are scaled back due to the SSLL season (see Spring Season section below). Most practices and workouts will take place at McPherson Athletic Facility in Orange. Some practices and workouts may be held at local indoor sites or fields in neighboring cities.

Games will by played primarily in or near Orange County and typically take place on Sundays, with occasional Saturday games. Our field for home games will be McPherson.

Is full attendance expected?

We encourage multi-sport athletes and understand that many children play other sports in the Fall. However, this is a competitive program. We cover advanced concepts that require consistent attendance for player and team development. While we don’t demand 100% attendance, we expect players to attend at least two-thirds of practices and games to remain in good standing.

What are the fees and what do they include?

The 2026–2027 budget is currently being finalized. The fee details will be published to families upon invite to the program. Families will have the option to pay annual fees upfront for a discount or opt for a monthly payment plan. Fees will be all-inclusive and cover all of the following:

• Uniform Package: 3 game jerseys, 2 game hats, 2 practice shirts, 2 training shorts (New players also receive a Southies batting helmet).

• Training: All practices and workouts.

• Games: Fall and Spring league games (10+ per season).

• Tournaments: 4–6 local tournaments and the Arizona Spring Training tournament (travel/lodging costs not included).

• Cooperstown Tournament: 12u Teams (travel/lodging costs not included)

How does the Spring season work?

We believe recreational baseball is a fun and vital experience for young players. To offer the “best of both worlds,” our Spring season is designed not to interfere with Little League schedules. We hold periodic practices and schedule our select games on Saturday afternoons or Sundays. While participation in recreational baseball is not required, it is highly recommended as Southies does not practice full-time during the Spring.

May we play for another club baseball team in addition to Southies?

While we do allow our players to play for recreational leagues in addition to Southies, we do not permit our players to play for another club baseball team while they are members of the Southies. We do allow players to guest play or sub for other club teams occasionally with advanced notice and permission, but you may not be a permanent member of another club team. Players who violate this rule will be removed from the team without refund.

How is playing time determined?

Unlike recreational leagues, playing time in travel baseball is not guaranteed to be equal. While we focus on development, playing time is earned through effort, attendance, attitude, and performance. However, our smaller roster sizes (12 players) ensure everyone gets significant opportunities.

2. What age group should my child try out for?

Age groups are determined by the player’s age as of April 30th, 2027.

• 12u (Born between 5/1/2014 – 4/30/2015)

• 11u (Born between 5/1/2015 – 4/30/2016)

• 10u (Born between 5/1/2016 – 4/30/2017)

• 9u (Born between 5/1/2017 – 4/30/2018)

If you have any further questions, feel free to send those to charles@southiesbaseball.com.