How many is too many?

shockcoach · Jan 9, 2013

Never like to have any less than 12. Those who say it's easier to manage 10-11 players is because there is no managing when you have that many. I like to have options available, which allows you to actually manage. That's when it becomes fun and interesting.

mtnbama · Jan 9, 2013

I have 14U, and 12 is my target roster size. Everyone is mentioning the advantage of accomodating injuries, etc., but I also focus on the competition for playing time that that roster size promotes.

Hand in hand with fostering competition, I also never bat more than 9 in any game (I often use a DP/DH to involve 10)

An even number is also better for practice drills, etc. and having enough players, for instance for drills with baserunners.

All that said, it is so much easier to manage a roster of 11 than 12 on the weekend. But 12 is the better number overall.

Phathead · Jan 9, 2013

I carry 10 and yes it has bit me in the rear a few times. Overall I like it, 9 in field pitcher for next game resting and I bat all 10. One can't make it I call PU player. 2 cant make I might PU 2 player. 3 can't make it, forget it and go to nxt tourny. Works for us.

GOINGDEEP · Jan 9, 2013

shockcoach said:
Never like to have any less than 12. Those who say it's easier to manage 10-11 players is because there is no managing when you have that many. I like to have options available, which allows you to actually manage. That's when it becomes fun and interesting.

I wouldn't mind managing more players, it's baby sitting the parents that I don't care for.

We had one of "those" games where nothing fell our way. One DD got an inning of play and I heard after the game dad was fussing about we wouldnt have lost if his kid played more. I was mad already cause I hate to lose so I ran up to Walgreens. Came back and threw a pacifier in his lap and told him to put that in his mouth when he felt like crying. ( yes we are good friends to this day

)

JWBECK6299 · Jan 9, 2013

I'm a firm believer that softball is a game that should be played, not watched from the dugout. To me 10 or 11 at most seems ideal. I always ask if there are any weekends they can't play before making our tournament schedule. Yes, I know life happens. That's why I keep pick up players on speed dial. It's been rare that I haven't been able to find one.

Vincent553 · Jan 9, 2013

We're 14U, but I was just speaking in general.

PA SB Dad · Jan 9, 2013

I have a hard time with 10 on a team, especially at the younger age groups (10U and 12U). When the team is out in the field, and there's only one kid on the bench, it always feels a bit awkward. I like to have 2 or 3 subs on the bench, but no more.

CoogansBluff · Jan 9, 2013

shockcoach said:
Never like to have any less than 12. Those who say it's easier to manage 10-11 players is because there is no managing when you have that many. I like to have options available, which allows you to actually manage. That's when it becomes fun and interesting.

More fun and interesting for who?

coach james · Jan 9, 2013

My 3 pitchers are full time... they rotate circle time evenly... the 1reserve girl plays for a showcase team in Indianapolis... if shes available, she'll travel with us

InsidePitch · Jan 9, 2013

DD plays 14u in a large org. All teams in the org start with 13. If they manage the team to make all girls better its ok. If they just want the plastic shelf prize 13 is to many. DD has put all of the trophies save the best one in the attic. Winning a starting lineup spot is her goal and prize. If there are only 10 or 11 it's not that hard. Plus as a catcher I like for her to have down time between playing when it's over 95F.

DDs team will play around 70-80 games this season. If she plays in 45-50 games, I'm good with that. Catchers need a break.

How many is too many?

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shockcoach

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