Waiting, Waiting, and Waiting some more....

[CMMom1740]

Yeah, there are a few weird things that made me not want to commit immediately and attend at least one more tryout. This is an established and respected org (not "Top 3," but one that is definitely recognized around Atlanta), so that offers some comfort, but I have some of the same questions you guys all have. On the other hand, plenty of teams we have seen refer to players as their "#1 pitcher," "#2 catcher" and so on.

 

[grcsftbll]

I'm not sure the name of the org and quality of the coaching have much to do with each other around here.

 

[Lenski]

Yeah, there are a few weird things that made me not want to commit immediately and attend at least one more tryout. This is an established and respected org (not "Top 3," but one that is definitely recognized around Atlanta), so that offers some comfort, but I have some of the same questions you guys all have. On the other hand, plenty of teams we have seen refer to players as their "#1 pitcher," "#2 catcher" and so on.

CMMom.....you're looking at this all wrong. Don't let it stress you. Never wait on coaches. I don't care what level your dd is. Your dd has two levels. The level you think she is and the level the coaches think she is. Her level is the level the coaches think she is. Your dd is a catcher so your dd is in demand at HER level. Ultimately the coaches of the teams will let you know what HER level is.

If you're not getting offers within 48 hours move on. If they are stringing you along that means they are looking for a better option. Don't take it personally....move on. Atlanta is full of teams and orgs. If a coach demands an immediate commit politely say no thanks and move on. The offer you are looking for will eventually come.

 

[SoCalASABlue]

We're even having to cancel a planned family vacation next weekend to make it to the other two.

Forget that...JMHO...no tryouts are worth losing quality family time...

 

[Rocketech1]

Update: One of the three teams referenced above had DD come out last night and catch, field, and hit once more. Just to make us sweat a little more, HC told us he needed to "sleep on it." UGH.

So after several tryouts he "needs to sleep on it"? This is a huge red flag. Either he has confidence with her as a catcher or he doesn't. What happens two months from now if/when your DD has a few bad games and he has other options. IMO, your DD needs to be on a team where they are excited to have her play for them. I hope it all works out.

 

[BT3100]

I said this in another thread. 1 tryout is all it should take. I tell the coaches and my kid you get one tryout, no more. No offer after that tryout (24 hours) were done.
If a team wants your kid they won't let you leave without an offer in hand. If your on the bottom call back list then find another team.

 

[BT3100]

Hey, you know what? I actually would appreciate that. Why spend 3 hours out in the hot sun if he already knows you don't stand a chance. No waiting around for decisions afterward either. Do it in a kind, respectful way, and I think you would gain respect from parents and players.

I think you need to do what I learned to do.

Me: Coach DD is excited to tryout today for your team. Let's chat right after the tryout and let me know what you think. If she's not right for your team no worries but we will only make this one tryout ".

You will get your answer there. Maybe forcing coaches hand but no waiting.
When they tell you to come back or will let you know that's code for she could make it if another better player doesn't show up or commit. With so many teams out there you can and should apply some pressure.

 

[catchermama]

I can honestly say we have never experienced what you are going through. I guess we've been lucky to either be turned down or offered a spot pretty quickly. "Let me sleep on it" is ridiculous. I hope my DD's new team stays together because I don't want any part of this 14U tryout scene!

 

[ashleesdad]

Offering "starting" positions really should be a red flag, because from the other side of their mouths, these same coaches will look a kid in the eye and say, "Just keep working hard, kid, and you'll get there" when asked in March, "Hey, Coach, what do I have to do to earn a start or more play time?". That just kills me - because the "starting" deals were made the previous July, so like Seattlecoach said - the girls who work their tails off all Winter still don't stand a chance in June, regardless of improvement. On the flip side, say a coach promises your dd will be a starter, then Susie Softball steps up and gets her mojo on in the Spring - so now she's a starter and your dd is benched. Are you happy?

I'd run from any team that offered my daughter promises of starting or play time, because either scenario is bad. And it is very telling about the coach and his/her philosophy. Girls have ups and downs, and I want a coach who recognized when my kid needs to work harder and pushes her to earn a spot, and then rewards her efforts by allowing her to succeed.

Best thing I heard all tryout season: "I don't have a child on the team. I don't give private lessons. I believe every girl needs play time to be developed, and I can assure you that your daughter will have equal opportunities to shine and grow. We really want her to have fun, enjoy the game, and become really, REALLY good at softball." SHUT UP AND TAKE MY MONEY.

We just went thru all this tryout stuff with my dd. She tried out for 4 teams and got offers right on the spot for all but one. The one that she really wanted. What I liked the most was exactly what you were saying. This coach came right out during the private tryout and basically asked "What play time are you expecting for your dd this season?" (her main position is pitcher). We stated she should earn her play time during practice at home and with the team. He said he doesn't have any "starting" positions. The girls earn their position each week during practice, warmups for the games, and their attitudes. I want my dd to work for it. It's the only way she will get better at it. She made that team, which was her first choice and ours!

 

[CMMom1740]

I said this in another thread. 1 tryout is all it should take. I tell the coaches and my kid you get one tryout, no more. No offer after that tryout (24 hours) were done.
If a team wants your kid they won't let you leave without an offer in hand. If your on the bottom call back list then find another team.

I wish we'd been to your tryout! I also think it's pretty rude to completely ignore a kid after a tryout. At least shoot out a mass email saying, "Thanks for your interest. Unfortunately..." Two teams DD tried out for just never sent anything at all. I mean, obviously, no word means no spot, but a little courtesy is always appreciated.