How to Find a Youth Baseball Team

Every summer a select group of kids fulfill the dream of a lifetime by playing in the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pa. The extensive television coverage the tournament receives makes people believe it is the highest level of youth baseball, but that is simply not the case. There are numerous other youth organizations--including AABC, AAU, Babe Ruth, Dixie, Pony and USSSA--that are brimming with talented youngsters and those that play for fun but that don't get the national exposure that Little League does. Finding a team takes a little legwork.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what level of competition you intend to play--the higher the level, the greater the commitment you will have to make. Higher-level teams often practice and play multiple games during the week; recreational leagues don't tend to be quite as rigorous.

    • 2

      Visit youth baseball websites such as LittleLeague.org, USSSA.com and AAUbaseball.org. These sites have information regarding the rules, tournament dates and leagues around the country. USSSA.com allows you to browse through all its age groups (4 to 18 years old) and pick the location that is closest to you.

    • 3

      Filter through the various websites to find teams in your area. Not every organization will have a league in your area, so you may have to extend your search area. Alternatively, you may to have look at other leagues.

    • 4

      Make a list of the teams in your area. Click on the tournament section of the chosen organization's website to find out when those teams will be playing. Watch the teams to get a feel for their level of play and ask parents about their child's experiences with the team.

    • 5

      Narrowed down the teams within your area, then get in contact with the teams' coaches to see if they have any space for new players or find out about any upcoming tryouts. Don't feel like you have to limit your options, find a team that is right for you.