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Welcome to the April 2, 2010; edition of the MYAS Update
In this Issue
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MYAS Update Info
Our newsletter is designed to provide timely youth sports information to coaches, athletes, parents and administrators. It includes notes from the Executive Director, sport program information, calendar reminders, new service announcements and special events information. Contributions from sponsors assist us in delivering high quality youth sports services at the lowest possible cost and partially fund this newsletter, and certain sponsors will be featured.
Dan's Notes - from Executive Director Dan Klinkhammer
REC VS. TRAVELING
I grew up playing traveling baseball and basketball and didn't even know it. You're probably asking yourself how that can be. Well, my hometown had a population of 735 (and I'm pretty sure that was counting all the dogs, cats and chickens). As you might imagine, we only had about 30-35 kids in any specific grade and we had to combine age groups in order to field a team in just about any sport. Not only was it tough to put together a team, but then we had to find another team to play against. Most of the other little towns in the area were in the same boat so we literally had rec teams that had to travel in order to find any competition.
As the result of this situation, my parents never had a choice of whether I played in-house recreational sports or traveling sports. In today's world and especially in larger communities, kids and parents do
have a choice and it isn't always a simple or obvious one. Your child has to have some talent and desire to play at a level that is more competitive than the average recreational program. If your kid doesn't have the talent or desire to play at the traveling level, your decision is easy and they should stay in the local rec program and play with or against their friends, neighbors and classmates. Also remember that even though your child tells you they want to play traveling ball, that doesn't mean they are actually ready to do so. A lot of kids think they want to play traveling ball because some of their friends do, so making the travel team becomes more of a social issue than a talent issue. Another thing that both parents and kids need to remember is that playing on a travel team is a privilege, not a right. Athletes have to
earn a position on the team; they are not entitled to it.
Rec sports has come a long way in the past 20 years and it's certainly a wonderful option for the kids who need another year or two of seasoning before they graduate to the travel program. And if you've heard it once you've heard it a hundred times: "Kids mature on different timetables." Don't be discouraged if your kid appears to be a year or two behind some of the other kids. They may catch up and pass the other kids. Then again, maybe they aren't destined to be a star player. Who knows? Only time will tell.
Okay, now that I've told a whole bunch of parents to keep their kids in the local rec program, let me speak out of the other side of my mouth and tell you the benefits of letting your kids play traveling sports. In a nutshell, it's fun on a different level. Playing (and winning) against your neighbors and classmates is fun too, but it's not like when you play and win against kids you don't know from a neighboring community. However, before you say "yes" to traveling sports for your son or daughter, know what you are getting yourself into. Read on.
If your kid gets into traveling sports, be prepared to spend more time and money than if they were in the local rec program. I'm sure that some of you out there reading this column are thinking, "Well, duh. Who doesn't know that?" My answer to that is a true life story that happened when my eldest son made the 13U traveling baseball team in Blaine. When the head coach conducted his "parent meeting" he passed out the league and tournament schedules for the summer. One of the parents took a look at the tournament schedule and quickly announced, "Well, my son won't be playing in any of these weekend tournaments because we go to our cabin on the weekends." The coach and several other parents (including me) were completely dumbfounded that anyone would let their kid try out for a traveling baseball team knowing that they couldn't or wouldn't allow the kid to
play on weekends. At that same meeting, the coach told everyone that the tournament fees for the summer would be an additional $100 per player. At that point, two other parents started squawking about the "hidden fees" associated with traveling baseball. By the time that meeting finished there were at least four parents threatening to pull their kids off the team and the coach was second-guessing himself on his tryout selections. It was kind of ugly and very uncomfortable for everyone.
This kind of situation can be avoided if everyone is on the same page and the parents understand what they are getting themselves into. In addition to the money issues, be prepared for a time commitment that is approximately 3-4 times greater than what an in-house parent will contribute. When your kid plays traveling baseball you can expect they will play two games during the week, probably a practice or two and then a tournament on most weekends. Yes, that is a very aggressive schedule but not uncommon for traveling baseball.
Most rec athletes will be lucky to play a 12- to 14-game schedule while a typical travel player will have 30-50 games over the summer. And keep in mind that only half of your traveling games will be scheduled in your community. The other half could be 20, 30 or 40 miles away and you'll be making those trips during afternoon rush hour traffic in order to get to the assigned field for a 6:00 or 6:30pm start.
Now that I have discouraged everyone from playing traveling ball, let me tell you how to navigate through the traveling ball minefield. Here are five easy steps toward sanity and understanding.
- Get all of your money questions answered before your child is allowed to try out. Ask about league fees, uniform fees, tournament fees, insurance fees, travel costs, etc. Make sure that you know exactly how much it's going to cost and then add $100 just for safe measure.
- Find out what kind of practice and game schedule you can expect. Your coach should be able to give you a good idea of their pre-season practice, league game and weekend tournament schedules.
- Ask about post-season play. If your child's team earns a berth to a regional or national championship, you need to know the exact dates and additional monetary commitment.
- Carpool with trusted friends. Attend as many games as you can, but you don't have to make it to them all. In fact, as a former coach myself, I can tell you that coaches would like to see how your son or daughter behaves when you're not around. This can be a very telling experience about the kid and/or the parents.
- Be prepared for a more intense youth sports experience. How much fun a kid has is supposed to be the primary concern of everyone in both rec and traveling sports. However, let's not kid ourselves. Winning and performance do take on a whole new level of importance as your kids climb up the competition ladder. Be prepared to see and hear a few out of control fanatics out there - but please make sure you aren't one of them.
There are other tips I could give you but if you take care of this top five, I think you'll figure out the rest on your own. Have a great summer!
Borton's Bench Notes
To all those at the MYAS, I want to say thank you for supporting us this season! As the only Division I women's basketball institution in Minnesota, we assume the great responsibility of representing our state at the Division I level. It is obvious that this year was a difficult one for our players, coaches, the program and our fans. However, we have enjoyed strength and support from Gopher Nation throughout the year. Thank you!
As our season came to an end, we returned home and were treated to a very thrilling state high school basketball tourney! Congratulations to all those who participated in the State Tournament; a special recognition goes out to the four State Championship teams from the 2009-2010 season. I'm sure all the players created memories that will last a lifetime. Throughout the entire tournament we saw incredible discipline, talent, athleticism, passion and execution. A job well done to all!
We have been out on the recruiting trail and have seen a number of fantastic players around Minnesota, many of which were at the state tournament. The continued improvement of girls' basketball within the state is a testament to the commitment to the game and passion each coach brings to the game; it is exciting and encouraging to see the continual development and talent in the state of Minnesota. Our staff is extremely thankful for all the energy expended by those teaching the fundamentals of basketball to players at the youth level.
The spring season is now in full swing with MYAS practices and tournaments beginning. Spring basketball is the perfect time to improve your skills. We always tell our players that the "off-season" is when we elevate our game. Take the opportunity in your spring season and summer workouts to push yourself; try new things, whether it's dribbling with your head up or mastering a new move to the hoop. Challenge yourself by attempting the next level of a specific skill. Discipline yourself to practice perfection and you will see results on the court come game time. Remember to continue to work hard, and most of all, remember your love for the game! We look forward to watching all the upcoming spring basketball, both in Minnesota and across the nation. We wish you all the best of luck!
Go Gophers!
Sports Medicine Tip
Get Back in the Game After a Throwing Injury
By Eric Preslaski, Physical Therapist, Institute for Athletic Medicine
Do you have shoulder or elbow pain related to an overhead sport? Did you have pain in 2009 and hoped it would heal on its own, and now you're not sure you're ready for the season? No need to worry!
Physical therapists with the Institute for Athletic Medicine's Thrower's Injury Program (TIP) specialize in these types of injuries and are here to help. Whether your pain is from softball or baseball, tennis, volleyball or swimming, the Thrower's Injury Program can get you back to sport. Our physical therapy experts offer advanced training and understand the unique mechanical requirements of each sport. We work closely with you to develop an individualized program to return you to sport as quickly and as safely as possible. A complete evaluation will help pinpoint the cause of injury and lead to a treatment program that includes:
- specialized stretching and flexibility exercises to improve mobility and prevent re-injury;
- strengthening exercises to correct muscle weakness or imbalance contributing to injury;
- shoulder blade stability exercises to improve overhead performance and reduce strain on the shoulder;
- high speed video analysis of throwing mechanics;
- sports performance drills to correct mechanical flaws;
- long toss programs for baseball/softball and return to sport programs to build sport-specific strength;
- core strengthening;
- education to prevent further injury and maintain performance.
So what are you waiting for? Get back in the game with the Thrower's Injury Program available from the physical rehabilitation experts at the Institute for Athletic Medicine. For more information, please call our hotline at 612-672-7929 and a Thrower's Injury Program specialist will guide you the rest of the way on your road to recovery!
About the author
Physical therapist Eric Preslaski cares for patients at the Institute for Athletic Medicine (IAM) - Arbor Lakes in Maple Grove where he also serves as clinic supervisor. He is program coordinator for the IAM Thrower's Injury Program as well as the Thrower's Injury Prevention Program (TIPP). Eric, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), provides physical therapy for a broad range of conditions and specializes in shoulder care.
The Institute for Athletic Medicine is part of Fairview's family of orthopedic services which includes Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care, Fairview Hand Centers, Fairview Orthotics and Fairview Prosthetics.
Then And Now - by Larry Gallagher
KEEP YOUR EYE ON THE BALL - OR SHOULD YOU?
From the time I began playing sports as a 7-year-old and as I continued as a player, coach and official, I have heard, learned, practiced and taught the axiom to Keep Your Eye on the Ball. The following phrases keep coming back to me because of what I have learned: "Keep your eye on the ball!" "Watch the ball hit the bat!" "Nothing happens without the ball!" I am sure most of you have had similar experiences with these phrases and axioms. I am here to point out that as important as these axioms are, they are not the whole truth.
To prove my point, I am going to use a variety of sports and sports activities to show you that only watching the ball will prevent you from excelling in sport. I believe the best players, coaches and officials watch more than just the ball.
Let's look at players first. The basketball point guard is not watching the ball when they dribble because they need to see which teammate is open for a pass. They also need to observe how the defense is playing them and their teammates so they can deliver the pass in a position to take advantage of what the defense is giving them. When a player shoots the ball, if they watch the ball instead of the target they will not be too successful. In following their shot, they do need to observe the ball so they can read it coming off the rim, but they also need to observe how the defense is blocking them off the boards.
The defensive football player is looking at keys to determine their path to the ball. They are watching the keys and eventually they find the ball in this manner. A defensive back is reading the quarterback and their eyes and not the ball until sometime after it is released. The linebacker also finds his keys which lead him to the ball.
The centerfielder spends time learning how to read the swing of the batter to determine where and when he needs to go after a batted ball. In fact, the outfielders who watch the pitch to the bat are at a definite disadvantage because their eyes cannot change directions quickly. It is imperative that the outfielder reads the swing and the sound of the ball hitting the bat to determine the direction and sometimes the angle they take to the ball. When running for the ball, most outfielders going back toward the fence turn and run a short distance before looking for the ball again.
In volleyball, the defensive team plays defense first by watching the pass direction and then the setter's pass to the offensive hitter. They react more to the hitter's approach, arm speed and arm and hand angle than they do to the ball itself.
Now let's look at coaches. Coaches spend very little time watching the ball in the games they coach. What they do a lot of is watch their opponents and their movements to determine how they should attack or defend. The best coaches are able to analyze their opponent and then devise ways in which the strengths of their own team can exploit the opponent's strengths and weaknesses. The analytical minds of coaches have come up with a variety of ways in which to defend against the opponent's strength and also to use their team's strengths to take advantage of the opponent's weaknesses. Most of this is done by watching the other team and very little is done by watching the ball.
Sports officials watch the ball a lot but even they need to watch many other things. For instance, in the Official Baseball Rule Book in Section 9, the general instruction to umpires is to "Keep your eye everlastingly on the ball while it is in play. It is more vital to know just where a fly ball fell or a thrown ball finished up, than whether or not a runner missed a base." However, baseball umpires must use this axiom too: "Watch the ball and glance at the runners." We do need to know the status of the ball and the status of the runners. Did they touch the base? Were they obstructed by a fielder? Did a following runner pass a lead runner? Did a runner interfere? All of these questions need to be answered by the umpire and they cannot do that by following the edict of watching the ball alone.
On fly balls to the outfield, the umpire needs to see the catch but many times he needs to watch the fielder before he can find the ball. On a trapped ball in the outfield it is easier to tell if it is a catch or trap if the umpire watches the glove and not the ball. The ball travels too fast for the eyes to see the catch but if the umpire watches the glove, they will be able to more easily see whether or not the ball is trapped. Likewise on a tag play, it is better to watch the tag than the ball or the runner. The glove is the slowest thing that is moving. Watching the base on a play at the base is also part of the equation. The base isn't moving at all and therefore the umpire never has to worry about not seeing the base.
On pop-ups to the catcher behind the plate, if the umpire immediately looks up to find the ball the catcher may end up running him over because the umpire does not see the catcher. The first thing the umpire needs to do is clear the catcher by observing them move in one direction or another. The umpire will then drop step away from the direction the catcher is going by watching their shoulders. If the ball is near the backstop or dugout, the umpire might have to find the ball as he continues to move into a good position for the catch/no catch.
To summarize, the ball is the most important and crucial item in sports but what the players are doing is of some consequence and we can't neglect that aspect of the game. I believe that all of us can agree that we don't just watch the ball. If we do, we are going to limit our success in sports.
Midwest Regional Swim Meet
The 2010 Midwest Regional Swim Meet was held March 27-28 at the University of Minnesota Aquatic Center. Nearly 1,200 athletes from seven states (Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, South Dakota and Nebraska) competed and the weekend was a huge success!
The MYAS would like to congratulate all of the participating swimmers for a great weekend of competition. We also want to extend special congratulations to our Team Spirit Award Winner, the Illinois Valley YMCA Dolphins, and to all of our High Point Champions listed below.
Girls' High Point Champions
8U (tie) * Michaela Andrew, Aberdeen Aquaholics (SD)
8U (tie) * Emma Lasecki, Green Bay Swim Club (WI)
9-10 (tie) * Taylor Beadle, Muscatine Swim Club (IA)
9-10 (tie) * Alexis Burroughs, Northern Lakes Aquatic Club (WI)
11-12 * Molly Manchon, Unattached (SD)
13-14 * Taylor Sieperda, Sioux City Mariners (SD)
15-18 * Maddie Bro, Central Iowa Aquatics (IA)
Boys' High Point Champions
8U * Charles Schober, Unattached (IL)
9-10 * Michael Andrew, Aberdeen Aquaholics (SD)
11-12 * Alek Martin, Central Iowa Aquatics (IA)
13-14 * RJ Hemmingson, Council Bluffs Swim Club (IA)
15-18 * Jack Allen, Madison East YMCA (WI)
Team High Point Champion
Des Moines Walnut Creek YMCA (IA)
Please visit the Midwest Regional web page for complete results and apparel sale information. If you have any questions about the Midwest Regional Swim Meet, please contact Jessica Christopherson at jessica@myas.org.
MYAS Gopher State 7 on 7 Passing League
The second annual Gopher State 7 on 7 Passing League, which is designed for high school football teams, will commence this summer. League play will begin the week of June 7 and will wrap up the week of July 26.
This year's league will offer two playing sites. Both sites will be limited to a total of 12 teams, so be sure to sign up early. Please keep checking the football portion of the MYAS website, as new information will be posted as it becomes available in the coming weeks. You may also direct your questions to Eric Rathke at 763-746-1730 or eric@myas.org.
Football Rules of the Month
In our ongoing education mission, we would like to highlight three basic high school football rules. The answers appear later in the newsletter (see "In this Issue" for the link).
1. Player K1's field goal attempt is partially blocked behind the neutral zone, but deflects beyond the neutral zone and is then muffed by Player R1. The muffed ball is recovered: (a) behind; or (b) beyond the neutral zone by Player K2. What is the ruling in each case?
2. Player A1 receives the snap behind his own goal line. A1 advances, but is tackled and the ball becomes dead with its foremost point in the field of play, but part of the ball is in the end zone. What is the ruling?
3. A kickoff by Player K1 from Team K's 40-yard line is muffed by Player R1 near his 20-yard line. The muff is caught by Player K2 at the 18 and he advances into Team R's end zone. What is the ruling?
MYAS Grade State Basketball Championships
Minnesota March Mayhem once again swarmed into the metro area with mass hysteria during the 2010 MYAS Grade State Basketball Championships. A total of 455 girls' teams and 660 boys' teams migrated to courts all over the metro area on two consecutive weekends in March. These teams poured their heart and soul into every game to determine who would be crowned state champion in their respective grade and division. It truly was a shining moment for youth basketball in the state of Minnesota.
The MYAS would like to once again thank all the teams for participating in Minnesota March Mayhem and congratulate this year's top teams! Please click on boys or girls to view the results for all grades/divisions of play.
We are already looking forward to the 2011 Grade State Championships, and we hope that you'll participate in our March Mayhem once again. Next year's event will take place on March 5-6 (girls) and March 12-13 (boys). We hope to see you all next year!
If you have questions regarding the MYAS Grade State Basketball Championships, please contact Eric Rathke at 763-746-1730 or eric@myas.org.
MYAS Rec State Basketball Championships
The 2010 Rec State Basketball Championships were held on March 20-21 at Osseo High School, the Edina Community Center, Cottage Grove Middle School and the Colin Powell Center in Minneapolis. There were many teams from the St. Paul and Minneapolis Park and Recreation program, the Champlin/Dayton Athletic Association, Brooklyn Park, Cottage Grove and several other communities.
Congratulations to all of our 2010 Rec State Basketball Champions! Please click here to view all of the schedules and results from the tournament.
The dates for the 2011 Rec State Championships will be announced early next fall. In the meantime, if you have questions about the tournament please contact Kevin Wilson at 763-746-1712 or kevin@myas.org.
Gopher State Spring Basketball
The 2010 spring basketball season is off and running. We had 84 boys' and girls' teams begin play on March 27. As this article is being written, registrations for the April 10-11 weekend total well over 220. We want to thank all of you for your continued participation with us and we will continue to provide you with high quality tournaments for your young athletes.
One of the difficulties we face each spring is determining where teams end up playing. At the beginning of the season, we place teams into divisions of play based on team rankings as provided by the coaches. Unfortunately, many teams sign up in the wrong division and we have games that are not very competitive. As a reminder to coaches: Division I is the highest level of play and Division III is the lowest. As we continue throughout the remainder of the spring basketball season, you will see teams moving up and down divisions of play and there will also be movement within each division of play.
To accomplish our goal of having competitive games, we will delay scheduling tournaments so that we can monitor the games played two weeks prior to a given tournament weekend. For example, on Monday, April 5 we will enter all the results from the April 3 weekend. On Tuesday, once the entry deadline has passed, we will begin moving teams up and down divisions and separating teams into their divisions of play for the April 17 weekend. By doing so and by utilizing our USSSA Power Rankings system, we hope to provide a competitive balance in your tournaments.
What's new for 2010?
- "Elite" Tournaments - we are trying to bring talented teams into Minnesota from across the Midwest to compete against our elite level teams
- Gopher State "All-Star" Weekend on July 30-August 1
Beginning with the April 10 weekend, coaches in the 14U/8th, 15U/9th, 16U/10th and 17U/11th grade divisions will be provided with forms to nominate the top players in their grade level for the opportunity to participate in the inaugural Gopher State All-Star Weekend - sponsored by Visit Minneapolis North
. Four teams of 12-15 players each will be selected in each grade level for participation in this exciting and fun-filled event. Watch the MYAS website for more information in the coming weeks!
Once again, we sincerely thank you for your participation in the MYAS/Gopher State basketball program and we wish all of you good luck in your upcoming tournaments. Remember to have fun, and also remember that improving your players' skills is what spring ball should be all about. We look forward to seeing you in the gym!
MYAS Winter Basketball Jamboree
The MYAS Winter Basketball Jamboree was created to provide newly formed traveling basketball teams with an opportunity to play multiple scrimmage games in one day. We had a whopping 96 boys' and girls' teams particpate in the inaugural event, and the 2010 Jamboree should be a great day of youth basketball!
The Winter Jamboree is for boys' and girls' teams in grades 4-8 and this year's event will be held on Saturday, October 30 at the Bloomington Jefferson HS/Activity Center, where there are seven full-sized wood courts under one roof! More detailed event information will be available in the coming weeks.
If you would like more information in the meantime, please contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org.
Basketball Rules of the Month
In our ongoing education mission, we would like to highlight three basic high school basketball rules. The answers appear later in the newsletter (see "In this Issue" for the link).
1. Team A requests and is granted a 60-second time out. After approximately 15 seconds of the time out has elapsed: (a) Team A comes back on the court ready to play while Team B players stay at their bench; (b) Team B is ready but Team A is not; or (c) both teams take positions and appear ready to resume play. What is the ruling in each case?
2. Following a violation in the fourth quarter, there are five seconds on the clock as Player A1 is bounced the ball for a throw-in. The throw-in is completed to Player A2. The official properly signals the clock to start and immediately begins a closely-guarded count on A2. The official reaches a count of three seconds when Player B1 fouls A2. The official stops play properly and reports the foul at the table. The timer reports that he/she did not start the clock when the throw-in was touched by A2. The clock shows five seconds. What is the ruling?
3. As the official calls a three-second lane violation, he/she properly sounds the whistle and gives the signal to stop the clock. While doing this, the official is able to see the exact time remaining in the fourth quarter. The clock shows five seconds remaining. The timer stops the clock: (a) at five seconds; (b) at four seconds; (c) at three seconds; or (d) the time runs out completely. What is the ruling in each case?
Gopher State/MYAS/USSSA Baseball Dates to Remember
The MYAS baseball staff has compiled a listing of all the pertinent dates to remember for the 2010 MYAS / Gopher State / USSSA season. Please click here to access the listing, and feel free to contact the MYAS baseball staff at 763-781-2220 with your questions.
Gopher State Baseball League
The 11th annual Gopher State Baseball League (GSBL) is about to take flight. The MYAS baseball staff has been busy preparing for the 2010 season, and we are currently collecting team enrollments from all of our member associations.
We would like to salute each of the new GSBL member associations, their coaches and the teams that represent them. We would also like to extend a hearty welcome to all first-year coaches as you begin your tenure as youth traveling baseball coaches, and we can't forget the grizzled veterans who round out the coaches here today. We want to thank you for being the backbone of the GSBL over the past few years. At the MYAS, we feel that the experiences and opportunities available to all GSBL participants provide a lifetime of memories.
The MYAS is proud of this league and the high regard it has earned in youth traveling baseball since the year 2000. The 2010 version of the GSBL stretches east to west 180 miles and north to south 115 miles. This league comprises the Upper Midwest's largest representation of communities in a traveling baseball league.
We are looking forward to serving as your league administrators this season and we are confident that everyone involved will be completely satisfied. With the updated policies and current enhancements the league offers, such as online rosters, team and league websites, online score reporting and berths through league play to the Gopher State Tournament of Champions and the USSSA World Series, the future of the league looks very bright!
Listed below are important dates for the 2010 GSBL. You may also click here to access 2010 GSBL information. If you have questions, comments or concerns or would like more information about the league, please contact GSBL Commissioner Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
Team Enrollment Deadlines:
9u-15u teams - enrollments accepted through April 2, 2010
16u-17/19u teams - May 17, 2010
Scheduling Sessions:
9u-15u teams - April 17, 2010
16u-17/19u teams - May 25, 2010
Mandatory Coaches' Meetings:
9u-13u teams - April 26, 2010 @ 7:00pm
14u-15u teams - May 3, 2010 @ 7:00pm
16u-17/19u teams - May 25, 2010 @ 6:30pm
Play Ball! MN Baseball Coaches' Conference
Join the MYAS/Gopher State Baseball League, the Minnesota Twins, the Twins Community Fund and Play Ball! Minnesota in celebrating the start of the youth baseball and softball seasons at the sixth annual Minnesota Youth Baseball & Softball Coaches' Conference.
When: Saturday, April 24, 2010 from 8:30am-3:00pm
Where: Target Field
Who: All Upper Midwest youth baseball & softball coaches, administrators and parents/volunteers are encouraged to attend
Fee: $20 - includes speakers, breakfast, lunch, beverages and a gift bag; click here to register
This coaches' training is now a service the MYAS baseball staff provides for all participating head coaches as part of their entry in the Gopher State Baseball League. If you are a head coach in the GSBL in 2010, be sure to register for the conference at the GSBL scheduling session on April 17.
The 2010 conference will again feature a strong lineup of instructors and a great mix of topics. Minnesota Twins alumni Gene Larkin, Scott Leius, Al Newman and Brian Raabe as well as other members of the Minnesota baseball community like Erik Lovdahl, John Wilkens, Dave Hieb, Jason Verdugo and Matt Parrington will be on hand to present and lead breakout sessions.
General sessions will be led by Dr. Daniel Buss, Frank White and Billy Peterson, youth baseball coach of Dave Winfield, Paul Molitor and Joe Mauer. The conference will feature instruction on a wide variety of timely and pertinent youth topics, as well as a Q&A with Tim Laudner during lunch.
The 2010 conference will be held at Target Field, the new home of the Minnesota Twins. Along with hearing from top quality speakers, participants will have a chance to experience a behind the scenes view of Target Field.
Group rates for 20 or more people are available. Call 612-659-3506 for details. Space is limited, so register today!
North Star Baseball League
The MYAS is looking forward to another season of the North Star Baseball League. This unique recreational baseball league will begin its sixth season this May and we are looking for new communities to join our current members. All teams play a 16-game regular season schedule that the MYAS baseball staff designs around the requests of each participating community.
Important Dates for the 2010 North Star Baseball League:
- Friday, April 2 - league entry deadline; please have all league entry forms and fees to the MYAS office
- Wednesday, April 21 - NSBL Scheduling Session
- Thursday, April 29 - NSBL Coaches' Meeting; mandatory meeting for all coaches to hear all pertinent information for this season
- Monday, May 3 - first day of the 2010 NSBL season
- Monday, July 19 - entry deadline for the 2010 Rec State Baseball Championships
For more information about the North Star Baseball League, please contact Tony Groff at 763-746-1728 or tony@myas.org.
Gopher State Baseball Umpire Clinics
All umpires are welcome and encouraged to attend a Gopher State Umpire Training Clinic. These clinics are designed to provide umpires of all abilities the opportunity to enhance their skills and/or become educated in the finer points of umpiring. They will feature hands on instruction for plate and base umpires.
If you are a beginner umpire or need more work with mechanics and positioning, these clinics will be perfect for you. Only experienced umpires with approval from their assignor will be able to attend the Advanced Clinic (see below).
NEW FOR 2010! Advanced Umpire Clinics will be offered for umpires with several (at least 5) years of experience and who have been approved by their assignor to attend this training. Dates are now available on the Umpire Clinic web page.
In order to receive your MYAS registration for 2010, you will only need to attend one Umpire Training Clinic. If you are beginning your umpire career you may not attend the Advanced Umpire Clinic. The cost of each clinic is just $30.00.
2010 Gopher State Umpire Training Clinics
April 10 * Shoreview, Chippewa Middle School
April 15 * Cottage Grove Junior High
May 1 * Eden Prairie, Miller Park
May 8 * Rogers High School Fields
May 22 * Fridley Little League Fields
2010 Gopher State Advanced Umpire Clinic
April 7 * Champlin Park High School
Every umpire who attends a clinic will receive an additional $6 per game for the 2010 Gopher State Baseball League. A $4 per game bonus will apply for the Gopher State Spring Training Series, Gopher State Spring Invitationals, USSSA State Tournament, Gopher State Tournament of Champions, MYAS Rec State Baseball Championships and Gopher State Fall Baseball League. With MSHSL registration, another $1 will be added to the per-game total.
Each season we are very fortunate to have instructors who are excited to share their umpiring experiences with our Gopher State Umpires. Don't take this training opportunity for granted - it offers a wealth of education and instruction.
For more information, including clinic dates, sites and maps/directions, please visit the Gopher State Umpire Training Clinic web page. You may also contact Jeremy Barbe at 763-746-1731 or jbarbe@myas.org.
Gopher State Baseball Spring Invitationals
The MYAS Gopher State Baseball Spring Invitational schedule is posted and some divisions are filling up quickly! These events are set up as two-day GSTC qualifying tournaments taking place in early to mid-May. All teams are guaranteed three games and the top two placing teams will earn an automatic berth to the Gopher State Tournament of Champions.
We still have limited availability in the 2010 Gopher State Spring Invitationals, so get your team signed up today!
10AAA & 10AA * May 15-16 * Fridley
11AAA & 11AA * May 15-16 * St. Cloud
12AAA & 12AA * May 15-16 * St. Cloud
13AAA * May 1-2 * Andover
13AA * May 1-2 * Mahtomedi
14AAA * May 15-16 * Brooklyn Park
14AA * May 15-16 * Shoreview
15AA * May 22-23 * Fridley
You can find out more information on the Spring Invitational web page or by contacting Tony Groff at 763-746-1728 or tony@myas.org.
Minnesota USSSA Baseball
Minnesota USSSA State Championships will take place at multiple venues on the weekends of June 4-6, 11-13, 18-20 and 25-27, 2010. This tournament also allows all participating teams to take advantage of the benefits of USSSA baseball. These qualifying tournaments are an excellent way for teams (10-19U AAA & AA as well as 10A-14/15A) to advance to a World Series/National Tournament and earn points through USSSA. Last year, 203 teams competed for an opportunity to earn a berth to a USSSA World Series and/or the Gopher State Tournament of Champions.
Applications are available on the USSSA State Baseball Championship portion of the MYAS website. All 2010 USSSA State Championships are filling up fast so don't hesitate to sign up today!
For updated information on USSSA baseball in Minnesota, continue to check the Minnesota USSSA baseball web page.
MYAS Rec State Baseball Championships
Here's a great opportunity for all in-house/recreational baseball teams to participate in a State Tournament! The Rec State Championships will be held on July 30-August 1 and will feature six divisions and a three-game guarantee.
This will be the first year we will be offering a 16-18U division! All of the details are available and eligibility questions can be answered on the Rec State Baseball web page.
Last year we saw 128 metro area teams in five different age divisions have a blast competing for a state championship title. Reserve your local in-house/recreational teams a spot in the 2010 Championships! The brochure is available by clicking here. Each tournament is limited to the first 32 teams.
For the fourth year, the Ramada Mpls. NW/Grand Rios will be the proud sponsor of the Championships. They will have awesome room rates with water park passes available for your entire team's year-end celebration.
We are excited for another year of fun and competition at the 2010 Rec State Championships. Please contact Jeremy Barbe at 763-746-1731 or jbarbe@myas.org for more details on this great event!
Gopher State Winter Baseball Camps
The Gopher State Baseball staff would like to say thank you to our Winter Camp partners and instructors who helped us this past winter. We have received very positive responses from the participants who attended our pitching and hitting camps throughout the Twin Cities.
Thank you to everyone who participated and to all of you who had a hand in teaching our young athletes the finer points of playing the game!
The dates for the next Gopher State Winter Baseball Camp season will be available in late October. If you have questions about our Winter Camps, please contact Jeremy Barbe at 763-746-1731 or jbarbe@myas.org.
MYAS Latest News (as of 4/1/10)
Basketball Tournament Openings
2010 Grade State Basketball Apparel Sale
July 15 Twins vs. White Sox Group Tickets For Sale
Midwest Elite Shootout in St. Cloud has been CANCELLED
MYAS Night at the Water Park of America - SOLD OUT!
2010 Gopher State Baseball League
Free tickets to select Gopher baseball games
Are you looking for a basketball team to play on?
Insurance - USSSA Basketball
MYAS Calendar (as of 4/1/10)
Friday, April 2, 2010
Gopher State Baseball League 9u-15u enrollment deadline
Friday, April 2, 2010
North Star Baseball League entry deadline
Saturday, April 3, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Spring Basketball Super Saver Tournaments; various sites
Monday, April 5, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitational Tournament entry deadline (April 17-18 event)
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Gopher State Advanced Umpire Clinic; Champlin Park High School
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Gopher State Umpire Training Clinic; Chippewa Middle School, Shoreview
Saturday-Sunday, April 10-11, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitational Tournaments; various sites
Monday, April 12, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitational Tournament entry deadline (April 24-25 event)
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Gopher State Umpire Training Clinic; Cottage Grove Junior High
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Gopher State Baseball League 9u-15U Scheduling Sessions; Ramada Mpls. NW/Grand Rios
Saturday-Sunday, April 17-18, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitational Tournaments; various sites
Monday, April 19, 2010
Gopher State Spring Basketball Championship (Boys'/Girls' 9U/3rd Grade-10U/4th Grade) entry deadline (May 1-2 event)
Monday, April 19, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Spring Basketball Grades 5-12 Invitational Tournament entry deadline (May 1-2 event)
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
North Star Baseball League Scheduling Session; Ramada Mpls. NW/Grand Rios
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Play Ball! Minnesota Baseball Coaches' Conference; Target Field
Saturday-Sunday, April 24-25, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitational Tournaments; various sites
Monday, April 26, 2010
MYAS Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitational Tournament entry deadline (May 8-9 event)
Monday, April 26, 2010
Gopher State Baseball League 9u-13u Mandatory Coaches' Meeting; Ramada Mpls. NW/Grand Rios
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Gopher State Baseball League 9u-13u play begins
Thursday, April 29, 2010
North Star Baseball League Mandatory Coaches' Meeting; Ramada Mpls. NW/Grand Rios
Answers to Football Rules of the Month
The answers below are derived from the most recent edition of the National Federation of State High School Associations Football Rules Book and/or Football Case Book.
1. In both (a) and (b), it is a first down for K. In (a), K2 could have advanced after recovering (Case Book 5.1.3 Situation A page 37).
2. Safety. To avoid a safety, the ball must be advanced completely out of the end zone with no part of it touching the goal line (Case Book 5.3.4 Situation B page 39).
3. It will be K's ball first and 10 from R's 18. K2 may catch or recover the muffed kick, but may not advance. The ball is dead when K gains possession. The covering official should sound his whistle to stop play immediately when the ball becomes dead (Case Book 6.1.5 Situation A page 39).
Answers to Basketball Rules of the Month
The answers below are derived from the most recent edition of the National Federation of State High School Associations Basketball Rule Book, Basketball Case Book and/or Rules by Topic publication.
1. In (a) and (b), the time out period will continue as only one team is ready to play. In (c), the game will resume as soon as both teams are ready to play (Case Book 5.11.1 Situation page 47).
2. The referee will order the clock set at two seconds. The referee has definite knowledge of the amount of time involved in this situation by using the closely-guarded count (Case Book 5.10.2 Situation page 47).
3. No correction is needed in (a). In (b), (c) and (d), the referee will order five seconds put on the clock (Case Book 5.10.1 Situation C page 46).
If you have questions about these or other basketball playing rules, please contact Buddy Hemric at 763-746-1717 or buddy@myas.org.
Important Association Services That Work!
The Minnesota Youth Athletic Services offers three important services:
1. Association and Player Sports Accident Insurance Coverage
Association liability and player accident insurance are always concerns for youth sports organizations in our increasingly litigious society. Some associations spend a lot of money and others go into denial and “run naked” without even minimal liability coverage for their members. Yet if insurance is not obtained, the personal assets of the individuals running the association may be at risk. Many sports facility managers, especially municipalities and schools, will not permit the use of their property or facilities unless it can be demonstrated that youth sports associations are covered under an insurance policy. Without insurance, the opportunity for young athletes to compete in organized sports programs may be substantially limited.
The MYAS has partnered with J.A. Price Agency, an insurance company which has access to dozens of other insurance companies and can handle any type of business or personal insurance needs that your association/board of directors may require. The insurance provides options for all types of needs within your association/community. This coverage is an advantage no amateur sports organization should be without!
Examples of coverage include but are not limited to:
- General Liability
- Sexual Misconduct
- Participant Accident
- Directors & Officers Liability
- Crime/Embezzlement
- Automobile
- Umbrella
- Workers' Compensation
General insurance questions should be directed to Bob Blomster at 952-253-4311 or bob.blomster@japrice.com.
2. Criminal Background Checks
How do we protect our children? Reports of sexual predators and child abuse involving the clergy, day care workers and youth volunteers are all too familiar. Unfortunately, this includes a disturbing number of youth sport coaches who have a history of incidents of sexual misconduct and/or violence. This is a complex issue and many youth sports organizations are unclear about what to do or how to approach this threat, yet they must take proactive steps to prevent their children from becoming innocent victims. Don’t put your children at risk!
In addition, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that $50 billion is lost annually due to employee theft and fraud. Youth sports associations must protect themselves from this threat as well. Don’t put your association at risk!
Fortunately, youth sports associations now have a simple and inexpensive tool to avoid some of society’s worst fears. The MYAS, with its partner Trusted Employees, has designed a criminal background check system that offers three affordable options to youth sports associations. Trusted Employees, a local Twin Cities company, incorporates a “user-friendly” process combined with flexible information delivery to make this system easy and inexpensive for your organization. For more information, please contact Mike DeWane at 952-393-1929 or mike@myas.org.
3. Coaching Education Program
The MYAS has partnered with the American Sport Education Program (ASEP) to offer youth sport associations and their coaches the Coaching Youth Sport education program designed specifically for youth coaches. It provides coaches with a solid foundation in coaching principles, sport first aid and sport-specific techniques and tactics. These courses are available for baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball and wrestling and can be delivered in the classroom or online. For more information, please contact Mike DeWane at 952-393-1929 or mike@myas.org.
MYAS Sponsors
MYAS Membership Meetings
MYAS membership meetings are held at our offices (4111 Central Avenue NE; Columbia Heights, MN 55421) on the last Tuesday of each month at 9:00am (unless notified otherwise). All MYAS members are welcome to attend.
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