Week Eight Game Schedule and End of Season Celebration

Well, we've made it.  Our LAST week of SLL Fall Ball ... <sigh>

A few things to note:

~ The upper Burgess field is off-line for the remainder of the season.  All home games will be played at the lower Burgess or Town Barn field.  More information to follow about the availability of fields.  Stay tuned or ask your Manager to update you with any location changes for this last weekend of games.

~ Equipment:  Managers/Coaches - please return ALL equipment to the Town Barn no later than Saturday, November 1st.  It needs to be sorted and properly stored for the winter.

~ End-of-Season Celebration:
Once again, we will be holding a "Players v. Coaches" game on Sunday, October 26.  First pitch will be at 3:35(ish.)  We will have hot dogs and hamburgers available starting at 2:30PM and ask parents to delight us with their culinary talents by contributing side dishes or desserts.

The PLAYERS  team will consist of our JUNIORS team with players from MAJOR GREEN and GOLD added as needed.  Please let me know as soon as possible if you would like to be rostered on the PLAYERS teams.

The COACHES team will consist of Managers/Coaches/Parents who think they can "walk the walk" instead of just "talking the talk."  Everyone had a lot of fun with this last year, so I encourage you to participate!  Please let me know if you would like to be rostered on the COACHES team.


WEEK EIGHT GAME SCHEDULE

STURBRIDGE JUNIORS

GAME(S)
Sunday, October 26, 2014
3:35PM- PLAYERS V. COACHES - TBA

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GOLD - Coach Gidopoulos

GAMES(S)
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge @ Dudley

** MAY BE RESCHEDULED
Friday, October 24, 2014
5:30PM - Charlton @ Sturbridge

Wednesday, October 29, 2014
5:30PM - Dudley @ Sturbridge

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GREEN - Coach Yarter

GAMES(S)
**CANCELLED
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
5:30PM - Charlton @ Sturbridge

Saturday, October 25, 2014
  9:00AM - Sturbridge @ Grafton
11:00AM - Sturbridge @ Grafton

Monday, October 27, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge @ Auburn

STURBRIDGE MINOR - Coach Shelby

GAMES(S)
Saturday, October 25, 2014
2:00PM - Sturbridge @ Auburn

Sunday, October 26, 2014
1:00PM - Sturbridge @ West Brookfield

STURBRIDGE AA - Coach Troyse

GAMES(S)
Saturday, October 25, 2014
3:00PM - Sturbridge @ Oxford

Sunday, October 26, 2014
9:00AM - Leicester @ Sturbridge

Questions? Comments? Concerns? Let me know ...

Play Ball!
Laura

Week Seven Game Schedule

WEEK SEVEN GAME SCHEDULE
STURBRIDGE JUNIORS - Coach Osimo

GAME(S)
Saturday, October 18, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Dudley

Sunday, October 19, 2014
11:00AM - Sturbridge @ Shrewsbury

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GOLD - Coach Gidopoulos

GAMES(S)
Friday, October 17, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge @ Auburn

Saturday, October 18, 2014
1:00PM - Sturbridge @ Charlton

Wednesday, October 22, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge @ Dudley

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GREEN - Coach Yarter

GAMES(S)
Saturday, October 18, 2014
4:00PM - Stubridge @ Auburn

Sunday, October 19, 2014
1:00PM - Oxford @ Sturbridge

STURBRIDGE MINOR - Coach Shelby

GAMES(S)
Saturday, October 18, 2014
2:00PM - Sturbridge @ Auburn

Sunday, October 19, 2014
4:00PM - Brookfield @ Sturbridge

STURBRIDGE AA - Coach Troyse

GAMES(S)
Sunday, October 19, 2014
10:00AM - Sturbridge @ TBA  (Please confirm with your manager!)

Questions? Comments? Concerns? Let me know ...

Play Ball!
Laura

Week Six - OXFORD TOURNAMENT and Game Schedule

It's up to YOU!  Check the poll at the right and VOTE!!!

REMINDERS:
 *Please remember to bring a jacket or sweatshirt and drinks with you into the dugout.  Mom and Dad are not allowed in the dugout (even to deliver items to you,) so be prepared!
*Moms and Dads - please do not visit your child while they are in the dugout (even to deliver items.)  The coaches will take good care of them, I promise.  Your visit only distracts them from the game.
*Plan to arrive to the field at least 30 minutes prior to game time.  It is especially important to be there for warm-ups now that it's getting cooler.
*Long sleeved shirts are to be worn UNDER your game jersey.  No white sleeves and no hoods flopping around your back or covering your hat.
*Be respectful of your teammates equipment.  If you would like to borrow something from another player - ASK THEM FIRST!  Do not assume some one's bat or mitt is there for team use.  When you are done - return it to them personally.  Tossing it on the ground amongst all the other equipment is the easiest way for something to get misplaced.

TOURNAMENT:

The Oxford Columbus Day Tournament begins Friday.  The roster and schedule follows.  As I mentioned in my previous post, we combined both MAJOR teams to form one team.  The selections were based on availability and coaches' recommendations as well as player performance, enthusiasm and most importantly, overall team sportsmanship.

(Note: It is never easy for managers to select just a handful of players from a group of so many talented and great kids.  We hope those players not selected will still attend and cheer on their teammates at the tournament games this weekend!)

Tournament Roster:
Niko G.
Matt J.
Conor K.
Devin K.
Jack M.
Luke N.
Colby S.
David S.
Nick S.
Alex Y.
Ben Y.

Good luck boys!  Jerseys will be given out Friday before first pitch.  Standard SLL uniform applies, grey pants, green belt, green socks, and green hat with gold "S".

Game Schedule:

Friday, October 10, 2014
5:30 Sturbridge @ Auburn
7:30 Oxford @ Dudley

Saturday, October 11, 2014
12:00 Oxford @ Sturbridge
2:00 Dudley @ Auburn
4:00 Sturbridge @ Dudley
6:00 Auburn @ Oxford

Sunday, October 12, 2014
11:00 Homerun Derby
1:00 4 vs. 1
3:00 3 vs. 2
5:30 Championship Game. Higher seed will be home team.

Trophy presentation and MVP award to follow.

THE BULLPEN

The BURGESS BULLPEN will be open this weekend!

Hot dogs, popcorn, snacks, candy, drinks, and HOT COCOA!
Saturday 12 - 5PM
Sunday 12 - 3PM

We NEED Volunteers to staff the Bullpen!  Please email your manager with the day/time you are available this weekend.
Thank you!

WEEK SIX GAME SCHEDULE

STURBRIDGE JUNIORS - Coach Osimo

GAME(S)
Saturday, October 11, 2014
  9:00AM - Sturbridge @ Grafton
11:00AM - Sturbridge @ Grafton

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GOLD - Coach Gidopoulos

GAMES(S)
Friday, October 17, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge @ Auburn

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GREEN - Coach Yarter

GAMES(S)
Thursday, October 9, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge @ Auburn

STURBRIDGE MINOR - Coach Shelby

GAMES(S)
Saturday, October 11, 2014
1:00PM - Charlton @ Sturbridge
4:00PM - Charlton @ Sturbridge

Sunday, October 12, 2014
12:30 - Dudley @ Sturbridge

STURBRIDGE AA - Coach Troyse

GAMES(S)
Saturday, October 11, 2014
2:00PM - Auburn @ Sturbridge (Upper Softball Field)

Sunday, October 12, 2014
4:00PM - Sturbridge @ Charlton

Questions? Comments? Concerns?  Let me know ...

Play Ball!
Laura

Week Five - Game Schedule

WOW - what a SLACKER!  My sincerest apologies for the extreme tardiness of this post!

MAJOR TEAMS - Stay tuned for schedule changes for Week Six - we have just entered ONE team in the Oxford Columbus Day Weekend Tournament - please email your Coach ASAP with your availability for October 10, 11, 12, and 13.  We will combine players from both teams to form a single team for this tournament.

The Schedule

WEEK FOUR:

STURBRIDGE JUNIORS - Coach Osimo

GAME(S)
Friday, October 3, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Leicester

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GOLD - Coach Gidopoulos

GAMES(S)
Thursday, October 2, 2014
4:30PM - Sturbridge GOLD @ Sturbridge GREEN

Saturday, October 4, 2014
9:00AM - Sturbridge GREEN @ Sturbridge GOLD

Monday, October 6, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Charlton

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GREEN - Coach Yarter

GAMES(S)
Thursday, October 2, 2014
4:30PM - Sturbridge GOLD @ Sturbridge GREEN

Saturday, October 4, 2014
9:00AM - Sturbridge GREEN @ Sturbridge GOLD

Sunday, October 5, 2014
1:00PM - Sturbridge @ Oxford  - TIME CHANGE

Thursday, October 9, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge @ Auburn

STURBRIDGE MINOR - Coach Shelby

GAMES(S)
Saturday, October 4, 2014
11:00AM - Leicester @ Sturbridge
   4:00PM - Sturbridge @ Charlton

STURBRIDGE AA - Coach Troyse

GAMES(S)
Saturday, October 4, 2014
11:00AM - Oxford @ Sturbridge

Sunday, October 5, 2014
4:00PM - Charlton @ Sturbridge

If your have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me!

PLAY BALL!
Laura

Week Four Game Schedule and Notes

We're almost half way through!  It's starting to get colder - particularly during early morning and evening games.  Make sure you have something warm to wear.  Don't have anything?  Order your SLL Sweatshirts NOW!  Email me for more information.

 

NOTES

 

SLL is going MOBIL (kinda.)

Volunteers are still needed for concessions. I will be sending an invitation to everyone to download the Volunteer Spot app. This will allow you to view the available shifts and sign up right from your smart phone! Woohooo! Please note: for health and safety reasons, children are no longer allowed in the concession stand.  We apologize for the inconvenience and hope you understand.

Painters Needed!

The finishing touches are going on the new Press Box/Concession stand at Town Barn.  Please email Joe Griffin (president@sturbridgelittleleague.com) or Chris Rizy (vice.president@sturbridgelittleleague.com) if you can spare an hour or two on Saturday to help finish up the painting.

 

Dugout Etiquette

Players ... remember, you are representing your team and your town, but most importantly yourself, when you are in the dugout.  Always be respectful of umpires, managers, coaches, spectators; and, of course, players on the field, on the bases, and at bat while in the dugout.  If you bring something into the dugout, it is your responsibility to bring it out.  This includes ALL equipment, food (including wrappers,) beverage (including container,) clothing, and whatever else you should bring with you.  DO NOT leave behind trash or unwanted items when you leave the dugout.  It should be empty and free from trash.  This is for ALL games and practices, whether home or away.

 

Why is it called a dugout?  The first player to send an explanation of the origin of the "Dugout" to player.agent@sturbridgelittleleague.com wins a free popcorn from The Bullpen. 

OUR WINNER! 
It's called a dugout because it is dug out of the ground lower than the field so the fans can see the field!
Hunter N.

 

The Challenge

Kinda bummed we only had three player donations for the SLL ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. I really thought we would have blown away the goal within the first week.

 

The Schedule

WEEK FOUR:

STURBRIDGE JUNIORS - Coach Osimo

GAME(S)
Saturday, September 27, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Dudley

Friday, October 3, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Leicester

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GOLD - Coach Gidopoulos

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 27, 2014
11:00AM - Sturbridge GOLD @ Sturbridge GREEN

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GREEN - Coach Yarter

GAMES(S)
Thursday, September 25, 2014
5:00PM - Sturbridge @ Oxford

Saturday, September 27, 2014
11:00AM - Sturbridge GOLD @ Sturbridge GREEN

Sunday, September 28, 2014
11:00AM - Auburn @ Sturbridge

STURBRIDGE MINOR - Coach Shelby

GAMES(S)
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Charlton

Thursday, September 25, 2014
5:30PM - Leicester @ Sturbridge

Saturday, September 27, 2014
7:00PM - Stubridge @ Oxford

Sunday, September 28, 2014
1:00PM - West Brookfield @ Stubridge

STURBRIDGE AA - Coach Troyse

GAMES(S)
Sunday. September 28, 2014
4:00PM - Sturbridge @ Charlton

If your have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me!

PLAY BALL!
Laura

Week Three Schedule

WEEK THREE:

STURBRIDGE JUNIORS - Coach Osimo

GAME(S)
Friday, September 19, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Leicester

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.


STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GOLD - Coach Gidopoulos

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 20, 2014
2:00PM - Sturbridge GREEN @ Sturbridge GOLD

Sunday, September 21, 2014
TENTATIVE:  1:00PM - Oxford @ Sturbridge GOLD

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GREEN - Coach Yarter

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 20, 2014
2:00PM - Sturbridge GREEN @ Sturbridge GOLD

Monday, September 22, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge GREEN @ Dudley

PRACTICE:
Thursday, September 18, 2014
5:30PM - Burgess Upper (?)

STURBRIDGE MINOR - Coach Shelby

GAMES(S)
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Auburn

Friday, September 19, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge @ Brookfield

Saturday, September 20, 2014
11:00AM - Dudley @ Sturbridge

Sunday, September 21, 2014
12:30PM - Sturbridge @ Dudley

Tuesday, September 23, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Charlton

Thursday, September 25, 2014
5:30PM - Leicester @ Sturbridge

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.

STURBRIDGE AA - Coach Troyse

GAMES(S)
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Leicester

Saturday, September 20, 2014
3:00PM - Sturbridge @ Oxford

Sunday, September 21, 2014
4:00PM - Charlton @ Sturbridge

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.


If your have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me!

PLAY BALL!
Laura

Week Two Schedule

My apologies for the tardiness of this post.

WEEK TWO:

STURBRIDGE JUNIORS - Coach Osimo

GAME(S)
Saturday, September 13, 2014
1:00PM - Sturbridge @ Upton

Friday, September 19, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Leicester

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.


STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GOLD - Coach Gidopoulos

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 13, 2014
1:00PM - Sturbridge GOLD @ Charlton

Sunday, September 14, 2014
1:00PM - Sturbridge GOLD  @ Oxford

Thursday, September 18, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge GOLD @ Auburn

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GREEN - Coach Yarter

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 13, 2014
4:00PM - Sturbridge GREEN @ Auburn

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.

STURBRIDGE MINOR - Coach Shelby

GAMES(S)
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Charlton

Wednesday, September 10, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Leicester

Saturday, September 13, 2014
1:00PM - Sturbridge @ Dudley

Sunday, September 14, 21014
4:00PM - Brookfield @ Sturbridge

Wednesday, September 17, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Auburn

Friday, September 19, 2014
5:30PM - Sturbridge Minor @ Brookfield

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.

STURBRIDGE AA - Coach Troyse

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 13, 2014
  11:00AM - Oxford @ Sturbridge

Sunday, September 14, 2014
1:00PM - Grafton @ Sturbridge

Tuesday, September 16, 2014
6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Leicester

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.


If your have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me!

PLAY BALL!
Laura

2014-15 Sturbridge Little League Board Elections

To All Little League Members:

You are a Sturbridge Little League "Member" by virtue of having one or more children playing in the league during this 2014 season.

For those of you interested, the league will have its "Annual Meeting of the Members" next Wednesday night the 10th. The meeting will take place at 8:00PM upstairs at TJ O'Brien's.

The sole purpose of this meeting will be to elect a new board for a one year term. While not required I would appreciate it if anyone interested in joining the board could please contact me ahead of time to let me know that they are attending the meeting so I can plan accordingly. By email brian@incentiveusa.com or call my cell 508-849-7041.

Regards,
Brian Galonek -Sturbridge Little League President

UPDATED -- 2014 SLL Fall Ball - Week One Schedule

Happy Labor Day weekend to our SLL families!

I hope everyone settled in to their first week back to school and had fun exploring new classrooms and meeting new classmates.

As mentioned in previous communications, the weekly schedule will be updated here each Sunday with the times and locations for the coming week's games and practices.

Please subscribe to the blog to make sure you receive the information as soon as possible.

Housekeeping:  
 - Uniforms will be distributed at the end of the week.  Players will receive Fall Ball shirts and hats.  To complete the uniform, please make sure to have grey pants, green socks*, and a green belt.  

*Last year, players elected to wear pink socks in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.  WICKED! The boys totally ROCKED their PINK socks and created quite the buzz.

 - As the seasons change, it will get chilly out there, especially for morning and evening games.  Come prepared!  Have a jacket or sweatshirt available and wear a long sleeved shirt under your team jersey as you are not allowed to cover your team jersey while on the field.

 - Stay hydrated!  Even if it's not blazing hot, you need to stay hydrated.  Make sure to have a enough to drink to last throughout the game.

 - Concessions and Fan Gear!  It is our hope to offer concessions at the Burgess Bullpen for our weekend games.  We may have a slightly limited menu, but will surely have beverages, snacks, and hot dogs.  We will also be offering a selection of SLL fan gear this season!  We will be taking orders for sweatshirts, jackets, polo shirts, long sleeved t-shirts, and other SLL items.  Stay tuned for more information!

CHALLENGE:  I know most all of you are aware of and have perhaps participated in the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge.  Kudos to you!  I am putting out this CHALLENGE to our SLL Fall Ball families ...

You have 15 days to donate $5 per player to the SLL ALS Ice Bucket Challenge fund.  If we raise $250 by September 15, 2014, we will have a group ice bucket dump and in turn nominate all our competing fall ball towns to do the same.  If successful, we could raise a considerable amount of money for ALS!

So, let's DO THIS!  Donations should be made in cash and handed in to your Manager or directly to me.  I will update the blog with our progress - let's see how quickly we can get to $250!

And now, what you've really all come to this page to see ... the SCHEDULE!

WEEK ONE:

STURBRIDGE JUNIORS - Coach Osimo

GAME(S)
Saturday, September 6, 2014
  9:00AM - Sturbridge @ Grafton
11:00AM - Sturbridge @ Grafton

Sunday, September 7, 2014
11:00AM - Sturbridge @ Shrewsbury

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.


STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GOLD - Coach Gidopoulos

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 6, 2014
10:00AM - Quaboug @ Sturbridge GOLD

UPDATED - Sunday, September 7, 2014
10:00AM - Sturbridge GOLD @ Sturbridge GREEN

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.

STURBRIDGE MAJOR - GREEN - Coach Yarter

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 6, 2014
  3:00PM - Charlton @ Sturbridge GREEN

UPDATED - Sunday, September 7, 2014
10:00AM - Sturbridge GOLD @ Sturbridge GREEN

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.

STURBRIDGE MINOR - Coach Shelby

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 6, 2014
12:00PM - Chartlon @ Sturbridge

Tuesday, September 9, 2014
  6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Charlton

Wednesday, September 10, 2014
  6:00PM - Sturbridge @ Leicester

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.

STURBRIDGE AA - Coach Troyse

GAMES(S)
Saturday, September 6, 2014
  4:00PM - Sturbridge @ Dudley

PRACTICE:
TBA - Check with your Manager for information on practice days/times/location.


If your have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me!

PLAY BALL!
Laura

Fall Ball Team Assignments sent ...

Check your email!

Team assignments for 2014 Fall Ball have been sent!

The September game schedule is in the works and this post will be updated with the final rosters and practice schedule for weeks one and two by Friday afternoon.

STAY TUNED!

The HIGHLY Anticipated FALL BALL Practice Schedule!

We are SO close to the start of the 2014 SLL Fall Ball season.  Have you been practicing?  Are you ready?  Are you really READY??

Coaches and players will gather for group practices/evaluations this week to determine team placement.  It is our plan to announce the rosters and a tentative schedule after the District meeting this weekend.

Haven't signed up yet?  Wait ... what????  You haven't ... WHAT are you waiting for??? 

Get on over the SLL website and register TODAY!

Feel free to drag ... err, I mean ... bring ... yes, bring friends along who haven't signed up yet or are unsure what SLL Fall Ball is all about - we will accept registrations at the field.  (Family, friends, and players from our surrounding towns are welcome to register for SLL Fall Ball - so spread the word!)

Pre-Season Practice/Evaluation Schedule

Wednesday, August 20: 6 - 8:00PM - Burgess Upper
     Wednesday's practice will give players an opportunity to run around and have some fun while shaking off the summer sand.  Players should come prepared to play ball - dress appropriately and bring whatever gear makes you rock the diamond!
     Coaches will be evaluating your "mad skills" on the field and behind the plate and determining best group placement.

Thursday, August 21: 6 - 8:00PM - Burgess Upper
     Thursday's practice will see players divided into appropriate age/skill groups and will focus on the basics (hitting, fielding, running.)  Players should expect to be shifted between groups as needed.

Friday, August 22: 6 - 8:00PM - Burgess Upper
     Friday will be your final chance to impress the scouts (okay, not really, but you should play as if scouts were there!)  If we have everyone there on Friday, we'll split the players into "teams" and scrimmage.

Concessions will be open with a limited menu.  Most likely hot dogs, popcorn, and drinks.


Have questions?  Comments?  Suggestions?

Email Dave Yarter - your friendly Fall Ball Director at FallBall.Director@sturbridgelittleleague.com

Send this message to everyone you know that might want to know about SLL Fall Ball.

SLL UPDATES - July 18, 2014

Hello SLL Baseball Fans!!

Just a quick update for those of you who might be out in "left field" now that the regular season has ended ...

CONNIE MACK

Sturbridge Little League is pleased to be hosting the 2014 Connie Mack Tournament starting TOMORROW.

Please come support our Sturbridge teams at Town Barn and Burgess Upper. 

First pitch at both sites will be 8am!!

Concessions will be open throughout the weekend - "swing" by the field, "catch" a game, grab a bite to eat, and cheer on your friends!

FALL BALL

Registration for 2014 Fall Ball has been extended through July 30th.  We've pushed try-outs and team placement until after the Connie Mack tournament.

If you have not yet signed up, please do so before the end of the month to ensure your spot for this fall!

IF YOU BUILD IT ...

WOW - have you all been to Town Barn lately?  Have you SEEN the fabulous press box/concession stand that's going up all around the home dugout.  Seriously - WOW.

Many thanks to the donors, sponsors, and most notably those who have VOLUNTEERED countless hours in the hot sun and pouring rain to make this project a reality for SLL.

You all ROCK!

Can't donate time but still want to "pitch" in?  Consider a cash donation or drop off supplies to finish the structure and furnish the inside.  Not sure what's needed or what supplies you can donate? 

Just ASK!

Here's a peek at the progress ...

See you all at the field this weekend!

PLAY BALL!

PLAY BALL in the FALL!

As we close out the 2014 Sturbridge Little League regular season, I wish the remaining teams the best of luck in their championship games.  Stop by Town Barn or Burgess and cheer on your friends in their quest for the trophy!

I would also like to tip my cap to ALL the 2014 SLL players!  Congratulations to you all for your hard work, team spirit, sportmanship and dedication!

Lastly - a great big thank you to the board, sponsors, managers and coaches, and all the other magnificent volunteers who make each season, each division, and each game possible. 

 

You guys ROCK!

But wait ... there more ...

Registration is now open for the Sturbridge Little League 2014 FALL BALL Season!

Can't get enough of this sport?  Sign up, try out, and play more baseball this fall.  Details below and on the SLL website (www.sturbridgelittleleague.com)

Sturbridge Little League

Fall Ball 2014

(#SLLFB14)

 

Online Registration

NOW OPEN!

www.sturbridgelittleleague.com

$50.00 per player

Ages:  7 - 16 (as of 4/30/14)

Try-Outs: Mid-July

Teams Announced: July 30

Season begins Mid-August

 

Want/need more information or have questions?

Email fallball.director@sturbridgelittleleague.com

 

USA BASEBALL -- TEAM USA NEW ENGLAND TRYOUTS!

THE BULLPEN - Wednesday 5/21 Specials

Stop by, say hello, and have a bite to eat!  We're open from 5:00 - 7:30 tonight!

TOP PROSPECT SPRING SPECIAL

This special offer expires June 30th, so act fast!

A great big "THANK YOU" to our 2014 Sturbridge Little League sponsors!

2014 Sponsors	T-Ball
Annie's Country Kitchen	Rockies
Sturbridge Orthodontics	Pirates
Babe’s Lawn Care	Dodgers
Flavia Homes	Rays
BT’s Smokehouse	Angels
Incom, Inc.	Diamondbacks
Uno's	Tigers
Saunders & Sons Roofing	Orioles
2014 Sponsors	Farm
Incom, Inc.	Rockies
In Style Optical	Pirates
Cedar Street Grille	Dodgers
McCarthy & Sons Bus Co	Rays
Hometown Bank	Angels
Village Pizza	Diamondbacks
Publick House	Tigers
Ideal Pools Inc	Orioles
2014 Sponsors	Minors
Savers Bank	Rangers
Flavia Homes	Tigers
Incom, Inc.	Orioles
Whistling Swan	Phillies
Scottish Inns	Rays
Amcomm Wireless	Astros
2014 Sponsors	Majors
Arland Tool	Tigers
Teddy G’s Pub and Grille	Orioles
All Star Incentive Marketing	Diamondbacks
Dunkin Donuts	A’s
2014 Sponsors	Juniors
Pioneer Oil

For All Star teams

10 year old All Stars = Steve's Collision

8 year old All Stars = Northeast Merchant Systems

Other Sponsors not sponsoring teams

Southbridge Savings Bank 

Dalberth Realty Group, Sullivan & Co.

Dewey Tiberii Orthodontics 

Clearview Landscaping & Construction

Dicks Sporting Goods 

Tri-Community Rental 

Shaws

OPENING DAY IS ALMOST HERE!

Please see enclosed schedule of events.  Remember - PARKING is LIMITED!

Players should arrive in full uniform for the parade and pictures.  Please, NO cleats!!

Upcoming Community Outreach Event - Please Read

"It's Time We Talk About Lyme" 

co sponsored by Harrington Memorial Hospital 

and S.L.A.M. (Sturbridge Lyme Awareness of MA.)  

If you or someone you know has been affected by Lyme or other tick borne illnesses I hope you will consider joining us on May 10th at the Charlton Public Library's 'Dexter Hall.'   See enclosed flyer for details.

As we kick off the 2014 regular season ...

I came across this "Letter to the Parents" online and felt the impact of the message here was just too strong to ignore.  Please take a moment to read it, really read it ... and remember - these are kids, playing a game. As you will see below ... it is ALL about the kids and the game; not about us, the parents. 

Letter from Mike Matheny.....

I always said that the only team that I would coach would be a team of orphans, and now here we are. The reason for me saying this is that I have found the biggest problem with youth sports has been the parents. I think that it is best to nip this in the bud right off the bat. I think the concept that I am asking all of you to grab is that this experience is ALL about the boys. If there is anything about it that includes you, we need to make a change of plans. My main goals are as follows:

(1) to teach these young men how to play the game of baseball the right way,

(2) to be a positive impact on them as young men, and

(3) do all of this with class.

We may not win every game, but we will be the classiest coaches, players, and parents in every game we play. The boys are going to play with a respect for their teammates, opposition, and the umpires no matter what.

With that being said, I need to let you know where I stand. I have no hidden agenda. I have no ulterior motive other than what I said about my goals. I also need all of you to know that my priorities in life will most likely be a part of how I coach, and the expectations I have for the boys. My Christian faith is the guide for my life and I have never been one for forcing my faith down someone's throat, but I also believe it to be cowardly, and hypocritical to shy away from what I believe. You as parents need to know for yourselves and for your boys, that when the opportunity presents itself, I will be honest with what I believe. That may make some people uncomfortable, but I did that as a player, and I hope to continue it in any endeavor that I get into. I am just trying to get as many potential issues out in the open from the beginning. I believe that the biggest role of the parent is to be a silent source of encouragement. I think if you ask most boys what they would want their parents to do during the game; they would say "NOTHING". Once again, this is ALL about the boys. I believe that a little league parent feels that they must participate with loud cheering and "Come on, let's go, you can do it", which just adds more pressure to the kids. I will be putting plenty of pressure on these boys to play the game the right way with class, and respect, and they will put too much pressure on themselves and each other already. You as parents need to be the silent, constant, source of support.

Let the record stand right now that we will not have good umpiring. This is a fact, and the sooner we all understand that, the better off we will be. We will have balls that bounce in the dirt that will be called strikes, and we will have balls over our heads that will be called strikes. Likewise, the opposite will happen with the strike zone while we are pitching. The boys will not be allowed at any time to show any emotion against the umpire. They will not shake their head, or pout, or say anything to the umpire. This is my job, and I will do it well. I once got paid to handle those guys, and I will let them know when they need to hear something. I am really doing all of you parents a favor that you probably don't realize at this point. I have taken out any work at all for you except to get them there on time, and enjoy. The thing that these boys need to hear is that you enjoyed watching them and you hope that they had fun. I know that it is going to be very hard not to coach from the stands and yell encouraging things to your son, but I am confident that this works in a negative way for their development and their enjoyment. Trust me on this. I am not saying that you cannot clap for your kids when they do well. I am saying that if you hand your child over to me to coach them, then let me do that job.

A large part of how your child improves is your responsibility. The difference for kids at this level is the amount of repetition that they get. This goes with pitching, hitting and fielding. As a parent, you can help out tremendously by playing catch, throwing batting practice, hitting ground balls, or finding an instructor who will do this in your place. The more of this your kids can get, the better. This is the one constant that I have found with players that reached the major leagues....someone spent time with them away from the field.

I am completely fine with your son getting lessons from whomever you see fit. The only problem I will have is if your instructor is telling your son not to follow the plan of the team. I will not teach a great deal of mechanics at the beginning, but I will teach mental approach, and expect the boys to comply. If I see something that your son is doing mechanically that is drastically wrong, I will talk with the instructor and clear things up. The same will hold true with pitching coaches. We will have a pitching philosophy and will teach the pitchers and catchers how to call a game, and why we choose the pitches we choose. There is no guessing. We will have a reason for the pitches that we throw. A pitching coach will be helpful for the boys to get their arms in shape and be ready to throw when spring arrives. Every boy on this team will be worked as a pitcher. We will not over use these young arms and will keep close watch on the number of innings that the boys are throwing.

I will be throwing so much info at these boys that they are going to suffer from overload for a while, but eventually they are going to get it. I am a stickler about the thought process of the game. I will be talking non-stop about situational hitting, situational pitching, and defensive preparation. The question that they are going to hear the most is "What were you thinking?" What were you thinking when you threw that pitch? What were you thinking during that at bat? What were you thinking before the pitch was thrown, were you anticipating anything? I am a firm believer that this game is more mental than physical, and the mental may be more difficult, but can be taught and can be learned by a 10 and 11 year old. If it sounds like I am going to be demanding of these boys, you are exactly right. I am definitely demanding their attention, and the other thing that I am going to require is effort. Their attitude, their concentration, and their effort are the things that they can control. If they give me these things every time they show up, they will have a great experience.

The best situation for all of us is for you to plan on handing these kids over to me and the assistant coaches when you drop them off, and plan on them being mine for the 2 or so hours that we have scheduled for a game, or the time that we have scheduled for the practice. I would like for these boys to have some responsibility for having their own water, not needing you to keep running to the concession stand, or having parents behind the dugout asking their son if they are thirsty, or hungry, or too hot, and I would appreciate if you would share this information with other invited guests...like grandparents. If there is an injury, obviously we will get you to help, but besides that, let's pretend that they are at work for a short amount of time and that you have been granted the pleasure of watching. I will have them at games early so we can get stretched and loosened up, and I will have a meeting with just the boys after the game. After the meeting, they are all yours again. As I am writing this, I sound like the little league Nazi, but I believe that this will make things easier for everyone involved.

I truly believe that the family is the most important institution in the lives of these guys. With that being said, l think that the family events are much more important than the sports events. I just ask that you are considerate of the rest of the team and let the team manager, and myself know when you will miss, and to let us know as soon as possible. I know that there will be times when I am going to miss either for family reasons, for other commitments. If your son misses a game or a practice, it is not the end of the world, but there may be some sort of repercussion, just out of respect for the kids that put the effort into making it. The kind of repercussions could possibly be running, altered playing time, or position in the batting order.

Speaking of batting order, I would like to address that right from the top as well seeing that next to playing time this is the second most complained about issue, or actually tied for second with position on the defensive field. Once again, I need you to know that I am trying to develop each boy individually, and I will give them a chance to learn and play any position that they are interested in. I also believe that this team will be competitive and when we get into situations where we are focusing on winning; like a tournament for example; we are going to put the boys in the position that will give the team the best opportunity. I will talk with the boys individually and have them tell me what their favorite position is and what other position they would like to learn about. As this season progresses, there is a chance that your son may be playing a position that they don't necessarily like, but I will need your support about their role on the team. I know that times have changed, but one of the greatest lessons that my father taught me was that my coach was always right...even when he was wrong. The principle is a great life lesson about how things really work. I hope that I will have enough humility to come to your son if I treated him wrong and apologize. Our culture has lost this respect for authority mostly because the kids hear the parents constantly complaining about the teachers and coaches of the child.

I need all of you to know that we are most likely going to lose many games this year. The main reason is that we need to find out how we measure up with the local talent pool. The only way to do this is to play against some of the best teams. I am convinced that if the boys put their work in at home, and give me their best effort, that we will be able to play with just about any team. Time will tell. l also believe that there is enough local talent that we will not have to do a large amount of travel, if any. This may be disappointing for those of you who only play baseball and look forward to the out of town experiences, but I also know that this is a relief for the parents that have traveled throughout the US and Canada for hockey and soccer looking for better competition. In my experiences, we have traveled all over the Midwest and have found just as good competition right in our back yard. If this season goes well, we will entertain the idea of travel in the future.

The boys will be required to show up ready to play every time they come to the field. Shirts tucked in, hats on straight, and pants not drooping down to their knees. There is not an excuse for lack of hustle on a baseball field. From the first step outside the dugout they will hustle. They will have a fast jog to their position, to the plate, and back to the bench when they make an out. We will run out every hit harder than any team we will play, and will learn how to always back up a play to help our teammates. Every single play, every player will be required to move to a spot. Players that do not hustle and run out balls will not play. The boys will catch on to this quickly. The game of baseball becomes very boring when players are not thinking about the next play and what they possibly could do to help the team. Players on the bench will not be messing around. I will constantly be talking with them about situations and what they would be doing if they were in a specific position, or if they were the batter. There is as much to learn on the bench as there is on the field if the boys want to learn. All of this will take some time for the boys to conform to. They are boys and I am not trying to take away from that, but I do believe that they can bear down and concentrate hard for just a little while during the games and practices.

I know this works because this was how I was taught the game and how our parents acted in the stands. We started our little league team when I was 10 years old in a little suburb of Columbus, Ohio. We had a very disciplined coach that expected the same from us. We committed 8 summers to this man and we were rewarded for our efforts. I went to Michigan, one went to Duke, one to Miami of Florida, two went to North Carolina, one went to Central Florida, one went to Kent State, and most of the others played smaller division one or division two baseball. Four of us went on to play professionally. This was coming from a town where no one had ever been recruited by any colleges. I am not saying that this is what is going to happen to our boys, but what I do want you to see is that this system works. I know that right now you are asking yourself if this is what you want to get yourself into and I understand that for some of you it may not be the right fit. I also think that there is a great opportunity for these boys to grow together and learn some lessons that will go beyond their baseball experience. Let me know as soon as possible whether or not this is a commitment that you and your son want to make.

Thanks,

Mike Matheny

Citation: "Mac-N-Seitz Baseball and Softball." Mac-N-Seitz Baseball and Softball. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Mar. 2014.

Become a SLL Volunteer!

Why Should I Become a Volunteer?
Little League Baseball and Softball is an organization designed to build good citizens. It is a program of leadership, preparing today's youth to be tomorrow's leaders. At the local level, Little League relies on a devoted legion of adult volunteers to help ensure that the organization remains structured and runs smoothly. The Sturbridge Little League (SLL) program is always looking for responsible and enthusiastic individuals to support and coordinate Little League events and activities. As a volunteer, you should have a keen interest in the safety, well-being, and overall development of children. 

Who Can Volunteer*?
Anyone can apply to become a volunteer. Whatever talents or skills you have, we can use them! Volunteers are grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles, retirees, community leaders, former Little Leaguers, friends, neighbors, and more. Anyone who wishes to become a volunteer may apply.

All parents of children involved in Little League Baseball are strongly encouraged to volunteer. As a parent volunteer, you have the opportunity to spend quality time with your child in a safe, fun-filled environment. Oftentimes, parent and child social lives parallel each other. Volunteering allows your life and your child's life to intersect on common ground, with shared interests and goals. 

How Do I Become A Volunteer?
First, fill out the 2014 Little League Volunteer Application and CORI form.  SLL will announce multiple opportunities throughout the year when volunteer help is needed for the success of an event or activity.  

What Can I Volunteer To Do?
No experience is required to become a volunteer. Most of the volunteer opportunities require little or no training. The League will provide you with any necessary training (as well as support and encouragement!) The best volunteers are those who are able to bring added enjoyment to the game simply by being themselves. What you see during Little League games is a mere fraction of what you can do as a volunteer. You can volunteer to help in virtually any aspect of Little League Baseball.

Current Opportunities

Currently, SLL is seeking volunteers for the following committees:

Opening Day Committee

Concessions Committee

Please contact the SLL if you are interested in becoming a volunteer.

*On rare occasions, Little League, through District Administrators and your local Board of Directors, may deny individuals the privilege of volunteering for reasons, past or present, that may be detrimental to the positive development of young people, other volunteers, and/or Little League International. When you apply to become a volunteer, you give the local Little League organization the right to conduct necessary background checks.