10U Nighthawks FAQs for the 2024-2025 Season
Introduction
Coached by Carly Shogren and Christina Bonnett, our desire for the 2023-2024 season is to create a local option for girls to have the opportunity to play competitive travel
softball and develop a core group of teammates that can play together for years to come. We approach softball with a competitive spirit but also balance it with a focus on developing players’ technical skills, sportsmanship, and expanding their understanding of the game. Below you will find information that will outline what we expect of our players and parents and also some FAQs to help you decide if our program is a good fit for your family. If you have additional questions not covered here, please contact us at tn.nighthawks2015@gmail.com.
How many players will you keep on the roster?
We will carry 11 dedicated players on our roster. We believe that carrying only 11 will ensure everyone on the team will get adequate playing time and coach instruction. In the event that we have players missing for a tournament, we may pick up players to fill in gaps and give breaks, but we will try to never have more than 12 with us at a tournament.
Where do you practice?
We practice at Crockett Park.
How is playing time determined?
Playing time will not be equal, but it will be fair. If your daughter has a great attitude, and is putting in the effort, she will play in some capacity in every pool game and whenever possible in bracket games. This could be pinch running or hitting, but they will see the field. Players are never guaranteed to play in a particular position. We will utilize players where it makes most sense for the team.
How many tournaments will you play in the Fall?
This will depend on the team’s ability to switch from coach pitch to kid pitch. We will rely heavy on scrimmage games for the beginning of season to prepare. Plan to play 3-4 tournaments.
How many tournaments will you play in the Spring?
We plan to play in 8 tournaments between March – July.
How often do you plan to practice?
Our tentative plan for practice is:
August – November - two practices per week - one longer practice (2-2.5 hours) on the weekend and one shorter (1.5 hour) practice on a weeknight. We may not practice every weekend due to tournaments.
Team break from November – January
January - February - one indoor 2 hour practices on the weekend, hopefully Sunday late afternoon
March - July - two practices per week - one longer practice (2-2.5 hours) on the weekend and one shorter (1.5 hour) practice on a weeknight. We may not practice every weekend due to tournaments.
What is the estimated cost for the season?
We estimate the cost to be $800 for Fall/spring season (August to August). $500 due at acceptance of offer and remaining $300 due by January 15th. Dues will be used to purchase equipment, practices jerseys, practice fields, indoor facilities for winter practice, and tournaments. This cost could vary slightly depending on actual tournament fees and equipment cost and do NOT include items such as uniforms, socks, belts, bat bags, helmets, etc. We will be looking for sponsors to offset some of these costs, including bags and helmets.
Uniforms will need to be purchased at an estimated cost of $215.
My daughter plays multiple sports, can she still play on the 10U TN Nighthawks team?
Yes! We believe that athletes should be well-rounded and participate in multiple sports as they develop. That said, we do expect that if there is a conflict, our games would win out over other sport practices and if there are repeated missed practices/games, playing time could be impacted.