8U Nighthawks FAQs for the 2024-2025 Season
Introduction
Coached by Jamie & Austin Mudd, our desire for the 2024-2025 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.nighthawks2016@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?
We plan to play 1-2 tournament(s), depending on the development of the team.
How many tournaments will you play in the Winter?
We plan to play in 1 indoor tournament in February.
How many tournaments will you play in the Spring and Summer?
We plan to play in 7 tournaments between March – July. One per month during
spring/school months, 2 per month during summer months.
How often do you plan to practice?
Our tentative plan for practice is:
August - November - One to two, 1.5 hour practices per week.
January - February - one indoor 1.5-2 hour practice per week.
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 $600 for the fall/winter season. The entire amount is due at acceptance of an offer. Dues will be used to purchase equipment, practice jerseys, practice fields, indoor facilities for winter practice, and tournaments. These costs 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.
A potential $250 fee may be collected for the ‘25 Spring/Summer season.
Uniforms will need to be purchased separately at an estimated cost of $215.
My daughter plays multiple sports, can she still play on the 8U 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.