12U (2013) Nighthawks FAQs
Introduction
Coached by Beth Akers and Elizabeth Higdon, 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.nighthawks2013@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 hope to play in 3-4 tournaments between August - November
How many tournaments will you play in the Winter?
We plan to play in 1 indoor tournament between January - February
How many tournaments will you play in the Spring?
We plan to play in 7-8 tournaments between March - July
How often do you plan to practice?
Our tentative plan for practice is:
August & September - two practices per week - one longer practice (2-2.5 hours) on the weekend and one shorter (1.5 hour) practice on a weeknight
October & November - one practice per week, 2-2.5 hour on the weekend
December - off, but we expect all players to be practicing on their own and in lessons
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
**All team members at this level are expected to also be in individual lessons and working on their own outside of team practices year-round.
What is the estimated cost for the season?
We estimate the cost to be $800 due in August and $400 due in February. Dues will be used to purchase equipment, practices jerseys, practice fields, indoor facilities for winter practice, and tournaments.
These 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.
My daughter plays multiple sports, can she still play on the 12U 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.