SUMMIT BASEBALL TRYOUTS

BEFORE TRYOUTS

Complete the following requirements before participating:

Academic Eligibility

You must be academically eligible and have passed six classes during the first semester.

Online PRIVIT Information

Complete your information through Rockwood Summit’s PRIVIT website.

Required Paperwork

Submit your completed tryout packet to Coach Jones by the deadline announced for the upcoming season. The packet should include:

• Physical form: An updated physical must be on file with the school. Check with the athletic office or school nurse if you are unsure whether your physical is current.
• Player/Parent Contract
• Private Transportation Form

WHAT TO BRING

• Tennis shoes
• Baseball cleats
• Baseball hat and pants
• T-shirt—no sleeveless shirts or tank tops
• Glove
• Bat, if applicable
• Long-sleeve shirt
• Sweatshirt

WEATHER & SCHEDULE CHANGES

Weather and facility availability will determine where and when each group practices.

Poor weather may require changes to tryout times so all baseball levels and other sports can share indoor facilities. Some groups may practice immediately after school, while others may practice in the evening. Coaches will communicate schedule changes throughout the week.

TEAM SELECTION & PARENT MEETING

Players should arrive prepared to participate fully throughout tryout week. The timing of final cuts depends on weather, evaluation opportunities, and other factors. Coaches will communicate when team selections will be finalized.

A parent meeting will be held after teams are selected. The date, time, and location will be announced. Parents of all selected players are strongly encouraged to attend, including returning players’ families.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can freshmen play on junior varsity or varsity?

Yes. Coaches evaluate players for each position across all grade levels, considering ability, playing time, development, and each team’s needs. Our goal is to help players grow while placing them at a level where they can contribute to team success.

How many players are kept at each level?

There is no fixed roster size. Coaches consider playing opportunities, position coverage, potential injuries, and the needs of the entire program. Each roster is assembled with both individual development and team success in mind.

How are practices organized?

Varsity practices on the main field, and freshmen practice on the B/top field. Junior varsity uses either field depending on varsity practice objectives.

Each player must participate in 14 practices before becoming eligible to play in games.

How are players evaluated?

Evaluation begins before tryout week. Coaches consider baseball skills, attitude, effort, preparation, and commitment throughout the school year.

Players are expected to participate in other Summit sports or stay committed to strength training and open gym opportunities. These activities help players prepare for tryouts and the season.

FRESHMAN TRYOUTS

Freshman players receive opportunities to demonstrate their attitude, effort, and skills through:

• Fielding ground balls
• Catching fly balls
• Pitching
• Catching
• Hitting
• Running

Coaches will aim to give each pitcher at least two bullpen opportunities. Players with a strong throwing arm are encouraged to try pitching. Demonstrating versatility can improve your opportunity to contribute to a team.

All members of the coaching staff will help evaluate the freshman group. Multiple perspectives are especially valuable because coaches typically have had fewer opportunities to watch these players.

JUNIOR VARSITY & VARSITY TRYOUTS

JV and varsity tryouts follow a format similar to a regular practice, allowing coaches to evaluate players in situations they will encounter throughout the season. Weather may affect the activities available during tryouts.

Coaches will aim to give each pitcher at least two opportunities to throw from the mound. Players with a strong throwing arm are encouraged to try pitching and demonstrate additional ways they can contribute.

PREPARING FOR TRYOUT WEEK

Tryouts can be exciting and stressful. Give yourself the best opportunity by:

1. Bringing a positive attitude.
2. Demonstrating a strong work ethic.
3. Attending offseason sessions in January and February.

Coaches take team selection seriously and discuss each player carefully. Talent matters, but attitude, effort, commitment, and team fit also influence roster decisions. A more talented player is not automatically guaranteed a position.

UNDERSTANDING TEAM DECISIONS

Making cuts is one of the most difficult responsibilities coaches face. We understand how much time and effort players have invested in baseball and how disappointing it can be to miss a roster spot.

Coaches will speak individually with players who are not selected and explain the decision. Not making a team does not mean a player’s baseball journey is over. Community baseball opportunities, such as those through Ballwin Athletic Association, may offer a way to continue developing and prepare for summer baseball.