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NYBA sets 2026 In‑House, Travel and Community Rec details; late fee starts March 6
The Northfield Youth Baseball Association will again anchor local youth ball this spring and summer, offering tiers from entry‑level T‑Ball to middle‑school Travel and Community Rec. The mission centers on fundamentals, sportsmanship, and building healthy relationships, with home dates based out of Sechler Park. [1][5]In‑House remains the community gateway. T‑Ball is the non‑competitive entry for kindergarteners/age 5 by Sept. 1; Futures moves to coach‑pitch for first‑year grads of T‑Ball or first graders; Rookies (2nd–3rd grade) plays machine‑pitch. The season runs late spring into early summer, with schedules shifting once school is out. Rookies emphasize early‑season skill work and close with a NYBA Classic‑style tournament and an All‑Star Break/skills slate. [2]Game formats fit development. T‑Ball and Futures don’t keep score early and add rules progressively, while Rookies follow modified NFHS rules with NYBA adjustments on bat barrel size, time/inning limits, and 3‑out or bat‑through formats. NYBA provides a jersey and hat; every player needs a glove, and Rookies are encouraged to bring a bat and helmet within NYBA specs. Baseball pants, non‑metal cleats, and a protective cup are recommended. [2]Parent volunteers lead the benches. Coaches complete background checks and Trusted Coaches training, including concussion education, and are expected to provide equitable opportunities with safety guiding defensive placement. [2]Registration runs through NYBA’s SportsEngine. A $50 late fee applies after March 6, 2026; late additions are accepted only if roster space allows and not after uniforms are ordered. [2][3]Beyond In‑House, NYBA lays out paths for Travel and Community Rec, with a 2026 DIBS volunteer requirement and program contacts, including Scott Paulson for Travel/Community Rec inquiries. [4]Eligibility covers players who attend Northfield Public Schools, live in Northfield, or nearby communities without their own youth baseball association. [1]