Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is the club creating tournament team policies now?
A: In past seasons, some teams chose to participate in tournaments, but there were no consistent guidelines around who could play, how players were selected, how many tournaments a team could enter, or whether players were developmentally ready for that level of competition. This resulted in uneven experiences across age groups and teams.
By establishing clear, club-wide policies, we can ensure fairness, consistency, and appropriate player development for all teams and families.
Q: Why can't anyone who wants to play in tournaments just be included?
A: Tournament play is a higher level of competition, and not all players are developmentally ready for it. Placing a player in an environment they are not prepared for can be discouraging and unsafe. Our new structure—with tryouts and eligibility criteria—ensures that players who participate have the skills, confidence, and readiness to succeed.
Q: How were tournaments handled in the past and what is changing?
A: Previously, individual coaches or teams could choose to enter tournaments on their own, resulting in inconsistent requirements, varying team compositions, and different numbers of tournaments played. Moving forward, tournament participation will be organized at the club level, with standardized policies on:
- Who is eligible (must be in the traveling team league)
- How players are selected (formal tryouts)
- The number of tournaments a team can enter
- What coaches and players can expect
This creates a predictable, transparent experience for all families.
Q: Does this team every team will have a tournament team option?
A: Not necessarily. Tournament teams will be formed only where there is enough interest, skilled players, and available coaching. However, by having clear policies, all age groups now have the same process, ensuring equity across the club.
Q: How will this improve the experience for players?
A: Consistent policies mean players who are ready for advanced play get a structured, supportive environment to grow — and players who need more time can continue developing within the regular traveling league. This helps us avoid past situations where players were placed in tournaments prematurely or where expectations varied from team to team.
Q: Are tryouts required to be on a weekend Tournament Team?
A: If there are more than 14 players interested in joining a team, yes. However, some teams with less than 14 players may still have a skills session to determine game placement based on skill level.
Q: What if my player cannot attend tournament team tryouts?
A: We strongly encourage all interested players to make every effort to attend tryouts, as this is the most fair and consistent way for coaches to evaluate skills and readiness for tournament play.
If a scheduling conflict cannot be avoided, families should contact the club in advance. We will do our best to accommodate when possible, but accommodations cannot be guaranteed, and attending tryouts remains the best way to be considered for a tournament roster.
Who can I contact for more questions? Email the club president at: presidentwfyouthbands@gmail.com