Is it ok to play Little League and Travel Ball at the same time?

If you have concerns about whether your child should play little league and travel ball during the Spring season, then here is some information from Cali Breeze Baseball that can help you make an informed decision. 

Cali Breeze supports Little League and wants kids to have the opportunity to enjoy their Little League years with their friends.  Additionally, Cali Breeze recognizes that some players in Little League also want the challenge and experience of a higher level of competitive baseball.  Here are some points to consider in making the right decision with your player.

How will Spring Travel Ball benefit and advance your Little League player?

  • Additional, advanced practice during Little League: Spring travel is a platform to teach and refine skills that will be an advantage and will improve a player’s Little League performance.

  • Travel Ball provides exposure to variety of players: Playing against different teams with diverse skill sets can help players develop adaptability and learn new skills and strategies.

  • Team chemistry and personal growth: Cali Breeze travel ball builds a comfortable and cohesive team through practice and games that lead to improved communication and performance for a player during Little League.  The confidence a player develops with Cali Breeze carries over to their Little League team and often gives them the self-assurance to step up as positive leaders on their team.

How does Cali Breeze address specific concerns about playing both Little League and travel ball?

  • Safety is #1 and Cali Breeze makes sure young arms are protected. Coach Justin and the Cali Breeze staff make it a priority to check-in with parents and players to know how much throwing and pitching they are doing in total.  With that knowledge we follow the Pitch-Smart guidelines and best practices for arm health.

  • Workload management: It's important to ensure the Spring travel schedule complements Little League, avoiding overtraining or burnout. Cali Breeze decreases the number of practice hours and over all tournament time during the Spring season so that players are not overdoing it.  Open communication with coaches and parents is key and a focus of Cali Breeze to make sure your player is not getting burnt out and that their experience is a positive one.

  • Time commitment: We know balancing both leagues can be demanding, and conflicts will happen.  In the Spring Cali Breeze carries a slightly bigger roster to help address the times when players have conflicts.  Playing with both teams is a bigger commitment and it's important to consider individual player and family needs.

Overall, playing Spring travel ball can offer valuable benefits for players looking to further improve their skills.  Careful planning and open communication are key to ensuring a positive experience that complements, rather than competes with, the Little League season. With Cali Breeze, the focus is on fun and development.  While competition is part of the game, it's important to prioritize player enjoyment and skill development, especially at younger ages. 

Ultimately, the decision of how much baseball to play should be made in consultation with the player themselves. Their enthusiasm and well-being are the top priority.

We hope this information helps you make informed decisions about your child's participation in both Little League and Cali Breeze travel ball.  Should you have further questions, please feel to reach out to us.

Here’s to a great 2024 Spring Season!!

Cali Breeze Baseball