The NTRA youth baseball program consists of several different levels starting at age 4 (with the co-ed T-ball program)and having athletes move through the baseball program levels. Program level age is based on grade level at the time of registration. The levels of play are listed below along with pitching mound distances and base distances. We currently work with Washington Park District to schedule a good number of games throughout the season. The season typically runs from the end of May through the middle of July. Games are played at Oliver Thomas Park (Diamond 1), Central Primary School, or Lincoln Park. If you have questions, comments, or concerns regarding the baseball program or the T-ball program, feel free to email our baseball director, John Kern at [email protected].
Program Levels:
T- Ball- This level is intended for children (boys and girls) enrolled in Pre-K (4years old) or kindergarten at the time of registration. The children will learn the very basics of team playing.
Farm (Previously Pinto)- This level is intended for boys enrolled in first and second grade at the time of registration. In this league, players will expand on the basics of baseball. A coach will pitch to their respective team from anywhere inside the pitching circle. The distance between the pitching mound and home plate is 35 feet and the distance between bases is 60 feet.
Mustang- This level is intended for boys enrolled in third and fourth grade at the time of registration. In this league, players will continue to learn the basics of baseball as well as pitching, catching, and the stealing of all bases except home. The distance between the pitching mound and home plate is 44 feet and the distance between the bases is 60 feet.
Bronco- This level is intended for boys ages enrolled in fifth and sixth grade at the time of registration. In this league, players will focus on mastering the skills they have learned in previous levels. The distance between the pitching mound and home plate is 48 feet and the distance between the bases is 70 feet.
Pony Tap- This level is intended for boys enrolled in seventh and eighth grade at the time of registration. In this league, players will continue to focus on mastering the skills they have learned in previous levels. The distance between the pitching mound and home plate is 54 feet and the distance between the bases is 80 feet. Please contact the director for availability of league each season. Requires local travel.
Registration Information:
The baseball season typically runs from the end of May through the middle of July. Registration will take place starting in February and will run through the end of March. We will send an email reminder regarding the start of registrations to anyone with an account on our website. We will also advertise the registration on our Facebook page.