Registration for the 2012 spring season of Arlington's Babe Ruth league is now. Click on the REGISTRATION button in the left hand menu or Cal's picture to get signed up for our spring 2012 season!

Teams will be formed by the end of February, with practices starting in early to mid-March.  Games start mid-April (two per week, one during the week, usually 6pm, and one on Saturdays).  Practices and games are on Arlington County ball fields, practice schedules will be set by the end of February (we hope!) with the game schedule set by the end of March.

 Neighborhood Teams

Arlington Babe Ruth endorses the neighborhood/school concept in youth sports. Where possible, we strive to group players on teams based on the neighborhood in which they live, or the school that they attend. Most likely your child's friends are on a school team which practices right in your own neighborhood. For this reason, Babe Ruth teams are based on elementary school districts with practices as close to those schools as possible.

We use this principle at every level except our top level, Majors National League (our intermediate size field league, 50/70) for 11 and 12 year olds. This league uses a modified draft to create a more competitive playing experience for all.

ABR is Committed to Coach Training

ABR is committed to providing each player with an enjoyable and valuable baseball experience. We provide each coach in the league with coach training clinics and coaching manuals. Each coach receives training in:

	Safety Requirements
	Coach Skills to Improve Players' Skills
	Practice Organization
	"Playing Like A Champion" - Strategies for Making Set Backs Temporary
	Game Management
	Physical, Social, and Behavior Characteristics of Middle Childhood
	Goals for Achievement for Each Level
	Age-appropriate, Game-Like Drills for Skill Development

For more coaching resources, click here.

 ABR Levels of Play

Which level is right for my player? Parents should register their child in their age group (your child's age on April 30, 2012). Parents may choose to sign up for one age up only. For example: a 7 year old may play at the 8-9 year old level, but a 6 year old may not play at the 8-9 year old level. A 10-year old who is a beginner may play at the 8 – 9 level. Click here for more information on our levels of play.

ABR has developed several age-appropriate levels of play. These levels correspond with the general physical, mental, and social characteristics of middle childhood. Emphasis is placed on creating a safe setting, creating a positive sports culture, and keeping the games moving. And except for Majors National League, players are placed on teams from neighborhood schools.

The Website does not usually include updates on game or practice day inclement weather.

To check on field status, call the Arlington County Weather line: (703) 228-4715.

To sign up for text and/or email messages regarding field closures, click here. 

Only Majors and AAA league games will try to be made up, so keep good thoughts for nice weather!