Where Love for the game begins
"You can be a kid for as long as you want when you play baseball." - Cal Ripken Jr.
How long does Sandlot League last?
Sandlot begins when Pony League ends and lasts until end of June. 5/21 - 6/27
Note: We can extend further if there is interest and enough volunteer support
Where do I go?
Santa Ynez Elementary Baseball fields
Parent Participation
We rely on the support and involvement of parents to make this a success. We will need coaches, dugout parents and maybe even pro-bono umpires. This will not be a success without parents who get involved. No drop offs allowed unless the lead coach for the evening is informed and confirms that it is not a problem.
What do I bring?
Please don't let gear stop you from coming out.
We will make it work and may have hand me down equipment. It will also be easier to buy gear after you talk to a few people.
If you want to get your child geared up here is a starter list.
- Baseball Glove (How to size your glove)
- Baseball Bat (Pony approved bats), (How to size your bat)
Make sure the your bat has a USABat licensing stamp on it
Cleats are recommended for Shetland divisions and above.
Rubber-soled or rubber-cleated shoes are permitted. Metal cleats are prohibited.
Live Pitch
Sandlot is a an opportunity to get kids ready for live pitching (No machines). We want kids to learn to identify balls and strikes and to avoid swinging at every pitch. We also want kids to learn proper pitching mechanics. Sandlot sessions are a combination of coach and kid pitch depending on the age and skill levels that attend.
What is Pony League vs Little league?
There is a lot to be said on this topic, but to summarize the two leagues are basically two different fundamental approaches to what's best for kids to learn baseball. It's important to understand that kids don't / can't play like adults. Baseball for a child is complex and requires developmental steps.
The difference from a SYV coach perspective: Pony league exposes children to real baseball sooner than little league but it does so in a way that is safe and reasonable. Pony league makes sense to people who grew up playing baseball.
How do I get signed up for Pony League Baseball?
Go here, create and account and get signed up.
Fundraising and Donations (Coming Soon)
Support your local league. Donations are needed to fund game balls, chalk, water, electricity, field repairs, equipment etc. etc.