Frequently Asked Questions
Tryouts
I've received an invitation in the mail to attend one of your tryouts. How did you get my name?
More than likely, your name was recommended to us by one of the college coaches or pro scouts who help us recruit players. We may have seen you play at a summer camp, high school game, talent showcase, or tournament. No matter how we found out about you, every tryout participant receives an equal opportunity to be accepted to the program. From there it's up to you to demonstrate the skills needed to be successful overseas.
More than likely, your name was recommended to us by one of the college coaches or pro scouts who help us recruit players. We may have seen you play at a summer camp, high school game, talent showcase, or tournament. No matter how we found out about you, every tryout participant receives an equal opportunity to be accepted to the program. From there it's up to you to demonstrate the skills needed to be successful overseas.
What kind of players do you recruit?
The great majority of players who travel with Coast to Coast share a common dream of playing beyond high school on the collegiate or professional level. This program is geared toward serious athletes who have a desire to represent their country against top international competition. We look for players who continually strive to improve and challenge themselves, both on and off the field.
The great majority of players who travel with Coast to Coast share a common dream of playing beyond high school on the collegiate or professional level. This program is geared toward serious athletes who have a desire to represent their country against top international competition. We look for players who continually strive to improve and challenge themselves, both on and off the field.
How can I qualify for the program?
Most players qualify at one of our open tryouts held around the country. At these tryouts, interested players are put through a 2-3 hour workout during which time their skills are evaluated by our coaching staff. Sometimes we accept players (who are not able to attend a tryout) through the recommendation of a local college coach. This process involves a written Program Application that is completed by both the player and the coach making the recommendation.
Most players qualify at one of our open tryouts held around the country. At these tryouts, interested players are put through a 2-3 hour workout during which time their skills are evaluated by our coaching staff. Sometimes we accept players (who are not able to attend a tryout) through the recommendation of a local college coach. This process involves a written Program Application that is completed by both the player and the coach making the recommendation.
For more on tryouts in your area, go to Tryout Schedule for dates and sites.
Should I pre-register for the tryout?
Yes. Often tryout spots are limited. You can register online or by calling our office at (740) 373-4455. Go to Tryout Registration for more information.
Yes. Often tryout spots are limited. You can register online or by calling our office at (740) 373-4455. Go to Tryout Registration for more information.
How much does it cost to attend the tryout?
For players that pre-register (online or by calling our office) the tryout fee is $25.00. This fee will not be collected until the day of the tryout. Players that do not pre-register are welcome to come the day of the tryout. However, spots are not guaranteed.
For players that pre-register (online or by calling our office) the tryout fee is $25.00. This fee will not be collected until the day of the tryout. Players that do not pre-register are welcome to come the day of the tryout. However, spots are not guaranteed.
How can I get driving directions to the tryout?
For directions to the facility, click on the Tryout Details icon following the event of your choice on the Tryout Schedule page.
For directions to the facility, click on the Tryout Details icon following the event of your choice on the Tryout Schedule page.
What should I bring with me to the tryout?
Make sure to bring your glove, bat, and catcher's gear (if applicable). Most players wear either baseball pants or sweat pants.
Make sure to bring your glove, bat, and catcher's gear (if applicable). Most players wear either baseball pants or sweat pants.
Can my parents come watch the tryout?
Yes. It will also give them an opportunity to meet some of our coaches and learn more about the program.
Yes. It will also give them an opportunity to meet some of our coaches and learn more about the program.
What if I play more than one position?
Since this is a very competitive atmosphere, we ask players to choose the one position where they think they can best showcase their skills. Assuming you qualify for the program at your best position, you will surely have a chance to play in another spot(s) on the trip.
Since this is a very competitive atmosphere, we ask players to choose the one position where they think they can best showcase their skills. Assuming you qualify for the program at your best position, you will surely have a chance to play in another spot(s) on the trip.
If I do not make the team, can I tryout again?
Of course. You are allowed to attend as many as three tryout events in a calendar year.
Of course. You are allowed to attend as many as three tryout events in a calendar year.
I don't live near any of the tryout areas. Can I still qualify?
Absolutely. If you are unable to attend due to a previous commitment or live too far away from all of our tryout sites, you can still be considered for travel by completing a Program Application. This includes two recommendations from your local coaches. You can find the Program Application on the Tryout Schedule page or Email us for an application.
Absolutely. If you are unable to attend due to a previous commitment or live too far away from all of our tryout sites, you can still be considered for travel by completing a Program Application. This includes two recommendations from your local coaches. You can find the Program Application on the Tryout Schedule page or Email us for an application.
Registration
When will I know if I've made the team?
You will be notified by mail within 14 days after the tryout. If you qualify, you will receive additional information about the program options including dates, tuition, and our fundraising program.
You will be notified by mail within 14 days after the tryout. If you qualify, you will receive additional information about the program options including dates, tuition, and our fundraising program.
How many players do you accept at each tryout?
There is no specific formula that we use to determine the total number of players taken from each tryout. We seek to select those players we feel possess the skills and mental make-up to play beyond high school. While we would like to provide an opportunity for all those players who express an interest in our program, the reality is that the majority of players who attend a tryout do not qualify for the program.
There is no specific formula that we use to determine the total number of players taken from each tryout. We seek to select those players we feel possess the skills and mental make-up to play beyond high school. While we would like to provide an opportunity for all those players who express an interest in our program, the reality is that the majority of players who attend a tryout do not qualify for the program.
Do you provide references?
We are happy to provide you the name of past players, parents, coaches or pro scouts who have traveled with us. We encourage you to speak with some of our alumni before you sign-up so you feel completely confident in our organization.
We are happy to provide you the name of past players, parents, coaches or pro scouts who have traveled with us. We encourage you to speak with some of our alumni before you sign-up so you feel completely confident in our organization.
If I make the team, can I select the tour I want to attend?
Absolutely. Keep in mind that we only take a limited number of players on each tour so the sooner you register, the better chance you will have of securing your desired choice.
Absolutely. Keep in mind that we only take a limited number of players on each tour so the sooner you register, the better chance you will have of securing your desired choice.
How do I sign-up?
Your completed paperwork and a $350.00 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your roster spot. This deposit will be deducted from the total tuition. The paperwork includes: Player Registration Form, Medical Authorization Form, and Code of Conduct.
Your completed paperwork and a $350.00 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your roster spot. This deposit will be deducted from the total tuition. The paperwork includes: Player Registration Form, Medical Authorization Form, and Code of Conduct.
Can I defer my enrollment to a future year?
If you are unable to travel this year, you are welcome to register for any of our future tours. When you register, specify that you would like to "Defer Enrollment."
If you are unable to travel this year, you are welcome to register for any of our future tours. When you register, specify that you would like to "Defer Enrollment."
Can I find out who else made the team from my tryout?
In an effort to protect your privacy, all tryout evaluations are kept confidential.
In an effort to protect your privacy, all tryout evaluations are kept confidential.
What makes this program so unique?
Designed to give players a taste of what it is like to play at the collegiate or professional level, Coast To Coast's programs are packed with first-rate instruction, spirited competition, and unparalleled learning experiences both on and off the field.
Designed to give players a taste of what it is like to play at the collegiate or professional level, Coast To Coast's programs are packed with first-rate instruction, spirited competition, and unparalleled learning experiences both on and off the field.
Is the Puerto Rico trip a good cultural experience?
You bet! It's what sets Coast to Coast apart from all the other baseball programs. When you're not on the field, you will have a chance to see and do some amazing things. You'll explore important points of interest, visit historic sites, learn about the culture of your host country, and meet other serious athletes from the Island.
You bet! It's what sets Coast to Coast apart from all the other baseball programs. When you're not on the field, you will have a chance to see and do some amazing things. You'll explore important points of interest, visit historic sites, learn about the culture of your host country, and meet other serious athletes from the Island.
Transportation
How does the team get around during the program?
On each of our trips, players and boosters are transported by air-conditioned motor coach.
On each of our trips, players and boosters are transported by air-conditioned motor coach.
Do I need a passport or visa?
Both a passport and visa is required for travel to Australia. We will also be applying for a travel visa as a group. Please do not get a visa on your own. We will forward information to you about the visa process as we get closer to the trip.
Both a passport and visa is required for travel to Australia. We will also be applying for a travel visa as a group. Please do not get a visa on your own. We will forward information to you about the visa process as we get closer to the trip.
For the past several years the US Government has said that US citizens would need passports to travel to Puerto Rico in the coming year. Each year they have dropped that requirement as the deadline approached. The government is again saying passports will be needed in 2009. While this requirement may again be dropped as we approach the New Year there is no way of being certain. As a result, we recommend applying for a passport just in case. In the event it is not needed most passports are good for 10 years so you can certainly use it in the future. If you have more questions about passports and Puerto Rico, please give us a call.
What time should I arrive and depart the gateway city?
Our staff will be meeting players at the airport until 5pm on arrival day. However, if you can arrive by 2pm we will get you out for an afternoon workout that day. Players arriving after 5pm will be responsible for their own transportation from the airport to the hotel.
Our staff will be meeting players at the airport until 5pm on arrival day. However, if you can arrive by 2pm we will get you out for an afternoon workout that day. Players arriving after 5pm will be responsible for their own transportation from the airport to the hotel.
Can I arrive before the first day of the tour or stay after the tour ends?
Yes, however you will be responsible for your own transportation to and from the hotel. You will also be responsible to pay for the cost of the hotel room for any extra nights.
Yes, however you will be responsible for your own transportation to and from the hotel. You will also be responsible to pay for the cost of the hotel room for any extra nights.
Where will a staff member pick me up at the airport when I arrive?
We will pick you up at the baggage claim area. We will also drive you back to the airport the last day of the tour. It is important you send us your airline itinerary so we know when you are arriving. In the final mailing before your trip, we will provide the name and cell phone number for your tour leader. In the event you do not see our staff in baggage claim, you can call the tour leader and make arrangements for pick-up.
We will pick you up at the baggage claim area. We will also drive you back to the airport the last day of the tour. It is important you send us your airline itinerary so we know when you are arriving. In the final mailing before your trip, we will provide the name and cell phone number for your tour leader. In the event you do not see our staff in baggage claim, you can call the tour leader and make arrangements for pick-up.
Games
What's your philosophy?
Coast to Coast Baseball was founded to give young players the opportunity to learn from top coaches while competing against other outstanding players from around the world. Our ongoing desire is to provide our players with quality instruction and competition in an atmosphere that fosters learning and the development of character.
Coast to Coast Baseball was founded to give young players the opportunity to learn from top coaches while competing against other outstanding players from around the world. Our ongoing desire is to provide our players with quality instruction and competition in an atmosphere that fosters learning and the development of character.
Does the team practice before the tour?
Since your teammates will come from all over the country, we do not practice prior to the trip. We strongly encourage you to follow a workout regimen so you arrive in top physical shape and are ready to play to your full potential. For training suggestions we recommend you have a look at the Pre-Tour Training Manual or contact Dana Cavalea at www.MajorLeagueStrength.com.
Since your teammates will come from all over the country, we do not practice prior to the trip. We strongly encourage you to follow a workout regimen so you arrive in top physical shape and are ready to play to your full potential. For training suggestions we recommend you have a look at the Pre-Tour Training Manual or contact Dana Cavalea at www.MajorLeagueStrength.com.
How do you choose the teams?
The coaching staff for each trip sets the rosters. Our age groups are 11-12, 13-15 and 16-18. Occasionally, we deviate (only with the player's permission) from these age categories if our coaches feel you would be better challenged at a higher level.
The coaching staff for each trip sets the rosters. Our age groups are 11-12, 13-15 and 16-18. Occasionally, we deviate (only with the player's permission) from these age categories if our coaches feel you would be better challenged at a higher level.
How many players are on a team?
Roster size varies (15-18 players) from trip to trip and by age group. Be sure to ask about roster size for the program you have in mind.
Roster size varies (15-18 players) from trip to trip and by age group. Be sure to ask about roster size for the program you have in mind.
How much playing time will I receive?
Because all those players who will be traveling have demonstrated their ability to compete against top competition, ability level (and thus playing time) will be relatively equal.
Because all those players who will be traveling have demonstrated their ability to compete against top competition, ability level (and thus playing time) will be relatively equal.
How's the competition?
Outstanding! Every time you step on the field, you will face some of the best competition the host destination has to offer. Whether its Australia, or Puerto Rico, Hawaii or the Florida Showcase & Camp you'll be pushed to the limits of your ability!
Outstanding! Every time you step on the field, you will face some of the best competition the host destination has to offer. Whether its Australia, or Puerto Rico, Hawaii or the Florida Showcase & Camp you'll be pushed to the limits of your ability!
Meals & Lodging
What is the food like on the international trips?
If you've traveled overseas before, you know that food varies a great deal by taste, quantity, and quality depending on where you go. While we believe strongly that part of the overseas experience is trying new types of foods, we recognize that all players may not share the same sense of adventure. Therefore, we offer a menu that includes both some authentic entrees for you to try as well as some staples you eat at home. The program does allow you to lunch each day on your own, so you are welcome to be as adventuresome or conservative as you like.
If you've traveled overseas before, you know that food varies a great deal by taste, quantity, and quality depending on where you go. While we believe strongly that part of the overseas experience is trying new types of foods, we recognize that all players may not share the same sense of adventure. Therefore, we offer a menu that includes both some authentic entrees for you to try as well as some staples you eat at home. The program does allow you to lunch each day on your own, so you are welcome to be as adventuresome or conservative as you like.
When we are traveling, where do we stay?
Our groups stay in hotels, selected for comfort, safety, and proximity to the ball fields.
Our groups stay in hotels, selected for comfort, safety, and proximity to the ball fields.
How many other players will stay in my room?
Players are housed 2-3 per room just like college and minor league road trips.
Players are housed 2-3 per room just like college and minor league road trips.
Can I request a roommate?
If you know another player attending the same tour, let us know and we will be happy to assign you to the same room. Keep in mind, however, that one of the most rewarding aspects of the tour is the opportunity to meet new players from different areas of the country.
If you know another player attending the same tour, let us know and we will be happy to assign you to the same room. Keep in mind, however, that one of the most rewarding aspects of the tour is the opportunity to meet new players from different areas of the country.
Can I room with my parent (my son)?
No. We strongly believe that part of the growth experience that comes with travel is the bond developed between roommates. Therefore, players room with other players, not parents.
No. We strongly believe that part of the growth experience that comes with travel is the bond developed between roommates. Therefore, players room with other players, not parents.
Parents Traveling
Can my parents come along?
Your parents, grandparents, siblings, and any other family members and friends are welcome to join you overseas and enjoy a wonderful baseball vacation. Family members interested in coming as part of the group can call our office for more information on the Booster Package. The package entitles non-players to stay at the same hotel where players are housed, ride the bus, eat many of the same meals, and attend all the sightseeing activities scheduled for the players.
Your parents, grandparents, siblings, and any other family members and friends are welcome to join you overseas and enjoy a wonderful baseball vacation. Family members interested in coming as part of the group can call our office for more information on the Booster Package. The package entitles non-players to stay at the same hotel where players are housed, ride the bus, eat many of the same meals, and attend all the sightseeing activities scheduled for the players.
Can parents attend the games?
Of course! Parents are welcome to attend all the games and practices. However, only those persons purchasing the Booster Package will be allowed to travel on our team bus to all activities. Unfortunately, if you are making your own arrangements to accompany the group you will also be responsible for your own transportation to/from games and other activities.
Of course! Parents are welcome to attend all the games and practices. However, only those persons purchasing the Booster Package will be allowed to travel on our team bus to all activities. Unfortunately, if you are making your own arrangements to accompany the group you will also be responsible for your own transportation to/from games and other activities.
Supervision & Safety
What steps do you take to ensure my son's safety?
The Coast to Coast program is administered by people who have experience in taking large groups of athletes overseas. With our ratio of one adult staff member for every 6-7 players, we're able to create a highly-supervised and structured environment. Second, we choose hotels located in safe areas. Third, our schedule is packed with baseball activities so there is very little down-time. Finally, we are in frequent contact with the United States State Department from whom we receive information about travel safety as well as areas of concern around the world. When your son is not playing ball, he'll either be sightseeing, attending a seminar, or relaxing at the hotel with the rest of his team. Our primary concern is the safety of our participants.
The Coast to Coast program is administered by people who have experience in taking large groups of athletes overseas. With our ratio of one adult staff member for every 6-7 players, we're able to create a highly-supervised and structured environment. Second, we choose hotels located in safe areas. Third, our schedule is packed with baseball activities so there is very little down-time. Finally, we are in frequent contact with the United States State Department from whom we receive information about travel safety as well as areas of concern around the world. When your son is not playing ball, he'll either be sightseeing, attending a seminar, or relaxing at the hotel with the rest of his team. Our primary concern is the safety of our participants.
Is there a certified athletic trainer on site?
Most of the host organizations we work with provide either athletic trainers or doctors who attend the games and take care of injuries and illnesses. In the event that medical personnel are not provided by the tournament, we bring our own certified athletic trainer.
Most of the host organizations we work with provide either athletic trainers or doctors who attend the games and take care of injuries and illnesses. In the event that medical personnel are not provided by the tournament, we bring our own certified athletic trainer.
Is my son covered by insurance?
Yes. Tuition includes a secondary medical insurance policy for all players. Special Note: Proof of primary medical insurance coverage is required for all players and boosters.
Yes. Tuition includes a secondary medical insurance policy for all players. Special Note: Proof of primary medical insurance coverage is required for all players and boosters.
Is curfew just for the younger players?
No. It is for all players and is strictly enforced to create a serious baseball atmosphere. If your son chooses to participate in our program, he is required to be in his room at curfew.
No. It is for all players and is strictly enforced to create a serious baseball atmosphere. If your son chooses to participate in our program, he is required to be in his room at curfew.
Are there other rules governing players' behavior?
Each player that signs up for the program is required to sign a Code of Conduct Agreement that outlines the sort of behavior we expect of our athletes. Violations of this agreement can result in anything from reduced playing time to expulsion from the program. It is important that players and families alike understand that Coast to Coast is a serious baseball program for serious athletes. While we do take time to take in some of the sights, this is not a vacation. Our sincere hope is that players travel with us because they see our programs as a chance to improve their skills. The only way this can happen is in a structured atmosphere.
Each player that signs up for the program is required to sign a Code of Conduct Agreement that outlines the sort of behavior we expect of our athletes. Violations of this agreement can result in anything from reduced playing time to expulsion from the program. It is important that players and families alike understand that Coast to Coast is a serious baseball program for serious athletes. While we do take time to take in some of the sights, this is not a vacation. Our sincere hope is that players travel with us because they see our programs as a chance to improve their skills. The only way this can happen is in a structured atmosphere.
Is there a lot of free time?
Not really. The daily schedule is packed with baseball activities such as instructional clinics, team practices, seminars, and games. Your son will have a few hours off each afternoon to relax. Games are usually played in the afternoon or evening. We focus on providing each player with an intense baseball experience.
Not really. The daily schedule is packed with baseball activities such as instructional clinics, team practices, seminars, and games. Your son will have a few hours off each afternoon to relax. Games are usually played in the afternoon or evening. We focus on providing each player with an intense baseball experience.
Staff
Will I receive a baseball scholarship if I participate in the camp?
That's entirely up to you. All we can promise is that you'll have the opportunity to play in front of numerous top instructors and scouts. College coaches independently decide which players they want to recruit. The characteristics they look at are your playing ability, your attitude on and off the field, your grades and educational interests, your personality and work ethic.
That's entirely up to you. All we can promise is that you'll have the opportunity to play in front of numerous top instructors and scouts. College coaches independently decide which players they want to recruit. The characteristics they look at are your playing ability, your attitude on and off the field, your grades and educational interests, your personality and work ethic.
How can Coast to Coast help me get into a good college?
In addition to giving you the opportunity to showcase your skills in front of recruiters, we'll show you how to correspond with coaches, produce a highlight video, write your own player profile, and select a school that meets your educational and athletic goals. While we cannot write letters of recommendation, we are happy to serve as a reference for all players who are seeking to play college baseball.
In addition to giving you the opportunity to showcase your skills in front of recruiters, we'll show you how to correspond with coaches, produce a highlight video, write your own player profile, and select a school that meets your educational and athletic goals. While we cannot write letters of recommendation, we are happy to serve as a reference for all players who are seeking to play college baseball.
I know an instructor who would love to work at one of your camps. What can he do?
Have him send his resume and list of references. We are always looking for quality coaches.
Have him send his resume and list of references. We are always looking for quality coaches.
When will I know the exact staff roster for my particular camp?
Staff rosters are generally completed about 30 days prior to travel. Shortly before your trip, you will receive a biography of each of the coaches in the mail.
Staff rosters are generally completed about 30 days prior to travel. Shortly before your trip, you will receive a biography of each of the coaches in the mail.
Are there seminars on the tour?
Both players and parents benefit from the educational seminars hosted by the coaches and travel staff. Likely topics include; the college recruiting process, the negative effects of performance-enhancing drugs, and off-season conditioning and weight-training programs.
Both players and parents benefit from the educational seminars hosted by the coaches and travel staff. Likely topics include; the college recruiting process, the negative effects of performance-enhancing drugs, and off-season conditioning and weight-training programs.
Fundraising
Are there ways to reduce the tour tuition?
Absolutely! The official fundraising partner of Coast to Coast is My Sports Dreams (800) 376-5988. They'll teach you how to substantially defray the program cost.
Absolutely! The official fundraising partner of Coast to Coast is My Sports Dreams (800) 376-5988. They'll teach you how to substantially defray the program cost.
To whom should my sponsors make their checks payable?
All checks should be made payable to "Coast to Coast."
All checks should be made payable to "Coast to Coast."
How do I make sure this check gets into my player account?
It is very important that you write your name clearly on the memo line of each check you receive. This way we will know to credit the check to your account.
It is very important that you write your name clearly on the memo line of each check you receive. This way we will know to credit the check to your account.
What if someone wants to contribute but prefers to pay Coast to Coast with a credit card?
We are happy to process credit card donations. We accept Mastercard, Visa, and Discover. In order for us to do this, the cardholder will have to complete and sign the Credit Card Authorization Form that is part of your acceptance package. Please make sure your donor is aware that there is a 3% service charge on all credit and debit card transactions.
We are happy to process credit card donations. We accept Mastercard, Visa, and Discover. In order for us to do this, the cardholder will have to complete and sign the Credit Card Authorization Form that is part of your acceptance package. Please make sure your donor is aware that there is a 3% service charge on all credit and debit card transactions.
What happens if I receive a sponsor's check after I have paid my tuition in full?
All donation checks must be received by Coast to Coast prior to the beginning of your trip. If your account is overpaid, we will issue a refund check as soon as all deposits have cleared the bank. NOTE: COAST TO COAST CANNOT ACCEPT ANY DONOR CHECKS AFTER TRAVEL HAS BEGUN.
All donation checks must be received by Coast to Coast prior to the beginning of your trip. If your account is overpaid, we will issue a refund check as soon as all deposits have cleared the bank. NOTE: COAST TO COAST CANNOT ACCEPT ANY DONOR CHECKS AFTER TRAVEL HAS BEGUN.
