Travel Baseball Overview


Ages 8U–14U • Full-Time Competitive Program


BGRA’s Travel Baseball program offers players the opportunity to compete at a higher level against top teams across the region. Open to players from Buffalo Grove and neighboring communities, our travel program emphasizes advanced skill development, teamwork, and commitment.


Players selected for Travel Baseball are not eligible to play in the House League program.



What to Expect


  • Preseason Training: 15 indoor training sessions over 10 weeks (January–March)
  • In-Season Commitment: At least 3 touches per week (game, practice, or hitting session) once league play begins
  • Season Length: January through mid/late July (with tournaments)
  • League Play: Teams compete in the LSFBL (lsfbl.com) or a comparable league
  • Tournaments: 3–4 included in fees (including BGRA’s Dalton Hinkle Memorial Slugfest); teams may add 2–3 more by team decision
  • 12U Cooperstown Option: 12U teams may have the opportunity to participate in Cooperstown or a similar week-long tournament


Coaching


Each team is led by either a paid, non-parent coach or a vetted parent coach.


  • Paid coaches are long-time professionals dedicated to teaching the game the right way.
  • Parent coaches are experienced volunteers with a proven commitment to player growth.
  • Families may state a preference, but team placement always comes first.


Uniform Package


Each player receives:


  • 2 Game Jerseys
  • 1 Practice T-Shirt
  • 2 Hats
  • 2 Pairs of Pants
  • Hoodie/Pullover
  • 2 Pairs of Socks
  • Belt


Tryouts


  • Two sessions per age group — players only need to attend one, but may attend both
  • Players should try out with their 2026 grade level (exceptions must be pre-approved)
  • No fee for tryouts, but pre-registration is required
  • Offers may be extended during or immediately following tryouts
  • A $500 non-refundable deposit is due upon accepting a roster spot


2026 Tryout Schedule

  • Tryouts are closed for the 2026 season



Player Expectations

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  • Full commitment to practices, games, and tournaments
  • Positive sportsmanship on and off the field
  • Families are required to volunteer during BGRA’s Dalton Hinkle Memorial Slugfest (opt-out available for $150 per player)


Contact

For more information about Travel Baseball or tryouts:

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Email: travel@bgrabaseball.org

Call: (847) 840-3199 (Russ Goldstein, Travel Director)