WHAT IS SELECT?

House league select baseball is a level of play that sits between regular house league and full competitive (rep) baseball. Players come from our house league teams and are chosen to form a “select” team that competes against other associations. It offers a slightly higher level of competition, more structured practices, and additional games or tournaments, while still maintaining a focus on skill development, teamwork, and enjoyment of the game. It’s a great option for players who want a bit more challenge and commitment without the intensity of full rep baseball.

How are Select teams chosen?

Players are chosen for Select teams based on player performance at Select tryouts.

When are tryouts happening?

Tryout typically happen after House League Registration closes.

Who should attend Select tryouts?

Tryouts are open to all age-appropriate players who intend to register for the 2026 House League program. If your player is eager to take their game to the next level and experience more competitive baseball, we encourage them to attend.

Do Select players play in House League as well?

Yes. Select players must register with and play in Northumberland Baseball's House League program. House League games and practices come before Select. 

How do I know if my child is skilled enough?

You won't know, and neither will we until they try it—so don't miss out on the opportunity! Tryouts are a valuable experience for kids, no matter the outcome, and we strongly encourage them to participate.

As a general guideline, House League may be a more suitable option if your child is new to baseball or still developing foundational skills for their age group.

Tryouts can be stressful, so we strive to create a relaxed and supportive environment. We welcome all interested players to come out and enjoy the experience!

What is the time commitment?

Select players must prioritize House League practices and games over Select commitments.

Game Commitment:

• House League games and practices (priority)
• 8–10 regular season games 
• 1 -3 tournaments throughout the season
• EOSBA playdowns + provincial playoffs (if the team qualifies)

Practice Commitment:

• One Select practice per week (start date TBD)
  
  

How many players make a team?

Team size depends on the age level and is determined by The Northumberland Baseball Association in collaboration with the coaching staff. For the Select program, larger rosters are encouraged to ensure sufficient player availability for summer games, with up to 14 players potentially being selected for a team.

Players not initially selected may be invited to join a reserve list, providing opportunities to step in during unforeseen absences.

Where do Select teams play?

Northumberland Select teams play in the Eastern Ontario Select Baseball Association (EOSBA), which includes teams from Pickering to Kingston and as far north as Lindsay. Some games may be outside of EOSBA (e.g., Toronto, travel tournaments), but we will endeavour to ensure that at least half of games fall within EOSBA territory. If teams qualify, provincial playoffs may involve a weekend of travel farther abroad.

When do I find out if my child made the Select team?

If there are enough players to field a competitive team, coaches will notify parents of team decisions within 1 week of the final tryouts

What if there isn't sufficient interest in fielding a team?

If there is insufficient coach and/or player interest, no team will be fielded at that age level

Are there playoffs?

The EOSBA playdowns occur in mid- to late August. If teams qualify, they advance to the provincial playoff.

What does the schedule look like?

Games are generally played between June and mid-August, often scheduled as Saturday or Sunday doubleheaders. This is followed by the EOSBA playdowns and potentially the provincial playoffs.

Schedules vary depending on tournament participation. Teams with strong coach and parent interest may start training earlier or participate in an extra tournament at an additional cost.

What if my child can't make it to every game?

Baseball occasionally conflicts with other commitments. While we encourage families to make every effort to attend all practices and games, Select team roster sizes accommodate absences.