To the editor:
Each and every summer, Caribou Little League offers youngsters the opportunity to play organized baseball in the Caribou, Woodland and New Sweden/Stockholm area. The current format allows children between the ages of 9 through 12 to participate in our Little League program. Players learn team play, character building, self-confidence and improvement of their baseball knowledge and skill. While Caribou Little League believes we offer a very successful and quality program, we are always examining ways to improve the overall baseball experience for our players.
In the past couple years, league coaches and board members have discussed the possibility of restructuring Caribou Little League into two separate age divisions: 9- and 10-year-olds and 11- and 12-year-olds.
The current team format, where teams are comprised of all players ages 9-12, does not necessarily allow the younger players the greatest opportunity to learn and play the game. For example, on most teams the younger players play the outfield and substitute in the batting order while the infield, pitching and catching positions are dominated by the older players. Also discussed has been a safety concern of the young 9-year-olds batting against a strong 12-year-old pitcher and the fear and anxiety that is present during those situations; as well as a young 9-year-old pitcher facing a very skilled 12-year-old batter.
Dividing the league into two separate age divisions will allow the 9- and 10-year-old players to focus on more basic, fundamental skills and knowledge while developing confidence facing other 9- and 10-year-old teams. Our 11- and 12-year-old players will be able to focus on more complex skills, increase the knowledge and application of rules, and play the game of baseball at a higher skill level with a greater focus on team play and increased strategy.
To address the age difference, the Caribou Little League Executive Board would like to hear from past, current and future parents, coaches, umpires, volunteers and fans as to your thoughts on an age realignment. We are looking for all viewpoints, whether positive or negative, regarding a possible age realignment. This process is in the very early stages of development (2013 as the earliest year of transition) and many of the details have yet to be worked out.
For the managers and coaches to arrive at the decision best for our youth, we ask that you please consider completing a short survey found on our website: www.cariboulittlelea-gue.org. We suggest you think of all the pros and cons, discuss it with your child(ren) for his or her input, and discuss it with your Little League managers and coaches.
The survey may be downloaded and mailed to: Caribou Little League, Attn: Survey, PO Box 1331, Caribou, Maine, 04736. We ask that the surveys are returned to us by Friday, June 24.
Caribou Little League values your opinion, both positive and negative, to help us provide the best summer baseball program available for the development of our children on a skill and social level. Thank you.
Caribou Little League board member
