F.A.Q

Is the Ventura Braves Baseball Club a Travel Team?

Though the Ventura Braves Baseball Club can travel to play games, the clubs emphasis is of player development as well as gaining exposure. Our program promotes physical, mental and fundamental development while staying local during summer. Participation in the club includes a cost effective way of receiving a comprehensive training program that includes practices, clinics and competitive game play.

How can I get exposure to college and professional scouts if I don't play for national teams in large tournaments?

The Ventura Braves Baseball Club coaching staff is committed to the development and placement of all of our players seeking to play at the next levels. Our staff has an extensive network of college and professional scouts. In addition, The Ventura Braves White and Blue teams compete in the gold coast high school league which includes several programs coached and managed by professional scouts from several organizations. Players assigned to the Blue Team that wish to play at the next level will also have access to premium FieldLevel.

Can I play with other non-affiliated programs that emphasize travel while still playing with Ventura Braves?

Yes, for players that would prefer to play weekend tournaments, we offer an option for our players to attend clinics, practices and weekday games. Please note that non-affiliated participation could conflict with gold coast high school league play.

Do you offer a discount for brothers or if we refer our buddies to the club?

Yes, we appreciate all of our clubs participants and we provide a sibling and buddy referral discount for multiple player participation.

Our family is planning several summer trip planned so we're uncomfortable committing to the entire summer program, what options are available for us?

We understand that families use summer time for taking time off and reconnecting over travel. For players that want to still participate on a limited basis, we offer a weekly participation package. Please note that weekly players are not guaranteed a game roster spot and spots will be available after all full season players have been accommodated.

We'd like some one-on-one coaching aside from the group workouts and games, what do you offer?

We highly recommend players receiving private lessons as they can greatly improve a players development. We offer pitching, fielding and hitting lessons for an additional cost(each coach has their own pricing). Our coaches regularly collaborate together to discuss each players development. This is designed to assist and reinforce the items of attention learned while in one-on-one instruction. If you already have a private coach, we would like to discuss with the player and their instructor of the items that need to be reinforced during practice sessions and game play.

What does it take to for high school baseball players to play at the college level?

Playing baseball in college requires dedication, skill, and a strong work ethic. Here are some key aspects and expectations to consider:

Skill level: College baseball is highly competitive, and the level of play can be significantly higher than in high school. Players must possess a high level of skill and demonstrate proficiency in the fundamental aspects of the game, including hitting, fielding, throwing, base running, and pitching.
Athletic ability: College baseball players are generally expected to have above-average athletic ability. This includes speed, agility, strength, and coordination. Developing and maintaining physical fitness is essential to perform at the collegiate level.
Academic performance: College baseball student-athletes must meet academic eligibility requirements to participate in games. This typically involves maintaining a minimum GPA and making satisfactory academic progress towards a degree. Balancing academics and athletics requires effective time management and discipline.
Training and practice: College baseball programs have rigorous training schedules, including regular practices, strength and conditioning sessions, and team workouts. Players are expected to commit a significant amount of time to honing their skills, improving physical fitness, and studying the game.
Competition and playing time: College baseball rosters are typically larger than high school teams, and the competition for playing time can be fierce. Coaches evaluate players based on their performance, consistency, and ability to contribute to the team's success. Players must be prepared to compete and earn their playing time.
Commitment and dedication: Playing college baseball requires a high level of commitment and dedication. Student-athletes often have demanding schedules, including early morning workouts, classes, practices, games, and travel. It's important to be fully invested in the sport and willing to put in the necessary time and effort to succeed.
Mental toughness: College baseball can be mentally challenging. Players face pressure to perform at a high level, deal with competition, handle setbacks, and balance the demands of academics and athletics. Mental resilience, focus, and the ability to handle stress are essential attributes for success.
Teamwork and coachability: College baseball is a team sport, and players must be willing to work together and accept coaching. Coaches value players who exhibit good sportsmanship, communicate effectively, and demonstrate a willingness to learn and improve.
Recruiting process: To play college baseball, aspiring athletes often need to go through the recruiting process. This involves showcasing their skills to college coaches through showcases, camps, tournaments, and by creating a recruiting profile. It's crucial to proactively reach out to coaches, provide updated stats and videos, and express interest in their programs.
Time commitment: College baseball can be demanding in terms of time commitment. Practices, games, travel, and other team activities can take up a significant portion of a student-athlete's schedule. It's important to consider the impact on academics, social life, and personal responsibilities when pursuing college baseball.

Playing baseball in college can be an incredibly rewarding experience, providing opportunities to compete at a high level, receive quality coaching, and build lifelong friendships. However, it requires a serious commitment to both the sport and academics. It's crucial to have a realistic understanding of the expectations, challenges, and sacrifices involved before pursuing a college baseball career.