What does it mean to “play up” for All-Stars?
You may elect for your player to be considered for an older team during the opt-in process. Selecting that you are willing to “play up” means that you would be comfortable with your child playing on an All-Stars team above their league age. It is rare for players to play on teams above their league age team. If they are not selected for a higher age group team, they will still be considered for their league age team.
If my child is selected for the All-Stars team, what can we expect (practices and games)?
All-Star teams practice at least 5 nights a week with practice length times varying. There may also be some pre-tournament scrimmages in and outside of West Seattle leading up to a district tournament in late June or early July. If the team wins districts, they will also play in a state tournament shortly thereafter.
How much play time will my child get on the All-Stars team?
Families and players should recognize that All-Stars Tournament play time is different from the regular season in West Seattle Little League. Every player on the roster bats in a continuous batting order. However, some players may see limited time in the field, as there are no minimum requirements for field time. With that said, everyone who makes the All-Star roster is on the team for a reason, and they will be expected to fill a role and contribute in meaningful ways.
How many players are selected for each team?
Typically, most managers form a team of 12-13 players, however this will vary by manager based on tournament playing rules.
Do the Jamboree games count towards the 8-game minimum for player eligibility?
No, the Jamboree games are considered exhibit games and do not count towards the 8-game minimum. Only regular season regulation games count.
How are players selected for a team?
Players are selected through several different mechanisms:
(1) Player vote: all players in the Minors and Majors divisions will have an opportunity to vote for 3 players for selection to the All-Star teams. The 3 players at each age level with the most votes are selected for that All-Star Team. Players in the Minors division will vote for the 10s All-Star Team. Players in the Majors division will vote for the 11s and 12s All-Star Teams.
(2) Managers/coaches vote: The manager and one primary coach for each team in the Minors and Majors divisions will vote, choosing from the remaining eligible players. Six players will be selected for the team through this process.
(3) All-Star Manager remaining players selection: The All-Star Manager will then select from the remaining eligible players to complete the team roster.
If my family already has a vacation planned during June/July, how would that affect All-Stars eligibility?
If your child would like to be considered for an All-Star Team, please ensure that they will be available for practices, team-building activities, and games from June through the end of July. If you have planned trips and vacations during this timeframe, please do not opt-in for All-Stars. Please note that the 12s All Star Team may also compete into August if they advance beyond the State Tournament.