Registration closes soon for 2023 summer ball, fastpitch

By Brandi Makuski

Registration opens on New Year’s Day for the Plover-Whiting Youth Athletics summer ball.

For the 2023 season, PWYA has reduced its registration fee for younger leagues. Chris Brooks, a representative of the organization, said the lower costs are intended to help families suffering from inflation and other rising costs.

“And it’ll help local families to get more kids playing youth sports,” Brooks said. “When they sign their kids up, they’re really investing back into the kids in the community.”

Brooks said because of the long-term support it has already experienced in the community, PWYA was “lucky” to be able to offer the low-cost option.

Baseball

Children who are registered will be assigned to an appropriate baseball league based on their age as of April 30. Boys and girls can play tee-ball at ages 5 and 6, while other baseball divisions are available up to age 18.

The tee-ball fee is $20 for players ages 5 and 6. For players 7 and 8, the fee is $30, and fees start at $50 for players ages 9 to 15.

PWYA will hold an evaluation clinic for new players on April 1 at Ben Franklin Jr. High.

Fastpitch

For fastpitch leagues, a child’s age on Jan. 1 determines their league.

The fee is $20 for players 5 and 6 and $30 for players in 7 and 8 leagues. For players ages 9 to 18, the fees range from $50-$70. The fastpitch leagues do not offer player evaluations and play under USA Softball rules.

In 2022, PWYA had 18 tee-ball teams, 12 teams in the 7/8 leagues, and five teams in the 7/8 fastpitch softball.

All players who register in time are eligible for a free skills camp, held on the UW-Stevens Point campus, on Feb. 26. Players do not have to live in Plover to participate in the league.

Brooks said all coaches are trained and have passed a criminal background check.

“The players learn about teamwork, communication, and accountability,” Brooks said.

The registration window is open from Jan. 1 through March 15. Click here to register.