Community Youth Baseball Stays Strong in El Cerrito

What do Marcus Semien (Oakland A’s shortstop), Mario Hollands (Phillies), Brian Nichols (Reds, Red Socks and former ECHS Coach) have in common?? They all started out in El Cerrito Youth Baseball!!

Registration is now open for El Cerrito Youth Baseball (ECYB), one of the top local leagues to join for both spring recreational and summer all-star travel baseball opportunities. ECYB works with coaches, professional trainers, the City of El Cerrito, and the local community to provide the best possible youth baseball experience for boys and girls of all skill levels from ages 5 through 14.

Starting from the youngest division, trainers run clinics and make practice visits to develop the skill of players and coaches. Our partnership with the Positive Coaching Alliance allows the league to maintain a safe and supportive environment for all of our kids. League activities such as the Opening Day parade and barbecue, and participation in games, practices, clinics, and youth umpire program allow players to develop lifelong friendships as well as baseball and leadership skills. We are committed to supporting diversity in our league.

Our recreational season is all about the kids having fun with friends, developing skills, and having lots of opportunities to play multiple positions (and pitch in the upper divisions). More advanced players may compete in the PONY Baseball World Series and regional tournaments through the select/all-star program during the late spring and summer. All players can take advantage of extra instruction through our summer and fall ball programs run by our trainers.

Players may register online at ECYB.org. Teams form in January, with practices starting in February and games from March to early June. Residency in El Cerrito is not required. Financial assistance may be available. Registration fees increase after November 30, and space may be limited for later registrants. Registration for our youth umpire program (player participation not required) will open in December.

ECYB will hold a free baseball-focused athletic training clinic (weather permitting) for players at Castro Park on Saturday, December 10 from 10 am, and parents are invited to attend an open house/orientation in the Castro Park clubhouse at the same time.

For more information about ECYB and registration, please visit our website at ECYB.org or contact registrar Ellie Blue at 510 236-2300.