At Valley Nine Baseball, we create opportunities for young athletes to sharpen their skills while enjoying the thrill of the game. Our age-specific programs provide the right balance of growth, competition, and fun, ensuring every player gets the best experience.
We believe in the benefits of playing multiple sports, so whether your child is also involved in football, basketball, soccer, or another sport throughout the year, they’re always welcome here.
Come be part of a program that builds strong players, great teammates, and lasting memories!
Table of Context
13U Program
Program Highlights
- Training
- 3x a week practices starting mid-September through March.
- 22 sessions at VeloTech.
- 2x a week practices April to early July
- Games
- 7+ tournaments (21+ games)
- Top Tier League (~22 games)
- Scrimmages (5+)
- Uniform & Swag
- Multiple uniform tops, pants, socks & hats
- Sweatshirt and practice top
Important things to know about the 2026 season
- Head and Heart will continue to be a major focus for the 2026 season. We will continue to work with players to give the team their focus (head) and effort (heart) and hold them accountable when they do not.
- Full practices will begin mid September to give kids some time off of baseball. It's important for youth players to take time off, even if it's their favorite sport. Pitchers should be shutdown mid-July through mid-September (2 months).
- We will practice 3x a week. We will practice 3x a week during the off-season. We know this will cause some interference with other sports but we will do our best to pick practice days/times that minimize impact. We highly encourage players to play multiple sports and we will do our best to support that.
- We will practice both indoors & outdoors. At least 1 practice a week will be outdoors (on turf) throughout the offseason. Most weeks we will be at VeloTech 1-day a week. The 3rd day will be either outside on a field or in covered batting cages, based on what we need to practice and weather.
- League Games (focus = development)
- All players will be in the batting order and get equal playing time in the field.
- All players will play multiple positions during the league (i.e. both infield and outfield).
- We will use a wider pool of pitchers.
- Tournaments (focus = competing)
- During tournaments (all days)
- Players will play the positions that best helps the team compete. This may mean that some players will play more infield or more outfield based on where they best help the team. It also means that players may play less number of positions during the weekend.
- We will use the best pitchers to pitch based on performance during practices and prior games.
- During pool play (day 1)
- All players will be in the batting lineup and play a minimum of 2 innings in the field per game.
- During bracket play (day 2)
- We will bat 9 players. We will also play the best defense we can (this may mean some players DH and some players only play the field). This will be earned based on performance at practices, prior games and during pool play.
- We will use players who are not in the starting lineup as much as we can with a focus on competing. We will use bench players 1. This could mean getting to pinch hit or play in the field. We will do our best to make sure every player gets some action in each game, but it won't be guaranteed in bracket games.
- Developement (training/practices)
- All players will be developed for at least 2 positions (1 infield, 1 outfield).
- All players will be developed as pitchers, though pitching in games will be earned.
- We will have a catching clinic at VeloTech for our catchers.
- 6 1-hour sessions in the fall.
- Head and Heart will continue to be a major focus for the 2026 season. We will continue to work with players to give the team their focus (head) and effort (heart) and hold them accountable when they do not.
- Full practices will begin mid September to give kids some time off of baseball. It's important for youth players to take time off, even if it's their favorite sport. Pitchers should be shutdown mid-July through mid-September (2 months).
- We will practice 3x a week. We will practice 3x a week during the off-season. We know this will cause some interference with other sports but we will do our best to pick practice days/times that minimize impact. We highly encourage players to play multiple sports and we will do our best to support that.
- We will practice both indoors & outdoors. At least 1 practice a week will be outdoors (on turf) throughout the offseason. Most weeks we will be at VeloTech 1-day a week. The 3rd day will be either outside on a field or in covered batting cages, based on what we need to practice and weather.
- League Games (focus = development)
- All players will be in the batting order and get equal playing time in the field.
- All players will play multiple positions during the league (i.e. both infield and outfield).
- We will use a wider pool of pitchers.
- Tournaments (focus = competing)
- During tournaments (all days)
- Players will play the positions that best helps the team compete. This may mean that some players will play more infield or more outfield based on where they best help the team. It also means that players may play less number of positions during the weekend.
- We will use the best pitchers to pitch based on performance during practices and prior games.
- During pool play (day 1)
- All players will be in the batting lineup and play a minimum of 2 innings in the field per game.
- During bracket play (day 2)
- We will bat 9 players. We will also play the best defense we can (this may mean some players DH and some players only play the field). This will be earned based on performance at practices, prior games and during pool play.
- We will use players who are not in the starting lineup as much as we can with a focus on competing. We will use bench players 1. This could mean getting to pinch hit or play in the field. We will do our best to make sure every player gets some action in each game, but it won't be guaranteed in bracket games.
- Developement (training/practices)
- All players will be developed for at least 2 positions (1 infield, 1 outfield).
- All players will be developed as pitchers, though pitching in games will be earned.
- We will have a catching clinic at VeloTech for our catchers.
- 6 1-hour sessions in the fall.
What is the costs to join the 13U Team?
The total cost for the full year is $2600, with an additional $250 for new players to cover the cost of a team helmet and bag.
This year’s dues have increased to reflect exciting improvements, including:
- More practice sessions to enhance player development
- Additional VeloTech training for skill-building
- Expanded game opportunities, including participation in the Top Tier League
We offer two convenient payment options to make it easy for families to manage their dues. If these two options don't work for you family please reach out and we can discuss other options.
Fee Schedule for 2026 Season
Option 1 (pay in full)- September 1st = $2600 (+ $250 for new players) [100%]
Option 2 (split payments, + split payment fee)- September 1st = $1300 (+ additional $250 for new players) [50%]
- November 1st = $700 [25% + $50 split payment fee]
- February 1st = $700 [25% + $50 split payment fee]
The total cost for the full year is $2600, with an additional $250 for new players to cover the cost of a team helmet and bag.
This year’s dues have increased to reflect exciting improvements, including:
- More practice sessions to enhance player development
- Additional VeloTech training for skill-building
- Expanded game opportunities, including participation in the Top Tier League
We offer two convenient payment options to make it easy for families to manage their dues. If these two options don't work for you family please reach out and we can discuss other options.
- September 1st = $2600 (+ $250 for new players) [100%]
Option 2 (split payments, + split payment fee)
- September 1st = $1300 (+ additional $250 for new players) [50%]
- November 1st = $700 [25% + $50 split payment fee]
- February 1st = $700 [25% + $50 split payment fee]
What is the money used for?
All money collected as players fees are used to provide training facilities (~55%), tournaments & league games (~30%), uniform & swag (~14%), and equipment & insurance (~2%).
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11U & 10U Programs
Program Highlights
- Training
- 2x a week practices starting October through February.
- 14 sessions at VeloTech.
- 1x a week practices March to early July during LL season.
- Games
- 7 tournaments (21+ games)
- Scrimmages (~10)
- Uniform & Swag
- Multiple uniform tops, pants, socks & hat
- Sweatshirt and practice top
What is the costs to join the 11U Team?
The total cost for the full year is $1800, with an additional $250 for new players to cover the cost of a team helmet and bag.This year’s dues have increased to reflect exciting changes, including:
- Additional VeloTech training for skill-building
- Expanded game opportunities, including more tournaments and scrimmages
We offer two convenient payment options to make it easy for families to manage their dues. If these two options don't work for you family please reach out and we can discuss other options.
Fee Schedule for 2026 Season
Option 1 (pay in full)- September 1st = $1800 (+ $250 for new players) [100%]
Option 2 (split payments, + split payment fee)- September 1st = $900 (+ additional $250 for new players) [50%]
- November 1st = $500 [25% + $50 split payment fee]
- February 1st = $500 [25% + $50 split payment fee]
The total cost for the full year is $1800, with an additional $250 for new players to cover the cost of a team helmet and bag.
This year’s dues have increased to reflect exciting changes, including:
- Additional VeloTech training for skill-building
- Expanded game opportunities, including more tournaments and scrimmages
We offer two convenient payment options to make it easy for families to manage their dues. If these two options don't work for you family please reach out and we can discuss other options.
- September 1st = $1800 (+ $250 for new players) [100%]
Option 2 (split payments, + split payment fee)
- September 1st = $900 (+ additional $250 for new players) [50%]
- November 1st = $500 [25% + $50 split payment fee]
- February 1st = $500 [25% + $50 split payment fee]
What is the money used for?
All money collected as players fees are used to provide training facilities (~51%), tournaments & league games (~32%), uniform & swag (~13%), and equipment & insurance (~4%).
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FAQ
Why should I play for Valley Nine?
At Valley Nine Baseball, we believe the best players are built through a balance of fun, development, and competition—and we never sacrifice one for the other. Our top priority is ensuring players love the game, because when they’re having fun, they’re engaged, eager to improve, and motivated to reach their full potential.
We focus on long-term development, teaching players not just baseball fundamentals, but also how to be great teammates and competitors. Our program is designed to challenge players while keeping the sport enjoyable, so they grow their skills without feeling burnt out.
Competition is important, but winning isn’t everything—our goal is to help players develop the right way, sharpening their baseball IQ and technical abilities while maintaining their passion for the sport. If you’re looking for a program that keeps the game fun while helping you improve and compete, Valley Nine Baseball is the perfect place to play.
What teams will you have for 2026 season?
We are planning to have a 13U and 11U which are returning teams. If there is enough interest we will also start a new 10U team.
Is there a tryout to join?
Yes, please see our tryout page here for details. We are currently looking for players that would be league age 13 and under going into the USSSA season per USSSA's age calculator to play in tournaments. Any 2026 league age 13 and under will be eligible to join the teams.
Why is payment needed so early in the schedule?
Most of the cost to run the team (facilities, tournaments and uniforms/hats) is spent in the first 3 months (Oct - Dec) of the season in order to secure practice facilities, tournaments and order uniforms.
Are coaches paid?
All team coaches are 100% volunteer. We do hire specialists (i.e. VeloTech) to come in to provide specific training depending on the teams needs.
Why is practicing so expensive?
To ensure we have rights to fields or facilities we must rent it. To rent a practice facility we must have insurance. Insurance is provided by officially forming a team under a baseball association such as USSSA.
We also use VeloTech (indoors facilities) throughout the season with specialized instruction, which is more expensive than general field rentals. All is included in player fees.
Does Valley Nine take donations?
Yes! Valley Nine Sports (the org behind Valley Nine Baseball) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. If you would like to donate to Valley Nine Baseball please reach out to Jason Lewis at valleynine (at) outlook (.) com.
Where will you play tournaments?
Tournament schedule comes out in the fall, but most tournaments will be anywhere between Chehalis and Everett. Most tournaments we play are through Top Tier Sports. We will play 2-3 outside of the Puget Sound area including in Oregon (13U team) which will require additional travel and hotel expenses.
How much playing time will my son get?
13U
See above "important things about next season" question regarding playing time.
11U & 10U
We are developmental program at heart. To honor that we will use a continuous batting order in all games. Players will get ample time in the field as well, in both outfield and infield positions. We will develop everyone as a pitcher, but those that are more effective (i.e. throw strikes) will pitch more in games.
Will the program interfere with the Little League season?
We are developmental program at heart. To honor that we will use a continuous batting order in all games. Players will get ample time in the field as well, in both outfield and infield positions. We will develop everyone as a pitcher, but those that are more effective (i.e. throw strikes) will pitch more in games.
Will the program interfere with the Little League season?
13U
Our 13U team will be a full time select team in 2026. We plan to play in the Top Tier League as well as play in several tournaments. Playing Little League is possible, but we ask that you prioritize our team if there is a conflict. On top of league play, we will also practice up to 2x a week.
11U & 10U
11U & 10U
Because we are a Little League friendly team we will slow down practices to 1x per week during Little League's season so players can prioritize their time with their Little League teams. We will play tournaments during the season, all on weekend days.
Can my son play on a 2nd team if I'm playing on Valley 9?
We do allow and encourage players to play mulitple sports, but do not allow playing on more than one select baseball team. Unfortunately there are just too many conflicts with practices and games when playing on two select baseball teams. Playing on one team also helps build team chemestry and planning for league and tournament games.
We do allow and encourage players to play mulitple sports, but do not allow playing on more than one select baseball team. Unfortunately there are just too many conflicts with practices and games when playing on two select baseball teams. Playing on one team also helps build team chemestry and planning for league and tournament games.
Will the program interfere with other sports like football, soccer and basketball?
There will be conflicts with other sports, that is hard to avoid. We do highly encourage our players to play as many sports as they want. It's better for there overall development. We will work to minimize impact on other sports during their seasons the best we can. Such as having one of our weekly practices on Sundays which typically doesn't interfere with other sports. We are okay if during other sports seasons those sports take priority.
Where are practices?
Most of our practice are held in Duvall, WA and Belleuve when at VeloTech.
Who are the coaches?
- 13U - Jason Lewis (manager), James Waletzky and Craig Tasa
- 11U - Ken Benner (manager), Greg Preugschat and Jordan Kehus
- 10U - Travis Goodfellow (manager) and Ryan Smith
You can read more about our coaches and coaching philosophy here.
What is the size of the roster for 2026?
We are looking to have 12-13 players on the roster for each team.
What happens for 2027 season?
Our goal is for our players to stay with us as we move up a year.
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