EYA Baseball Overview

Program Goals 

The Emmaus Youth Association (EYA) Baseball Program is committed to providing a positive, inclusive, and rewarding baseball experience for players of all skill levels. Through progressive instruction and a focus on fundamentals, teamwork, and sportsmanship, EYA helps players develop their skills, build confidence, and enjoy the game while promoting the benefits of physical activity. 

As players grow, EYA offers opportunities at multiple levels of competition to accommodate their interests, abilities, and commitment to the game. Whether learning the fundamentals, enjoying recreational baseball, or pursuing more competitive play, every player has the opportunity to grow as an athlete and teammate.

EYA strives to prepare players who wish to pursue more competitive baseball for future opportunities within the East Penn School District. Through continued skill development, baseball fundamentals, teamwork, and an understanding of the game, we aim to help players build a strong foundation for participation in middle school, junior varsity, and varsity baseball programs.

Process

Following registration, player evaluation sessions will be conducted to assess each player's current abilities, skill development, and progress from previous seasons. These evaluations help EYA coaches and program leaders better understand each player's strengths and areas for improvement. 

Evaluation results will be used to help construct appropriately balanced rosters for both recreational and competitive teams. Our goal is to place players in an environment that supports their continued development, provides an appropriate level of competition, and creates a positive experience for everyone involved.

Competitive Baseball: Territorial Boundaries

The below is relevant to teams of the Lehigh Valley Baseball League, Junior and Senior Connie Mack, and Senior Legion. The below is NOT relevant to PYL teams.

Competitive youth baseball leagues operate under territorial boundaries that determine which youth baseball organization a player is eligible to represent. Players residing within an organization's designated territory must register with that organization to participate in its territory-based competitive baseball program. Players who wish to participate with a different organization must obtain an approved release from the organization that holds the territorial rights to their residence, in accordance with applicable league rules. 

The Emmaus Youth Association (EYA) holds territorial rights for the Borough of Emmaus, Upper Milford Township, the Borough of Macungie, and the Borough of Alburtis. 

Lower Macungie Youth Association (LMYA) holds territorial rights for Lower Macungie Township.

Together, EYA and LMYA provide youth baseball programs that prepare players for future opportunities within the East Penn School District's middle school, junior varsity, and varsity baseball programs. 

Parents interested in competitive baseball should confirm their player's territorial eligibility before registering. Players residing within EYA's territory who wish to participate in EYA's competitive program must register with EYA. Players residing outside EYA's territory must contact their home territorial organization to discuss eligibility and obtain any required release before participating with EYA.

What does the schedule look like?

The season will begin with practices in late March/early April depending upon weather and field conditions. Game schedules depend upon age level (see above for specific dates). Practices vary depending on the coach's availability and field availabiltiy, but typically occur twice during the week and once over the weekend. Game schedules vary also and can be played both on weeknights and weekends. 

What equipment is needed?

The EYA supplies each player with a Jersey, Pant, Belt, Hat and Socks. There are team bats, helmets, and catchers gear available for players to share. 

You will need to supply Glove and Cleats. (Although recommended, cleats are not a requirement for T-Ball)

Additional suggested equipment: Sunglasses, Batting Helmet with face mask, Catchers Gear (if this is a position that your child wants to play).

How do I contact the EYA Baseball Commissioner?

You can send an e-mail baseball@eyasports.org.