Author: Demetrion Ware

A $2.5 million commitment will restore the Ingram Little League Ballpark, completely destroyed during the catastrophic July 4, 2025 floods in Central Texas. This significant charitable donation represents a beacon of hope for a community still recovering from one of Texas’s most devastating natural disasters.

The Devastating July 4 Texas Hill Country Floods

The Fourth of July weekend brought unprecedented tragedy to the Texas Hill Country when torrential rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to rise a staggering 36 feet in just 45 minutes. The flooding, which has been called the deadliest inland flooding event in the United States since 1976, claimed at least 135 lives, with 117 of those fatalities occurring in Kerr County alone.

The Guadalupe River crested at 37.52 feet by around 5 am, a record high, devastating communities throughout the Hill Country region. Rainfall totals exceeded 20 inches in parts of the watershed, creating what meteorologists described as catastrophic flash flooding conditions.

The small community of Ingram, located in Kerr County, bore the brunt of this natural disaster. Among the casualties were numerous recreational facilities, including the beloved Ingram Little League Ballpark, which was reported as “entirely gone” after flooding from the Guadalupe River swept through the area.

A Community Institution Lost

For 35 years, the Ingram Little League Ballpark served as more than just a baseball facility—it was the heart of youth sports in the community. The facility had served over 200 youth each year for more than three decades, providing a place where generations of children learned teamwork, sportsmanship, and developed lifelong friendships.

The ballpark’s destruction represented a devastating loss for local families. Mark Hensley, Ingram Little League president, described the complete devastation to local media, explaining that their primary and practice fields were gone, including about seven or 8,000 feet of fencing. “The fields themselves are completely destroyed. We’re having to completely redo all the fields,” Hensley said.

A Lifeline for Recovery: The $2.5 Million Commitment

The announcement of the substantial donation came during a special community event on September 21, 2025, bringing much-needed hope to flood-affected residents. More than 1,000 flood victims from Kerr County were invited to witness this commitment to their community’s recovery.

“This is a $2.5 million commitment to our neighbors in Central Texas,” the donors announced. “Not only is this a commitment of funds, but we will lead the renovations and are committed to having it ready for the beginning of the season in the Spring of 2026.”

What the New Facility Will Include

The $2.5 million investment will create a completely new Little League complex featuring:

• Three new youth baseball/softball fields
• Two practice fields
• Batting cages
• Additional amenities and modern facilities

The project represents a significant upgrade from the original facility, ensuring that young athletes in Ingram will have access to modern, well-equipped baseball and softball fields when the complex opens in spring 2026.

The Human Impact of Natural Disasters

The July 4 floods illustrate the devastating impact natural disasters have on small communities. Beyond the tragic loss of life, these events destroy the social fabric that holds communities together—schools, recreation centers, and youth sports facilities that serve as gathering places for families and neighbors.

For children in Ingram, the loss of their Little League ballpark meant more than missing a baseball season. It represented the loss of a safe space where they could play, learn, and form friendships during an already traumatic time for their community.

Community Support and Collaboration

The rebuilding effort involves multiple organizations working together to ensure the facility’s long-term success:

• Community Foundation of Texas Hill Country
• Major League Baseball
• Various Texas-based baseball programs and foundations
• Local community volunteers

This collaborative approach ensures that the rebuilt facility will have ongoing support for maintenance and operations well beyond its initial construction, creating sustainable youth programming for generations to come.

The Broader Context of Texas Flood Recovery

The Ingram Little League project is part of broader recovery efforts following the July 4 disaster. The floods affected multiple counties across Central Texas, with Kerr County experiencing the most severe impact. Recovery efforts have included:

• Emergency housing assistance for displaced families
• Infrastructure rebuilding projects
• Economic recovery programs for affected businesses
• Mental health support services for trauma survivors
• Community facility restoration projects like the Little League ballpark

Federal disaster declarations and state emergency funding have provided some relief, but community-driven initiatives like the ballpark reconstruction demonstrate the importance of private sector involvement in long-term recovery efforts.

Youth Sports as Community Healing

Research consistently shows that youth sports programs play crucial roles in community recovery following disasters. These facilities provide:

• Safe spaces for children to process trauma through play
• Community gathering points that restore social connections
• Normalcy and routine that helps families rebuild their lives
• Hope for the future through investment in children’s activities

“We are honored to be able to help rebuild and maintain a place that is an anchor for the community to gather,” said Emelda Douglas, who oversees the charitable foundation managing the donation. The facility “aligns with our mission and values of supporting and growing youth sports and education.”

Engineering Resilience into the New Design

Learning from the devastating July floods, the new Ingram Little League complex will incorporate flood-resistant design elements. While specific engineering details haven’t been released, modern flood-prone construction typically includes:

• Elevated playing surfaces above historical flood levels
• Improved drainage systems to handle heavy rainfall
• Flood-resistant materials for structures and equipment
• Emergency evacuation plans and higher ground access routes

These improvements ensure that the rebuilt facility can better withstand future extreme weather events while continuing to serve the community safely.

Timeline for Reconstruction

The ambitious reconstruction project follows a clear timeline:

• Fall 2025: Project planning and design phase
• Winter 2025-2026: Construction begins
• Spring 2026: Facility completion and opening for baseball season

Local contractors and construction workers are expected to handle much of the building process, providing economic benefits to the flood-affected region during reconstruction.

A Model for Disaster Recovery

The $2.5 million commitment to rebuild the Ingram Little League Ballpark demonstrates how targeted charitable giving can address specific community needs in disaster recovery. Unlike emergency relief that addresses immediate survival needs, this type of long-term investment helps communities rebuild the social infrastructure essential for full recovery.

The project highlights several important principles for effective disaster philanthropy:

• Community-identified needs: The ballpark was identified by local residents as a priority for rebuilding
• Long-term commitment: The donors committed to leading construction and ensuring completion
• Collaborative approach: Multiple organizations are working together for sustainable results
• Local economic impact: Construction will provide jobs and economic activity in the affected area

Looking Forward: Community Resilience

As construction begins on the new facility, the Ingram Little League project represents more than replacing a destroyed building—it symbolizes the community’s determination to rebuild stronger and more resilient than before. The new complex will serve as a testament to the power of charitable giving and community cooperation in the face of devastating natural disasters.

For families still recovering from the trauma of July 4, the promise of children playing baseball and softball again on modern, safe fields provides a tangible sign that better days lie ahead. When the first pitch is thrown in spring 2026, it will mark not just the beginning of a new baseball season, but a significant milestone in Ingram’s journey from disaster to recovery.

Supporting Ongoing Recovery Efforts

While the Little League ballpark represents a major victory in Ingram’s recovery, the community continues to need support across many areas. Individuals and organizations interested in supporting Central Texas flood recovery can contribute through established charitable foundations and local relief organizations working in the affected areas.

The success of the Ingram Little League project demonstrates how focused, substantial charitable commitments can make lasting differences in disaster-affected communities, providing a model for future recovery efforts across Texas and beyond.

---

Community members interested in supporting ongoing Texas Hill Country flood recovery efforts can contact local foundations and relief organizations for information about volunteer opportunities and donation needs.

In Houston on Saturday night, the impossible became reality as Schreiner University’s football team delivered a performance that will be remembered forever in the Texas Hill Country.

The scoreboard told only part of the story: Schreiner University 59, Westgate Christian University 34. But for the hundreds of Mountaineer faithful who made the 4.5-hour journey to Houston, September 13, 2025, represented something far more significant than a typical college football game.

This was the night Schreiner University won its first-ever 4-year college football game in program history—and they did it in spectacular fashion.

The Perfect Opening Statement

Football games can be won or lost on opening drives, and the Mountaineers wasted no time making their mark on history. After receiving the kickoff under the bright Houston lights, Schreiner methodically marched 74 yards in 19 plays, mixing Christian Lora’s punishing ground attack with Isaac Ponce’s precise passing.

The drive was textbook football—power runs between the tackles, timely third-down conversions through the air, and relentless forward progress. When Lora punched in the 1-yard touchdown plunge, it wasn’t just Schreiner’s first score of the game—it was the first offensive touchdown in program history.

The extra point split the uprights, the scoreboard read 7-0, and the Mountaineer sideline erupted in celebration that could be felt all the way back in Kerrville.

Offensive Explosion

What followed was a masterclass in balanced offensive football that showcased exactly what head coach Keith Allen had been building since taking over the program in February.

The Mountaineers controlled the line of scrimmage from start to finish, rushing 64 times for 309 yards—old-school Texas football at its finest. Christian Lora led the charge with 27 carries for 129 yards, bulldozing through defenders and setting the physical tone. Domynik Vasquez added another 60 yards on 14 carries, while quarterback Isaac Ponce chipped in 69 rushing yards on 11 attempts.

But this wasn’t just a ground-and-pound attack. Ponce showed remarkable poise for a quarterback in his first college game, completing 10 of 15 passes for 152 yards and a touchdown. His 62-yard scoring strike to Andrew Castillo was a thing of beauty—perfect placement that allowed Castillo to use his speed for a game-breaking touchdown.

The numbers were staggering: 461 total yards of offense, 23 first downs, and points on the board every time they needed them. This was a balanced, physical attack that wore down Westgate Christian from the opening snap.

Defensive Playmakers

While the offense grabbed headlines, Schreiner’s defense created the momentum-shifting plays that turned a competitive game into a rout. The Mountaineers forced four turnovers—three fumbles and an interception—including a first-half pick-six that had the traveling fans on their feet.

Despite allowing 431 passing yards to Westgate Christian, the defense came through when it mattered most. Players like Hajek, Hernandez, and Baxter consistently disrupted plays and provided the stops needed to keep the offense on the field.

The defensive unit held Westgate to just 122 rushing yards and delivered several crucial fourth-down stops that swung field position and momentum in Schreiner’s favor.

Special Teams Excellence

In a dominant performance, Schreiner’s special teams unit might have been the most impressive group on the field. Kicker Bryce Warren was absolutely perfect, converting all eight extra points and nailing a 34-yard field goal when called upon.

But the excellence went beyond just scoring plays. The Mountaineers blocked a field goal, recovered a fumble on punt coverage, and went a flawless 4-for-4 defending onside kicks. Most importantly, they won the field position battle decisively—Westgate’s average starting field position was their own 28.8-yard line, while Schreiner started at their own 42.8-yard line on average.

In a sport where field position often determines outcomes, the Mountaineers dominated every special teams phase.

Coach Allen’s Vision Realized

For first-year head coach Keith Allen, the victory validated everything he’d been preaching since arriving in Kerrville. The 29-year coaching veteran, who became the winningest coach in Southwest Baptist University history, had promised to build a program based on toughness, discipline, and physical football.

“This is a night we’ll remember forever,” Allen said after the game, emotion clear in his voice. “To win our first game in front of so many Schreiner fans who made that long trip—that was special. Our kids played tough, disciplined football and found a way to finish.”

Allen praised every phase of his team’s performance but made it clear this was just the beginning. “I was proud of our toughness and how hard our kids played. The run game was physical, Isaac was efficient, and our defense came up with big turnovers. We still have work to do with tempo on offense and eliminating big plays on defense, but this was a great first step.”

The Numbers Don’t Lie

When the final whistle blew, the statistics painted the picture of total domination:

Rushing Attack: Schreiner 64 carries for 309 yards vs. Westgate 37 carries for 122 yards Passing Game: Ponce’s efficient 10-of-15 for 152 yards and a touchdown Turnovers: Schreiner created four while turning the ball over just once Special Teams: Perfect 8-for-8 on extra points, plus a field goal, blocked kick, and punt recovery

The Mountaineers out-gained Westgate 461-553 in total yards, but more importantly, they controlled the game’s tempo and rhythm from start to finish.

Fan Support Like No Other

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Saturday night wasn’t what happened on the field, but the incredible support in the stands. Hundreds of Schreiner fans made the 4.5-hour drive from Kerrville to Houston, creating an electric atmosphere that made a road game feel like a home contest.

“Our supporters were incredible,” Allen noted. “To see that many people drive 4.5 hours to cheer us on gave our players energy all night. They made it feel like a home game.”

For a program playing its first-ever game, that kind of community support speaks volumes about what football means to Schreiner University and the Texas Hill Country.

Looking Ahead

Reality sets in quickly in college football. Next up for the Mountaineers is a Monday night road trip to face Mary Hardin-Baylor, a perennial NCAA Division III powerhouse that has won multiple national championships. It’s exactly the kind of test that will show whether this performance was a fluke or the foundation of something special.

But for now, Schreiner University has something it’s never had before: a football team that can win games. They have Christian Lora grinding out tough yards, Isaac Ponce managing the offense like a veteran, and a defense that creates game-changing turnovers.

Most importantly, they have a community that believes in them and a coaching staff that knows how to prepare them for success.

The Bottom Line

Saturday night in Houston was more than just a football game—it was the birth of a program and the fulfillment of a dream. After decades of wondering “what if,” Schreiner University now knows exactly what their football team can accomplish.

The final score was 59-34, but the real victory was proving that this program belongs on the field with anyone. In a state where football is religion and expectations run sky-high, the Mountaineers just announced their arrival in emphatic fashion.

The first win is now in the books. The question is: how many more will follow?

---

The Schreiner Mountaineers (1-0) face Mary Hardin-Baylor on Monday, September 22, at 6:00 PM in Belton, Texas. The game marks the next chapter in what promises to be a memorable inaugural season for Mountaineer football.

In a season defined by tragedy and triumph, the Kerrville Antlers delivered their most complete performance yet when it mattered most

Under the bright lights of Antler Stadium on September 12th, something magical happened. What started as just another Friday night football game between Highway 16 rivals transformed into something much deeper—a statement of resilience, a display of raw talent, and a reminder of why high school football matters so much in Texas.

The Perfect Storm of Motivation

Just seven days earlier, the Tivy Antlers had endured what head coach Curtis Neill called a “punishing loss” to Comal Davenport, where his team “racked up stats in all the wrong columns.” Turnovers plagued the Antlers, and for a brief moment, doubt crept into a community that had already endured too much heartbreak.

You see, this wasn’t just any season for Kerrville. The devastating July 4th floods that claimed 117 lives in Kerr County still hung heavy over the community. This football team wasn’t just playing for wins—they were playing for healing.

“Last week left a bad taste in our mouths,” said defensive standout Hayden Foster. “We made it a priority at practice to focus harder than we ever have, because this is a big deal for us, this game.”

When Lightning Strikes Twice

The pre-game ceremony set the tone for something special. In an extraordinary show of support, Houston Texans owner Cal McNair, Hall of Fame receiver Andre Johnson, and team officials presented a $150,000 donation to Kerrville ISD, with $50,000 specifically earmarked for Tivy athletics. The gesture came after coach Curtis Neill was named the Texans’ Week One Youth Football Coach of the Week—a recognition that brought NFL attention to a small Texas town still rebuilding from tragedy.

But ceremonies don’t win football games. What happened next did.

The Colin Rose Show Begins

On Tivy’s very first possession, something clicked. Quarterback Colin Rose, playing with the confidence of a seasoned veteran, needed just seven plays and 1:31 to find the end zone on a 22-yard keeper that announced the Antlers’ intentions. Jake Zirkel’s extra point made it 7-0, and the rout was on.

“Our boys were hungry,” Neill said after the game. “They were playing for one another and for our community.”

Rose wasn’t finished. With 3:02 left in the first quarter, he found Guy Flores streaking down the field for a 42-yard touchdown bomb that sent the home crowd into a frenzy. 14-0, and Fredericksburg was already reeling.

The Avalanche Effect

What makes great teams different from good ones? It’s their ability to pile on when they smell blood. Tivy had that killer instinct on full display.

Aiden Zavala broke loose for a 56-yard scoring run in the second quarter, showcasing the explosive speed that makes him one of the Hill Country’s most dangerous weapons. But the play that truly broke Fredericksburg’s spirit came courtesy of sophomore safety Josh Wheatfall.

Reading the quarterback’s eyes perfectly, Wheatfall jumped a route and raced 76 yards to the house with a pick-six that had Antler Stadium absolutely erupting. At that moment, with Tivy leading 27-0, you could almost see the fight drain out of the visiting Billies.

“I just got a good read on the ball and coach called the right play,” Wheatfall said with the understated confidence of a future star. “Once I got the ball, I took off and was gone.”

Death by a Thousand Cuts

President Calamaco added a 20-yard touchdown reception before halftime, and by the time the teams headed to the locker rooms, Tivy led 34-3. Fredericksburg managed just a 44-yard field goal from Santi Villa, a small consolation in what was becoming a systematic dismantling.

The third quarter brought more of the same, with Kyrin Armelin hauling in a 35-yard touchdown strike from Rose. When the final whistle sounded, the scoreboard told the complete story: Tivy 48, Fredericksburg 10.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Rose’s final stat line read like something from a video game: 20-of-27 passing for 341 yards and four touchdowns. In an era where high school quarterbacks often struggle with consistency, Rose delivered precision at every level of the field.

Guy Flores emerged as his favorite target, hauling in nine catches for 146 yards and a score. Calamaco added 112 receiving yards on five catches with two touchdowns, while Armelin contributed six catches for 83 yards and a touchdown. The offensive balance that had been missing against Davenport was back in full force.

On the ground, Zavala’s 138 yards on 15 carries provided the perfect complement to Rose’s aerial assault, giving defensive coordinators nightmares about how to stop this multifaceted attack.

More Than Just a Win

For Fredericksburg, now 0-2 on the season, the loss stings. But for Tivy, this wasn’t just about moving to 2-1 under first-year coach Neill. This was about proving that the previous week’s struggles were an aberration, not a trend.

“We worked on fundamentals. We worked on getting back to who we are. We worked on believing,” Neill explained. “We’re a good football team. What you saw last week isn’t who we are.”

The defense, led by Foster, Tomas Arreola, and Wheatfall, held Fredericksburg to a single touchdown—a fourth-quarter consolation score when Griffin Beard caught a short pass from quarterback Kress Mohr.

Looking Ahead

As district play approaches, this performance serves as both a statement and a foundation. The Antlers have the offensive firepower to compete with anyone, and their defense showed the kind of swarming intensity that wins championships.

For a community still healing from unimaginable loss, this team is providing something precious: hope. Every Friday night, they take the field carrying the dreams of Kerrville on their shoulders, and against Fredericksburg, they proved those dreams are in capable hands.

The Highway 16 rivalry will continue, and Fredericksburg will undoubtedly regroup. But on this September night, under the lights that shine so bright in Texas, there was only one story worth telling.

The Tivy Antlers were back, and they weren’t going anywhere.

TFND—Tivy Fight Never Dies—isn’t just a motto. On nights like this, it’s a promise.

Volleyball program reaches best season start under head coach Jeremiah Tiffin as team culture shift continues to pay dividends

Portland, Oregon – The Schreiner University volleyball team delivered a statement performance this weekend, completing a perfect 3-0 sweep at the Lewis & Clark Invitational in Portland, Oregon. The Mountaineers’ dominant showing pushes their early season record to an impressive 5-1, marking the program’s strongest start since head coach Jeremiah Tiffin arrived in 2022.

Tournament Dominance Showcases Program Growth

Schreiner’s weekend began with authority as they dismantled Macalester College 3-0 (25-12, 26-24, 25-20). The Mountaineers’ balanced attack was spearheaded by Giana Hilliard, who delivered 11 kills, while Ryleigh Jones provided additional firepower at the net. Defensively, Jenna Palomarez anchored the back row with 16 digs, demonstrating the team’s commitment to all-around excellence.

The sweep continued against host Lewis & Clark College, with Schreiner posting another convincing 3-0 victory (25-18, 25-14, 25-20). Hilliard maintained her stellar play with 9 kills on .500 hitting efficiency, while Maeve Chamberlain contributed 7 kills at a .333 clip. The team’s offensive precision was on full display as they hit .322 collectively and racked up 41 total kills. Palomarez once again led the defensive effort with 14 digs.

The tournament’s most dramatic moment came in a thrilling five-set battle against Willamette University. After trading sets in a back-and-forth affair, Schreiner demonstrated the mental toughness that has defined their early season success, edging the Bearcats 15-13 in the decisive fifth set (20-25, 25-18, 25-18, 18-25, 15-13). The victory showcased the team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure – qualities that will serve them well in Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) play.

Building on a Foundation of Excellence

The tournament sweep represents more than just three victories; it symbolizes the continued transformation of a program that has embraced a new identity under Tiffin’s leadership. In his first season (2022), Tiffin guided the Mountaineers to an 11-19 record, nearly tripling the previous year’s win total and achieving the program’s highest victory count since 2015.

“Overall we’re happy getting three wins this weekend,” said Tiffin following the tournament. “There were times where we played great and times we didn’t, but this team is showing that they can battle and that’s going to help us this season. This is the best start we’ve had to a season since I’ve been here and it’s a credit to the team and how bought in they are.”

Star Power Leading the Charge

Hilliard’s emergence as a premier player in the SCAC continues to be a driving force for the Mountaineers. The standout performer, who was named SCAC Freshman of the Year in 2023 and earned All-SCAC Second Team honors alongside teammate Brooke Byer, currently leads Schreiner in kills this season. Her consistent production and leadership have been instrumental in the team’s early success.

Recent recognition from the SCAC further validates the program’s upward trajectory. In January 2025, Hilliard was named a SCAC Character & Community award recipient, highlighting not only her on-court excellence but also her commitment to representing Schreiner’s values.

Strategic Excellence and Coaching Pedigree

Tiffin brings an impressive coaching resume to Kerrville, with an overall head coaching record of 153-126 and experience that includes three NAIA Championship appearances, two AVCA South Central Region Coach of the Year Awards, and four conference championships. His previous success at Our Lady of the Lake University, where he claimed Red River Athletic Conference titles in each of his four seasons, demonstrates his ability to build championship-caliber programs.

The Winnipeg, Manitoba native’s coaching philosophy emphasizes both competitive excellence and academic achievement. During his tenure at the University of North Dakota, his teams earned AVCA/USMC Team Academic Awards each year, with 14 student-athletes earning Summit League Academic Honor Roll recognition.

Conference Context and Future Outlook

The Mountaineers compete in the highly competitive SCAC, a Division III conference known for its academic excellence and athletic competitiveness. Almost all SCAC member schools sport Phi Beta Kappa chapters and are prominently featured in annual “Best College” rankings with highly selective admissions. The conference includes traditional powerhouses like Trinity University, which “is always a contender for the national championship” according to Tiffin.

Colorado College enters the 2025 season as the preseason favorite in SCAC volleyball, adding additional context to the competitive landscape Schreiner will navigate as conference play approaches.

Road Ahead

The Mountaineers will look to maintain their momentum as they head to Belton next weekend for the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB) tournament. The upcoming matches will provide another opportunity for Schreiner to test themselves against quality competition before diving into the heart of SCAC conference play.

Tiffin’s emphasis on scheduling challenging non-conference opponents reflects his belief in preparing his team for the rigors of conference competition. “I like getting out of our comfort zone and seeing how we respond when things aren’t normal. This will be a good test for us early against four solid opponents,” Tiffin noted about the value of tournaments like the Lewis & Clark Invitational.

Program Transformation Continues

The 5-1 start represents more than statistical success; it embodies the cultural transformation Tiffin has instilled since arriving at Schreiner. The team’s ability to “battle,” as their coach describes it, was evident in the five-set thriller against Willamette and reflects a program that has embraced a winning mentality.

With a strong nucleus led by Hilliard and supported by consistent contributors like Palomarez and Jones, the Mountaineers appear positioned to make significant noise in SCAC play. The early season success provides momentum and confidence as they prepare for the conference challenges ahead.

For a program that has experienced significant growth under Tiffin’s guidance, the Lewis & Clark Invitational sweep serves as both validation of progress made and a promising preview of what the 2025 season might hold.

---

The Schreiner Mountaineers will return to action next weekend at the UMHB tournament in Belton, Texas, as they continue preparation for SCAC conference play.

Your child just signed up for Kerrville Little League, and now you’re staring at equipment lists wondering where to start. Don’t worry – every parent has been exactly where you are right now. Between confusing size charts, safety requirements, and trying to figure out what’s actually necessary versus nice-to-have, shopping for youth baseball equipment can feel overwhelming.

At Fitness First Sports, we talk to confused parents every day during Kerrville Little League season. We’ve put together this straightforward guide to help you navigate your first equipment purchase with confidence, avoid common mistakes, and get your child properly equipped without breaking the bank.

Start Here: The Must-Have Equipment Your Child Cannot Play Without

Let’s cut through the confusion and focus on what your child absolutely needs to step onto a Kerrville Little League field safely.

The Baseball Glove: Your Most Important Purchase

What to know: This is the one piece of equipment your child will use every single practice and game. Don’t cheap out here, but also don’t overthink it.

How to choose the right size: Forget complicated charts. Here’s what actually works:

• Ages 4-6: 9-10 inch gloves (T-ball and Rookie divisions)
• Ages 7-9: 10-11 inch gloves (Coach Pitch and Minor divisions)
• Ages 10-12: 11-12 inch gloves (Major divisions)

Parent hack: Bring your child to Fitness First Sports and let them try on different gloves. The right glove should fit snugly on their hand, and they should be able to easily squeeze it closed. If they’re struggling to close the glove, it’s too big or too stiff.

What to expect to spend: $25-60 for a quality youth glove that will last multiple seasons.

The Bat: Understanding the Confusing Requirements

The one rule you can’t break: Every bat must have a “USA Baseball” logo stamped on it. Period. If it doesn’t have this logo, your child cannot use it in Kerrville Little League games. We’ve seen parents spend $100+ on bats their kids can’t use because they missed this requirement.

How to choose the right size: Have your child hold the bat by the handle with their arm extended. The bat should reach their wrist. If it reaches their palm, it’s too short. If it goes past their wrist, it’s too long.

Weight matters more than length: Your child should be able to hold the bat straight out for 10 seconds without their arm shaking. If they can’t, the bat is too heavy.

What to expect to spend: $40-80 for a USA Baseball certified youth bat.

The Batting Helmet: Non-Negotiable Safety

What you need to know: While most teams have helmets to share, we strongly recommend buying your own for hygiene and proper fit reasons.

The only safety standard that matters: Look for “NOCSAE” printed on the helmet. This means it meets safety standards. Don’t buy a helmet without this marking.

Fitting tip: The helmet should sit level on your child’s head, cover their forehead, and not wobble when they shake their head.

What to expect to spend: $20-35 for a NOCSAE approved youth helmet.

Cleats or Tennis Shoes: What Actually Works

The simple rule: Rubber or plastic cleats only. No metal spikes allowed in any Kerrville Little League division.

Honest truth: For younger kids (T-ball through Coach Pitch), tennis shoes work just fine. Cleats become more important as kids get older and play on more challenging field conditions.

Sizing advice: Buy cleats a half-size larger than their regular shoes. Their feet will swell during games, and they’ll be wearing thicker baseball socks.

What to expect to spend: $25-50 for youth baseball cleats.

The Secondary Equipment: What Your Child Needs But Teams Often Provide

Baseball Pants

What teams typically require: Light gray or white baseball pants. Some teams are specific about colors, so check with your coach first.

Parent reality check: These will get dirty. Very dirty. Buy two pairs if your budget allows, or be prepared to do laundry frequently during the season.

What to expect to spend: $15-25 per pair.

Protective Cup (For Boys Ages 9+)

Why it matters: Required for safety in most divisions starting around age 9, though we recommend introducing it earlier.

What parents often miss: You need both the cup and a supporter or compression shorts to hold it in place.

What to expect to spend: $10-20 for the complete setup.

Equipment Your Child Probably Doesn’t Need (Yet)

Batting gloves: Nice to have but not necessary for most youth players. Save your money initially.

Expensive training equipment: Focus on the basics first. Fancy training aids can come later if your child shows serious interest.

Premium composite bats: The $200+ bats won’t make a significant difference for most youth players. Start with a reliable mid-range option.

Texas Fall Weather: What Parents Don’t Think About

Playing fall baseball in Kerrville means dealing with Texas heat in September and cooler evenings by November. Here’s what actually matters:

Hydration: Your child needs a large water bottle. Texas heat is no joke, even in fall.

Sun protection: A cap (usually provided by the team) and sunscreen are essential for afternoon games.

Layers for later in the season: A light jacket for October and November evening games.

What Teams Typically Provide vs. What You Buy

Teams usually provide:

• Jersey and team cap
• Shared catcher’s gear
• Practice baseballs
• Some shared bats and helmets

You need to buy:

• Glove (definitely)
• Personal bat (recommended)
• Helmet (strongly recommended)
• Cleats or tennis shoes
• Baseball pants
• Protective gear for older kids

Budget-Smart Shopping: How to Get Quality Equipment Without Overspending

Start with these basics: Glove, helmet, cleats, and one pair of pants. You can add other items as the season progresses.

Where to save money: Check for gently used equipment from other Kerrville Little League families. Kids outgrow equipment quickly, so you can often find quality gear at a fraction of the cost.

Where not to cut corners: Safety equipment (helmet, cup) and the glove. These directly impact your child’s safety and enjoyment of the game.

Local advantage: At Fitness First Sports, we help parents prioritize purchases based on their child’s division and budget. We’ve helped hundreds of Kerrville families get their kids properly equipped without wasting money on unnecessary items.

Your Next Steps

Before you shop: Check with your team coach about specific requirements or preferences. Some teams have color preferences or specific equipment they recommend.

When you’re ready to buy: Bring your child with you. Proper fit is crucial for both safety and performance, and it’s impossible to get right without trying equipment on.

Don’t stress about perfection: Your child needs safe, properly fitting equipment that meets league standards. Everything else is secondary. As they develop their skills and passion for the game, you can always upgrade later.

At Fitness First Sports, we understand that every parent wants to do right by their child without making expensive mistakes. Stop by our store, and let us help you navigate your first Kerrville Little League equipment purchase with confidence. We’ll make sure your child has everything they need to have a safe, successful, and fun season on the diamond.