Enrolling your kids in baseball

So you have children reaching the age for enrollment in an organized sport.

According to the most recent Statistics Canada Social Trends Survey, baseball participation among children ages 5-14 has fallen from 13% in 1992 to 5% in 2005.

Despite this trend, the achievements by Canadians at the professional level along with the number of Canadians playing US collegiate ball are at all-time highs.

This suggests that coaching, training, opportunities and commitment have significantly improved in Canada.

Here are some reasons to consider enrolling your child in baseball ...

1. Fitness. Yes, fitness. If your child isn't getting any from playing baseball, speak to the coach, 'cause they aren't playing the game properly.
2. Affordability. Youth fees are lower then even soccer and the equipment costs are minimal.
3. Non-contact sport.
4. Be a part of a team.
5. Boys and girls play together (in Little League)
6. Equal playing time (in Little League)
7. Don't have to be the strongest, fastest or most aggressive to excel.
8. Improve eye-hand coordination.
9. A sport you can continue to play into your adult life.
10. Build character by learning to deal with failure along with success.
11. Friendships are easily formed while players chat during breaks in play or while awaiting at bats.