AAU

Question
I'm 12 years old. This will be my last season in little League. I have been told that the next level of town play is not very competitive and many kids lose interest.
I was wondering your thoughts about AAU?
I would say I'm one of the top 10 player at my age level. I alway make the travel team and I am a great pitcher for in town Baseball, I would consider myself a good pitcher for Travel. I only throw a fastball and a change up. I know how to throw a curve, but my Dad says I'm to young to use it. I had a great year hiiting. I'm 5' 8" (tall for my age) and thin not very muscular yet.

I know AAU is expensive and I would have to try out. I love the game and really want to play comepetitive Baseball.
Is AAU worth thinking about?

Answer
Eric,
How expensive?

The AAU (The Amateur Athletic Union) is a quality national organization and I would suggest you investigate this option further.  I'm not familiar with their membership fee's, but if they are not too painful, AAU would definitely offer you a higher level of challenge and exposure.  The AAU has been around since the 1880's and is supported nationwide by volunteer administrators that also pay membership dues.  What this tells you is that they are dedicated to the organization and it's athletes.  Because kids (or their parents) are paying for the opportunity to compete, there are a lot fewer bad influences to distract you.  A local team will be full of guys who don't really care and won't make you better.  Any opportunity you come across that allows you to differentiate yourself from the herd is one you should take full advantage of (in all walks of life, not just athletics).  It's always a little scary to have to meet a whole new bunch of guys and tryout for a spot on the team, but you'll be glad you did.  

Your love for the game and the fact that your father is wise enough to not let you throw that curve ball yet, tells me you're in good hands and your development is probably way ahead of the game.  

Everybody has a different economic situation, but if I'm not mistaken, AAU offers scholarships????  I played high school basketball with a couple of guys who played AAU ball in the summer, and trust me, they didn't pay anything.

I hope this helps, Eric.  If you need anything else, please feel free to ask.  Good luck and let me know how it turns out.

Donovan