2025-26 Spartan Travel
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spartan Travel?
Spartan Travel is a program for girls and families wanting to make a serious commitment to competitive fast-pitch softball. We work in conjunction with Glenbrook North High School to prepare and develop softball players to play at the high school level.
When and where are Tryouts?
Tryouts will occur on Saturday, July 12, 2025 and are held at Techny Park (1750 Techny Road, Northbrook, IL). Rainout date will be Sunday, July 13, 2025. See below for estimated start times.
What if my daughter can’t make the tryout date?
If players are unable to attend, please email the Travel Director at [email protected] for an alternate date.
Is there a tryout fee?
Free for players trying out for 10U teams.
$50 for players trying out for all other teams.
Players who are offered a spot and accepts has the fee applied to Travel Dues.
Players who are not offered a spot has the fee refunded.
NO REFUNDS for players who reject a spot.
NO REFUNDS for players who withdraws from consideration after July 13, 2025.
What is the age eligibility determination?
As we expect all organizations and tournaments to adopt the new USSSA age determination guidelines, Spartan Softball will abide by the same guidelines the 2025-26 season. Generally, teams will be aligned by school year.
Is my child too young to try out?Typically we see girls as young as current 3rd graders tryout for the 10U team. Whether or not you may feel your child is too young, the experience of the tryout can be beneficial. With the new USSSA age guidelines, we expect to see more 9U teams in the area.
How much does it cost to play travel?
We estimate that the 2026 player dues will be an all-inclusive fee of $2,100 per player. Included in the fee are games/tournaments, uniforms, Fall Ball, Winter team training and practices and Spring/Summer Travel activities. Also included are House League fees, if applicable.
(High School Player Fees will be reduced due to the mandatory High School black-out period).
What is the commitment to Spartan Travel?
Players should expect to be able to commit to all team events. We understand girls may have other academic and athletic interests, and occasional absences are understandable. However, we have found that players who come to most or all team events enjoy Spartan Travel the most. This is evident in their softball development and team bonding.
Players who have continual absences will result in reduced playing time in the field and hitting lower in the lineup.
How far are games and tournaments?
Most games and tournaments are within 30-45 minutes of Northbrook. There will be 1 out of town tournament (> 1 hour) typically in June/July. In the past, this has been in Indiana or Wisconsin. Most teams will also play 1 winter tournament that may be over an hour away.
Who are the Travel Coaches?
Spartan Travel is committed to providing quality instruction for our players. It is our intent to continue our tradition of providing coaches who have significant coaching and/or playing experience. In the past, we have had former High School and College Softball players and highly qualified parent coaches.
Are Travel Players required to play House League?
Participation by travel players in House League is evaluated on a yearly basis. Historically, players in our 10U program are required to play in our House League program. Players in the 11U/12U program are evaluated on a yearly basis.
Who can I contact if I have more questions or want more information?
Email the Travel Director at [email protected] if you have any questions regarding Spartan Travel.