Youth

Your Development. Your path. our process.

Gators Youth Programs

Gators Youth is home to our four youth clubs: the Missouri Gators, Illinois Gators, Central IL Gators and Southern IL Gators. Every team follows the Gators Development Handbook, including pitch count regulations, so players build the right habits early and stay healthy for the long run.

Youth teams join one of two programs, depending on how much hands-on GBA support the team wants: Gators Plus, our advanced developmental program, or Gators Youth, our intermediate program.

Gators Plus Program

Advanced Developmental Youth Program. A hands-on introduction to the GBA model. GBA staff lead fall and spring training, and a GBA-appointed coordinator helps coaches with team management all year. Teams compete at the AAA to Major level locally, with one to two regional events. Coaches keep full control of lineups and positions while following the GBA Development Handbook, including pitch counts.

Primary Objective: Provide players and coaches with an immersive GBA-style experience while emphasizing development, accountability, and competitive growth.

  • GBA Staff Training

    Direct GBA staff-led training in fall and spring

  • Coordinator Support

    A dedicated GBA coordinator for every team

  • Competitive Play

    Competitive AAA to Major level tournaments

  • Regional Travel

    One to two regional events each year

  • Roster Help

    Roster management assistance from GBA staff

Gators Youth Program

Intermediate Youth Program. Professional guidance with flexibility on competition level. Teams take part in an 8-week winter training program led by paid Gators staff, focused on fundamentals and skill development. A Gators Director is appointed to help coaches and teams run the program, and every team follows the Gators Development Handbook, including pitch counts.

Primary Objective: Support youth player development through structured training, clear standards, and professional oversight while allowing teams autonomy in competition choices.

  • Winter Training

    8 weeks of winter training with paid professional staff

  • Flexible Competition

    Flexible competition level selection by team

  • Director Support

    Director-level support for coaches and teams

  • Development Standards

    Development-focused standards and safety guidelines

From First Pitch to What's Next

Every level has
A next level.

Find Your Program
Stage 01

6U-8U

Learn the fundamentals

Stage 02

9U-11U

Build confidence & teamwork

Stage 03

12U-13U

Strengthen skills and game IQ

Stage 04

14U

Explore the next pathway

Stage 05

High School+

GBA / GBA Prep / College ambition