Tryouts
Creating a different kind of baseball experience.
Our focus is not simply playing games or chasing short-term success. We believe real player development happens through intentional training, experienced coaching, accountability, and teaching players how to truly understand and compete in the game.
The Erie Steelheads will be holding 2026 Fall and 2027 spring baseball evaluations for players ages 7u – 17u. Our fall program focus is on the development of our players.
During the tryout, players will go through a workout with All American Baseball coaches where they will be evaluated on their running, hitting, fielding, and pitching.
We are committed to a standard where players are challenged, supported, and given the opportunity to grow both on and off the field.
- There are no shortcuts.
- The player has to buy-in to our model and there is no substitute for the hard work being done in our trainings
- Our responsibility is to provide the environment, coaching, standards, and support to help every athlete become the best version of themselves.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Unlike many programs where training, memberships, and development opportunities are additional expenses, our model is designed to provide players with consistent year-round access to instruction, development, and support as part of the overall experience.
All American Baseball Training Center
Built for baseball. Designed to connect development, training, and competition under one roof.
Facility features include:
Full turf infield
5 full-size batting cages
Full-size bullpen
Ply wall
Weight room
Performance and athletic development
More importantly, the facility is part of a larger developmental system where training, coaching, accountability, and player development all work together year-round.
Player Development & Training Model
We believe players improve fastest when instruction, competition, confidence, and accountability all work together.
Our training environment focuses on:
Baseball IQ and situational understanding
Strong habits and routines that reinforce fundamentals and muscle memory
Athletic movement
Competitive environment
Handling pressure and adversity
Collaboration and mentorship
The work still has to come from the player, but our responsibility is to provide the structure, coaching and environment to help the play who wants to improve
What's Included
Our program is designed to provide players with consistent access to training, coaching and development throughout the year.
20 complimentary position-specific group training sessions
Facility membership access
An executable developmental plan
Weather controlled indoor team practices at our facility
Professional instruction from experienced coaches with a proven track record of success
Fundraising opportunities to help offset tuition
A network of baseball professionals collaborating to build a program built for baseball players
Understanding the Overall Value
We understand there are a lot of different pricing models in travel baseball, and families deserve to understand the full picture when comparing programs.
Some organizations advertise lower tuition numbers, but training, memberships, lessons, offseason development, or fundraising obligations may exist separately throughout the year.
Our model was intentionally built differently.
We bring quality training, instruction, coaching, facility access, and player development together under one complete system.
That includes:
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Qualified coaching staff collaborating together to directly benefit our player
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Game-like intensity and approach to training
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Pro-level training facility and equipment
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Professional instruction and oversight
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Year-round developmental opportunities
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Our coaches get to see players in game-like situations and tailor trainings based on those evaluations
Fundraising opportunities are optional, and eligible proceeds go directly back to the individual player account to help offset baseball-related expenses.
Proven Leadership
Led by Director of Player Development, Charlie Spano
20+ years as Associate Head Coach at Mercyhurst University
VP of Scouting, Prep Baseball Report
4 NCAA Division II World Series appearances both as a player and a coach
9 Division Championships
15 MLB Draft selections developed
ABCA / Baseball America DII National Assistant Coach of the Year
Trusted by college coaches and scouts for:
Honest, unbiased player evaluation
Long-term development planning
Recognizing and projecting potential
Private Tryouts
Players interested in joining the All American Steelheads who are unable to attend scheduled tryouts may request a private evaluation. To arrange a private tryout, please contact Coach Charlie Spano, Director of Player Development. Coach Spano will work directly with families to coordinate an appropriate evaluation opportunity.
917-881-7520 | cspano@aab.network
SPRING 2027 EVALUATIONS
Location
All American Baseball Training Center Erie
4646 Buffalo Road Erie PA 16510
814-920-7272 | cspano@aab.network
Ages
7U – 18U
What to Expect
Our evaluations are designed to give players a benchmark evaluation:
- Athletic ability
- Baseball fundamentals
- Competitiveness
- Coachability
- Effort and attitude
- Baseball instincts and awareness
- No obligation to join just by attending a tryout
2027 Tuition
7u:
8u:
9 – 12u:
13u:
14 – 17u:
$780
$1,250
$1,750
$1,850
$2,085
*Fundraising opportunities available to offset tuition. All fundraising credits go directly back to the families who participate and sell tickets.
*Transparent pricing with no hidden mandatory fees. Tuition includes everything except uniforms ($200–$250), which include 2 full game uniforms and 1 practice/training set. Optional add-ons such as lessons, extra training, merch, and photos are available, but not required.
2026 EVALUATION DATES
JUNE
JULY
August
June 22 Evaluation
- 7U - 8U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
June 22 Evaluation
- 9U - 10U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
July 6 Evaluation
- 10U - 11U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
July 6 Evaluation
- 12U - 13U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
August 3 Evaluation
- 14U - 15U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
August 3 Evaluation
- 16U - 17U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
June 24 Evaluation
- 7U - 8U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
June 24 Evaluation
- 9U - 10U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
July 13 Evaluation
- 7U - 9U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
July 13 Evaluation
- 10U - 12U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
August 5 Evaluation
- 11U - 13U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
August 5 Evaluation
- 14U - 17U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
June 29 Evaluation
- 7U - 9U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
June 29 Evaluation
- 9U - 10U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
July 22 Evaluation
- 10U - 11U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
July 22 Evaluation
- 12U - 13U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
August 10 Evaluation
- 14U - 15U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
August 10 Evaluation
- 16U - 17U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
July 29 Evaluation
- 7U - 9U
- 5 - 6:30 pm
July 29 Evaluation
- 10U - 12U
- 7 - 8:30 pm
FAQ's
TRYOUTS
What happens at tryouts?
Players are evaluated in game-like settings and position-specific drills by experienced coaches, focusing on skill, effort, coachability, and competitiveness.
Do players need prior travel experience?
No. Tryouts are designed to evaluate where a player is now and their potential for development.
MAKING THE TEAM
How are roster decisions made?
Roster decisions are based on a full evaluation of each player—not just one tryout session. We consider ability, work ethic, attitude, coachability, positional needs, and long-term development. Our goal is to place players in an environment where they can grow, compete, and develop confidence over the course of the season.
When will we hear back after tryouts?
Families are typically notified within a few days following tryouts. In some cases, we may take additional time to ensure roster balance or evaluate specific positional needs.
How are teams structured?
While some programs refer to “A” and “B” teams, that’s not how we operate.
We maintain a core group of players who have trained and competed together, and roster additions are made thoughtfully when an opening exists or when a player fills a specific need. Placement is not always simply about who is “better” on paper as everyone develops at different times.
In many cases:
A player who may be more advanced skill-wise could be placed on a different roster if it better supports their development.
A player showing strong potential may benefit from increased reps, leadership opportunities, or a larger role on another team.
Competitive balance matters—we aim to field teams that can compete while still prioritizing player growth.
Every decision is made with development, opportunity, and the overall team environment in mind.
ACCEPTING A TEAM SPOT
How do we accept a spot on a team?
Families will receive an official offer outlining program details, tuition, and next steps. A roster spot is secured once the offer is accepted and any required deposit is submitted.
Is there a deadline to accept an offer?
es. Each offer includes a response deadline to ensure fair and timely roster planning.
We kindly ask families to communicate decisions as soon as possible. Delaying a commitment impacts coaches, teammates, and families on waiting lists. Timely responses help us:
Keep roster sizes appropriate
Finalize teams efficiently
Provide clarity to other families still awaiting placement
Clear communication benefits everyone involved and allows us to build the best possible experience for all players.
TUITION & PAYMENTS
What does tuition include?
Tuition covers team training, group training, facility access, tournaments, and player development resources. There are no required add-on training fees.
Are payment plans available?
Yes. Flexible payment options are available and outlined prior to commitment.
What costs are not included?
Uniforms, travel, and lodging for tournaments are not included unless otherwise specified.
TEAM PRACTICES
What do team practices look like?
Practices are structured, instructional, and high-tempo. Teams train indoors during the winter and transition to outdoor practices in season, focusing on fundamentals, team concepts, and game preparation.
How often do teams practice?
Practice schedules vary by age but typically include indoor winter training and 1–2 outdoor practices per week during the season.
COACHES
Who will be coaching my child?
Teams are led by experienced coaches with strong baseball backgrounds and supported by Director of Player Development Charlie Spano, ensuring consistency across the program.
ALL AMERICAN BASEBALL MEMBERSHIP
What is the All American Baseball Center membership?
Membership provides access to our facility, self-service scheduling, and advanced development technology. Team players receive membership access as part of their program.
GROUP TRAINING
What is group training?
Small-group, position-specific training focused on skill development in a competitive environment. Groups are capped to ensure quality instruction.
Is group training required?
Group training is included and encouraged but scheduled flexibly to fit family calendars.
INDIVIDUAL LESSONS
Are private lessons required?
No. The program is designed to provide meaningful instruction through team practices and group training without requiring additional private lessons. However, they are available if that is something you choose to invest in.
MULTI-SPORT ATHLETES
Can my child play other sports?
Yes. We support multi-sport athletes and work with families to manage schedules while prioritizing long-term development.
TOURNAMENTS
How many tournaments does the team play?
Teams typically compete in 6–7 tournaments selected for appropriate competition, development, and exposure.
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING
Is strength training included?
Age-appropriate strength and movement guidance is incorporated with a focus on athleticism, injury prevention, and long-term performance.
COMMUNICATION
How will information be communicated to families?
Team messages and program announcements are shared through our team communication platform TeamReach while schedules will be available in GameChanger. Training schedules are available through EZ Facility Self-Service.
PLAYING TIME
How is playing time handled?
Playing time is development-based and age-appropriate. Younger levels prioritize learning and growth, while older levels balance development and competition.
RECRUITING (Older Ages)
Does the program help with college recruiting?
Yes. Players benefit from honest evaluation, guidance, and access to college and scouting networks led by experienced baseball professionals.
WHAT SETS ALL AMERICAN STEELHEADS APART?
What makes this program different?
All American Steelheads is a complete development model acknowledging that others may try to imitate but lack the expertise. Training, technology, coaching, and recruiting guidance are included, without hidden costs or required add-ons.
Fundraising
Is Fundraising Mandatory?
No. We do not force anyone in our program to participate in fundraising opportunities. We simply offer this as an avenue to help our families to directly offset tuition costs. Any tickets or sponsorships sold will be directly credited to your child/player’s individual account.