Tryouts
SPRING 2027 EVALUATIONS
The Erie Steelheads will be holding 2026 Fall and 2027 spring baseball tryouts for players ages 7u – 17u. Our fall program focus is on the development of our players and to showcase our college bound 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. Players are trying out for a position.
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
WHAT'S INCLUDED
IN PLAYER FEES
Player Development & Training
Program Start: December 2025
20 complimentary small-group training sessions per player
Scheduled at your convenience
Max 6 players per session
Position-specific, age-appropriate instruction
Competitive, high-intensity environment — Iron Sharpens Iron
FREE All American Baseball Center Membership
Self-service scheduling
Access to advanced player development technology:
HitTrax
Rapsodo
OnForm
Blast
K-Vest
Team Training and Competition
Indoor team training: January–April 2026
Outdoor practices: 1–2x per week
6–7 competitive tournaments
FREE tournament gate entry to any All American event
Proven Leadership & Recruiting Network
Led by Director of Player Development, Charlie Spano
20+ years as Associate Head Coach at Mercyhurst University
VP of Scouting, Prep Baseball Report
3 NCAA Division II World Series appearances
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
The Real Dollar Value
Small-Group Training
-
20 sessions × $65/hr = $1,300
Facility Membership
-
$85/month × 6 months = $510
Advanced Technology Access
-
HitTrax / Rapsodo / Motion tools (typically unavailable or extra)
-
Conservative value: $300–$500
Tournament Gate Fees
-
Estimated savings: $150–$250
Total Added Value Elsewhere:
$2,250 – $2,560+
(before you even factor in coaching quality or recruiting access)
2026 EVALUATION DATES
MAY
JUNE
JULY
COMING SOON
COMING SOON
COMING SOON
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.
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?
Schedules, updates, and announcements are shared through our team communication platform and email.
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
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.