Need free youth baseball fields for NYS practice-Gilbert (Parks: spring break, rental)

[jamesm02]

I just moved to Gilbert and I am coaching a 7-9 yr old baseball team, starting in a cpl weeks. The problem I am facing is that the league doesn't provide practice fields for us. And bc I just moved here, I havent the slightest idea where to look for fields that do not charge a rental fee (like Parks n Rec does). Any info would help, even just the crossroads if you dont know the name of the park. Thank-you in advance!

[thisismyspameamil]

Near what area in Gilbert. I'm sure you could call the elementary/jr. high/ and high schools. That's where a lot of my practices/games use to take place.

[nightnurse613]

Maybe it's changed now but, when my kids were in NYS they had a VERY difficult time getting any fields because NYS would not offer additional insured coverage to the organizations and they were a little hesitant to authorize use of the field without some insurance consideration.

[PhinsFan1]

I would check with all the schools nearby. Most elementary schools that I know of in my area of Gilbert have fenced areas that could be used for baseball. What about the fields they play their games at on Saturdays? Can you practice there during the week? There are also baseball fields by the Polar Ice Skating rink, on Knox and Greenfield. They might be owned by Little League, so it might not be an option. Not sure. But you might look into that. I'd also check with NYS to see if they have recommendations and/or ask other coaches. And if all else fails, just practice at a neighborhood park. Maybe buy one of those nets they use as a backstop, though I know they're pricey.

It stinks that they don't give all you hard working volunteers some practice location options. Good luck! We played a season with NYS and never went back b/c I felt they were too disorganized.

[jamesm02]

I am on the islands at Warner/Cooper. My son has been practicing with a soccer team at the Polar Ice Rink fields and I have been scouting out the smaller fields but they always seem to be full. I am very frustrated with NYS and our first season with them hasnt even started yet. I think I will definately check the schools/fields where the games are to be held. We have a parent meeting with NYS this weekend, so I think i will lean on other coaches and our team's parents for advice. I appreciate all of your responses

[Sherrilee30]

You're not alone! I also agreed to coach, yet had no idea it would be this difficult to find a free field. Unlike you I've lived here my entire life and have played on the majority of the fields around yet it was always part of a city organization and never ran into this issue. I've reached out to NYS for assistant and will post their feed back (if they respond).

The problem with trying to get a school right now is they are on spring break so I highly doubt I will get any feed back until they return.

Good luck, from another NYS frustrated coach!