Mount Prospect Mavericks Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

Why the Mavericks?

Mavericks teams compete at the highest level of travel baseball leagues in our area, and we’re looking for players who are eager to grow, compete, be great teammates, and represent our community with pride.

Culture First

Be part of a fun, competitive, development-focused program built on values and community engagement.

Affordability

The Mavericks are 100% volunteer-run. Every dollar raised goes directly back into our teams—making us one of the most affordable travel baseball options in the area.

Community Driven

As an affiliate of the Mount Prospect Park District, we offer next-level competition while prioritizing local connections and giveback initiatives throughout the year.

Professional Training Access

All Mavericks players benefit from a robust year-round training program through our partnership with Playball USA, conveniently located in Mount Prospect.

  • November through March: structured, small-group training led by professional coaches, focused on hitting, pitching, defense, and catching.
  • January through March: weekly team-based training at the CCC to build chemistry and apply individual skills in a team setting.

Additional Benefits for Mavs Families:

  • Batting cage memberships
  • Private lessons
  • Clinics and camps
  • Baseball equipment discounts

Multi-Sport Friendly

We encourage players to participate in multiple sports and activities. While our focus is on baseball during the spring season, we believe in developing well-rounded athletes and citizens year-round.

Experience

Since 1983, the Mavericks have proudly served the Mount Prospect community for over 40 years, making a lasting impact on countless families and young athletes.

Dedicated Volunteers

All coaches are volunteers, many with extensive experience as former players and coaches at the youth, high school, college, and professional levels. They invest their time and energy year-round to support our players, teams, and community.

1) What league will you play in and where are home games?

Mavs teams typically compete in the GCBL or MSBL, both based out of Elk Grove Village and comprised primarily of community-based teams from surrounding areas.

  • Travel for away games is typically local, but occasional games may take teams into Chicago or farther suburbs.
  • All Mavs home games are played at Friendship Park in Mount Prospect (Algonquin Rd between Route 83 and Mount Prospect Rd). Friendship Park includes scoreboards, three age-appropriate fields, hitting cages, covered dugouts, restrooms, a playground, and ample parking.

2) How many games do Mavericks teams play?

  • 9U and up: approximately 25–30 games per season, including league play, tournaments, and playoffs.
  • 13U and older: typically 35–40 games per season.

3) What are the pitching mound and base distances?

  • 8U: 60' bases, 40' mound
  • 9U: 65' bases, 46' mound
  • 10U: 65' bases, 46' mound
  • 11U: 70' bases, 50' mound
  • 12U: 70' bases, 50' mound
  • 13U: 80' bases, 54' mound
  • 14U: 90' bases, 60' 6" mound

4) How many tournaments will the team play in?

Teams typically compete in 2–5 tournaments depending on age level and season timing.

  • Out-of-town tournaments generally do not begin until 11U.

5) Will Mavericks teams travel outside of Illinois?

It depends on the team. Historical examples include:

  • 11U: Wisconsin Dells tournament
  • 12U: Cooperstown Dreams Park
  • 13U: Cal Ripken Myrtle Beach
  • 14U: Typically one out-of-state event each year
    Decisions on travel tournaments are made on a team-by-team basis.

6) Who coaches the Mavericks?

All coaches are dedicated volunteers, many with experience as players and coaches at high levels (youth, high school, college, and professional). They are passionate about carrying forward the strong tradition of Mavericks baseball and supporting player development on and off the field.

7) How much does it cost to play for the Mavericks?

  • Current baseline fee: $750 per player (subject to change).
  • Fee includes indoor training, field costs, umpires, equipment, league fees, and in-town tournaments.
  • Out-of-town tournament costs are in addition to the baseline fee.
  • Full uniform package: approximately $325. Many players reuse uniform items across multiple years.

Note: Due to the additional costs associated with the 12U Cooperstown trip, we recommend families contact the Mavericks Board for more detail prior to tryouts at that age level.

8) When is the money due?

  • Commitment deposit: generally $250, due within 72 hours of team acceptance.
  • Additional payments: typically $250 due by September 15 and November 15.
  • 12U payment schedule may differ due to Cooperstown.
  • No refunds are given after payment, except in the case of board-approved injury-related circumstances.

9) What is the refund policy?

  • No refunds will be given once a player accepts a roster spot.
  • Exceptions may be considered for injury-related cases; families must submit written requests to the Mavericks Board of Directors.
  • The Board will review requests on a case-by-case basis; any approved refund may be prorated.

10) When do you start workouts?

  • Teams generally begin weekly indoor skill development in November, continuing through April.
  • Outdoor practices begin as soon as weather permits and continue through the season.
  • We encourage and support multi-sport athletes, but during baseball season (April–July), we expect players to prioritize baseball.