Teamwork is a priority!
In the expansion year, players will be asked to attend a tryout evaluation. Only 4 teams will be created at each of the three levels. Players that stay in the program year over year will return to the same team! Same uniform, same coaches if they are returning, same group of friends.
Player Development is a priority!
Training by former NCAA member will be provided to all teams and divisions. This will allow the consistency of coaching across age groups in a single year, as well as for each player year over year. Coaches will be NCCP trained and expertise will be brought in to expose players to a top training experience.
Leadership is a priority!
Sports is a great environment for instilling leadership skills in youth players. Not for just one or two nominated as the captain, or to have them just show up at a plate meeting. Having a integrated program of various ages and commitment levels forms a matrix multiplier of opportunities. We don't want teams of followers, we want teams of leaders!
South Bend OBA has been established as a program to provide baseball opportunities for players of all ages. Our intention is to provide teams at the following ages groups. The following age divisions and teams are expected in the inaugural year:
| Divisions | Birth Years | Rep Teams | Select Teams | House Teams | Pitching Distance | Bases Distance |
| 15U Bantam | 2004/2005 | 1 | 60 | 90 | ||
| 13U Peewee | 2006/2007 | 1 | varies | 4 | 50 | 75 |
| 11U Mosquito | 2008/2009 | 1 | varies | 4 | 44 | 65 |
| 9U Rookie | 2010/2011 | 1 | Machine | 60 |
At each age division there are various programs offered. One major distinction between these programs in addition to the level of play is the duration in which they run and how those teams are formed:
| Programs | Training Season | Playing Season | Team Formation |
| Rep A/AA | Feb-April | May-August | Tryout process to invite players at the Rep competitive level. Baseball experience required. |
| Select* | May/June | July/August | Players are Selected from those wanting to continue into the summer vs other select teams. |
| House A | April | May/June | March Evaluations, spots are limited to 4 teams per division, ball experience is helpful. |
| * Select players are 'selected' from the house league teams. | |||