THE OFFICIAL HOME OF
THE JR. GROWLERS ACADEMY
Development and Teaching
Player development and teaching in baseball are essential, but fun is the #1 priority. Fun First, Wins Follow.
Why Be a Jr. Growler or Growler Elite Player?
Development, Coaching, Experience and More.
Experienced Paid Coaching
Our dedicated coaching staff boasts extensive high-level experience, including both coaching and playing at the collegiate level. This expertise allows them to provide players with top-tier instruction, focusing on skill development, strategic understanding, and the mental aspects of the game.
Authentic Experience
Experience the thrill of wearing the same jerseys as the Kalamazoo Growlers! Jr. Growlers players get an authentic experience, sporting the exact same uniforms worn by the Kalamazoo Growlers, our Northwoods League summer collegiate team. This unique connection to a high level of baseball gives our players a sense of pride and belonging, making them feel like a part of the Growlers family and having direct interactions with Growler Players & Coaches.
Year-Round Training
Stay sharp and develop your skills year-round with our comprehensive winter training program! Jr. Growlers players enjoy weekly access to our premier indoor training facilities from October through March, providing a dedicated space to work on their game even when the weather outside isn't cooperating. Our older players (14U-18U) benefit from exclusive group training sessions 2-3 times per week, led by our experienced coaches. These sessions focus on advanced skill development, strategic understanding, and building team chemistry. All teams (8U-18U) participate in bi-weekly and weekly hitting sessions from October to March, providing ample opportunity to perfect their swing and improve their offensive production. Our younger players (8U-13U) also receive consistent instruction with weekly indoor practices running from October all the way through April, ensuring they're fully prepared for the spring season. This comprehensive winter program ensures that Jr. Growlers players are always developing and ready to compete at their highest level.
Baseball Career Advancement Assistance
The Jr. Growlers are committed to helping our players navigate the often-complex world of college recruiting. We provide invaluable resources, including informative college recruiting information meetings featuring special guests. These guests include local college coaches who offer firsthand insights into what they look for in prospective players, as well as current and former college players who share their experiences and advice. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, from academic requirements and eligibility to the recruiting timeline and how to communicate with coaches. For our high school-aged players (15U-18U), we take recruiting a step further by organizing exclusive Scout Days. These events are specifically designed to attract college coaches and scouts, providing our players with a prime opportunity to showcase their skills in a competitive environment and increase their visibility within the college baseball landscape. It's a chance for players to make a strong impression and take a significant step towards their dream of playing college baseball.
Exclusive Discounts
As a member of the Jr. Growlers family, you'll receive exclusive perks, including special discounts on Kalamazoo Growlers merchandise. Show your team spirit with discounted apparel, hats, and other Growlers gear. Beyond team apparel, we've partnered with top baseball equipment brands Rawlings and Easton to offer our players preferred pricing on bats, gloves, and other essential baseball gear. This allows our players access to high-quality equipment at the best prices, ensuring they're always ready to perform at their best.
All-Inclusive Tournaments & Uniforms
The Jr. Growlers compete in tournaments and wear the same authentic jerseys, hats and swag as the Kalamazoo Growlers. It's all included for Junior Growler players.
Local Facility
Jr. Growlers players train and develop using cutting-edge technology in top-notch facilities. Our indoor training features not one, but two Rapsodo machines: a dedicated 2.0 pitching machine and a combined 3.0 hitting/pitching machine. These advanced tools allow our coaches to teach pitch design, analyze ball flight, and simulate live at-bats with precise data-driven feedback. Outdoors, we utilize the same technology used by college and professional scouts: the Stadium Trackman system, a crucial tool for player evaluation and recruitment. Combined with Synergy Baseball, our outdoor technology provides players with unparalleled insights into their performance, giving them a distinct advantage in their development and the recruiting process.
Growler Experience Opportunities
Jr. Growlers players have the incredible opportunity to take batting practice on the field at Homer Stryker Field before Kalamazoo Growlers games, giving them a taste of the big leagues. When available, our regular practices and games are also held at this fantastic facility, providing a truly special experience for our players. Our younger players (8U-13U) enjoy even more exclusive access, including pre-game locker room access, special player meetings, and skill-building clinics. These unique opportunities foster a sense of camaraderie and provide invaluable learning experiences. Furthermore, our older players (15U-18U) we offer dedicated Question and Answer sessions for both parents and players with Kalamazoo Growlers players. These sessions focus specifically on the college recruiting process, providing expert advice and answering questions about everything from academic requirements to contacting coaches. It's an invaluable resource for families navigating the path to college baseball.
Fundraise Team Fees
The Jr. Growlers understand that the cost of travel baseball can be a significant commitment. That's why we offer a unique fundraising opportunity: players and their families can volunteer at Western Michigan University and Kalamazoo Growlers events to earn money towards their team fees. This program allows families to actively participate in offsetting the costs of uniforms, travel expenses, and other team-related fees. By volunteering their time and energy, families can not only reduce their financial burden but also become more involved
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