Having been three times (1 as coach) and keeping a list of things that were helpful, I thought I would throw this out there to anyone going in 2015. These notes are thru 2014. Anyone else with tips or notes, feel free to add on....
For Coaches
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* The hitting cages are on asphalt so bring baseballs you dont mind getting chewed up.
* There are no practice mounds at the fields, or anywhere else for that matter. Bring a measuring tape.
* There is a large open grassy field for practicing, but its tough to get a decent spot.
* Consider having all your parents check out their kids one night so everyone gets a good night of sleep.
* Bring a key/combination lock for the storage bin in front of your barrack.
* Bring wiffle ball and bat because there are tons of games going on at any time.
* Unless you are bringing in elite kids (pitching) from all over, this tournament is not winnable. Just have fun.
* There were NO bat rules, as in none.
* The individual skills competitions all happen simultaneously so its difficult for 1 kid to do multiple events.
* The HR contest uses a pitching machine that is around 45 mph I believe. Have your kids practice using a machine.
* The Golden Arm contest is about a 170 foot throw from CF to home plate.
* You dont have to attend closing ceremonies to get your rings. They are avaialble by the arcade on Friday.
* Double check your ring sizes. You can exchange them by the arcade on Friday if they dont fit.
* Dont forget to pickup your Grandfather Certificate before you leave.
For Parents
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* Get your tournament t-shirts on Sunday. They will usually run out by Tuesday.
* Many parents felt that the shirts/jackets ran about 1/2 size small.
* Parking is awful for opening and closing ceremonies so get there early. For games its no problem.
* There is no parking fee or gate fee. Perfect Game folks must be cringing.
* Restaurants in downtown Cooperstown are tiny and do not easily accomodate large parties.
* Restaurants are not open late so if you get weather delays, you better eat before your game.
* We are from the south and we know BBQ. The BBQ in Cooperstown is not good.
* The Omegang Brewery is awesome! Go early, go often! The Chicken & Waffles are amazing!
* Parking downtown has gone to meters, but if you look just off main street you can find free spaces.
* There are 2 bars downtown on side street across from each other (near HOF) that are open until midnight.
* Do not forget any baseball equipment. The nearest sporting goods store is not close.
* You dont have to bring chairs. There are lots of those platic stackable chairs in every sitting area.
* Have your kids ready with trading pins the moment you get into the barracks.
* A list of team/barrack assignments is available at the office (helps with pin trading).
* Bring rain gear because chances are you will get some.
* Send a blanket with your kids for the barracks. There is no heat / AC and it can get cold at night.
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Cooperstown Notes for Parents and Coaches
Posted - 06/02/2015 : 14:00:30
