SPRING BALL RECREATION PROGRAM

House League Program Overview

The Fort McMurray Minor Baseball Association (FMMBA) is open to all youth ages 4-18 in Fort McMurray and surrounding communities. Our programs provide young athletes born in 2022 and earlier with the opportunity to experience the fun of baseball while learning teamwork, sportsmanship, and character through friendly competition.

FMMBA operates as a not-for-profit organization under the guidelines of Baseball Alberta and Baseball Canada. Our House League philosophy is centered on development, enjoyment, and inclusivity, guided by the belief that EVERYONE PLAYS.

Participation in the House League program is determined by age category. At the youngest levels (Double “P”, T-Ball, Coach Pitch and 9U), players are introduced to all positions to encourage skill development and confidence. At the 11U level and above, players rotate through pitching positions in accordance with FMMBA pitch count rules, with equal rotation of all other positions to ensure every athlete has the opportunity to play each role.

Our House League program strives to foster a lifelong love of baseball by teaching fundamental skills, encouraging fair play, and promoting healthy competition in a fun and supportive environment.

Double “P” Program (Age 4)

To introduce the fundamentals of baseball at an early age and encourage parent involvement, FMMBA offers the Double “P” division for 4-year-old players (born in 2022). Players are divided into two groups and participate in one weekly session, either Monday, Tuesday or Thursday, from 5:30-6:15 PM at Ron Morgan Park.

Sessions are led by FMMBA coaches, with the expectation that each child is accompanied on the field by a parent or guardian. This approach allows young players to begin learning the game while parents gain confidence in basic fundamentals, supporting future coaching involvement.

Player Evaluations

Player evaluations are held in early spring and are overseen by the FMMBA House League Committee. Evaluations are based on age category and direct observation of demonstrated skills.

The primary purpose of evaluations is to create balanced teams, ensuring fair competition and a positive experience for all players. Evaluations also support player safety by identifying situations where a player’s skill level may be better suited to a slightly higher age category, particularly at younger levels.

League Play

House League teams participate in summer league play from early May through the end of June, with the possibility of additional play in the fall for interested participants. Teams typically practice and play games two to three times per week.

• T-Ball & Coach Pitch: Monday and Wednesday

• 9U: Tuesday and Thursday

• 11U / 13U / 15U/18 combined: Two times per week (days not fixed)

The season includes a Mid-Season Tournament and a Year-End Tournament to determine division champions.

Required Equipment 

For player safety and participation, the following equipment is required:

• Male players: Athletic support (jock strap) with cup

• Female players: Jill strap

• Baseball glove (name and phone number recommended)

• Runners or plastic/rubber baseball cleats

• Properly fitted NSA-approved batting helmet with chin strap (player name recommended)

All listed items are mandatory unless otherwise noted.

House League Evaluation Times

Evaluation sessions are organized by the first letter of the player’s last name and are held at MacIsland. Check-in is located in front of the first Field House.

Evaluation schedule: TBA