About

Shoreline Sting, one of New England’s finest fastpitch travel programs, was founded by Ray and Georgette Ezell in 1992. Our program is dedicated not only to teaching the skills and strategies that will lead to success on the playing field but also to the lifetime values of doing your best, and getting along with others, teammates, and opponents. We believe this effort will translate into success and happiness in later life, which is of primary importance.

Even though our program has experienced more success than most, we feel what we offer should not be gauged by championships and victories, but by “whether your daughter is a better player and person after the Sting Experience.” We are fortunate to have an outstanding group of experienced coaches who continue to educate themselves by attending seminars and clinics concerning all aspects of the game and of coaching young athletes.

In addition to our summer travel program, Shoreline Sting offers a Fall League for both middle school and high school players. This league provides an opportunity for players to hone their skills during the off-season.

Players

Choosing to play travel softball is a major commitment. As a player, you are expected to attend all practices, winter workouts, scrimmages, games, and team meetings, where you should be focused and give 100% at all times. You will be given an opportunity to develop your skills throughout the season. Players are encouraged to seek further instruction outside of the Sting organization, to support their positions and game disciplines (i.e. pitching, catching, hitting, and fielding, as well as strength and conditioning). Players are expected to treat fellow teammates, coaches, officials, and opposing players with the utmost respect at all times. You may not always agree with coaching decisions, but remember that they are made with team objectives in mind. If you are experiencing a problem, or do not understand what is expected of you, please talk to one of your coaches.

Coaches

Coaches are making a commitment, too. The coaches’ responsibilities are to teach and develop each player’s skills to help them reach their full potential. Coaches should constantly reinforce the values of teamwork and good sportsmanship. Coaches expect respect and commitment from their players and will extend similar courtesies. Coaches will ensure fair and equitable treatment of all players and encourage players to approach them with problems or concerns.

Parents

Parental support is an integral part of a successful travel team. All aspects of travel softball require significant commitments of time and money. Parental support at games is crucial. We ask that parents refrain from coaching from the stands, as it can be distracting and confusing. It is the coach’s responsibility to deal with any disputes on the field, so please do not argue with officials over calls, etc. Please use the utmost discretion in sharing adverse feelings regarding other players, parents, coaches, or officials in front of your daughter, or with other parents. Your comments and actions directly affect your daughter’s attitude about the game and toward her teammates and coaches. If there are any concerns they should be brought to the attention of the head coach in an open and honest manner.

Problem Resolution

There will be differences of opinion at one time or another. We must be able to communicate our differences in a fair and considerate manner. It does not benefit the players, or the team as a whole, if, at the end of the season, it is discovered that there was a major problem that went unresolved due to a lack of communication. As a first step, players should discuss all issues directly with the coaches. If the problem is not resolved, parents are encouraged to get involved. If the coaching staff is experiencing problems with individual players, the issue will be addressed with the player involved. If it is not resolved, the coaching staff will consult that player’s parents.

Practice

Be on time, and bring proper equipment and hydration.
Use practice time effectively — work hard, follow directions, have fun, and do not be disruptive.
Absolutely no cell phones/texting at practice.
Pitchers and catchers are expected to work outside of regular practice.
Players may be asked to work on specific parts of their games outside of regular practice.
Be respectful to coaches and teammates.
Attendance at practice and winter workouts is mandatory. If something comes up and you need to miss a practice — notify coaches ahead of time. Playing time is directly affected by attendance, participation, and performance at practice.
If there is a question — ask.
Clean up the field and dugout area before leaving each practice.

Games

Unless otherwise instructed, be on the field prepared to warm up one hour prior to game time.
Dress in full uniform with shirts tucked in – you will be notified what uniforms to wear on what day.
Hustle on and off the field at all times.
Players’ positions will be determined by the coaching staff.
Pay attention to the game at all times, even when you are not playing.
Be supportive and respectful of your teammates and coaches. Show good sportsmanship towards opposing teams and officials.
Do not engage in organized cheers intended to distract opponents.
Clean up the dugout before leaving each game.
Absolutely no cell phones/texting during games.