Perhaps no cog in the Hamptons Collegiate Baseball operation is more vital than the network of host families. More than 100 players will descend on the East End this summer, and most or all will stay with members of their respective team’s community. Last year, the players not only exhibited major-league caliber talent in front of fans and scouts on the field, but class and respectfulness off of it.
The Cape Cod Baseball League, which is the model of the Hamptons setup, has welcomed players into their homes for decades. The connection between player and family is strong. Players and their families are oftentimes still in touch long after they leave town and continue their collegiate careers. For example, Jason Varitek provides his Cape League family with tickets at Fenway Park to this day; when players from visiting teams are in Boston, their Cape families are their first phone call. It is that type of familial bond that made the Whalers who they were last year and what will make Hamptons Collegiate Baseball flourish.
You surely have questions, and we hope to have the answers.
What must I provide for the player(s) I host?
At the very least, families are required to supply players with a room, a regular bed, access to laundry and access to the kitchen. Providing the players with food and access to the Internet is not mandatory but encouraged.
Am I expected to provide my boarder with transportation?
No. Several of the players will drive their own cars, and for those who don’t, the league will arrange it so transportation is always available to them. You can however provide a car or rides if you’d like.
How long will the players require housing?
Players are arriving on or around June 1, and the season will span until the first week of August. The schedules may extend an extra week should their team make the playoffs.
Can I host more than one player?
Yes! Those that would like to host multiple players are invited to do so.
Under what guidelines will the players abide?
The athletes are expected to respond to each family’s rules, whether it’s a curfew, cleanliness standards or assigned chores. Summer baseball is like a “road test” for what it’s like to be in the majors. It is stressed that they are being judged not just on athletic performance but the positive image they put forth.
What is a player’s daily itinerary like?
Each team will play a 40-game regular season schedule; those that qualify will participate in the playoffs. For the games that begin at 5 p.m., they’ll be expected at the field for early-afternoon warm-ups and batting practice. On their off-days, they may work a part-time job. They’re also invited to speak to Little Leagues and participate in local charity work, such as hospital visits or Habitat For Humanity.
Am I required to attend the games?
No. Many of the host families lined the field at the park to support the team, but it is not required.
Can I choose which player I board?
No. However, if you have a child that plays a specific position, we will work to accommodate so he/she is matched with a player of the same position, by request.
Who can I contact if I’m interested in hosting a player?
You can contact President Rusty Leaver at 631-668-3901 or rleaver@hamptonsbaseball.org.
If you have a question that is not listed above, feel free to contact President Rusty Leaver at 631-668-3901 or rleaver@hamptonsbaseball.org.