FAQ's

Welcome! These questions are targeted towards families considering trying out for MN Riptide. If you have further questions, please contact Brad Horstman @ 651-398-4020. 

Where do you practice?

Practice will be held in Plymouth.  Indoor facility is held at Providence Academy.

How many teams are you creating?

MN Riptide's goal is to have at least 1 team at each age level, 18U, 16U, and 14U.

What is the roster size?

Typically 12 players, but will adjust as necessary.

How many pitchers and catchers per team?

We like to have 2-3 pitchers and 2-3 catchers.  Ideally we have pitchers and catchers who are strong players at another position. Our pitchers bat and play in the field as well.

How does the offer process work?

MN Riptide coaches along with Brad Horstman, will evaluate player performance and may choose to begin making an offer during the tryout. Most often offers are provided at the end of a evaluation session in person, or later in the day by phone.   Once you're part of the Riptide family we don't believe you need to tryout every new season year.  We should know you as a player and have developed you as a player so you're a valuable member of the Riptide family.

How does MN Riptide support multi-sport athletes?

Playing multiple sports or activities absolutely works with MN Riptide. Some of our most talented players are also excellent volleyball, basketball and hockey players. Others are involved in cross country and other school activities.  We understand that the athleticism built in those other sports pays off on the softball field.  It’s also a great life skill to play multiple sports, learn how to be a teammate,  etc. 

Do you offer additional training outside of practice?

Mn Riptide absolutely has a-la-carte training available.  You can can schedule these sessions directly with Brad Horstman.

Do require volunteer hours?

NO. We know you are busy and there are no required volunteer hours. For those who want to be involved more, there are always ways you can help the club. We have a great culture of parents and grandparents who enjoy being involved. 

What is the cost?

The annual team fee for 2023-24 season will be $2,000 for 14U-18U, $500 collected at initial offer and the balance split out into 3 equal monthly payments.  Additional costs for first-year players to cover uniforms, helmet, etc will be about $200.  Partial scholarships for financial assistance always available, just ask..

How many tournaments do you play?

MN Riptide's teams typically play 6-7 tournaments during the summer season with 1-2 that may require travel and an overnight stay.

How do you handle playing time?

Playing time is not guaranteed and it is decided by the head coach based on their strategy for developing players while winning games. MN Riptide's goal is to be as competitive as we can be while understanding that developing all of the players on your roster makes you more competitive.

We bat the roster in league and pool play games and each player plays some on defense. In bracket play, the coaches are asked to play their best line up of 9 or 9 with a Flex defensive player.  It may be the case that some players do not play in one or all bracket games in a tournament. In general, younger teams at the 14U level will factor player development a bit more than 16U & 18U teams.

Do you have dome ball teams in the winter?

We focus on traininig and development over the winter months and encourage you to participate in your high-school dome ball teams.

Interested in Coaching, Trying out at MN Riptide, or any general questions? 

Text: Brad Horstman @ 651-398-4020