NJ Challenge 10U Development Team Athlete Agreement

A Note to Parents & Athletes:

Welcome to the NJ Challenge 10U Development Team. While our program is designed to be an overall lighter commitment than our older NJ Challenge teams, we still hold our athletes to a high standard. Our goal is not only to develop skilled softball players, but also to develop confident, accountable, resilient, and respectful young women.

We ask parents to read and review this agreement together with their athlete. The conversations that come from these expectations are an important first step in developing the habits, character, confidence, and leadership skills that will help athletes succeed both on and off the softball field.

At NJ Challenge, we believe that powerhouse athletes become powerhouse young women through accountability, effort, communication, respect, and a commitment to continual growth.

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As a member of the NJ Challenge 10U Development Team, I understand that I represent both myself and my team every time I step onto the field, enter a facility, wear my uniform, or interact with others.

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Be Supportive

NJ Challenge has a zero-tolerance bullying policy.

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I understand that I am expected to treat my teammates, coaches, opponents, officials, and families with kindness and respect at all times.

As an NJ Challenge athlete, I will:

• Be a good teammate.

• Encourage others.

• Celebrate my teammates' successes.

• Include everyone.

• Use positive words and actions.

• Demonstrate good sportsmanship.

I understand that my attitude affects my teammates and contributes to our team culture.

Hustle. Coachability. Commitment. Preparation.

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At NJ Challenge, hustle is expected. I will:

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• Run on and off the field.

• Move with purpose during practices and games.

• Give my best effort at all times.

• Stay engaged and ready to learn.

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I understand that hustle shows respect for my teammates, coaches, and the game.

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I understand that learning requires listening, effort, and a positive attitude. As an NJ Challenge athlete, I will:

• Listen when coaches are speaking.

• Follow directions the first time.

• Accept feedback with a positive attitude.

• Work hard to improve my skills.

• Learn from mistakes rather than becoming frustrated.

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I understand that mistakes are part of learning and growth.

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I understand that my teammates are counting on me. I will:

• Attend practices and games whenever possible.

• Arrive on time.

• Be ready to work hard and learn.

• Give my best effort for my team.

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I understand that commitment means showing up prepared, focused, and ready to improve.

I understand that it is my responsibility to arrive ready to participate. I will bring all required equipment and arrive prepared for every practice, training session, and game. I will arrive on time, focused, and ready to begin when practice or games start.

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I understand that athletes perform best when they take care of their bodies. I will make every effort to stay hydrated and fuel my body properly before practices and games.

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Dugout Expectations and Rules

Being in the dugout does not mean I stop being part of the game. While in the dugout, I will:

• Pay attention to the game.

• Cheer for my teammates.

• Stay positive.

• Be ready when my name is called.

• Support my team regardless of the score.

I understand that negative attitudes, poor sportsmanship, and distractions hurt the team. I will:

• Keep my focus on the game.

• Stay in the dugout unless given permission by a coach.

• Show respect to teammates and coaches.

• Help create a positive environment.

Playing Time & Development

I understand that NJ Challenge is a development-focused program designed to help athletes improve and prepare for future opportunities within our organization. At the 10U level, coaches work hard to provide athletes with meaningful opportunities to learn and compete.

However, playing time is still earned through:

• Effort

• Attitude

• Coachability

• Hustle

• Practice habits

• Preparation

• Team-first behavior

I understand that coaches make decisions based on what is best for both the athlete's development and the team.

I will focus on controlling the things I can control:

• My effort

• My attitude

• My preparation

• My work ethic

• My willingness to learn

Communication & Accountability

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At NJ Challenge, we begin teaching athletes how to communicate and advocate for themselves at a young age.

I understand that if I have a question, concern, goal, or something I would like help with, I should first speak with my Head Coach.

I understand that learning to respectfully communicate is part of becoming a confident athlete and future leader.

I may be young, but I can still:

• Ask questions.

• Share my goals.

• Seek help when I need it.

• Communicate respectfully.

These are important life skills that will help me both on and off the field.

Growth Mindset

I understand that every athlete develops at a different pace. I will:

• Focus on improving every day.

• Learn from mistakes.

• Stay positive during challenges.

• Support my teammates through both successes and setbacks.

• Believe in my ability to grow and improve.

I understand that confidence is built through effort, preparation, and perseverance.

Athlete Commitment

As an NJ Challenge athlete, I commit to being:

• Respectful

• Coachable

• Supportive

• Accountable

• Hardworking

• Positive

I understand that wearing the NJ Challenge logo is a privilege and that I am expected to represent myself, my family, my teammates, and my organization with pride. I will work hard, compete with confidence, support my teammates, and strive to become the best athlete and person I can be.