Supportive

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NJ CHALLENGE has a zero-tolerance bully policy. Abuse or harassment of any kind is absolutely prohibited. Disrespect has no place on our team or in our sport. Respect your teammates, your coaches, your opponents, the sport of softball, and most of all yourself. Attitude is everything and it makes a big impression and impact. It is vital that all NJ CHALLENGE athletes represent what Challenge U. stands for, integrity, grit, respect,  commitment, and dedication.

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HUSTLE is required both on and off the field. First on, first off rule. This applies to both practices and games. Coaches are always watching but an NJ CHALLENGE athlete must hustle for yourself and your teammates. Hustle displays a level of respect for yourself and others.

 

Respecting yourself and others is a must have as an NJ CHALLENGE athlete. For example, we may not always agree with an umpires call but it is crucial that as a member of NJ CHALLENGE, you keep your opinions to yourself. There is no room for any kind of disrespect within our organization, especially on the field. We hold ourselves to a higher standard.

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Committed

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All NJ CHALLENGE athletes are required to give 110% to themselves and their team. Rosters are created in a way to balance both competitiveness and playing time needs.  In order to achieve both of these goals, it is necessary that our NJ CHALLENGE players and families be fully committed.  

 

It is expected that the first obligation of all players is to the NJ CHALLENGE Club Program. The exceptions to this are illness, a school function (with notice), family emergency, or religious obligation. It is the responsibility of the player/family to make their coaches aware of any necessary absences or late arrivals with as much notice as possible.

 

Players are to always arrive at the field slightly earlier than a scheduled training, practice, or game-time. Players with an unexcused tardiness will result in consequences. Excessive tardiness or absences will result in sitting out or removal from the team without tuition returned. Accountability is key on NJ CHALLENGE.

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Guesting

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NJ Challenge extends the opportunity for our athletes to guest on a maximum of two outside events throughout the entirety of the 2024-2025 season. These events must not coincide with the scheduled playing or practice days of their NJC team. To maintain fairness and uphold standards, athletes and parents must verify that the team they are guesting for adheres to the guidelines set forth by USSSA, USA, or the respective governing bodies for the event.

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It is imperative that athletes communicate with all of their coaches and notify the NJ Challenge administration via email at njchallengesoftball@gmail.com to ensure complete transparency regarding the dates they will be participating as a guest for another team or event. This collaboration fosters a cooperative and respectful environment among all parties involved.

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Prepared

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Players are required to wear NJ CHALLENGE attire to every practice and the proper uniform to every game. We expect an NJ CHALLENGE athlete to always arrive fully prepared as they are responsible for their uniform and gear. Everyday gear includes, but is not limited to, their bat bag, bat, helmet, glove, batting gloves, and cleats. Players are to be dressed and ready to go upon arrival to the field.

 

In addition to the player's equipment, being prepared also means staying hydrated. Large water bottles and/or coolers are encouraged. Water and products such as Gatorade or Powerade are suggested. Soda, coffees, and energy drinks are not allowed.

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Dugout Do's

 

Players in the dugout must be alert at all times. While in the dugout, you still have a job to do as apart of the team. Cheer for and encourage your teammates regardless of the score or current game time situation. 

 

Players in the dugout must be aware and invested in what is happening on the field. Knowing the score, where the play is, and what the batting line up are a few examples. Support and being vocal are must haves for any/all NJ CHALLENGE athletes. In joining our program, each athlete is required to be vocal for their team.

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There are absolutely no dugout visits during the game. All focus should remain on field. There is also to be no communication with anyone outside of the dugout. No phones are allowed once the player has entered the dugout, and for the remainder of the practice/game. Emergencies are the only exception. Also, players are not allowed to leave the dugout during a game. Emergency bathroom situations are the only exception.

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The allowed dugout food items are as follows: gum, seeds, snack/protein bar, and fruit. Larger food items such as chips, sandwiches, fast food, etc., are not allowed in the dugout.

 

Playing Time

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Our program’s philosophy is that all players will play in pool play games of tournaments.  However, at this high level of competitive softball, playing time in elimination games is not guaranteed. Playing time will be at the coach’s discretion, and will be determined by a variety of criteria evaluated through games and practices.

 

As we like to say at NJ CHALLENGE and Challenge U. Softball, the athlete decides how much playing time they receive through their attitude, work ethic, skills, continual development, dedication to training on their own time, team attitude, hunger, hustle, and desire. 

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The goal of the NJ CHALLENGE Program is to create self-confident and accountable athletes. This is why we believe that it is always best for our players to communicate directly with their coaches whenever possible (vs. a parent).  We take pride in creating a safe environment where our athlete's can feel comfortable having those sometimes difficult conversations. This will provide them with valuable experiences that will help them off the softball field as young adults.

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Our NJC protocols for playing time is as follows: For each practice missed, the athlete will sit one game. For each game missed, the athlete will sit two games that weekend or the following weekend. Which game is sat is decided by the NJC Coaching Staff.

 

*Please note that we understand special occasions, family functions, etc., are sometimes out of your scheduling control as well as emergencies.  These such events are to be discussed in a timely manner individually with your coaching staff. Being committed to club softball organization such as NJC means you will be held to the highest level of commitment. Advanced notice for such events is a must.

 

Injuries

 

Injuries will be taken seriously. It is important that players and parents have open and honest communication with coaches regarding injuries. Playing with soreness and slight pain is part of sports; however, playing injured is not. The health and safety of our players is paramount.

 

If you are injured, you are required to visit your doctor. A doctor’s note will be required, and the doctor’s orders will be followed by the coach. Injured players are still required to attend practices and games.

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Roster

At NJC, we understand the importance of both ample playing time and maintaining full team coverage. To achieve this balance, we hold a roster of 13 athletes. This approach ensures that:

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1. Injury Coverage: With an average of one to two injuries per year, having a roster of 13 athletes allows us to seamlessly cover for any unexpected absences due to injuries, ensuring that the team remains competitive and fully staffed at all times.
   
2. Attendance Adjustments: We recognize that athletes may have various commitments that they are obligated to attend. Our roster size accommodates these obligations, ensuring that there are always enough players available for practices and games without compromising on playing time for each athlete.

By maintaining a roster of 13, we can provide a balanced and supportive environment where all athletes receive ample opportunities to play and develop their skills, while also ensuring the team remains resilient and prepared for any contingencies.