Ocee Park Athletic Association (OPAA) 6-8U Divisions

Selection Process

If you have any questions, contact the 6-8U Rec Coordinator at 6_8recbaseball@oceepark.com.

Ocee Park assesses all players in baseball ages 6-8U together and groups into three separate divisions based on ratings. This is done to ensure all players are grouped with other players at their current development level and not put into a league simply based on age requirement.

National League

This division is comprised of the 48 highest rated players during tryouts, regardless of age. There are four teams in the NL and the expectation is a high intensity, competitive brand of baseball. This league focuses on a fast paced, competitive game environment, as well as advanced development for the players with 3 games/practices per week. Historically this age group has consisted of ~75% 8 year olds and 25% 7 year olds.

American League

This division is comprised of the next grouping of assessed players after the NL and usually consists of 4-6 teams. Rules for the AL are different compared to the NL. Example: players can still call time out on the infield to stop play compared to the NL where you have to get the ball in front of the runner. The AL division is where the majority of this age group will play and is a good mix of competitiveness with fundamental skill development with 3 games/practices per week.

Minor League

This division, at one time, was the 6U division. However, we consistently saw that there were many 6 year olds who had the ability to play at a higher level and many 7 year olds who are just starting to play baseball and needed a league that matches a beginner skill set for development. The ML places an emphasis on practice and development with 2 games/practices per week and usually consists of 4-6 teams. A key rule difference compared to the AL is that a player may use a tee during the game if they are unable to hit one of the pitches during the at bat.