What is a pick-up player?
A pick-up player is a temporary player that a team coach picks up for a game or tournament and is not on the permanent roster.
Reasons for a team to need pick-up players include:
– rostered player injury
– rostered player unavailability
– increasing roster depth and position depth (such as pitching, catching, hitting, etc. in baseball/softball) for longer tournaments
– try-out situations
Pros of picking up with a team:
-support and relief for a team in need
-opportunities and experience of playing up at a higher age level
-getting reps and playing time at a time when a player’s regular team is not playing
-getting reps and playing time in a field position you wish to improve at but may not get playing time at with your regular team
-real scenario try-out opportunities with a team you want to join or be a practice player for
Cons of picking up:
-Misinterpretation of expectations-the reality is that pick-up players must go into a pick-up situation with no expectations except to support the team when they are needed. If coaches are making grandiose promises of playing time and other deals, it’s a red flag.
-Picking up on a team where you may not know the current chemistry and dynamics, drama and stewing concerns. Some teams and their families embrace pick-up players while others may not be so accepting.
How to Become a Pick-Up Player:
If you are a player that is not on any current roster, your parent or guardian can use any of the sports-specific media forums and message boards on the internet to post availability. Posts should be short, include position, skill level you are looking for, availability, and have your contact information. It’s common for coaches to reach out via the forums and message boards the week or two before tournaments when injuries, etc. require so you should check them frequently.
Pick-up playing within the club that you already play for should start with communication between the coaches of your team and the coach that wants to pick you up. Only after that should you be contacted and arrangements made. If you are approached by another coach from the club, it’s important that you let them know that they should contact your coach for permission prior to making arrangements with you.
Picking up with a team from another club may require you to ask permission from your coach and provide contact information for the coach requesting the pick-up. Permission is usually based on your team schedule and availability. Sometimes coaches can be protective and territorial of their players, especially star players, injury potential, and deny permission. However, when an amazing opportunity arises, coaches may agree.
Some players and families feel a need to talk with their coach about seeking out pick-up and other short-term playing opportunities. Opportunities for more playing time and reps, playing up in a higher age group, and special short-term teams such as All-American teams and player-invited only events, etc. are excellent reasons to keep up the flow of communication with your coach. Many coaches are supportive of player development and approve of pick-up playing to enhance their own programs. Keep your communication and reasons for picking up straight forward, your interactions professional with teams and families.
Sport Families United 