OVERVIEW
For players aged 8-11*, the AAA division is the first level requiring player assessments followed by a draft. Players aged 8, 9 or 10 who are not drafted will play in the AA division. AAA features kid-pitch, keeps scores and standings, and has umpires officiating all games. Each team fields nine defensive players, and base runners may attempt to advance (or steal) as soon as the pitched ball has reached the batter. Players are guaranteed to play at least six outs in games lasting four innings, and nine outs in longer games. An inning ends with either three outs or five runs scored. Each AAA team participates in the post-season VLL Tournament and the Vista City Tournament, with the winners qualifying for the District 70 Tournament of Champions. Players in AAA are also eligible for All-Star selection.
*Note: All 10- and 11-year-olds can be drafted into the Majors, and 11-year-olds are eligible for the Intermediate draft. Any 8-, 9 and 10-year-olds not chosen in the AAA draft will attend AA assessments. [SPRING ONLY]
FAQs
Q: What equipment do I need to provide for my AAA player?
A: The league provides team hats and jerseys. Players must have the following items:
Bat (see USA bat requirements below)
Fielding glove
Batting helmet
Cleats
Baseball pants, belts, and socks (once your team’s color scheme is assigned, you can purchase pants, socks, and a belt accordingly)
Protective cup (boys only)
Q: When do Spring practices start?
A: Practices for AAA are scheduled to begin the first week of February.
Q: When do Spring games start?
A: Tentatively, the first games are set for the first weekend of March with the regular season ending around the first or second week of May. The regular season will be followed by two tournament: (1) the annual end of season AAA tournament and the city of Vista tournament. Both winners of the each tournament will represent their league at the District 70 Tournament of Champions (TOC). If your team goes to TOC, your season will then end around the first or second week of June.
Q: Can I make a “buddy” or coach request?
A: No. In AAA, player assessments and a draft process ensure teams are balanced and players are matched with appropriate competitive levels.
[DURING THE FALL, WE DO OUR BEST TO HONOR COACH AND BUDDY REQUESTS AS BEST WE CAN]
Q: What is a typical week for AAA?
A: There will be one 90-minute field practice and one 60-minute batting practice during the week. There will be one weeknight game and one weekend game (Friday night or Saturday). Exact practice days will be determined by our practice scheduler.
Q: What types of bats are allowed?
A: In AAA, all bats must be USA Baseball certified, indicated by the USA Baseball logo. Anything else is illegal for Little League play. If you’re buying a bat for a relatively new player, try not to spend more than $80. A clerk at any sporting goods store can recommend an appropriate bat.
Q: Are scores and standings kept?
A: Yes, scores and standings are kept and the seeding for the end of the season tournament is based off the season's standings.
Q: Who are the managers and coaches?
A: All managers and coaches are parents, and most have several years of youth baseball coaching experience.
Q: What is the goal for AAA?
A: The ultimate goal at all levels of Little League is for players to want to return the following season. In AAA, competitiveness increases with full kid-pitch, nine defensive players, and base stealing. This division also allows teams to compete for the league tournament title and the city of Vista title, which has significance beyond VLL, as the winner represents the league in the District 70 Tournament of Champions. Players are also eligible for post-season All-Star selection. Despite the competitive environment, skill development and having fun remain the top priorities.
Q: Besides managing, coaching, or being a team parent, how can I help the league?
A: Every board member, manager, coach, etc., is a volunteer donating their time to make the league function. We welcome contributions of unique skills (professional and otherwise) from our community to help keep our facilities and operations in good working order. More support means better investment in creating a positive environment for all our kids.