Thunder Program - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does my child have to play in the PBO in-house league if they make the Thunder team?
Yes. All Thunder players are required to also participate in the in-house PBO recreational baseball program. This is a separate program with a separate registration process and fee.
What is the cost of the Thunder program?
The cost of the Thunder program is separate from in-house registration, uniform orders, and team-specific expenses. This fee is finalized in the fall as we confirm our training and facility needs for the winter and upcoming season. For reference, our 2024 program fee was $465.
What is included in the Thunder program fee?
The fee covers team year round field maintenance, winter training and facilities, and game day operations (field prep, game balls, etc...). It does not cover individual team expenses like uniforms or team expenses.
What are the uniform costs?
Thunder runs a two year uniform cycle and 2025-26 is a new uniform cycle. Uniform costs vary from team to team based on the needs & wants of those families involved. Typically, each team is fitted with a home and away jersey, home and away pants, hat, belt, and socks. The cost of these items is approximately $250.
What are the team specific costs?
Similar to uniforms, team costs vary from team to team based on the needs of those families involved. These costs normally cover league fees, tournament fees, equipment fees (like baseballs and catcher's gear), and umpire fees for home games. With most teams practicing/playing for around nine months these costs are approximately $300 with older experienced teams (11u and up) spending $500. Again, all these are based on individual teams needs/wants and we encourage teams/coaches to discuss these costs in parent meetings.
What is the approximate all-in cost?
The estimated all-in cost for the Thunder part-time travel program is ~$1000 when a new uniform cycle occurs (like in 2025-26) and ~$850 in a non-new uniform year. Again, cost will vary depending on each individual team depending on the needs and wants of the families on that team with older teams (11U and up) costing more.
When does the Thunder season take place?
The Thunder season runs from August through July of the following year.
How many games and practices should we expect?
A typical Thunder team will play 20 to 30 games over the course of the season with approximately 35 practices.
What is the time commitment like during different seasons?
Fall: Light workouts and optional participation in fall ball programs.
Winter: Indoor training 1–2 times/week with paid trainers.
Spring: Competitive season begins, typically with games on Sundays and Wednesdays, plus the start of the PBO in-house season.
Summer (July): Tournaments (2 to 3 expected).
Will my child be on a team with players of similar skill level?
Yes. At the younger levels (8U and 9U) Thunder teams are balanced evenly with a specific focus on spreading out players who pitch. It’s our belief pitching and defense are the key components to maximizing player/team development at these ages. Starting at 10U, as players and teams are evaluated, there is a different focus on individual player skills to create competitive balance.
Can my child participate in other sports during Thunder season?
Yes. The Thunder program supports multi-sport athletes and minimizes fall commitments to allow for participation in other activities.
What happens after tryouts?
If selected, your child will be invited to join a Thunder team. A $200 deposit will be required upon acceptance to secure their spot.
What age division should my child try out for?
Tryouts are based on grade level and age, ranging from 8U (2nd grade and lower) through 14U. Be sure to register your child for the appropriate tryout based on their grade as PBO/Thunder emphasis school grade teams.
Who runs the Thunder program?
Thunder is run by volunteer coaches and board members under the umbrella of the Palos Baseball Organization (PBO), a not-for-profit group focused on player development and community baseball.