Driven by Passion, Focused on Growth
As part of the Firecracker organization, FC Dillon Medina is dedicated to the same mission: "to provide a level of training to our players that ensures the highest level of social and athletic development and growth. ‘Play with Honor.’"
Driven by Passion, Focused on Growth
Community matters to us; we expect shared responsibility, accountability, and a sense of Purpose. Firecracker Dillon Medina values skill and character, and is built with goals and consistent coaching strategies across each level.
FC DM values the development of all players–by placing players on teams that will stretch them without unnecessary pressure, our players know they are secure in a stable organization that supports their value long-term.
"The goal is to differentiate ourselves by creating a consistent, development-focused organization rather than a collection of independent teams."
Frequently Asked Questions
How do players get selected year to year, especially where there are multiple teams per age group?
Tryouts occur in the Fall of each year. Coaches will confer, and players will be selected to the team that best fits their developmental needs, and where certain positions are open or needed. Premier teams will select first, and then coaches of additional teams within the age bracket will select players. Our goal is to find a place for as many girls as our teams allow, while balancing rosters for competitive play. Our goal is to ensure every athlete develops at their own pace in a stable environment, with room for internal advancement when ready. This may allow for movement between teams in-season if necessary--we aim to avoid cutting players where possible.
What are the start-up costs and monthly fees, and when are they due?
We know that travel ball is a major financial commitment for families. We also know it is a major time commitment. Team start up fees will differ by level, but will include specific costs like uniforms, major tournament fees (like Triple Crown World Series or PGF Nationals) upfront to make scheduling as an organization more streamlined. Monthly fees are due by the 5th of each month, unless alternate arrangements are made with program administration. These cover regular costs like organizational affiliation, insurance, practice facilities, team equipment upkeep, administrative costs, and other game fees. Families of players will receive detailed information when committing to a team.
Especially for multi-sport players, what is the attendance policy and how does it impact playing time?
Practices and games are mandatory. Players are expected to arrive 15 minutes early for practices and one hour early for games in (prior-communicated) uniform. Missing practices and being out of dress will directly impact game-day playing time. We do understand that emergencies and conflicts happen, though, and expect and appreciate prior communication. We also believe in building age-appropriate accountability. For our younger divisions (10U–12U), parents may handle communication. For our older divisions (14U and above), we expect the players themselves to notify coaches of absences or injuries to prepare them for college-level responsibility.
What is the protocol for families engaging in discussions with coaches about playing time or in-game decisions?
Respect for coaching decisions is of utmost importance to our organization--we select and train coaches with our philosophy, and the strategies necessary to maximize player development and maintain a professional environment. We expect parents and families to maintain the same level of professionalism and accountability. For example, dugouts are strictly reserved for players and coaches; families may not approach the dugout to give snacks, water, or advice during games. Additionally, we ask that families refrain from coaching from the stands to avoid conflicting instructions and keep the players focused on their coaches. Lastly, we enforce a strict 48-hour cooling period after games and practices. Coaches are prohibited from engaging in arguments or discussing playing time, strategy, or rosters during a tournament weekend. After 48 hours have passed, families may request a professional, constructive conversation about their player only.
What is the team and player social media policy?
The FC DM Social Media Coordinator owns and manages all official program and team-specific handles. While a designated team parent may be given login access to post updates, the account remains the property of the organization. Players may have their own moderated pages, but anything posted online while wearing FC or FC DM branding must be "clean and classy." We have zero tolerance for profanity (including background music), suggestive content, cyberbullying, or "sub-tweeting" teammates or opponents. College recruiters follow our program closely, and every post is a reflection of the program's and individual player’s character.
