Intermediate vs. Advanced League Overview:

Both the intermediate (National) and advanced (American) leagues offer the same number of games and required practices. Teams compete only against others of the same skill level (depending on registration numbers), ensuring balanced competition. These divisions are designed to maintain parity and create a positive experience for all players.

Preformed Teams:

• If your team played in an advanced/competitive (American) or merged division last year and finished with a record below .500, we recommend moving down to the intermediate division.

• If your team played in the intermediate (National) division last year and finished with a record above .750, we recommend moving up to the competitive division.

Individual Registrations:

We ask that you honestly evaluate your player’s skill level to ensure the best experience for the summer.

• If your player struggled in the advanced/competitive (American) division last year, we suggest considering the intermediate (National) league, which offers a supportive environment for skill development.

• If your player excelled in the intermediate (National) league, we encourage you to explore the advanced (American) division.

Fargo Youth Baseball, West Fargo Baseball, Moorhead Youth Baseball, and the Red River Valley League reserves the right to adjust team placements to ensure parity across the divisions.

Skill Level Recommendations:

Our 5-6U program is one division. In the RRVL, we aim to offer two separate skill divisions for ages 7-15U based on registration numbers.

Below are some benchmarks to help make the best decision for your player or team.

7U, 8U, & 9U (Intermediate/National Division):
Skill Level: Beginner - Novice

• Ideal for players just starting to learn the game or with a basic understanding of the game.
• Focuses on developing foundational skills like throwing, catching, and hitting.
• Little to no prior experience in organized play.

7U, 8U, & 9U (Advanced/American Division):
Skill Level: Intermediate – Advanced

• Players have previously played in a league and are comfortable in game situations.
• Suitable for players with a solid understanding of the game and basic skills.
• Starting to develop more advanced skills and game awareness.

10U, 11U, & 12U (Intermediate/National Division):
Skill Level: Novice - Intermediate

• Players have some understanding of the game but are still developing their skills.
• Focuses on reinforcing rules, fundamentals, and skill-building.
• Players have likely played several seasons and are becoming more comfortable in-game scenarios. If you are new to baseball, this is also a great opportunity to learn the game.

10U, 11U, & 12U (Advanced/American Division):
Skill Level: Advanced Intermediate – Advanced

• Players demonstrate strong fundamental skills and have a good grasp of game strategy.
• High proficiency in all aspects of the game.
• Shows strong game awareness, consistency, and the ability to execute strategies effectively.

13U & 14/15U (Intermediate/National Division):
Skill Level: Intermediate – Advanced Intermediate

• Players display strong fundamental skills and understand game strategy.
• May have previous competitive league experience but still have room for refinement.
• Players are comfortable in game situations and seek further improvement.

13U & 14/15U (Advanced/American Division):
Skill Level: Advanced - Elite

• Players show mastery of fundamental skills and have a deep understanding of game strategy.
• Demonstrates high-level performance, game awareness, and the ability to consistently execute strategies.
• These players are often ranked middle to top of their age group in terms of skill and game understanding.

This structure helps provide an optimal experience by aligning players with the most suitable division based on their skill level, ensuring growth and enjoyment for everyone involved.