White Heath Recreation League

Frequently asked questions:

Q- What is the White Heath Recreation League?
A- The White Heath Recreation League (WHRL) is a 501(c3), volunteer lead, sports organization providing competitive youth girls fastpitch softball and youth baseball to residents of the Monticello, IL school district.  The WHRL also provide fall adult softball leagues and supports the MMS Fall Baseball team through use of the White Heath Ball Field and by providing concessions for the MMS games.  The WHRL operates in partnership with the City of Monticello to provide the best experience possible for all age groups. 

Q-What age groups does the WHRL serve?
A- The WHRL currently serves 10u, 12u, and 15u girls softball and baseball.

Q-When are youth games played?
A- Summer youth games are typically played M-F, starting the middle of May and running through early to mid-July

Q-When are youth practices held?
A-Youth practices are held twice per week starting the first week of April.  Each team will have 1-weekday and 1-weekend time slot scheduled until games start in mid-May.  Once games begin, each team will have 1-weekend practice time slot.  

Q-Where are games and practices held?
A-In additioan to scheduling gaems within the WHRL, we currently schedule games with communities in the Decatur area, including Decatur, Cerro Gordo, Mt. Zion, Maroa-Forsyth, Argenta-Oreana, A&M, to name a few.  We are always looking for new communiities to add to the experience.  The WHRL plays home games at the White Heath Ball Field and the west (big) field at the Forest Preserve Park in Monticello.  The Forest Preserve Park can accomodate all softball ages and 10u (Mustang) boys.  The White Heath Ball Field can accomodate all age groups and divisions.

Q-How many games do WHRL teams normaly play?
A-Participants should expect to play from 12-14 regular season games each year, plus play in one tournament adding an addition 2-5 games.

Q-Are there minimum ages for each division?
A- We do not impose a minimum age for each division and support athletes moving up with their classmates even if they are young enough to play down an age group.   Please remember that participants in a division can be older if their birthday falls within the season time frame.  For example, a 12u division will have 13 year olds playing if their birthday is May 1st or later and the 15u division will have 16 year olds playing before games start.  A 7 year old turning 8 during the season may choose to play 10u.  If a participant just turned 7 they may be better served playing another season in the Monticello Rec program before moving up. 

Q-How many summer youth teams are in the WHRL each year.  
A-Our normal year is 12-14 teams.  In 2022 we hosted 217 athletes on 17 teams. 

Q-How many players are on each youth team?
A-Our goal in the WHRL is provide a positive experience where each participant has the opportunity for maximum playing time.  We try to place 12 players per roster.   Please keep in mind that availability of enough players and coaches can cause this number to change.

Q-Do you have to be a parent or relative of a participant to coach?
A-No.  You do not have to be a parent or relative of a participant to coach.  We have had several volunteer non-relative Head Coaches.  Older siblings who are also encouraged to coach, especially if they are experience softball or baseball players.  All coaches are subject to a background check and must abide by our code-of-conduct.  

Q-What if I can't afford the registration fee?
A- The WHRL is committed for providing a positive experience for all area youth.  If financial constraints are preventing you from registering your child for the WHRL please submit their registration and contact the WHRL at whiteheathrec@gmail.com to let us know how we can help.  No child will ever be denied access due to their ability to pay.  

Q-How can I support the WHRL through donation or becoming a team, banner, player, or facility sponsor?
A-For donation and sponsorship opportunities please contact the WHRL at whiteheathrec@gmail.com

Q-Is the WHRL building a new field south of the existing White Heath Ball Field
A-Yes.  Through the support and generosity of the Sangamon Township we have access to over 11-acreas for future develop and expansion of the park and ball field faciliities.  A design for a HS baseball sized, multi-purposed field on 5-acreas south of the existing field has been completed.  We are currently looking for sponsors and volunteers to help with the project.  If you would like to help with this project, please contact the WHRL at whiteheathrec@gmail.com.

Q-I would like to support my community.  How do I join the WHRL Board?
A-If you are interested in joining the WHRL as a volunteer, a Board member or sponsor, please contact us at whiteheathrec@gmail.com