Oakland Yard Athletics

★Tomi Jones

Unfortunately, I am writing this review regarding this past weekend’s softball tournament at Oakland Yard Athletics. As both a coach and a parent, I am extremely disappointed in how the tournament was handled from start to finish. Friday Night Issues We played two back-to-back games Friday evening. During the second game, the umpire told our girls they were not allowed to cheer for their teammates, stating it was a rule. This was never outlined anywhere in the tournament rules, and cheering was allowed during our first game without issue. Additionally, that same umpire repeatedly called balls on bunting attempts that were clearly strikes and not pulled back. The bat was over the plate, yet they were ruled balls. When I respectfully tried to address the situation, the umpire was dismissive and rude, refusing to even hear the concern. To make matters worse, two bartenders working in the north tent began screaming at four young kids for opening an exterior door, which caused part of the tent to shift slightly. The way they yelled at children was completely inappropriate and unacceptable. They continued loudly addressing the situation as they walked toward the south dome, creating a very uncomfortable and unprofessional environment. Saturday Concerns Saturday morning, before we even took the field, one of our parents informed me that the IRISH 9U team who beat us Friday by two runs was contesting the ages of our players — specifically our pitcher. We were not even scheduled to play them again unless both teams advanced to the championship. When I approached tournament director Joe to address the concern as head coach, I was told our pitcher was not 10U eligible under “their rules.” However, per current age eligibility guidelines, a player who turns 11 after August 31st is still eligible for the 10U season. This is standard across many teams, not just ours. When I asked that all teams’ birth certificates be checked if this was going to be questioned, I was told no. During the conversation, Joe told me to “zip it,” which was incredibly unprofessional. Two other coaches had to step in to confirm they also had 11-year-olds on their 10U rosters under the same eligibility guidelines. Championship Game Issue When we advanced to the championship game — against that same IRISH 9U team — they brought in an older player last minute. The player was not listed on their GameChanger roster. She was referred to by two different names that did not match the roster, and her jersey number did not match either. We formally contested this. However, the head umpire refused to check her eligibility or birth certificate, stating, “We aren’t doing this.” After earlier disputes, it felt like we were being denied the same respect and fairness we were subjected to. Awards & Overall Experience After paying $750 to participate, this was by far the most poorly run tournament we have experienced. To add to the disappointment, after winning the championship, there were no medals, no trophy — nothing aside from a plain $12 t-shirt. The lack of professionalism, inconsistency in rule enforcement, poor communication, and overall environment made this an extremely disappointing experience. Unfortunately, we do not plan to return

★★★★T B

We had my son's birthday party here. The kids had a lot of fun running around and playing flag football. The flags and footballs were provided by Oakland Yard. Plenty of tables for the adults to sit and the staff was great! It is very busy. There was an event that did not end until our party was supposed to start, and another that started right after ours ended. The staff did help with set up, but clean up was our responsibility. Overall, great value for the price because we did not pay per child.

★★★★★John Califano

Amazing atmosphere and great staff. Very fun place. I have played soccer here in an adult coed league for years and play volleyball on the summer and it's a blast. Nice outdoor bar with a bonfire in the summer that's a great place to hang out after.

★★★★★Brandon

Very cool facility! We had a softball scrimmage here and it was very comfortable. The girls enjoyed it all and the parents enjoyed watching them and the few tvs for football as well! We will definitely have to keep this place in mind of winter play for the future! Great place!

★★★★★Crystal Schaible

I can’t say enough good things about Oakland Yard. It’s my happy place, where my husband and I go multiple times a week with our friends to play various sports. The atmosphere is energetic and welcoming. Although understaffed at times, each employee continues to treat their guests with respect and maintains a good attitude. I have so many fond memories here and I’m excited to keep making more. If you’re looking for a great spot to stay active and have fun, this is the place to be! It’s like an adult playground.