BLUE WAVE UNDERCLASS (16U)

BLUE WAVE UNDERCLASS 16U is for incoming sophomores (2027) and juniors (2026 grad year) that want to play at the high JV to varsity level this Fall.

Coach Russ Martinez skippers the Blue Wave Underclass team that will play in the 16U or high JV division in local tournaments and selected showcase events this Fall that include:

• SEPT 21-22 FOUNTAIN VALLEY ROUND ROBIN
• OCT 5-6 CCYB-ADIDAS FALL UNDERCLASS SHOWCASE
• OCT 18-20 PROSPECT WIRE FALL SHOWCASE
• DEC 6-8 CCYB GREAT PARK WINTER CLASSIC

Besides the events above, Blue Wave 16U Underclass will play additional local tournaments and scrimmage games throughout the season.

OPTIONAL PRACTICE SESSIONS

Though not required, Blue Wave offers optional fielding and hitting practice sessions each week during the season. Optional practice sessions are not required to play on the team.

Optional Fielding Practice sessions are held each Monday from 5 to 7 PM and held at Northwood High School through September, then switches to each Monday at OC Great Park starting in October and through December.

ONLY PAY WHEN YOU PLAY

Optional 2-hour Open Practice sessions are $30 and paid online at www.bluewaveathletics.com/fees

Cost for all practice sessions, games, tournaments and showcase events are priced separately and only paid when you play. There are no dues for 15U, 16U and 18U high school level teams. You only pay when you play or participate.

TRYOUTS ANYTIME

All new players must tryout. New players must also register at www.bluewaveathletics.com/registration to cover insurance requirements and provide player information required for coaches and recruiters.

Returning players do not need tryout, but need to check their status with Coach Garcia or simply contact Steve Kruse (949) 202-7748 or

FALL-WINTER 2024 SEASON EVENTS

 SEPT 21-22 FOUNTAIN VALLEY ROUND ROBIN. For both freshmen and sophomores will play four 16U games at Fountain Valley High School, two games Saturday and two on Sunday all against different teams. Cost is $125 per player.  Pitcher Only is free.

OCT 5-6 CCYB-ADIDAS FALL UNDERCLASS (2027-2028) for incoming freshmen (2028) and sophomores (2027 grads) will play three, seven-inning wood bat games at various fields throughout Orange County. Top two seeds will play a championship game. Top regional competition, more than 28 teams already sign up. Position player fee is $225, Pitcher Only is free.

OCT 18-20 USA PREMIER-PROSPECT WIRE FALL SHOWDOWN. Three game guarantee, championship game, player and team awards. Played on local Irvine fields. Position Player is $200, Pitcher Only are free. Blue Wave will field 16U (JV Level) team for this event.

DEC 6-8 CCYB 2024 GREAT PARK WINTER CLASSIC. Blue Wave will field freshmen (2028) and JV (16U) teams for this classic winter tournament at OC Great Park. This is a three-game minimum of 8-inning games. Position player fee is $200, Pitchers Only are free.

All players must be approved and confirmed for the events/games by contacting respective coach or contacting Steve Kruse (949) 202-7748 at 

Blue Wave Underclass (16U)

Coach Russ Martinez

(714) 605-4173

">

Tustin High School Baseball Assistant Varsity Coach Russ Martinez will take the helm for the Blue Wave Baseball 16U Underclass team for the Summer 2024 season.

Russ Martinez is a dedicated sports coach with a passion for helping athletes achieve their full potential. With over 6 years of experience coaching baseball and football, Russ has developed a reputation for his exceptional leadership skills, motivational coaching style, and unwavering commitment to his teams.

Born and raised in Barstow, California, Russ grew up with a deep love for sports. He attended Mt. San Antonio College, where he played football and honed his skills as a team player and leader. After college, Russ pursued a career in education, working in middle schools and high schools while continuing to coach on the side.

In 2015, Russ began his coaching career as a baseball coach, quickly establishing himself as a coach who could inspire and motivate his players to achieve their best. He also added football coaching to his repertoire, and for the next 6 years, Russ excelled in both roles, building strong teams and helping his athletes develop the skills they needed to succeed on and off the field.

As a coach, Russ believes in creating a positive and supportive environment where athletes can thrive. He takes a collaborative approach, working closely with each player to help them set and achieve their individual goals. His dedication to his teams is unwavering, and he is always willing to go the extra mile to help his players succeed.

Off the field, Russ enjoys spending time at the beach with his family. He believes in staying active and healthy, and encourages his players to do the same. With his passion for sports, his commitment to his teams, and his dedication to helping athletes succeed, Russ Martinez is a coach who truly makes a difference.