NWN x UP Information Guide - Summer

NWN x UP Info Guide - Summer

As we move into the summer months, we are excited to launch the Northwest Nationals x University of Portland Practice Program – Summer, a collaborative training environment designed to support athlete development during the critical window between the spring and fall seasons. This supplemental program will provide players with a structured opportunity to continue improving their skills through consistent, high-quality practices led by experienced coaches. By combining the resources and training philosophies of Northwest Nationals and University of Portland, we aim to create an environment where athletes can refine their mechanics, build baseball IQ, and prepare for the next stage of competition while complementing their primary team commitments.

The Northwest Nationals x University of Portland Practice Program - Summer is built around the belief that consistent, intentional practice is where the greatest development occurs. Throughout the summer, athletes will participate in structured training sessions focused on skill refinement, positional development, and competitive repetitions. This environment allows players to work on key areas such as throwing development, hitting mechanics, defensive execution, and situational awareness while receiving instruction aligned with the expectations of high school and college baseball programs.

Our goal is to provide a summer setting where players can stay engaged in the game, continue their development, and build habits that will translate directly into success during the upcoming fall and spring seasons.

Our mission is to develop high school baseball players who have a strong desire to improve at the high school level and play college baseball. This is not a recreational program. We are committed to creating a competitive, disciplined, and development-focused environment for serious athletes who are willing to work, compete, and push themselves to improve.

Summer Schedule

Program Schedule:

  • Dates: June 2 – July 15, 2026 (6 weeks)

  • No Practice: June 30 & July 1 (NCAA Dead Period)

Group 1

  • Regular Time: Tuesday/Wednesday, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

  • Exceptions: June 2, 3, 9, and 10 — 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Group 2

  • Regular Time: Tuesday/Wednesday, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

  • Exceptions: June 2, 3, 9, and 10 — 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Location

University of Portland - Joe Etzel Field

  • 5000 N Willamette Blvd, Portland, OR 97203

Practice Attire

NWN x University of Portland Issued Gear:

  • Northwest Nationals Nike Hat

  • Northwest Nationals x University of Portland Nike Practice Top - White

  • Northwest Nationals Nike Shorts

Athlete-Provided Items:

  • Navy Baseball Socks

  • Baseball Turf or Metal Cleats

How to Order Uniform:

How to Order Hat:

  • Athletes will purchase hats at the first practice.

Uniform Policy/Script:

  • Athletes are required to wear the program-issued hat, shirt, and shorts and navy baseball socks at all practices, to maintain a consistent and professional team appearance during all Northwest Nationals x University of Portland Practice Program activities.

  • If athlete does not have the proper uniform the athlete will not be able to attend practice .

Program Cost/PAYMENT

Cost:

  • Program cost is $875 + Uniform (NWN Hat, NWN Shorts and NWN x UP Top

  • Program cost includes:

    • Northwest Nationals Nike Hat

    • Northwest Nationals x University of Portland Nike Practice Top

    • Northwest Nationals Practice Nike Shorts

How to Pay:

  • Payment shall be made to Venmo @nwnats (business)

  • Payments shall be made in full no later than May 15th, 2026

Refund Policy:

  • Registration for the Northwest Nationals x University of Portland Practice Program – Summer is non-refundable. No refunds will be issued for any reason unless Northwest Nationals staff are able to secure a replacement participant for the vacated spot. Because the costs of the coaching staff, training facility, and program uniform are budgeted and committed in advance as part of the overall program cost, registrations cannot be refunded once a spot has been reserved. If a replacement participant is secured by Northwest Nationals staff, a refund may be issued only after the replacement athlete has completed registration and any difference in program cost has been paid by the athlete requesting the refund.

Staff Expectations

Staff Expectations:

  • Run high-energy, organized practices that maximize reps and keep athletes engaged from start to finish.

  • Minimize downtime and standing around by running multiple stations, using small groups, and maintaining strong practice tempo and efficient transitions.

  • Teach with clarity and purpose so players understand the why behind drills, routines, and situations.

  • Prioritize player development by focusing on fundamentals, mechanics, and baseball IQ every day.

  • Create a competitive practice environment that challenges players to improve daily.

  • Hold athletes accountable to program standards in effort, focus, and preparation.

  • Demand consistent effort and attention to detail from every athlete in every drill.

  • Demand a winning mentality in preparation, competition, and daily habits on and off the field.

  • Work as one coaching staff by collaborating, sharing instruction, and supporting each other.

  • Communicate clearly and consistently so expectations, drills, and daily goals are understood.

  • Model professionalism and leadership in how you coach, communicate, and represent the program.

  • Help build a culture in the baseball community where hard work, discipline, and dedication to the game at every age contribute to the opportunity to compete for another state championship.