Letter from MN Whirl Director, Marit Schultejans...

Hello, MN Whirl Families!

I want to provide you with an exciting update regarding the future of the MN Whirl program.  Effective August 1st, MN Whirl will be merging with Clutch Hitters. 

MN Whirl has always endeavored to provide a quality program to our players and families.  This merger allows that to continue. The quality of instruction, vast training opportunities and track record of competitive teams makes Clutch Hitters the perfect partner.

Clutch Hitters (now just “Clutch”) has been a successful and established club for the last 12 years.  The director, Jim Hanson, has developed a quality program with little coaching staff turnover, successful teams and consistent training programs.  The new organization will operate under the Clutch name and will integrate MN Whirl’s trademark Columbia Blue!

This integration will provide the entire program with access to more fields, more dome and winter training space, established coaching, coach training, and a significantly larger geographic draw area providing a stronger and more competitive program.  Clutch currently operates out of Bloomington, Eden Prairie, and Chanhassen.  With the addition of Minnetonka, the organization will have the largest footprint in the Southwest metro.

So, what is next?  All current MN Whirl players will finish out the season on their current teams.  I will continue the role of Vice President of MGSA and will become the club liaison for Tonka Softball.  I will also join Clutch’s board of directors and assist with the integration of the two programs.

 What does this mean for your player?  All existing MN Whirl players are encouraged to try out for Clutch.  As in the past, there is no guarantee that all existing players will be offered a spot. 

Clutch leaders will be doing a meet and greet at Legacy on Monday, July 11 at 7:30p.m.  I will be present along with Tonka Softball’s president, Kelly Wischmeier.  This would be a terrific opportunity for you to learn about the Clutch program.  Pizza and sodas will be on us!

If you have any questions about MN Whirl and Clutch’s merger, please feel free to contact me at mnwhirldirector@tonkasoftball.org

If you have any questions about the Clutch program specifically, please contact Jim Hanson at jimbo8213@aol.com.

Sincerely,

Marit Schutejans, MN Whirl Director

FAQs

Why did MN Whirl decide to merge with Clutch?  

There were a number of factors that went into the decision. The successful track record of Clutch in providing competitive teams, quality coaching depth, and proven off-season training were key considerations.  The entire program will have access to more fields, more dome and winter training space, established coaching, coach training, and a much larger geographic draw area providing a stronger and more competitive program.  Clutch currently operates out of Bloomington, Eden Prairie, and Chanhassen.  With the addition of Minnetonka, the organization will have the largest footprint in the Southwest metro.

How many teams does Clutch plan to create for the 2022-23 season?

Currently Clutch has six  teams and plans to add two to three more teams this fall.  This is dependent on coach availability and the amount of quality pitchers and catchers who attend tryouts.

What does the merger mean for current MN Whirl players?

As noted, all current MN Whirl players are encouraged to try out for a spot with a Clutch team for the 2022-2023 season.  As in the past, a position is not guaranteed.

What if my daughter does not make a Clutch team?

There are a number of options to consider.  Other club teams in the area will also be holding tryouts. In addition, based on need and interest, MGSA is prepared to create TONKA Fastpitch teams at the 14U & 16U level.  

How much will Clutch cost?

Final pricing for the 2022-2023 season has not yet been determined, but it will be approximately $2,350 (for reference, MN Whirl’s fee for the 2022-2023 season would have been $2,250).  

How will tryouts work?

The tryout flyer is attached.  There will be a $15 tryout fee at the time of tryout registration.  All current Clutch and MN Whirl players who are offered roster spots, and accept them, will have the $15 applied to their fees.  Keep checking for their tryout registration on their website!

To Register for Clutch Tryouts, go to...

https://clutch-hitters.sportngin.com/register/form/174692474