RE: Feilds in Texas?
I'd suggest going to the local fields and asking questions... join the club that seems to have people willing to answer your questions... you can also try emailing the club instructor and seeing if he/she can meet you at the field one day to answer your questions. I stopped by the field on Westheimer last year when I was in Richmond visiting my sister... they've got a nice set-up.
Don't give up too soon...it really is a fun hobby with a lot of good people!