REDMOND WEST LITTLE LEAGUE
2004 Local Rules
COAST
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General Rules and Regulations
Revised a/o February 6, 2000
Rules Updates/Revisions/Clarifications
Noted Throughout Text as [year/authority]
e.g. [1998 RWLL] or [1998 LL] (Little League Baseball Congress)]
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section One
I. PRESIDENT DUTIES............................................................................................................................................. 2
II. BOARD DUTIES..................................................................................................................................................... 2
III. MANAGER COMMITTEE DUTIES.................................................................................................................... 4
IV. PLAYER AGENT DUTIES..................................................................................................................................... 4
V. COMPLEX MANAGERS....................................................................................................................................... 7
VI. MANAGER RESPONSIBILITIES......................................................................................................................... 8
VII. TEAM MEETING HANDOUT FOR PARENTS................................................................................................. 10
VIII. SCOREKEEPER....................................................................................................................................................... 13
IX. UMPIRES................................................................................................................................................................. 14
Section Two
X. TRYOUTS................................................................................................................................................................ 15
XI. MINOR ASSESSMENT......................................................................................................................................... 15
XII. TEAM SIZE............................................................................................................................................................. 15
XIII. COAST TEAM FORMATION ............................................................................................................................ 15
XIV. TRADING PLAYERS ............................................................................................................................................ 16
XV. FILLING MAJORS VACANCIES DURING SEASON....................................................................................... 16
XVI. FILLING COAST VACANCIES............................................................................................................................ 17
Section Three
XVII. RULES THAT AFFECT PLAYING THE GAME................................................................................................ 18
A. Team Responsibilities ............................................................................................................................... 18
B. General Rules............................................................................................................................................... 18
XVIII. STANDINGS........................................................................................................................................................... 21
XIX. RECOGNITION....................................................................................................................................................... 22
XX. COAST INVITATIONAL...................................................................................................................................... 22
XXI. "MOVE UPS" FOR CITY PLAYOFFS & COAST INVITATIONAL .............................................................. 23
XXII. 9-10 YEAR OLD TOURNAMENT TEAM.......................................................................................................... 23
Section One
GENERAL
Except to the extent modified herein, Redmond West Little League (RWLL) will operate in accordance with the Official Little League Regulations and Playing Rules. These rules are effective on and after January 4, 1999, unless amended by the Board of Directors or modified by action of Little League Baseball, Inc. Redmond West Little League is governed by regulations listed by priority as follows:
Little League Baseball Official Regulations and Playing Rules
Little League Operating Manual
District 9 Administrator's Interpretations and Rules
RWLL Local League Rules and Regulations
No rule or policy may be passed by RWLL, which is in direct conflict with rules and regulations contained in publications of a higher priority.
All rules, policies, and procedures are subject to interpretation of the intent of the rule by the Board of Directors.
Proposed changes to these rules and regulations for the following season must be submitted in writing to RWLL by November 30. Board approved rule/regulation changes shall be effective no later than March 1 (playing rules may not be revised after March 1 for the upcoming season).
I. PRESIDENT DUTIES
Fall
The President shall insure that the District Administrator ("DA") receives a list of the current Board Members/Officers, the League's Charter and Insurance Application, Boundary Changes, Articles of Incorporation and Bylaw revisions (or notification of no change), the League's Financial Statement, a copy of IRS 990, Minutes, the League's District Assessment, request for fund-raiser (if having one) and a request for adult pitch at the Slugger level.
Winter
The President shall insure that the District Administrator receives a copy of approved rule changes, numbers of teams at each level, rosters of all teams, Player Waiver requests, a copy of the playing schedule, a copy of the Non-Profit Corporate Annual Report, and a request for city playoffs (if applicable). IN ADDITION, THE PRESIDENT SHALL INSURE that sufficient rulebooks are ordered for Managers, Scorekeepers and Umpires.
Spring
The President shall insure all-star pins and hats and "12 year old recognition gifts" are ordered. Confirm that all post-season Tournament Teams’ Managers and the Coast Invitational Manager are aware of meetings and have necessary balls and equipment. Assure that Umpires are available for Coast tournament. Send roster of newly-elected Board Members to District. Insure final team standings are recorded in the Minutes. Insure youth Umpires receive an honorarium.
II. BOARD DUTIES
Fall
A. Per RWLL Bylaws, a Rules Committee shall be appointed to review the rules and consider proposed changes. The Rules Committee shall present recommended changes to the Board no later than December 31. No "playing" rule change shall be allowed after March 1.
B. Each Board Member/Chairperson shall maintain a notebook containing information relevant to his/her position. This notebook shall be considered the property of RWLL and shall be turned over to the Board Elect prior to September 30.
C. A Board Member/Chairperson who is allotted a budget shall not exceed his/her budget without permission from the Board. Excess expenditures, which do not have Board approval, may be considered donations to RWLL.
D. The Board shall set participation and membership fees prior to November 30. Full refunds shall be made available to Players who resign from the League prior to two weeks after the League's first scheduled practice. 50% refunds shall be made available to Players who resign prior to two weeks after the League's first scheduled game.
E. The Board shall work with the schools, Parks Department, and other community agencies to coordinate dates and locations for registration, tryouts, drafts, General Meetings, training sessions (coach, umpire, score keeping, field prep), practices, games, and things of this nature. Care should be taken when selecting dates that the date chosen is not in conflict with major community events such as Voting, Outdoor Ed, Super Bowl Sunday, Hartman Work Day and other events of this nature.
F. Use of Lake Washington School facilities requires obtaining a School Use Permit from the building involved. Facilities may not be reserved unless the League has proper insurance. "Extras" such as tables, chairs, bleachers up or down, drop cloth up or down (in the gym), etc., must be specifically stated on the permit. The League official in charge of the event must insure that the School Use Permit is available for inspection at the event.
G. A calendar of events shall be developed allowing for adequate time between notice of registration dates, registration, setting of number of teams and number of Players per team, tryouts and assessments, drafts, the first day of practice, and the first game.
H. The Board shall establish a date by which the number of teams to be formed shall be set. This date should not be any earlier than two weeks after the last official date of registration nor any later than one week prior to the first Majors tryout date. The number of teams and the maximum number of Players to be carried on a team shall be determined by a 2:1 ratio of Minors to Majors teams.
Winter
A. The Board shall appoint a safety officer who shall become familiar with and assist the League with following National Little League safety guidelines with respect to fields, equipment, practice techniques, etc., as outlined in the "PLAY IT SAFE" pamphlet and other League publications.
B. The Board shall insure that aggressive steps are taken to obtain volunteer umpires, scorekeepers, and coaches. A list of volunteers shall be made available to the Managers prior to formation of teams.
C. The Board shall review the Manager Commitment Form with all Managers and obtain signed commitments and record checks.
D. The Board shall take steps to insure that equipment and uniforms will be ready for distribution on a timely basis. In addition, it shall determine that adequate training opportunities are available for Managers/Coaches, Umpires, Scorekeepers, Field Prepares, and Fund-raising Reps. The Board shall also insure that RWLL is following through on its joint league responsibility with other Redmond leagues (Concession Stand or Hartman Park Operations). Practice fields shall be divided in such manner as to be fair to all teams within a level, a playing schedule shall be prepared, and a date shall be set for team pictures.
E. The Board shall set the number of games for each level of play and shall define the method for determining end of season standings. Particular attention shall be paid to the steps for breaking ties and the issue regarding whether or not end of season rainout games shall be played if standings are not affected. FORMAT INFORMATION SHALL BE SUBMITTED IN WRITTEN FORM TO EACH MANAGER WHO SHALL THEN BE RESPONSIBLE FOR INSURING THAT EACH TEAM MEMBER IS AWARE OF THE FORMAT.
F. “The Board shall schedule a mandatory Orientation for all Majors and Minors Managers and Coaches. The Orientation shall include, Manager selection results, introduction of Board Members, review of Rules and Regulations, projected number of teams, number of games, additional training clinics.
Spring
The Board shall aggressively seek candidates to fill Board and chairperson positions for the following season and shall insure that the membership receives notification of election dates.
III. MANAGER COMMITTEE DUTIES
A. The Committee shall gather Manager/Coach applications received over the Summer and early Fall. In addition it shall take possession of Player/Parent generated Manager/Coach evaluation forms. Should there not be enough applicants to fill the anticipated number of teams, the Committee shall take steps to encourage further applications.
1. The Committee shall review the evaluations and applications and shall solicit verbal evaluations from a representative number of team members, parents, Complex Managers, Umpires, and other appropriate individuals. In addition the Committee should interview the Manager candidates.
2. The Committee shall assess all new and returning candidates on their ability to teach baseball and good sportsmanship, on their interpersonal skills both on and off the field, on their willingness to actively support RWLL and on their knowledge of baseball. The Committee shall make a determination regarding whether the candidate is qualified.
3. The Committee shall review the list of potential Managers and Coaches with the Player Agent prior to final selection to assure that giving the prospective Manager/Coach a team assignment would not cause his/her child-Player to be “held-down.” All Players, whether their Parents are Managers or Coaches, are to play at the highest level (Majors, Coast, AAA) appropriate to the Player’s age and talent. (see Section One, IV, B, 1.)”
B. Appointment and approval of all returning and new Managers and Coaches are the responsibility of the President and the Board.
C. To the extent possible Coast Managers shall be appointed from the pool of qualified Managers who are parents of 10 year olds.
D. The list of qualified Coach candidates shall be made available to the Managers.
E. Members of the Manager Committee shall work with the Player Agent and Umpires to review and resolve parent/player/manager/coach conflicts. The Committee shall make recommendations to the Board regarding disciplinary action.
F. Should a Manager resign during the course of the season the Committee shall recommend a replacement to the President for appointment and to the Board for approval.
G. The Manager Committee, along with the President, Chief Umpire and Player Agent, shall conduct the process of selecting the Manager and Coach (es) of the Tournament teams. (see, Sect Three, XXII, C). [1996 RWLL]
H. Before the conclusion of the season the Committee shall distribute, collect and turn over to the new Board:
1. Manager/Coach Evaluations from all Parents of all Teams.
2. Manager/Coach application forms from all interested prospective Managers and Coaches (Applications shall be solicited from current Managers/Coaches as well as other interested Parents.
IV. PLAYER AGENT AND REGISTRAR DUTIES
The Registrar and the Player Agent shall both be under the supervision of the 1st Vice President. The primary responsibility of the Registrar is to conduct the entire registration process, from the initial public announcements to the actual league sign-ups. The objective is to encourage as many children to register for Little League as possible. The primary role of the Player Agent is as the “Players Advocate”. The Player Agent oversees the formation of teams at all levels and assures that the children play baseball in a nurturing and positive environment. [1997 RWLL]
A. The Board shall insure that the Player Agent has given adequate notice regarding registration. A minimum of two registration dates should be set, about a week apart and not on the same day of the week. Inadequate advertisement results in late registrants, which delays setting the number of teams.
Flyers and mailings should include boundaries, fee or donation information, and specific information regarding acceptable proof of birth documentation. New Players, those trying out for Majors, and those who do not have acceptable proof of birth on file must bring it to registration or tryouts.
1. Current members should be notified by mail.
2. Local schools (public and private) should be contacted in October regarding possibility of placing registration information in newsletters.
3. Two flyers should be sent home at each public school (about two weeks apart). Different schools have different days they send flyers home. The Lake Washington School District must approve all flyers before schools will mail them to the student’s homes (clip flyers in packs of 30 -- one pack for each class).
4. Call current members who do not re-register by mail.
5. Call Eastside Journal and TCI regarding placing information in calendar/public access (do this at least three weeks in advance of when it is to appear).
B. The following information must be given to potential applicants either by mail (for returning Players) or at registration.
1. All Players ages 9-12 shall attend the Tryouts/Player Assessments and shall be evaluated for selection to the highest appropriate level as indicated in the general guidelines below. Whether to place a Player in AAA, Coast or Majors shall be determined after consideration of the Player’s evaluation at the League’s Tryouts/Player Assessments, review of the Player’s evaluation by the Manager of the team he/she played for the previous year and, ultimately, by his/her actual selection in the League’s Draft process.
Parents who want their sons/daughters to play at a specific level must contact the Player Agent personally prior to the scheduled Tryouts/Player Assessments to receive further instructions regarding procedures to follow to be allowed an exception. Because Little League rules expressly do not allow coaches or parents to “hold-down” Players (e.g., arbitrarily placing an 11-year old at Coast or a 10-year old at AAA) such exceptions will be allowed only in extraordinary circumstances.
[1998 RWLL]
Player Agent Age Guidelines [1998 RWLL]
|
Level
|
Player’s Little League Age* (*Age as of July 31 of current playing season)
|
|
T-Ball (hit off Tee) |
5 , 6 and 7-year olds (first year players) |
|
Sluggers (Coach-pitch) |
7 and 8-year olds |
|
AAA - “Minors” |
8, 9 and 10-year olds (8s only if slots available) |
|
Coast - “Minors” |
8, 9, 10, 11 and 12-year olds (8s and 9s are discouraged) |
|
Majors |
10, 11 and 12-year olds (10s are discouraged) |
· 5 and 6-year olds must play T-Ball. [1998 RWLL]
· 7-year olds may play T-Ball or Sluggers (2nd year Players strongly encouraged to play Sluggers.)
· 8-year olds may be considered for AAA or Coast, but they must attend the Tryouts/Player Assessments, there must be “slots available” for 8-year olds at Minors, and they must be drafted to a Minors team. Exceptional 8-year olds may try out for Coast but should be discouraged if they do not have AAA experience. [1998 RWLL]
· 9 year olds must play at AAA. Exceptions: 1) in well-documented cases in which medical or other safety reasons, make Sluggers a more appropriate choice. 2) exceptional 9-year olds may try out for Coast but should be discouraged if they do not have AAA experience.
· 10-year olds play at Coast. Those not drafted to a Coast team are placed in the AAA pool and are then drafted to AAA teams. Exceptional 10-year olds may tryout for Majors, but are strongly discouraged from doing so.
· 11-year olds and 12-year olds are automatically considered candidates for Majors. Those who are not drafted to Majors teams are placed in the Coast pool and are then drafted to Coast teams. An 11-year old who wants to play AAA may do so only after participating in the “Minors’ Assessments”, and only if all Coast managers agree that he/she should be considered a AAA Player (this is only for an exceptionally “weak” Player and/or where medical or other safety reasons dictate such.)
2. Parents shall be notified that the League shall make no attempt to consider family relations with respect to Team assignments unless specifically requested in writing. The League shall consider special circumstances, but makes no guarantees regarding placement.
3. Players must receive a written description of the League’s “move-up” policy, including notification that if they are not initially placed on a Majors roster and an opening subsequently occurs, then the Majors Manager may choose as a replacement any Player from those who tried out. That Player will be reassigned to the Majors team in question. THE PLAYER SHALL NOT BE INFORMED OF WHICH TEAM HAS REQUESTED THEIR MOVE-UP; SHOULD THE PLAYER DECLINE, THEN THE PLAYER will have no further opportunity to play Majors that season (including playoffs). [1997 LL]
4. The Player Agent shall notify Minor level candidates of the date and time of "Minor Assessment" night.
5. The Player Agent shall notify all parents/guardians that by registering their Player they are automatically members of the League and as such are expected to adhere to the rules of the League, clean up the area around the bleachers at the conclusion of their games and actively volunteer in at least one other capacity.
6. Parents shall be notified that Players who miss three consecutive practices in the preseason without notifying the Manager may be dropped from the roster. Players missing three consecutive games and/or practices during the regular season without notifying the Manager may also be dropped from the roster.
C. The Player Agent may, in EXCEPTIONAL CASES, consider a Player's request to not be drafted by a certain team or Manager. If the situation warrants, the Player Agent shall privately notify the Manager of the Player's request. Such notification shall occur at the draft. A parent may make a single request that a manager or coach not draft their child, only if that player played for that manager or coach in the past. Both the player agent and the president must approve any exception. [2000 RWLL]
D. After the last scheduled registration date and after attempts have been made to contact any non-registered Majors Player, the Player Agent shall release in writing all non-registered Majors Players, mailing such notification to the last recorded address "return receipt requested."
E. The Player Agent shall oversee TRYOUTS, MINOR ASSESSMENTS AND FORMATIONS OF TEAMS.
F. Player concerns shall be directed to the Player Agent. The Player Agent shall first encourage the parties involved to try to work through the problem. If this is not feasible then the Player Agent may make attempts to mitigate the problem and may solicit assistance from the Manager Committee. The Player Agent must notify the Board if the problem involves a rule violation.
G. The Player Agent shall determine whether it is appropriate to release Players once listed on a roster. Players, so released, shall be released in writing to the last known address, return receipt requested. The Player Agent shall determine if a replacement Player is necessary, and if so, oversee the replacement process.
H. The Player Agent and the President shall oversee selection of the Tournament Teams and selection of all Tournament Teams Managers and Coaches (the selection process shall be conducted by the Manager Committee). [1997 RWLL]
I. The Player Agent shall obtain from each Manager a rating/ranking form for all 8-11 year old Players. These evaluation forms shall be turned over to the new Player Agent, shall NOT be photocopied and shall only be made available for review by Managers in the following season as a tool for assessing Players.
J. The Player Agent shall maintain a record of the final team standings. The standings shall be recorded in the Board Minutes.
V. COMPLEX MANAGERS
Complex Managers shall be under the supervision of the 2nd Vice President. The primary job of the Complex Manager is to insure that the Players are playing in a safe environment. Other duties shall include insuring that we are in compliance with our agreement with the Parks Department, the concession stand has supervision, and that our equipment is properly cared for.
A. Complex Managers shall take care of their keys and report lost keys immediately to the President. LOST KEYS MAY RESULT IN HAVING TO RE-KEY ALL THE LOCKS AT THE PARK. Complex Managers must turn in all keys at the end of the season.
B. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE COMPLEX MANAGER TO ARRANGE FOR A SUBSTITUTE IF HE OR SHE CANNOT BE IN ATTENDANCE AT HIS/HER ASSIGNED TIMES. IF NO COMPLEX MANAGER SHOWS UP ON A WEEKNIGHT, ANY PERSON WITH KEYS MAY PERFORM THE LISTED DUTIES. HOWEVER, ONCE THE PERSON HAS TAKEN IT UPON THEMSELVES TO UNLOCK BUILDINGS, IT IS THAT PERSON'S RESPONSIBILITY TO INSURE THAT PARK IS CLOSED PROPERLY AT THE END OF THE DAY (NO BUCK PASSING). ON WEEKENDS EACH COMPLEX MANAGER MUST CONFIRM THAT THE SHIFT MANAGER SCHEDULED TO FOLLOW HAS ARRIVED OR THAT ANOTHER LEAGUE HAS TAKEN POSSESSION OF THE FIELDS.
C. Complex Managers shall assure that the Players are playing in a safe environment and atmosphere.
1. Games shall be terminated if weather makes play unsafe. Games shall be canceled if there is thunder and lightning.
2. Complex Managers shall be familiar with discipline steps outlined in the Bylaws and shall enforce removal of any person who jeopardizes the safety of the Players, an Umpire or any other person (President shall be notified of all removed fans, Players, Managers, Coaches, etc.).
3. Complex Managers shall not leave until all Players have a way home.
4. Wall ball, skateboards, and bicycles are prohibited in the Park.
5. The “on-deck” position has been eliminated by Little League. The so-called on-deck batter shall not swing a bat—this prohibition extends to the Hartman Park fields, despite the fact that the dugouts include an enclosed cage. [1996 LL]
6. Pitchers and catchers who are warming up are to follow Little League guidelines.
7. Children under 16 years of age are not allowed in the Majors score booth unless under the direct supervision of an adult in the booth (there have been thefts from the umpire room). Children under 16 should not be allowed in the concession stand.
D. Buildings are to be unlocked 60 minutes prior to game time and locked after the final game. This includes upper bathrooms, lower bathrooms, equipment room if games are scheduled on lower fields, batting cages, Coast building, score booths on fields 2 and 4, lime sheds beside the concession stand, and Majors score booth. Once RBA has started, upper bathrooms do not need to be locked.
E. Uniform room and equipment room are not to be unlocked.
F. Raise shutters in score booths (be familiar with operation of scoreboard controls). Insure control panels are returned to Majors score booth at end of day and that the trash has been removed.
G. If less than 8 sacks of lime are in the lower field equipment shed, then notify Chief Complex Manager.
H. The Complex Manager should check in with the concession workers about every 1/2 hour to answer questions. Problems should be noted in designated place.
I. Complex Managers shall be familiar with proper field preparation techniques including operation of "quick connect" hoses and shall insure that all tools and bases are properly put away at the end of day.
J. Complex Managers shall insure that games start on time and that the appropriate time limits are adhered to, as per the current rules (see “Playing Times” in Section Three, “Rules That Affect Playing The Game”).
K. Complex Managers shall be familiar with the procedure to follow if a game is called due to rain.
L. Complex Managers shall be familiar with whom to contact to reschedule rain-out games, games postponed due to lack of Players, and tie games.
M. The Complex Managers shall insure that each team has properly replaced base plugs and cleaned the stands, dugout and score booth before leaving. Teams leaving a mess shall be reported to the President or Vice President and may lose playing privileges at Hartman Park.
VI. MANAGER RESPONSIBILITIES
Managers and Coaches shall attend a mandatory League Orientation. The Board shall insure that Managers are familiar with Little League Rules, RWLL policies and “Local Rules” and that applicable policies are communicated to the parents at a team meeting to be held prior to the start of practices. This parents' meeting shall be held at such time and place and under such circumstances that the parents can give the Manager their undivided attention. Experience has shown that informed parents are more inclined to help out.
A. Manager/Coach Commitment and Limited Records Checks. The Board shall insure that Managers and Coaches have thoroughly reviewed and understand the Commitment forms. MANAGER COMMITMENT FORMS AND LIMITED RECORDS CHECKS SHALL BE SIGNED AND TURNED IN PRIOR TO APPOINTMENT.
Managers are responsible for insuring all Coaches are listed on their rosters and that only rostered Coaches are on the field at games and practices. [1997 RWLL]
B. Communication Managers are responsible for keeping parents informed of meetings, picture dates, opening day ceremonies, fund-raisers, etc. A Director who is appointed to act as a communications Liaison represents each level on the Board; the Liaison shall be introduced at the Managers/Coaches League Orientation. [1997 RWLL]
C. Team Notification. Managers shall be informed that all draft information is confidential in nature, especially confidential is the Players’ Tryout Rankings and the draft round in which a Player was selected. NO MANAGER SHALL RELEASE TEAM ASSIGNMENT INFORMATION UNTIL AFTER A TIME DETERMINED AND ANNOUNCED BY THE PLAYER AGENT. SHOULD TEAM ASSIGNMENTS BE LEAKED. If a manager or coach allows this information to be leaked before the appropriate time he shall be suspended (may not be at the park) for the first regular season game. [2000 RWLL]
D. Discipline Policy. Managers shall create a discipline policy (may wait until team is formed so Players can help create a plan). Plans that include more than "time out" must be submitted to the Board for approval. ALL PLANS MUST BE COMMUNICATED TO PARENTS IN WRITING. Belittling or embarrassing a Player is not allowed. Moreover, reducing game playing time below the required number of innings is not allowed without approval of the Player Agent and notification to the Player and the Player’s Parents.
E. Training. Managers are expected to attend training sessions and to encourage Coaches and other team volunteers to obtain appropriate training.
F. Safety. Managers shall be familiar with and follow the safety checklist on the inside of the back cover of the Little League Official Regulations and Playing Rules book. The League appoints each year a Safety Officer who shall be introduced at the Managers/Coaches League Orientation.
1. Managers are expected to either have first aid training or attend the first aid clinic. Managers will insure that properly signed Medical Release forms are at each practice or game. In addition, the Manager shall carry insurance forms and fill one out for any injury that may result in a claim. These claims are to be forwarded to the parent and to the President. Head Injury Forms shall be filled out in duplicate for all head injuries (one copy to Parent/one copy to President).
2. Any Player requiring doctors care for any reason shall produce a signed release before participating in practice or games.
3. Managers will attempt to insure that two adults are at each practice and that each adult is aware of the location of the nearest phone. The adult in charge at practice shall not leave until all Players are picked up.
4. Practices and games shall be canceled if there is any question of safety due to weather (lightning storms), lack of adult supervision or other factors.
G. Parent Communication. Managers shall insure each parent receives the Team Meeting Handout for Parents (see Section VII).
H. Practices. [1998 RWLL] During the preseason, except in extenuating circumstances, Coast teams shall practice no less than two (2) nor more than four (4) times a week. During the regular season, except in extenuating circumstances; Coast teams shall meet no more than four (4) times per week (including practice and games). TEAM BATTING PRACTICES SCHEDULED AT PUBLIC OR PRIVATE FACILITIES SHALL BE CONSIDERED AS AN OFFICIAL PRACTICE.
I. Equipment. Equipment and uniforms must be properly cared for during the season and cleaned before being turned in. Managers may be required to put up a deposit for the safekeeping and return of all League-issued equipment and uniforms; and may be required to pay a fee for returning equipment or uniforms which are not thoroughly cleaned beforehand. Also, Managers will be asked to inventory equipment at the end of the season and make recommendations for replacements.
J. PLAYERS WHO MISS THREE PRESEASON PRACTICES WITHOUT NOTIFYING THE MANAGER. The Manager must report to the Player Agent any Player who misses three preseason practices without informing the Manager. The Player Agent shall investigate and may replace the Player if the situation warrants.
K. PLAYERS WHO WILL OR WHO MAY MISS THREE CONSECUTIVE GAMES DUE TO INJURIES, MOVING, QUITTING, DISCIPLINE OR ANY OTHER REASON REGARDLESS OF WHETHER THE MANAGER IS NOTIFIED. The Player Agent must be notified immediately of any Players who have moved out of League boundaries, have quit, or who have suffered injuries that may cause a Player to miss three or more consecutive regularly scheduled games. Whether such Players must be replaced on the roster shall be determined by the Player Agent and Board based on consideration of Little League Rules and Regulations, replacement Player availability, the point in the season when the vacancy occurred, and other relevant factors.
L. Move-Ups. Should a Player need to be "moved up," Managers and Coaches shall do everything possible to encourage the Player to "move up." Managers/Coaches who interact with a Player or Parent with the intent of discouraging a Player from "moving up" shall immediately be suspended from his/her position pending Board review of the situation. [1977 RWLL]
M. Resignation. If a Manager finds that he/she is unable to fulfill his Manager commitment, the Manager Committee must be notified immediately. The Manager Committee shall recommend a replacement to the Board for appointment and approval.
N. Player Evaluation. Each Manager shall complete a rating/ranking evaluation for each Player 8-11 years old. These shall be retained by the Player Agent and shall be confidential. Next season's Managers shall have access to this information, but they shall not be photocopied.
O. Line Ups. Managers must insure Line-Up sheets are properly filled out and must keep team statistics on number of innings each Player is in attendance, the number of defensive innings he/she has played, the number of innings played in the outfield versus the infield and the number of "at bats" for each Player. [1997 RWLL]
VII. TEAM MEETING HANDOUT FOR PARENTS
By registering your Player each and every parent/guardian is automatically a Member of Redmond West Little League with all the rights and responsibilities of membership. Little League is a volunteer driven organization and as such, all parents are expected to actively participate. LITTLE LEAGUE IS NOT A BABY-SITTING SERVICE.
A. Absent Players. Managers of teams who have Players who miss three consecutive preseason practices (without notification from the Player) must immediately notify the Player Agent. PLAYERS WHO DO NOT SHOW UP FOR PRACTICE AND WHO DO NOT NOTIFY THE MANAGER MAY BE DROPPED FROM THE ROSTER IF THE PLAYER AGENT DETERMINES IT IS WARRANTED.
Similarly, Managers who have Players who miss, or whom the Manager knows will miss, three consecutive games must immediately advise the Player Agent. The Player Agent may recommend to the Board that such Player be replaced on the team’s roster based on the circumstances unique to the Player in question, consideration of Little League Rules and Regulations, replacement-Player availability, the point in the season when the vacancy occurs and other relevant factors. At the Majors level, a team must maintain a 12-Player roster at all times; therefore, “move-ups” from Coast level teams will periodically occur throughout the season. (see “E” below) [1997 RWLL]
Failure by a Manager to report absences will result in disciplinary action. The Player Agent will make a recommendation to the Board regarding need for Player replacement after talking to the parent. The intent is to allow the Player to continue with the team when possible.
B. Communication. Parents whose Players miss practices and/or games are responsible for notifying Managers in advance and making arrangements to obtain any handouts or information they may have missed.
C. Safety. Parents are expected to make arrangements to have their children picked up promptly from practices. In addition, parents who will not be in attendance at a game must make arrangements for an adult in attendance to be responsible for their child should the game be called early or should an injury occur. The Manager must be notified as to who the adult is. Failure to comply may result in the Player's release from the League.
D. Minimum Playing Times. At Coast, each Player on the roster and in attendance at a game, except in extenuating circumstances, shall not sit out more than two defensive innings, regardless of the number of actual innings played. All Players are to gain experience at infield as well as outfield positions. Managers shall make every effort to assure that each Player averages at least two innings per game attended over the course of the season at positions other than in the outfield. Additionally, Managers must assure that during a game of six or more innings, each player must play at least two innings at positions other than in the outfield. [1998 RWLL] Parents shall be advised of the minimum playing requirements. They should notify the Manager if they feel the requirements are not being adhered to. Managers who knowingly violate the minimum playing time should be reported to the Player Agent. In discipline situations involving a Player, the Manager may decrease the number of played innings below the required minimum but only if he has notified the Player and the Player’s parents of his intentions and ONLY IF THE MANAGER HAS THE EXPRESS APPROVAL OF THE PLAYER AGENT.
E. Move-Ups. Very important! The RWLL system, as all affiliates of Little League Baseball, is built around the Majors Level -- that is, the “Regular” Little League. The assumption is that all Players aspire to play at the Majors Level, and it is the objective of RWLL to provide the opportunity for each Player to play at the Majors Level. In order to maintain the structural integrity of the Majors level, and thereby the integrity of RWLL, the “instructional Levels” -- Coast and AAA -- must provide the pool of Player talent available to establish and retain throughout the season the requisite full (12-Player) rosters. [1996 RWLL]
Coast level Managers and parents understand that Coast level Players who attended Tryouts/Player Assessments, but who were not initially selected for Majors teams, are subject to being called up to Majors if an opening should occur at any time during the season. Managers and Coaches will support the League in encouraging these moves. Players asked to move up and who decline shall have no further opportunity to play Majors that season (including playoffs). Openings at the Coast level may be filled from the ranks of AAA. The Player Agent will work with the Managers, Parents and Players in the move-up process. [1997 RWLL]
[It is the League’s experience and that of Coaches who have been around for many years, that the opportunity to move-up is invariably a successful experience for the Players involved.]
F. Uniforms/Equipment. Players must wear League-provided uniforms and use League-approved equipment. Teams are not allowed to purchase or upgrade uniform components that are provided by the league (such as hats, sleeves, jackets, etc.). Teams may not have individual sponsors or ask parents to provide team funds, uniform embellishments, or other team extras (except end-of-year party). Donations must be made to the central RWLL treasury. No separate team or all-star jackets shall be offered. Teams may purchase baseball pants, socks, and a generic “mock tee” or turtleneck shirt with no visible logo or brand insignia. [2000 RWLL]
Equipment and uniforms must be properly cared for during the season and thoroughly cleaned before being turned in. Uniforms are not to be altered in any way (i.e., do not cut off sleeves, shorten the bodies, etc.). The Manager may be assessed a cleaning charge for equipment/uniforms not thoroughly cleaned. Managers will be asked to inventory equipment at the end of the season and make recommendations for replacements.
G. Insurance. The League only has insurance at (and permission to use) certain school and park facilities. Practices shall only take place at authorized locations and at authorized times. Insurance is secondary in nature. Managers have insurance forms. Completed forms must be turned in to the President.
H. Bylaws. Bylaws, financial and other such information can be obtained from the League Secretary or President. Parents shall be informed as to the dates and times of the General Meetings for the season.
I. Practices. Teams are not allowed to begin practicing until after the official Equipment handout Date established by the Board each season. The Board has determined that official or unofficial practices shall not start until on or after March 1 for several reasons: starting earlier puts pressure on Players and parents who have basketball/skiing commitments, it gives certain teams an unfair edge, and in most cases Manager/Coach training has not been completed. [1997 RWLL]
1. During the preseason, except in extenuating circumstances, Coast teams shall practice no less than two (2) nor more than four (4) times a week. [1998 RWLL]
During the regular season, except in extenuating circumstances, Coast teams shall meet no more than four (4) times per week (including practice and games). [1997 RWLL]
TEAM BATTING PRACTICES SCHEDULED AT PUBLIC OR PRIVATE FACILITIES SHALL BE CONSIDERED AS AN OFFICIAL PRACTICE AND SHALL COUNT IN THE TOTAL NUMBER FOR THE WEEK. [1996 RWLL]
2. "Time out" shall be used in discipline situations. The Board must approve other forms of discipline, such as lap running, pushups, or any other method. Discipline methods designed to belittle or cause embarrassment are not allowed. Moreover, reducing game playing time below the required number of innings is not allowed without prior approval of the Player Agent and notification to the Player and the Player’s Parents. PARENTS SHALL RECEIVE A COPY OF THE TEAM'S DISCIPLINE PLAN.
3. While attendance at practices is not mandatory, Parents and Players must recognize that Player improvement and ability to work as a team comes from practice and game situations. However, consistently missing practices and/or games may lead to a Player being dropped from the roster (see “A” above).
4. Managers may consult with the Player Agent regarding Players who miss a significant number of practices and/or games to determine if the Player should be replaced on the roster.
J. Park Maintenance. Each field preparer shall be trained in proper care of the field. Before the team leaves, it is the Manager's responsibility to insure that the Parents/Players have cleaned the stands and the dugout.
K. Conflicts. Managers must advise Parents and Players of their willingness and desire to work with Players who are having problems with either the Manager, a Coach, another Player, or anything else. If Players cannot resolve problems through their Manager then they understand they may contact the Player Agent.
L. Volunteers. Little League is a volunteer driven organization. All parents are expected to volunteer in some capacity at their Team and/or League level in addition to park cleanup.
M. Respect for League Volunteers. All Parent and Player Members must treat Umpires, Scorekeepers, concession workers and each other with respect. Complaints should be directed privately to the Chief Umpire, the Head Scorekeeper, Complex Manager on duty or President. Everyone should respect the fact that all positions are held by volunteers, not paid professionals.
N. Respect for Players. All cheering must be positive (comments such as "She can't hit it," "She can't throw strikes," or "He's a looker," etc., are not allowed). Fans who are negative towards the Umpires, the Managers or Players may be asked to leave the park.
O. Manager/Coach Evaluations. Players and Parents will be asked to fill out evaluations on as many Coaches and Managers as they wish at the end of the season.
P. Player Release. All Coast Players are automatically released from their teams and the teams disbanded at the end of each season.
Q. Post-Season Tournaments. Parents shall be notified of dates for Little League sponsored tournaments. RWLL may sponsor “Eleven-year-old” baseball and softball teams (consisting of selected Players from Majors rosters only) and “Nine/ten year-old” baseball and softball teams (consisting of Players from Coast and Majors rosters only). Other RWLL sponsored teams include those participating in the “Coast Invitation Tournament” and all teams participating in the “Redmond City Tournament.” Parents shall be made aware that other tournaments are not sponsored by Little League, that they may not use the Little League name, equipment or uniforms, and that there is no Little League insurance. It is also recommended that Managers putting together these teams call the team a "select" or "invitation" team to cut down on hard feelings. [1998 RWLL]
R. Standings. Each member shall be informed of the format to be used to establish standings. Also, members shall be informed about league policy regarding tie-breaking steps and League policy regarding making-up end of season rain-outs.
S. Physician’s Care. PLAYERS WHO ARE UNDER THE CARE OF A DOCTOR OR WHO SUFFER ANY MEDICAL IRREGULARITIES MUST PRESENT A STATEMENT FROM THE DOCTOR AUTHORIZING PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICES AND GAMES.
T. Injuries. Managers should notify parents of all practice and game injuries.
U. Rule Changes. Proposals for rule changes must be submitted to the Board in writing by November 30 (P.O. Box 273, Redmond, Washington 98073-0273).
VIII. SCOREKEEPER
A. Scorekeeper Responsibilities Before the Game.
1. Bring a copy of the "Local Playing Rules" and a copy of the “Little League Baseball Official Regulations and Playing Rules” in order to reference specifically those rules regarding pitching limitations, substitutions, called regulation games, improper batters, trips to the mound, minimum playing time, ejection, scorekeeper role in protests and tie regulation games. [1996 RWLL]
2. On weekends, check the Master Schedule (above the Concession Stand) to see if there is a "game to follow" (assumes RWLL retains the rule that there is no time limit if there is no "game to follow"). Advise the Manager and the Umpire if there is to be a time limit. Know and understand the time limit rule.
3. Check the "Pitchers Book" for your level of play and note all innings pitched in the last seven- (7) days by both teams.
4. Team managers received scoresheets for the entire year at the beginning of the season. He will provide them to you.
5. Obtain the white copy of the Line-Up sheet from each Manager at least 15 minutes prior to the game.
a. Verify that the Manager has correctly listed the pitchers who have pitched in the last seven (7) days and that the calculations for remaining innings is correct (see rules regarding pitching eligibility). Manager should also list everyone he/she anticipates may pitch although the Manager may select someone not listed.
b. Verify that the Manager has accounted for every rostered Player either by listing him/her in the line up or as absent. Insure that Manager has listed all Player's full name, uniform number and starting position. Managers may not skip Players in the batting roster because they showed up late for the game, unless they have approval from the Player Agent and the parents and Player have been notified. [1996 RWLL]
6. Somewhere on the score sheet note your name and phone number and the names of the Umpires.
7. If you are score keeping for a "resumed called tie game," review the pitching and Player eligibility rules outlined in the local rules to determine eligible Players and pitchers.
8. Obtain scoreboard control from Majors score booth.
B. Scorekeeper Responsibilities During the Game.
1. Your watch is the official watch for time keeping purposes. If you do not have a watch ask the Umpire if he/she has a watch or locate a watch from a neutral source. The Scorekeeper and Plate Umpire shall adhere strictly to the time limits. When a game reaches its time limit the Scorekeeper shall notify the Plate Umpire and the Umpire shall not allow any new play to occur -- not even a single pitch. [1996 RWLL]
2. Keep track of the balls and strikes. Umpires will rely on you to help out with the count if they lose track. However the Plate Umpire’s pitch count takes priority over all others (including base umpires and the Scorekeepers). [1997 RWLL]
3. Note the progress of play, keeping track of the outs and runs. In Coast notify Umpire when five (5) runs are scored. In 6th and subsequent innings in Coast runs are unlimited.
4. Record pitching substitutions and insure that pitchers are legal and have not exceeded their limit for the week. When marking innings pitched in the game, list the pitcher and then note the innings he/she pitched. One pitch constitutes an inning so it is possible to charge more than one pitcher for the same inning.
5. Record "trips to the mound." If a defensive Manager calls for time out and confers with pitcher it is charged as a "trip to the mound" against the pitcher. On the third "trip to the mound" in an inning notify the Umpire (the pitcher must be removed). Injuries are not "trips to the mound" (see Rule 8.06). Managers may not make a 3rd trip while the same batter is up and Manager may only confer with pitcher and catcher.
6. Record Player substitutions.
a. Since you are batting through the roster at Coast, you need to know: (1) who is in the game and who is out of the game and (2) whether the defensive Player is in the outfield or infield. Number 1-2-3-4-5-6 under each Player and then each inning, as the Manager tells you the uniform numbers of who is sitting out, cross out the inning. Also, under the appropriate inning number for each Player, record when the Player is in the outfield. [1997 RWLL]
b. Check uniform number as batter comes to the plate. If wrong batter, and the batter is still "up" notify the Umpire. If the wrong batter completes his/her time at bat, do not say anything. It is up to the opposing Manager to notice it and make an appeal. Be familiar with the improper batter rule.
7. If a protest is lodged, Umpire must stop game while you note the position number each defensive Player is playing and note the position of all offensive Players, who is at-bat, the count on the batter, the number of outs, etc.
C. Scorekeeper Responsibilities After the Game.
1. If there is a regulation tie game (see called regulation games in National Rules) you must note where all Players are at the time the game is called (just as you would for a protested game).
2. If “incomplete game” (e.g., called due to weather or darkness) and one full inning has been completed, you must note where all Players are at the time the game is called (this game will resume later at precisely the point at which it was called). [1997 based on 1996 LL rule change]
3. Complete the "Line-Up" sheet by noting innings pitched in this game, by noting the number of defensive innings each Player played, and by noting the outcome of the game.
4. Have the Manager sign the "Line-Up" sheet. (He/She is verifying that the outcome is correct and that the innings pitched are correct. He/She may check defensive innings played at a later date.)
5. Record the innings pitched in the pitcher's book and file the "Line-Up" sheet and the score sheet in the proper place.
6. Return scoreboard control to the Majors score booth and empty your trash.
D. At Coast scorekeepers must report, to the Head Scorekeeper or to the President any Players
who sat out more than two (2) defensive innings or, during a game of six or more innings, any Players who did not play at least two innings at positions other than in the outfield.[1998RWLL]
A. Umpires should make every effort to show up at least ten (10) minutes prior to game time. If an Umpire knows he/she will be late or absent, he/she must notify the home team Manager.
B. If a minimum of two (2) Umpires are not available or present ten (10) minutes before game time, a League official may provide coverage by redistributing the Umpires who show for other games. Coverage shall first be provided for Majors, then Coast, then AAA. Once Umpires are redistributed then the following shall occur:
1. If one scheduled Umpire shows up then the home team shall provide a first base Umpire.
2. If no Umpires show up then the home team shall provide a home plate Umpire and the visiting team shall provide an outfield Umpire. By mutual agreement the Umpires may take the positions they are most comfortable with.
C. Umpires must notify President of unsportsmanlike conduct on the part of a Player, fan, Manager or Coach per LL Rules 9.05.
D. Umpires should make every effort to keep the games moving, particularly if there is a game to follow. The Umpire, however, shall not rush the Scorekeeper while he/she is recording substitutions.
X. TRYOUTS
A. All Majors and Coast candidates will participate in the same scheduled Tryouts/Player Assessments, and all AAA candidates will participate in separate Player Assessments. All tryouts are for RWLL and Players will be assigned to divisions based on age and ability and per the draft process. Exceptional 9-year olds and 10-year olds may tryout for Majors with Player Agent approval, but are strongly discouraged from doing so. [1997 RWLL]
1. All Majors candidates must present proof of birth acceptable (original birth certificates) to Little League. The Board shall insure that adequate tryout opportunities exist for Majors candidates. There shall be a minimum of two tryouts (on different days of the week). One of these may be an outdoor tryout. The final tryout date must be indoors unless everyone is committed to holding an outdoor tryout regardless of weather conditions. The optimal situation would be to reserve a gym and an outdoor location on the same days so that tryouts could be moved indoors if necessary.
2. All Majors candidates must attend the tryouts to be eligible to be drafted to a Majors team. Each candidate must participate and be evaluated in each of the tryout events/stations (e.g., hitting, fielding grounders, fielding fly balls, running, throwing and pitching). If a candidate cannot meet this requirement, then he/she must notify the Player Agent who shall then notify the Board of the reason for the absence. With majority approval the Board may waive the tryout requirement. [1996 RWLL]
B. Players who do not attend tryouts or who register after tryouts shall be placed at AAA or the level of RWLL that they participated in the previous year, whichever is higher. [2000 RWLL] The Player Agent must approve any exception. Player Agent shall determine if such a player should be considered as a possible Majors candidate should an opening occur during the season. If this is the case, then the Player Agent shall notify the Majors Managers of the addition to the pool of Majors "move up" candidates. [1997 RWLL]
A. All Minors Players shall be automatically released from their teams and all teams disbanded at the conclusion of each season. All Majors and Coast candidates (10 , 11 and 12-year olds, as well as those 8 and 9-year olds who have specifically requested and been granted the opportunity to “play-up”) will participate in the same scheduled Tryouts/Player Assessments. Those candidates not first selected to a Majors team shall be placed in the Coast pool of eligible candidates and shall then be drafted to Coast teams. THE BOARD SHALL INSURE THAT AT LEAST ONE MINOR ASSESSMENT OPPORTUNITY IS AVAILABLE FOR PLAYERS DESIRING PLACEMENT ON A COAST OR AAA TEAM. ATTENDANCE SHOULD BE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED BUT IS NOT MANDATORY.
B. Eight-year olds may try out for AAA or Coast, but placement is not guaranteed. For 8-year olds to play at AAA or Coast, they MUST attend Player Assessments, there MUST be “slots available”, and they MUST then be drafted to a team. Eleven-year olds may play AAA only if they participate in AAA Player Assessments and the Player Agent and all Coast Managers agree. (This provision is only for an exceptionally “weak” Player and/or where medical or other safety reasons dictate such.). [1998 RWLL]
XII. TEAM SIZE
Coast teams shall carry no more than 13 Players and shall not carry less than 12 Players at all times without the approval of the Player Agent. [1997 RWLL]
XIII. COAST TEAM FORMATION
A. After enough Coast level Managers have been secured, each Coast level Manager may pre-select one Coach -- deemed qualified to coach in RWLL and approved by the Board --who is committed to coaching at the stated level.
1. Managers whose sons/daughters are Little League age 11 shall be discouraged from “holding-down” their sons/daughters down at Coast—it is preferable that they allow their 11-year olds to be drafted at Majors and help coach at the Majors level. All Managers/Coaches should be aware that 11-year old Players at Coast are not eligible for selection to the “Eleven-year-old” All-star team. [1998 RWLL]
2. A Coast Manager may not pre-select a Coach who is the parent of a current 11 or 12 year old who played Coast the prior season. The goal is to encourage Players to move up and to discourage parents from holding Players down a level. [1997 RWLL]
B. Managers may submit “Options” on a maximum of two (2) Players only. Options must be in writing and submitted to the Player Agent at least 7 days prior to the draft for the following circumstances (see the Little League Operating Manual): [1996 RWLL] All rules governing options at Majors apply to Coast. (See Majors Local Rules Sec. XIV, B.-D.)
C. Coast teams shall be drafted using the same method (serpentine) used by the Majors as outlined in the Little League Baseball Operating Manual (The Draft System, Plan A”, as described for leagues in their first year of operation). Age parity shall not be mandated (i.e., it is not required that, say, each Coast team have the same number of 11-year olds on their rosters). Managers shall draw numbers to establish the order of selecting Players. For illustration, the Manager drawing number one makes the following player selections: 1st choice in round one, the last choice in round two, the 1st choice in round three, and so on. The Manager drawing the last number (determined by the number of teams) makes the last choice in round one, the first choice in round two, and so on until all rounds are completed. [1996 RWLL]
D. THE PLAYER AGENT SHALL ANNOUNCE THE DATE AND TIME AT WHICH MANAGERS MAY NOTIFY PLAYERS OF ASSIGNMENT. PREMATURE NOTIFICATION WILL CAUSE THE BOARD TO TAKE DISCIPLINARY ACTION AGAINST THE MANAGER AND/OR COACH INVOLVED.
XIV. TRADING PLAYERS
At the conclusion of each Draft the Player Agent shall allow 10 minutes for trades to be made. All trades shall be made through and with the approval of the Player Agent. [1996 RWLL]
XV. FILLING MAJORS VACANCIES DURING SEASON
A. Vacancies occur regularly throughout the season for a variety of reasons (Players move out of the area, injuries force Players to quit, Players sometimes decide for personal reasons to no longer play and occasionally it is necessary for the team to give a Player an involuntary release. Managers must notify the Player Agent immediately upon becoming aware that a Player may leave the team for any reason. [1997 RWLL]
B. Once it has been determined that it is appropriate to replace a Player on a Majors roster, the following steps shall be taken:
1. The Player Agent shall immediately submit a list of eligible candidates to the Manager. Eligible candidates shall be defined as those Players who were subject to the draft or any late registrant that the Player Agent has determined should be considered for selection. [1997 RWLL]
a. Majors baseball replacements cannot be eligible 10 year old Players unless no eligible 11 or 12 year old Players remain in the Coast League. Teams must carry six to eight 12 year olds at all times unless no eligible 12 year olds remain in the Coast League. If there are no qualified Players in the Coast League who participated in Tryouts, or if all eligible candidates decline to move up, then the Player Agent may approach Players who did not try out. If no candidate can be found to move up, then the team may play short a Player.
b. The Player Agent shall instruct the Majors Manager that all communications regarding the replacement shall go through the Player Agent. No one, except the Player Agent, may discuss the "move-up" with the replacement candidate, the candidate’s parents, the candidate’s current Coast Manager, or anyone else. IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT THAT NO ELEMENT OF THE MOVE-UP BE DISCUSSED WITH ANY PLAYERS (OTHER THAN THE CANDIDATE HIMSELF) AT ANY LEVEL PRIOR TO THE COMPLETION OF THE PROCESS. [1997 RWLL]
2. The Manager shall then have a maximum of seven (7) days within which to submit a list back to the Player Agent ranking in order the Manager’s top three choices for move-up. The Player Agent shall then, without delay, approach the first Player on the Manager’s list in a manner as outlined in “3” below. If the Player declines, the Player Agent shall then approach the second ranked Player in a similar fashion and continue in order until a candidate accepts. The Manager may change his/her ranking any time prior to the time the Player Agent has made contact with the candidate. [1997 RWLL]
3. The Player Agent shall approach the Player directly in the presence of the parent after private consultation with the parent if possible. The Player shall be informed that he/she has been drafted to a Majors team, without disclosing the name of the team.
a. Should the Player agree to move up, he/she will be informed as to which team has drafted him/her. The Player Agent shall immediately notify the Player's parents, current Manager and receiving Manager that the Player has agreed to fill the open position effective immediately.
b. Should the Player decline to join the Majors team, the Player shall NOT be moved to another Coast team, but shall be advised that he/she will not be allowed to move-up at any time in the current season, including in any post-season play. [1997 LL]
c. The Player/Parent shall then be given another opportunity to accept the Majors assignment.
d. The Player’s current Coast Manager and the Majors Manager shall be notified as to the decision of the Player as soon as possible.
e. All Managers, Parents and other members of the League shall do everything possible to insure that the Player is encouraged to move up. Any Manager or Coach who encourages a Player to stay at the Coast level shall immediately be suspended from his/her position pending Board review of the situation (see Bylaws).
NOTE: The Player Agent will make every effort to avoid moving up more than two (2) Players from any one Coast team during the season, so as to not unfairly reduce that team’s ability to be competitive. This policy is not intended to deny the opportunity to a qualified Player to move-up to Majors; therefore, it is conceivable that a third Player from the same team could be moved up if deemed appropriate, and with Board approval. [1997 RWLL]
XVI. FILLING COAST VACANCIES
A. Managers must notify the Player Agent of any Player who misses three (3) preseason practices without notifying Manager or who misses or will miss three (3) consecutive games. Player Agent decides if replacement is necessary.
B. Should a Manager fail to notify the Player Agent of a potential vacancy as outlined above, disciplinary action may be taken and the Player Agent shall immediately take steps to determine if it is appropriate to remove and replace the Player on the team’s roster. [1997 RWLL]
C. The Player Agent shall determine if it is necessary or desirable to fill the vacancy. Coast vacancies shall be filled from the pool of AAA Players.
NOTE: The Player Agent will make every effort to avoid moving up more than two (2) Players from any one AAA team during the season, so as to not unfairly reduce that team’s ability to be competitive. This policy is not intended to deny the opportunity to a qualified Player to move-up to Coast; therefore, it is conceivable that a third Player from the same team could be moved up if deemed appropriate, and with Board approval. [1997 RWLL]
Section Three
XVII. RULES THAT AFFECT PLAYING THE GAME
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Please note that all rules are subject to the interpretation of the "intent of the rule" by the Board of Directors. It should be understood that the accumulations of words are always open to interpretation; therefore, the Board reserves the right to do so. Recommendations for rule changes may be submitted in writing to the Board by November 30 for consideration for the following season. |
A. Team Responsibilities
1. Home Team (Occupies 3rd base dugout)
a. Provide Scorekeeper.
b. Provide two game balls (three for Majors), plus towels.
c. Bring a copy of the Local Rules and the National Rules.
d. Prepare the field.
e. If there is no game to follow, replace base plugs and put bases and equipment away. If game is rained out everything must be put away. Bases for fields #5 and #6 go in lower shed.
f. Cover mound and home plate.
g. Clean stands, dugout, score booths.
2. Visitor and Home Team.
a. Clean stands, dugout, score booths.
B. General Rules
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It must be understood that Coast and AAA are “Instructional Leagues”; learning baseball, good sportsmanship and having fun are the guidelines by which the Board will base any decisions. The desire and intent is that the programs provide a positive experience for all Players, regardless of their ability. All cheering shall be of a positive nature, directed only to one’s own team. Umpires are volunteers and are to be treated with respect -- mistreatment of Umpires will not be tolerated. |
1. On-field Discipline. It is the Manager's responsibility to maintain order in the dugout and to keep the Players in the dugout. Per the Little League regulation as of 1996, there shall be no on-deck batter. Only one person shall be in the cage at any one time and that Player shall not swing a bat. [1996 LL]
2. Playing Time. Each Player in attendance at a game, except in extenuating circumstances (if for disciplinary reasons, Manager must follow procedures outlined in Section One, VII. D., “Minimum Playing Times”, p. 10) shall not sit out more than two defensive innings, regardless of the number of official innings played. All Players are to gain experience at infield, as well as outfield positions. Managers shall make every effort to assure that each Player averages at least two innings per game attended over the course of the season at positions other than in the outfield. [1996 RWLL] In addition, in a game of six or more innings, the Manager shall assure that each Player plays two innings of the game at positions other than in the outfield.
3. Time Limit. At Coast, when there is a game to follow (whether our league or another league) in the next playing time slot, the game shall be played under strict time limits. No new inning may start after 2 hours and the game must be stopped at 2 hours and 30 minutes. The Scorekeeper shall record the Official Start Time of the current game, and shall notify the Plate Umpire at the precise moment that time limits are reached. When there is no game to follow, time limits shall not apply.
A new inning begins at the moment the third out is made on the Home Team. When the game reaches its time limit, the Scorekeeper shall inform the Plate Umpire and the Plate Umpire shall allow any play in progress to complete and then SHALL IMMEDIATELY CALL THE GAME WITHOUT ALLOWING ANY ADDITIONAL PLAY, INCLUDING EVEN A SINGLE PITCH TO THE CURRENT BATTER. For record-keeping purposes, that batter’s “at-bat” shall be recorded just as it would be in a case where a final out of a game were called on a runner while a batter was at the plate. The outcome of the game shall be determined by Official Little League Rules 4.10, 4.11 and 4.12. [1996 RWLL]
4. Weather Delays. If, due to weather conditions, the field must be prepared prior to play (e.g., fence blown down or large puddles of water on the infield), on-field warm-ups and/or drills may be canceled so that the game can get underway.
5. Line-Ups. Completed white Line-Up sheets, including Players' full name and number, shall be given to the Official Scorekeepers 15 minutes prior to game time. All pitchers who pitched in the last seven (7) days must be listed and any Players who may pitch in the current game should be listed (an unlisted pitcher may be used, but must be checked against "pitchers book"). One copy of the Line-Up sheet goes to the opposing Manager and one is retained. At the end of the game the Manager must sign the "Line-Up" sheet indicating that the outcome of the game and the innings pitched are correct. He or she may check the defense innings played at a later date, but must insure information is correct within ten (10) days of game.
6. Batter Out of Order. Scorekeepers at Coast may notify Umpires of a batter out of order provided the improper batter is still "at bat." Once the improper batter completes his/her at-bat, then the "improper batter" rule shall take effect and only a Manager may call it to the Umpire's attention [1996 RWLL]
7. Batting Cages. When there are two (2) Majors games, Majors shall have the cages. The twoVisitors teams have the cage one and one half (11/2) hours prior to the scheduled start for 30 minutes. The Home Teams may then have the cage for 30 minutes. If there is one Majors game and one Coast Game the Majors and Coast teams shall share cages as above. Players shall not swing bats while outside the cage. One adult from each team must be present inside the cage and one must be present outside the cage any time the cage is in use. [2000 RWLL]
8. Warm-up Times. For weeknight games, the visiting team will begin infield warm-up 25 minutes before game time and be off the field at 15 minutes before game time, at which time the home team will take the field for 10 minutes. At 5 minutes before game time, the field crew and Umpires will do final preparation of the field. For weekend games, the time available before the game starts will be split between the two teams for warm-ups. In either case, no team will start infield warm-up before 25 minutes before game time. REMINDER: No Manager or Coach (or any non-Player) may warm-up the pitcher at any time per Official Little League Regulations and Rules.
9. Rain-outs and Games Called Prior to Being Regulation Games. When a game is "rained out" or the field is otherwise declared unplayable, the Master Scheduler shall be immediately notified. The first available rain-out date on the schedule as determined by the Master Scheduler will be used, even if this results in a team playing games on back-to-back days or playing three games in a week (four games in a week shall not be scheduled unless absolutely necessary).
If a game is called before it has become a regulation game, but after one (1) or more innings have been completed, it shall be resumed exactly where it left off. In such case, all records, including pitching records, shall be counted. [LL 1996]
Responsibility for ensuring that the game is properly rescheduled shall rest with the Managers of the teams involved, in conjunction with the Master Scheduler. [1997 RWLL]
10. Not Enough Players. The following is the league policy regarding rescheduling a game when one or both teams cannot field 9 Players at the start of the game.
a. If a Team cannot field 9 Players, that Team shall forfeit the game. [1998 RWLL]
Exception: Managers who have advance notice that they cannot field a team due to a school or League sponsored event, must immediately, and no later than two (2) weeks prior to the event, notify the opposing Manager and the Master Scheduler. [1997 RWLL] In addition he must provide to the League President the names of the players who must miss the game and the reasons. [1999 RWLL] After consulting with the League President, the Master Scheduler shall release the game slot to the pool of "rain-out" slots. In addition, the game must be re-scheduled within two weeks of the original game. [1998 RWLL]
Each team involved in the game in question shall be allowed one rescheduling opportunity as determined by the Master Scheduler. If a team cannot field enough Players for the game in question twice in a row, then that team shall forfeit the game. (Example: Team A cannot field Players for the original game, Team B cannot field Players for the rescheduled game, Team B cannot field Players for the next rescheduling opportunity, then Team B forfeits.) [1998 RWLL]
b. If a game begins and a team drops below 9 players due to injury or illness before the game is a regulation game, then the game is suspended. [2000 RWLL]
11. Tie Game Playoffs. When tie regulation games must be ended prior to determining the outcome, the game shall, if possible, be resumed 45 minutes prior to the start of the next game between the same two teams and shall be played until the outcome of the game is determined (see "11" below for pitching rule regarding pitching limitations in resumed suspended games). If there are no additional scheduled games, or no games where an early start is possible, arrangements shall be made with the Master Scheduler to arrange a date and time to complete the game. Home teams must arrange for the Complex Manager to arrive early and must insure Umpires are obtained.
12. Tie Game Resumption -- Pitching Rules. The local rules regarding pitching and substitution for suspended games shall be interpreted as follows:
a. Pitching. The last pitcher in the resumed suspended game may start the regularly scheduled game, subject to eligibility regarding rest periods and inning limits: 3 innings per day, 6 innings per week; The intent is to allow an eligible pitcher who is already warmed up to continue pitching. If the last pitcher in the resumed game does not start the immediately-following regularly scheduled game, that pitcher is not eligible to pitch in the regularly scheduled game; the pitcher must honor the required calendar days of rest before pitching again. Regulation VI (d) states that "A Player once removed as a pitcher may not pitch again in the same game." The current local rules state, "Pitchers shall not pitch more than three innings per game." The intent of the rule is to prevent one pitcher from dominating a minor league game and to protect the pitcher's throwing arm. In the case of suspended games, the League interprets this to mean that a pitcher is also limited to three (consecutive) innings per day.
EXAMPLE: Wes is the last pitcher Thursday and pitches 1 inning before the game is suspended (in the resumed game Sunday, he can continue up to 2 innings). Wes pitches only 1 inning to end the resumed game. He can start the regularly scheduled game and pitch up to 2 innings.
b. Substitution. Players who were present during the suspended game and absent during the resumed game shall be skipped in the batting order. Players who were absent during the suspended game and present during the resumed game shall be added to the end of the line up.
13. Early Weekday Games. In May and June if it becomes necessary to schedule early weekday games because of excessive rainouts, these games may start no earlier than 4:30 p.m. However, these teams must be off the field no later than 6:00 p.m., no matter what time the game starts and even if play would otherwise continue under the time limits rule set forth above.
14. Protective Gear. All male Players are required to wear an athletic supporter and a baseball cup protector. All catchers are required to also wear mask (equipped with a “dangling type” throat protector), shin guards, and a chest protector in addition to the cup and supporter.
15. Roster as Batting Order. A team's complete roster shall constitute the batting order for each game (see Regulation VIII, Rule 4.04.)
a. In the case of a Player who reaches base safely and must be removed from the game due to injury, his place on the bases shall be taken by the last Player above him in the batting order who made an out.
b. The next Player on the roster will replace a batter, unable to complete an “at-bat” due to injury. This Player shall assume the count of the injured batter.
c. A Player who is obviously injured, ill, or who leaves the park prior to the conclusion of the game shall be removed from the line-up without penalty and may not re-enter the game.
d. Players suffering a "temporary illness," "injury" or "other problem" who cannot take a turn at bat shall cause an out to be recorded, unless the Opposing Manager agrees to "skip" the batter. Opposing Managers shall agree to skips in cases where the injury is clearly temporary (bee stings, wind knocked out of Player, etc.) Managers shall keep in mind that the goal is to have kids playing ball and that batters shall not be skipped simply because they are "stressed."
16. Modified "Free" Substitution. So long as the format of the complete roster being the batting order is used, the following shall apply:
All substitutions must be in the defensive line up no later than the third inning.
No starter or substitute shall sit out more than two defensive innings, whether consecutive or interrupted. Any Player (starter or substitute) may re-enter the game on defense, provided that a pitcher may not re-enter the game as a pitcher, and provided that no Player may re-enter to take the place of any other Player who has already sat out two defensive innings. Penalty: The League shall apply the same penalty as provided for the stricter playing/substitution rules for Majors -- see Regulation IV (i) of the Official Regulations and Playing Rules. [1996 RWLL]
17. Managers must notify Scorekeeper of all pitching changes and shall inform Scorekeeper as to who is sitting out each inning. After announcing the pitching changes and who is sitting out, the Manager shall announce whether each defensive Player is at an “outfield” or “non-outfield” position. [1996 RWLL]
18. On-field Discipline. It is the Manager's responsibility to maintain order in the dugout and to keep the Players in the dugout. Per the Little League regulation as of 1996, there shall be no on-deck batter. Only one person shall be in the cage at any one time and that Player shall not swing a bat. [1996 LL]
19. Pitching Limitations. Twelve-year-olds shall be allowed to pitch in Coast with Board approval. Approval shall be assumed unless there is an objection. [1997 RWLL] Pitchers shall not pitch more than three innings per game and/or day and must be consecutive; also Pitchers may not pitch more than six innings per week (see Little League rules for "rest" requirements and limits on innings per week). One pitch to a batter is considered to constitute an “inning pitched”.
20. Base Coaches. At Coast both the first base and third base coaches may be adult/coaches. [1999 RWLL]
21. Run Limit. The offensive team shall bat through the batting order until it makes three outs or until it scores five (5) runs in its half of an inning. In the sixth and subsequent innings, there is no limit on the number of runs a team is allowed to score.
22. Called Games. Games called due to darkness, rain, time, or other considerations shall be considered regulation if three (3) full innings have been completed. Any such “called-game,” if at least one (1) full inning has been completed but less than three full innings, shall be resumed from the exact point at which the game was called. [1996 LL]
23. Rescheduled Games. Rainouts, called non-regulation games and continued tie games which do not affect seeding for city playoffs (Coast only), do not necessarily need to be played off. However each team shall be guaranteed a minimum of 12 games.
24. Season. The Coast season and number of games shall be determined by the Board. Depending on the number of teams, it is desirable that the regular season consists of each team playing each other team twice -- or a total of approximately 14 to 18 games. If there were 8 Coast teams, for example, the regular season would consist of 14 games. When deemed practicable, 3-4 preseason games shall be scheduled for the benefit of Players, Coaches, Umpires and Scorekeepers.
25. Preseason Making up rained-out preseason games is not required. Managers may agree to make up a rained out preseason game at their discretion and in consultation with the Master Scheduler.
The Managers shall use the preseason games for experimentation. However, the Little League rules requiring specific rest periods for pitchers shall be strictly adhered to.
26. Stealing Home (SOFTBALL ONLY). [2002 RWLL] A runner may only advance to home plate during a play in which a ball is batted into play. This includes the continuation of any play, even if the batter has reached base safely or has been put out.
A runner may not advance to home plate on a passed ball, wild pitch or a pick off throw (errant or otherwise) to any base including third. This rule does not protect the runner on third base from being put out by the defense during a pick-off attempt. All other relative softball rules regarding leading off and returning to base still shall apply.
The intent of this rule is to require the offense to earn runs during plays where the ball has been put into play rather than taking advantage of errors by the defense.
XVIII. STANDINGS
A. The first through last place teams shall be based on number of wins. The team with the highest number of wins shall be the first place team. The team with the second highest number of wins shall be the second place team, etc.
B. Ties will be broken as follows:
1. Two team ties:
a. Head to head
b. Play off if time permits (Board decision);
c. Fewest runs scored "against" team in games between tied teams. (Games split. Team A wins first game 6-4, loses second game 10-3. Team A has 14 runs scored against. Team B has 9 runs scored against. Team B is ranked higher.);
d. Coin Toss.
2. Three or more team ties (these rules apply until two teams are left, then follow 2.a above):
a. Consider the head-to-head play amongst the tied teams, if appropriate;
b. Two teams with most wins against all other teams that are tied;
c. The two teams with the most wins in the half of the season (if equal halves) or the last two (2) rounds of competition (assuming three rounds constituted an entire season);
d. If time permits (decision of the Board), round robin, three inning game, most total runs scored if there is a tie; may be played off site if necessary;
e. Coin Toss.
XIX. RECOGNITION
A. A budgeted amount for recognition may be presented for approval to the General Membership as part of the budget.
1. Adult Umpires may be provided with hats, shirts and clickers. Youth Umpires may be presented with honorariums provided state and federal guidelines regarding honorariums are followed.
2. The League may provide graduating 12 year olds with a recognition gift from the League such as a pin, certificate, medallion or other item of this nature (see Little League Regulation XII).
3. The League may purchase pins for Manager/Coach recognition.
4. The League should purchase all-star pins for the Majors all-stars.
5. The League may budget an amount up to $5.00 per Board Member and Chairperson per year served to provide recognition in the form of a plaque, certificate, pin, medallion, flowers, or other form of recognition as may be appropriate.
6. The League may recognize the efforts of the District Administrator as outlined in 5 above.
B. Teams may separately collect funds for end of season parties and present items of recognition to Players, Coaches, Managers and other volunteers (see Little League Regulation XII). Items of recognition shall not be made on the basis of skill, and must be nominal in value.
XX. COAST INVITATIONAL
A. The top ranked Coast-level team may represent the League at the District Nine Coast Invitational tournament. If this team declines, then the second-place team shall be offered the slot. If the second-place team declines, then it shall be offered in order of rank through the remaining teams.
B. If the Manager and Coach of the team selected to represent the League cannot manage the team in the tournament, the Manager Committee may recommend a replacement to the Board for appointment and approval from the ranks of the rostered Coast or AAA Managers or Coaches. Replacement Managers for the Coast Invitational must come from the ranks of the Coast or AAA Managers or Coaches who were listed on a roster as a regular season Manager or Coach
If no Manager can be found then the team shall decline. (DISTRICT RULE)
XXI. "MOVE-UPS" FOR CITY PLAYOFFS AND COAST INVITATIONAL
Move-ups in cases where Player(s) shall be lost for entire Tournament: [1997 RWLL]
A. Teams which cannot field a minimum of 11 Players prior to the City Tournament or Coast Invitational may pick up a Player(s). Teams picking up Players shall not exceed 12 Players on their rosters. The first place teams shall have first option on picking up Players, then the second place team, etc. Should teams drop below 11 Players after the start of the tournament, they may pick up Player(s) at the point they have dropped below 11 Players and they shall pick in order of regular season standings. Coast teams may select a Player from any Coast or AAA level team not involved in playoffs.
Note: If Coast Invitational is played at the same time as the City playoffs, then Coast teams needing to pick up Players shall do so as outlined above -- However, the Player pick-up policy for Coast Invitational shall not be in conflict with District Policy. (e.g., District may not allow Coast Invitational Teams to pick up other Coast level Players)
Move-ups in cases where Player(s) shall be lost for a part of City Tournament: [1997 RWLL]
Coast teams that anticipate losing two or more Players after playing one or more games in the City Tournament may pick up Players prior to the start of the Tournament. In such case, the Team may not pick up more than two Players (regardless of how many Players will be lost). And, though added to the Team’s roster at the beginning of the Tournament, those Players may not participate in any game, in any manner while the Player they are to replace is currently available.
For example, Team A is aware that two Players are leaving on vacation and will only be available for the Team’s first two Tournament Games. Team A may pick up two Players in anticipation of losing two Players, but the replacement Players become eligible only when the Players they are to replace are no longer available.
XXII. 9-10 YEAR OLD TOURNAMENT TEAM
A. Team Composition.
It shall be the intent to select and announce the Tournament Team the earliest time allowable by Little League Baseball, in order to allow the Team to begin practicing at the earliest allowable date (Tournament Rules for the current year are provided by Little League Baseball). The Redmond West Little League Tournament Team selection shall be made with that timeline in mind and in the following manner:
1. Eligible Players . All 9 and 10 year old Players on Majors or Coast Rosters ONLY as of the mid-point in the season (as determined by the Board), who will be available to practice for, and play in, the tournament, shall be eligible for selection to the 9-10 year old Tournament Team and shall be placed on the Tournament Team ballot. The Players shall be listed by team in alphabetical order and the age of the Players shall be indicated (e.g., by listing a team's 10 year olds first and then its 9 year olds).
2. Players Balloting. There will be no player balloting at 9-10 year old levels.
3. Managers' Balloting . At a date to be announced near the end of the season, not later than June 1, but earlier if necessary to complete the process for the Team to begin practicing at the earliest allowable date a meeting shall be held. The Coast team Managers shall meet with persons designated by the Board of Directors to discuss the selection of the 9-10 year old Tournament Team, its Manager and Coaches. The Managers shall discuss among themselves at this meetings the qualifications of Players prior to casting their ballots for the Tournament Team. They shall also discuss the commitment required of those participating in coaching the Tournament Teams. It is recommended that each team Manager has previously consulted with the Coach or Coaches of his/her team.
Each Manager shall then cast one ballot on which the Manager has selected precisely ten (10) Players. Each Manager MUST vote for TEN Players and a Manager may not vote for a Player on his/her team. These ballots shall be turned over to the League President who shall count the ballots in conjunction with the Player Agent and Vice President as soon as possible.
4. Composition of Tournament Team. . The total of the Managers' ballots shall be totaled by the League President in conjunction with the Player Agent and Vice President. The Tournament Team shall be comprised of (a) the top 10 vote getters available (see Paragraph 6, below) and (b) a 11th and 12th Player to be chosen by the Manager of the Tournament Team (in consultation and agreement with the Player Agent and the RWLL President). The 11th and 12th Players may be chosen from the Players within the next highest 6 vote-getters (e.g., the top 11-16 vote-getters) who are available for tournament play (see Paragraph 6, below); however, any Player that is tied for or within the 6th highest position (after the initial 10 are selected) will be eligible to be picked by the Manager for the Tournament Team. That is, for instance, (a) if there are 10 Players tied for the 13th position of the most vote-getters, then in fact the 11th and 12th Players would be chosen from the top 24 vote-getters (i.e., the top 10 plus the 11th, the 12th, and the 10 Players tied at 13th position); or (b) if there is a tie between 6 Players for the 11th position, then only those 6 Players would be eligible to be placed on the Tournament Team in the 11th and 12th positions (as those 6 would constitute the 11th through 16th top vote-getters). [1998 RWLL]
5. Ballots Confidential. . The contents of any and all ballots and the vote totals will be held strictly confidential between the League President, Player Agent and Vice President. No Player or Manager shall be informed as to the votes or totals on any or all of the ballots. In case of a tie vote that cannot be resolved under Paragraph 4, the Managers shall vote for the tied Players only to break the tie; if the tie is not thereby resolved, the total votes of the League's Players for the tied Players for the tied Players shall be used to break the tie; and if that does not break the tie, a committee made up of the Tournament Team Manager, the Player Agent, and President will resolve the tie, the results of which shall be kept strictly confidential.
6. Player Availability for Tournament Play. Prior to the ballot of the Managers in Paragraph 3 above, each Majors team Manager shall ascertain from the parents of the Players on his team listed on the Tournament Team ballot whether or not their child will be able to make the commitment to being available for Tournament Team practices and games during the course of the summer. To be eligible to be selected onto the all-star team a player must be available for ALL practices and games (beginning the date of the first allowable practice and continuing until the team is eliminated or the tournament concludes). If there is more than one unexcused absence from a game or practice, the player may be removed from the team. An excused absence would be a medical or family emergency. All other absences are unexcused unless approved by the Player Agent. [1999 RWLL] Each team Manager shall provide this information in writing to the League President at a date to be determined prior to Manager voting.
B. Letter of Commitment
The Player Agent shall, prior to May 15, deliver to and receive from each Player eligible for the Tournament Team a letter of commitment containing the following information:
1. Name of Player.
2. Address of Player.
3. Telephone number of Player.
4. Confirmation that the above information is accurate.
5. Confirmation that Player can produce an original government issued certified birth certificate, King County card, or passport within three (3) days of notification of acceptance to the roster. (Parents understand that they may have registered with improper documents and that they were asked to verify before the season started that the document shown was an original and not a copy.) Players without original documentation may not be listed on the roster.
6. Dates and places of tournament.
7. Statement of availability of Player.
8. Statement of parent responsibility and possible expense involved.
9. Space for Player and parent signature indicating availability and understanding of commitment.
10. The Player shall return this letter, signed by both the Player and the parents indicating availability status, to the Player Agent immediately.
11. The letter will include a short statement regarding rules for playing time for Tournament Teams.
PLAYERS WHO DO NOT TURN IN THIS LETTER OF AVAILABILITY SHALL BE CONSIDERED UNAVAILABLE. Unavailable players will not be candidates for the Tournament Team and will not be voted on. [1999 RWLL]
After the announcement of the Tournament Team, if a player on the team becomes unavailable as determined by the Player Agent, the Tournament Team Manager shall select a replacement from amongst the same pool of the next highest 6 available vote getters. The pool of Players from which the Manager can choose shall not be expanded until there are no Players left in the original pool.
C. Tournament Teams Manager Selection.
For the 11 year old Tournament Team, the Manager nominees should be expanded to include rostered
Coaches as well as Managers at the Majors level. The 9-10 Manager should be selected from the Coast pool of Managers.
The Tournament Team Manager and Coach (es) shall be selected per the process outlined below. The Manager and Coach(es) selected to coach the RWLL Tournament Team are expected to be more that just “good coaches” -- they are considered to be ambassadors of RWLL.
1. To be selected, the Tournament Team Manager must:
* Possess a good knowledge of the game of Little League Baseball; and know and consistently practice its rules;
* Have demonstrated an ability and willingness to teach individual Players the fundamentals of baseball as well as the concept of “team play”;
* Have consistently demonstrated a fair and positive attitude toward Players and have a good rapport with Players and their Parents;
* Indicate a willingness to become knowledgeable in the Little League Tournament Rules and plan to consistently adhere to them;
* Conduct himself or herself in an exemplary fashion both on and off the field at all times; and consistently show respect for umpires and all League Officials;
2. Other Considerations. The Manager Committee shall, in the selection process, take into consideration the following:
a. The number of years of positive contributions by the prospective Manager as a Manager and/or Coach in RWLL;
b. The willingness of the Manager over the years to attend and participate in League and District sponsored coaches clinics;
c. The Manager’s history of being supportive of the League and being a positive contributor to its overall efforts;
3. Selection Process. The Manager Committee, defined for purposes of selecting the Tournament Team Manager and Coach(es) to include the League President, the Player Agent, the Chief Umpire as well as the regular members of the standing Committee, shall assume the responsibility for selections.
a) The Manager Committee shall be obligated to observe and be aware of the how the Managers, Coaches and Teams perform competitively and how they conduct themselves personally both on and off the field while playing and/or practicing throughout the season;
b) Manager/Coach Evaluations. Approximately two-thirds of the way through the season (no later than May 21), the Manager Committee shall ask Parents to complete the Manager/Coach Evaluations Forms;
c) Manager/Coach Commitment Forms. Managers and Coaches, upon being informed of the required commitment -- the minimum number of required practices, the Tournament schedules and the potential length of the post-season play -- shall indicate their availability and willingness to Manage and/or Coach the Tournament Team. “Availability and Willingness” includes the full amount of time for games and practices through the date that elimination from the Tournament removes the Team from further play. Those Managers shall then constitute the “Candidates”;
d) Voting Process -- Tournament Team Manager.
1) No later than May 21, each Manager ( Majors Managers for the 11 year old team and Coast Managers for the 9-10 year old team) shall cast a vote for two of the tournament Manager Candidates. A Manager may not vote for himself/herself, and must vote for exactly two. The two Managers receiving the most votes become, in effect, the two “Nominees” from which the Manager Committee shall make the final selection.
In the case of a tie in the Managers’ vote, Managers shall cast a second ballot, voting again for a slate of two, but only from those who were tied. If a tie remains, the Manager Committee may then consider each of the Managers so tied as Nominees for the Tournament Manager position.
2) The Manager Committee shall conduct a meeting and select from those two Manager “Nominees” the All-Star Tournament Team Manager. In addition, if a spouse of a Manager being considered for the All-Star Tournament Team is a member of the Manager Selection Committee, that spouse cannot vote. [1998 RWLL]
D) Tournament Team Assistant Coach(es) Selection.
The selected Tournament Team Manager shall be asked to recommend Assistant Coach(es). The Manager Committee shall then apply the same criteria as that applied in the selection of the Tournament Manager (including the review of Coach Evaluations by the Parents. Assuming the recommended Coach(es) are deemed qualified and suitable, the Manager Committee shall be inclined to accept the Tournament Team Manager’s recommendations.
ULTIMATELY, THE SELECTED TOURNAMENT TEAM MANAGER AND COACH(ES) MUST BE APPROVED BY THE BOARD.
E. Announcement of Tournament Team, Manager, and Coach(es).
The Tournament Team, Manager, and Coaches shall be announced at a time, place and in a manner determined by the Board. However, every attempt shall be made to assure that the selection process is completed so that the Team may be announced in sufficient time to allow the Team to begin practicing at the earliest date allowed by Little League Baseball (generally, around June 15). The announcement should take place only after the following have occurred: (1) the Tournament Team balloting by the Managers has been concluded; (2) the Tournament Team Manager and Coach (es) have been selected; (3) the additional two Players for the team have been selected by the Tournament Team Manager; and (4) the availability of Players for tournament play has been ascertained. Only those 12 Players who have been selected and have indicated an ability, willingness, and commitment to playing on the Tournament Team throughout the tournament shall be placed on the Tournament Team roster.
Note: There shall be no “Honorable Mention” of players who do not qualify for the Tournament Team. [1999 RWLL]
F. Tournament Rules.
Tournament rules are published separately (see Little League Regulation XVII (b) regarding practice games). NO PRACTICE GAMES MAY BE HELD WITH PLAYERS IN UNIFORM OR WHICH INCLUDE PLAYERS WHO ARE NOT IN THE SAME DIVISION AND THE SAME LEAGUE AS THE ROSTERED ALL-STARS.
G. If a manager fails to follow the tournament minimum playing time rules the following actions will be taken by the Board in addition to any actions taken by tournament officials:
First offense – 1 game suspension for the next tournament or regular season game, whichever occurs first for that manager.
Second offense- Permanent suspension as a post season manager within RWLL.