REDMOND WEST LITTLE LEAGUE

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.

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