East County Little League Bylaws

League ID: 447 04 03

Last Amended: Oct 22, 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

I. Board Vision ................................................ 3

Abbreviations ...................................................3

II.OperationalProcedures....................................4

A. Membership Fees ..........................................4

B. Insurance .................................................................4

C. Player Registration ..................................4

D. Player Divisions ...........................................5

a. Baseball ...............................................5

b. Softball .........................................................7

E. Selection of Managers .............................9

F. Selection of Coaches ...................................9

G. Manager/Coach Info.............................................9

H. Tryouts .........................................................10

I. Draft ............................................................11

J. Manager & Coach Safety Meeting ..................13

K. Concussion & Cardiac Arrest Training......................13

L. Safety ........................................13

M. Equipment & Uniforms................................13

N. Practice Fields........................................14

O. Practices ............................................14

P. Game Schedules.......................14

Q. League Operation Training.....................14

R. Team Photos.........................................14

S. Board Member on Duty ..................................14

T. Opening Ceremony ...................................15

U. Family Fun Day.....................................15

V. Closing Ceremony .............................15

W. Division Standings.....................................15

X. All-Star Manager/Coach Selection ........................15

Y. All Star Player Selection...........................................16

Z. Other All Star Procedures ..........................17

AA. Volunteer Appreciation.............................18

BB. Operation of Website ……….…...18

CC. Local Game Rules ............................18

A. General Game Procedures .............................18

B. Tee Ball...........................................................19

C. A Baseball ..............................................................20

D. Pee Wee Softball ........................................21

E. AA Baseball ....................................................21

F. AAA Baseball ........................................22

G. Minor Softball.................................................23

H. Major Baseball .......................................23

I. Major Softball........................................................24

J. Junior (50/70) Baseball ...............................24

K. Junior Softball .................................................24

L. Senior Baseball ..............................................24

M. Senior Softball......................................24

N. Big League Softball ..................................................24

O. Protests ............................................................25

P. Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct & Volunteer Expectations..................25

I. BOARD OF DIRECTORS VISION

In conjunction with the Objective of the East County Little League Constitution Sec 1 and 2 above, the board of directors has confirmed the following vision of success for our league:

- Foster a community based softball and baseball program, serving recreational and competitive players alike
- Encourage a long career in sports
- Promote proper player pathing
- Empower coaches with resource; communicate well
- Target regular season competitive parity
- Strong all-star team showings, aiming to be highly competitive with each team
- Grow membership by creating an awesome experience for players, families and volunteers
- Fill board of directors roles with non-parents whenever possible

II. OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES

Each local Little League Board of Directors (Board) should adopt its own Bylaws (also referred to as Local Rules or Ground Rules). For the purposes of this document, all further reference shall be as "Bylaws."

This document expires at the end of the fiscal year (September 30), and must be renewed by a majority vote of the Board annually. The renewal of the Bylaws should take place prior to player registration. Changes to this document require only Board consent, without the need of the general membership’s approval; however, no changes are to be made by the board to the Bylaws after January 31st of the upcoming season. No part of the Bylaws can conflict with or supersede any Little League rule, regulation, or policy.  The Board retains the right to review and modify, by majority vote, these bylaws, if it is determined mid-season a modification would be in the best interest of the league.

Abbreviations: ECLL = East County Little League 

A. MEMBERSHIP FEES:

B. INSURANCE:

The League will apply for the standard insurance from Little League International each year.

The league will apply for protection from theft (crime insurance policy).

All children who play Little League baseball and softball, as well as adults who serve as managers (maximum of 1 per team), coaches (maximum of 2 per team), designated parents who assist with practices and have been approved by the Board, umpires, official scorekeepers, Player Agents and Safety Officers are covered by Little League accident insurance. This insurance covers eligible participants while traveling directly, without delay, to and from the field as well as during practice sessions and games, as well as other authorized league activities. Accident insurance coverage does not begin until after the league has submitted its charter and insurance application for the season.

C. PLAYER REGISTRATION:

The League will begin conducting online player registration in December and run through early March.  All registration dates will be decided on by December 1st. Fall Ball registration to begin no later than June 15th, and run thru August 31st. Registration dates will be advertised in the community (i.e. in newspaper announcements, street signs, and on the league website) starting in December. To encourage registration during the regularly scheduled times, the Board may choose to offer Early Bird player registration rates up to a specific date, and then increase to regular rates after that date. While it is a general rule that no child that meets all registration requirements will be turned away from participating in East County Little League, the Board reserves the right to make exceptions due to extenuating circumstances. A majority vote by the Board will be needed to deny a player’s registration.

No child will be turned away because of an inability to pay a fee. In a case where the parents cannot pay the required fees, the League may ask a parent or the child to contribute volunteer time in lieu of payment.

Individual player registration documents (i.e. proof of residency documents and registration forms) will be destroyed upon the completion of the regular/fall season to preserve families’ privacy. Copies of birth certificates, and all-star documents will be kept by the league until the player is no longer playing.

D. PLAYER DIVISIONS:

E. SELECTION OF MANAGERS:

The League President shall appoint volunteers to serve as managers within the league for the upcoming season, at least 7 days prior to the draft – only after the potential manager has submitted a completed volunteer form and passed a background check.    All Managers must also attend a League sponsored rules clinic prior to the start of the season. All appointments must be approved by the league’s Board of Directors, by majority vote.

It is not guaranteed that the previous year’s managers will be reappointed. Priority will be based on the following criteria:

1. Candidate leads with a positive attitude, good knowledge of the game, demonstrates integrity, and is generally considered to be reliable. Has not had any formal complaints lodged against them to the Board in previous seasons due to use of foul language, lack of respect for umpires, coaches and players, or other inappropriate behavior.

2. Managed an ECLL team last season in the same division.

3. Managed an ECLL team last season in another division.

4. Coached an ECLL team last season in the same division.

5. Coached an ECLL team last season in another division.

6. Prior coaching experience in another league, references provided upon request.

7. Valid nominee from ECLL Board Member.

8. Assisted with a ECLL team last season, but not in capacity of coach or manager. The President may manage or coach provided he/she does not serve on the Protest Committee, nor serve as a tournament team manager or coach. The Vice President may manage or coach provided he/she does not serve on the Protest Committee. Player Agents for AAA and higher in the baseball division may not manage or coach in their respective division(s). Regulation I(b).

F. SELECTION OF COACHES:

The manager of each team shall nominate up to 2 coaches at least 7 days prior to their first game of the season, to assist with practices, games, and other team functions. The Board, by majority vote, must approve the coaches prior to the first game of the season, only after the nominated coaches have submitted a completed volunteer application form, and passed a background check. Coaches must also attend a League sponsored rules clinic prior to the first game. Additional coaches (Practice coaches) may assist with practices, provided they have also submitted a completed volunteer application form, and pass a background check and be approved by the board. Coaches must also complete all required USA baseball Trainings, Basic First Aid, and CPR Trainings.  Practice coaches will not be recognized as an official coach on the team roster submitted to Little League International, nor will they be eligible to be a manager or coach for an all-star team. Each regular season team may have up to two coaches, in addition to the manager, to formally assist in team operations, games and practices. Additional practice coaches may be approved by the board, however, these individuals may not be in the dugout, on the field, or coach in any fashion during games for AAA and Majors, except to fill-in for an absent manager or coach.

G. MANAGER/COACH INFORMATION:

Managers and coaches will abide by the rules of the Little League Code of Conduct. Those who violate these rules will face disciplinary actions. It is possible for a coach or manager to be removed after the first offense. Each Manager and Coach will be responsible for the following:

1. Safety of team members.

2. Sportsmanship of players, coaches, and parents.

3. Making Little League an enjoyable experience for all team players.

4. Instruction of the fundamentals of baseball/softball.

5. Ensure that all players meet minimum playing requirements.

6. Supply help to prepare the field at all games.

7. Provide official scorekeeper when home team.

8. Clean up fields, dugouts, and bleacher areas after games.

9. Become familiar with the rulebook and its intent.

10. Take care of equipment and uniforms.

11. Provide (2) game balls when home team.

12. Have a parent meeting prior to start of season.

13. Have medical releases available during all team functions including games and practices.

14. Do not allow winning to be more important than the development of each player.

15. Instill the Little League philosophy.

16. Participate in all league functions, including fundraising and work details.

17. Be responsible for your own behavior at all league activities.

18. Promptly return equipment in good order to the designated Board member at the end of the season. 

19. Abide by all Little League and East County Little League Rules and Regulations.

20. Have fun.

21. Provide the following information, as provided by the Board of Directors for the purposes of continuity and compliance with Little League International policies, to each player’s parents, preferably in a team meeting prior to the start of practices: 

    1. Give practice place and times, discuss game day procedures

    2. Discuss your goals as a manager for the team

    3. Discuss your method of discipline, and league rules regarding game discipline

    4. Explain minimum playing time, and pitching rules

    5. Distribute game schedules

    6. Assign team parent responsibilities

    7. Give name, e-mail address, and telephone number of League Player Agent

    8. Explain parent conduct/responsibilities, including conduct at games

    9. Explain Little League insurance

    10. Go over the general rules for your division

    11. Review all-stars and tournament play procedures (Minors/AAA & above)

    12. Share League calendar of events, and team website

H. TRYOUTS:  

Any player that is league age 9 or older must attend a League sponsored tryout. Players league aged 8 and below are welcome to attend a tryout if interested in being drafted to an AAA or Majors team.  Players aged 8-12 are not guaranteed to be drafted to a AAA and/or Majors team.  If they are not drafted, they will be added to the draft in the next division lower. In the event that a player is moved to AA, they will be placed on a team by the Player Agent. All parents will be notified in advance to such changes.

Prior to tryouts, the Player Agent will make a list showing the names and League age of each player. Tryouts will be conducted in February, as determined by the Board. All Manager Candidates must attend tryouts, or have a stand-in to evaluate players. During the tryouts, each player will:

1. Field ground balls and fly balls

2. Throw

3. *Pitch

4. Run

5. *Bat/bunt

6. *Catching

Each skill will be graded by the board approved Player Evaluation Committee.  Results of tryouts will be organized by the Player Evaluation Committee and made available to managers to assist with improving competitive balance during player selection at the draft.

I. DRAFT:

The minimum number of players on a roster is 6 for Tee Ball, 10 for Minors, 11 for Majors and above . The preferred number of players drafted to each team shall be 11 Minors and Majors teams. In no case shall there be more than 13 players assigned to a team. If more than 13 players need to be assigned to a team, then an additional team should be drafted, provided there are enough total players to ensure a minimum of 10 players per team in that division. Only managers (or proxy if manager is unable to attend draft) and player agent are permitted at the draft, unless otherwise agreed upon by the board.

After Tryouts have been completed, the draft will be conducted. The draft order is determined by drawing numbers. The manager that draws #1 drafts first in the first round and then last in the second round and then first in the third round and so on (i.e. serpentine order).

Majors’ managers will draft teams first from the entire pool of players that attended a tryout and registered for the “Majors” division. After the Majors managers have drafted teams, the AAA managers will draft from the remaining pool of players that attended a tryout and registered for the “Majors/AAA” or “AAA/AA” divisions. The remaining players that weren’t drafted in the AAA draft, will be placed on AA teams, with school and coach/friend requests taken into consideration.

Players league aged 12 must be drafted to a Majors team. If a move to AAA is requested by the parents, or determined by division managers and the Player Agent, an exception must be filed with the District Administrator. If a 12-year old was to play AAA, they would not be eligible to pitch per LL rules. Player’s league aged 11 must be drafted to a Majors team or a AAA team. Players league aged 8-10 that attend a tryout but are not drafted to Majors or a AAA team will be placed on an AA team. No more than 8 players may be selected by each team from each League age.

1. Sons and daughters of the Manager (all divisions): The son or daughter of the manager must be drafted to their team in the round designated by the Player Evaluation Committee.

2. Trades (all divisions): When the draft is complete, the managers may conduct trades. All trades must be completed the night of the draft. Trades can only involve one player for one player (i.e. cannot trade 1 player for 2 players). Trades for draft choices are not allowed. Trades must be kept confidential.

3. Players that did not tryout (all divisions): If a player is league age 8-11 and requests to be placed on a Minor, AAA or Majors team, they must meet with the Player Agent for an evaluation to determine level of play that is suitable for the player. Players league aged 12 will first be considered for a Majors team, unless determined that they need to be placed in the Minors, AAA division. The names of players that did not attend tryouts will be placed in a “hat” and drawn to determine team placement. The Player Agent will notify all managers of this process prior to the draft. Players that do not tryout, can be eligible for the all-star tournament, provided they meet eligibility requirements, and the Board receives and approves a written request submitted by the parents for exception, based on extenuating circumstances by opening day. Note: Little League rules state that players who miss tryouts are not eligible for all-stars. However, the same rule allows the Board to make exceptions for players.

4. Secrecy (all divisions): Managers and Board members are not to share with anyone, (i.e. parents or players) the order in which the players were drafted. If this rule is broken, the manager and/or Board member(s) may be suspended or removed from the league.

5. Player additions after the draft has been conducted (AAA and above divisions): The names of each team with 11 or fewer players on their roster will be placed in a hat. The Player Agent will draw the name of a team out of the hat. In the event, that all teams have 13 players, the Player Agent will present the case to the Board for discussion and placement.

6. Divisional Player Movement during Season: A player that is league aged approved to play in a higher division may be moved from AA to AAA and AAA to Majors (or vice versa) during the season, if the following process is followed, and the appropriate approvals are granted. A request must be made by a Manager to their respective Player Agent to pull or push a player up/down. Acceptable reasons to move a player are not limited to but include: a) to fill a roster spot when a team in the next division up falls below 10 players and there are no new registrations. b) A player is deemed a safety risk either to himself/herself or to others. c) High level of performance as determined by the players Manager. Once the Player Agent in the current division has received such a request, they should reach out to the Vice President to discuss. Once the two have reviewed the feedback from Managers in both divisions, they will present their recommendations to the Board. The Board and Player Agent, along with the parent/guardian, will make the final decision on whether to move a player or not. If a player declines to move up when a vacancy occurs, that player will not be allowed a second chance to move up later.

To ensure all Managers are aware of eligible players that can be moved, a list of eligible players not drafted will be provided by the Player Agent at the conclusion of the Majors and AAA drafts. It will then be the responsibility of the Player Agent to notify their Managers prior to their draft that this list of players is eligible to be pushed/pulled at any point during the season.

J. MANAGERS AND COACHES’ SAFETY MEETING: (MANDATORY)  

A mandatory safety training will be put on by the Safety Officer prior to any official team practices. Each team must have a manager or coach attend this training. No team will be allowed to practice until it has one coach or manager attended a safety meeting.

K. CONCUSSION & CARDIAC ARREST TRAINING:

All managers, coaches, and parents must review the concussion and cardiac awareness training provided by the league prior to the start of the season. All must then acknowledge that they have reviewed this training either through written documentation, or an online signature through the league website.

L. SAFETY:

1. An umpire may EJECT a player for safety violations. Violations may include, but are not limited to, knocking off the batting helmet while running the bases, throwing the bat in anger as to endanger another player, manager, coach or spectator, throwing equipment in the dugout or on the playing field.

2. No jewelry of any kind will be worn during practice or games, this includes earrings, necklaces, rings, watches, bracelets, etc.

3. No team shall have apparel other than that set forth by Little League International and approved by the Board of East County Little League.

4. No foreign substances in the mouth, except mouth guard.

5. All catcher masks will have a throat protector.

6. No foreign objects in pockets.

7. There shall be no on-deck batters or practice swings allowed in Majors and below.

8. On the judgment of the umpire, any abusive language, inappropriate gestures and/or unnecessary roughness shall be grounds for removal from the game.

9. Umpires will wear gear provided. Exception: Pee Wee Softball, Single A and T-ball games.

10. Adults shall not warm up any player ON or OFF the field.

11. No food or drink will be allowed in the dugouts, except water or sports drink in a plastic or paper container.  

12. All players used as base coaches must wear batting helmets.

13. It is recommended that all male players wear a cup.

M. EQUIPMENT AND UNIFORMS:

An inventory of equipment and uniforms will be maintained at all times. The Board members responsible for equipment and uniforms will determine a budget needed at the beginning of the fiscal year, and present to the board for approval. The Board members responsible for equipment and uniforms will schedule time for all managers to pick up their uniforms and equipment at the beginning of the season and return them after the season has completed.

N. PRACTICE FIELDS:

Priority for fields with a backstop, will be from the highest division to youngest division. The fields with backstops will be distributed relatively proportionally between baseball and softball.

O. PRACTICES:

No regular season team may meet more than 4 times per week, games and practices combined. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action to the Manager. Teams should meet at least 2 times per week. Tee Ball and Pee Wee softball teams should practice no more than 1 hour and 15 minutes, twice a week. Makeup games during the season are not subject to the same limitations.

P. GAME SCHEDULING:

Tee Ball games will be scheduled for 1-hour time slots. Minors Baseball and Pee Wee Softball will generally be scheduled for 1.5-hour time slots. Majors Baseball and Upper Division Softball will be scheduled for 2-hour time slots. The only exception will be divisions that play interleague games. In that case, interleague rules will dictate the time limits. No regularly scheduled games will be on Sundays, holidays, holiday weekends, or after Washougal/Camas School District breaks for the summer. Makeup games are not subject to the same limitations, so long as both managers agree.

Q. TRAINING FOR LEAGUE OPERATIONS PRIOR TO START OF SEASON:

1. Umpire

2. Manager and Coach Duties and Responsibilities

3. Board Member on Duty Responsibilities

R. TEAM PHOTOS:

The Board may collect at least 2 proposals from professional photography companies, and shall select by majority vote, one of the companies to take photos of each team during the season.

S. BOARD MEMBER ON DUTY:

The Board Member on Duty shall be responsible for:

1. Opening up the complex no later than 45 minutes before the start of the first games of the day.

2. Make sure all fields are ready to go and are playable.

3. Help rule on any situation that an umpire might ask for help on.

4. Take good notes of any altercation that may occur; file log book.

5. Notify President of any ejections, and Safety Officer of any injuries.

6. Escort individuals out of park if excused from playing area, calling police if necessary.

7. Close the complex at the conclusion of games for the day, ensuring buildings and sheds are locked, and alarm set. Turn out the lights no later than 10:00 pm.

T. OPENING CEREMONY: (optional)

The opening ceremony should be conducted either the weekend before the season starts or the first week after the season starts. Each team will be recognized (if possible). The sponsors will be recognized. All the teams will collectively recite the Little League pledge.

U. FAMILY FUN DAY: (optional)

Should the Board elect to do so by majority vote; it will use League funds to host a Fun Day for the players of the league. The primary purpose should not be to raise funds for the league, but should be to offer free activities primarily for the enjoyment of the kids. Simply put, to celebrate the player’s achievements, the league, the volunteers, and the families. Historically, this day has been run in conjunction with the closing ceremonies.

V. CLOSING CEREMONY:

The closing ceremony should be conducted at the conclusion of the regular season (if possible), and prior to all-star rosters being announced. All first-place teams and sportsmanship award winners in each division should be recognized and be given league-supplied trophies or medals. Sponsors and volunteers should be recognized and thanked.

W. DIVISION STANDINGS:

Division standings will be decided by a format that rewards teams that play as many of their scheduled games and make up as many rained out games as possible. As such, the following format should be followed to determine standings:

1. Most wins in season

2. Best head to head record

3. Most runs scored head to head

4. Most runs scored in season

No games played after the start of Closing Ceremony count in determining division standings.

X. ALL-STAR MANAGER/COACH SELECTION:

1. Managers and coaches may come from the following divisions:

   1. 8-10 all-star team – manager or coach from Minor (AAA) or Major division

   2. 9-11 all-star team – manager or coach from Major or Minor (AAA) division

   3. 11-12 baseball all-star team and 10-12 softball all-star team – manager or coach from Major division

   4. Intermediate 50/70 all-star team – manager or coach from intermediate 50/70 division

   5. Junior all-star team – manager or coach from Junior or Senior division

   6. Senior all-star team – manager or coach from Junior, Senior or Big League division

   7. Big League all-star team – manager or coach from Senior or Big League division

2. The Player Agent will collect submissions to manage an all-star team, and then provide to the Board for a majority vote. The Board may request manager candidates to present in front of the board, prior to the vote. Any all-star manager candidate who is a member of the Board, will excuse themselves from the vote for the All Star manager position in which they are requesting. The All-star Coaches for each division will be selected by the Manager. All coaches must be approved by a majority vote of the Board. The managers will be selected based on the following traits:

   1. Attitude

   2. Fairness

   3. Teamwork

   4. Sportsmanship

   5. Coaching and organizational ability

Y. ALL-STAR PLAYER SELECTION:

1. The goal of East County Little League is to field the most competitive team in each Division.

2. All eligible players will be notified a minimum of two weeks prior to the start of the All-Star selection process.

3. Majors’ baseball and softball players are eligible for 10-12, 9-11 and 8-10 All-Star teams, depending on their league age. AAA baseball players and Minors softball players are eligible for 9-11 and 8-10 All-Star teams, depending on their league age.

4. Players and parents must sign the All-Star commitment form, before being placed on a ballot.

5. The All-Star teams for each division will consist of 12 to 14 players.

6. All-Star ballots will be generated by the respective Player Agent. The ballot will include players name, team name, league age, and division they played in. The ballot will be drawn listing all eligible players by division. A player must have played in 60 percent of League games to be eligible.

7. AA players and lower are NOT eligible for All-Stars, since they were not drafted to a team, which is a qualification for All-stars.

8. Voting will be conducted no later than the first week of June.  Managers and coaches of record will vote.

9. The Player agent will meet with all managers and coaches from all teams in the All-Star eligible divisions, to discuss eligible player candidacy. Meetings will take place midseason.  Managers should nominate, for discussion and closer evaluation, those players from their respective team most appropriate for selection to the All Star Team. Managers will be responsible for making sure their teams are aware of which players played up a division.

10. After all player votes are counted, the all-star teams will be finalized through a meeting with the VP of the division, the Player Agent of the division, and the managers and coaches of record for the season, within the applicable divisions (e.g. minors and above).  Teams will be built in sequential order, starting with the highest level team (e.g. Majors baseball).  The manager may determine the 2 players that fill the final roster positions.

11. The following criteria will be used to define the strategy for All-Star selections once the voting is completed:

    1. The objective is to fairly, and impartially select the most skilled and competitive team possible for tournament play at each division

    2. The most highly skilled players, as evidenced by the players’ performance during the season

    3. Availability of the players and his/her families to meet the time commitments, and obligations required of All-Stars

    4. Any other factors that may, in the manager’s judgment, reflect upon the candidate’s fitness and ability to play on an All-Star team

    5. The Board has the discretion to review the overall skill levels within each division or age group, to determine the best strategy for filling each All-Star team

12. Each All-Star team will be determined based on the following selection criteria:

    1. The Senior All-Star team will be completed first from among eligible players from the Senior Divisions, per the defined voting in Section 12

    2. Following the selection of the Senior division All-Star team, the Junior division All-Star team will be completed next from among eligible players from the Junior or Senior divisions per the defined voting in Section 11 and strategy stated in Section 12

    3. Intermediate 50/70 All-Star team will be completed from among eligible players from the Intermediate 50/70 division, per the defined voting in Section 11 and strategy stated in Section 12

    4. The Majors 10-12 All-Star team will be completed first from among eligible 10, 11 and 12 year old players that played in the Majors division during the regular season, per the voting defined in section 12

    5. Following the selection of the 10-12 All-Star team, the 9-11 All-Star team will be completed next from among eligible players from the remaining 10 and 11 year old players, per the defined voting in Section 12

    6. Following the selection of the 9-11 All-Star team, the 8-10 All-Star team will be completed next from among eligible players from the remaining 10 year old players and eligible 9 year old players, per the defined voting in Section 12

    7. When selecting a second All-Star team in the same division, the same procedure in #12 above will be followed, after the first team is complete. The Vice President and Player Agent of the Division can propose an alternative strategy to build a second team to the board for vote and approval

    8. After the teams have been determined, the All-Star manager for each team will nominate up to 2 coaches to be approved by the board.

    9. The All-Star teams will be announced the day following the Closing Ceremonies

Z. OTHER ALL-STAR PROCEDURES:

• Total reimbursement will not exceed budgeted amount for the year

• Minimum of 100-mile one-way travel distance to tournament site, required for reimbursement

• The League reimbursement is for players and manager/coaches of record.

• The League reimbursements cover the day prior to opening ceremonies through the night of the last game played

• Hotel: Three players and managers/coaches per room, not to exceed $125 per room per night (e.g. 12 players = 4 rooms, and 3 manger/coaches = 1 room, for a total of 5 rooms at $625 per night per team)

• Mileage: Four Players/Manager/Coaches per car. Reimbursement is based on the current IRS standard mileage rate for service for charitable organizations

• Meals: $20 per day for each player/manager/coach of record (15 players/manager/coaches = $300 per day)

AA. VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION ACTIVITY: (optional)

The purpose of the volunteer appreciation activity, if approved by majority vote of the Board, will be for the League to host a meal or other activity for all the volunteers, including managers, coaches, umpires, team parents, sponsors, and Board members, preferably once the season has finished. The activity should recognize and thank the volunteers for their involvement in the league the past season.

BB. OPERATION OF WEBSITE:  

The league shall maintain a website to be updated on a regular basis. At a minimum, information to be posted on the website should include:

1. League address

2. List of Board members and contact information

3. Rainout instructions – contact your player’s coach

4. Emergency contact – contact your player’s coach

5. Player registration information

6. Instructions on how to volunteer

7. Copy of the League Constitution, Bylaws & Charter

8. Fundraiser information, if a league fundraiser will be conducted

9. Calendar of league events

10. Little League forms

11. Game schedules

12. Field locations

13. Recognition of sponsors

The league may also maintain a presence and participate in other social media services such as Facebook and Twitter. These services should be used to communicate and interact with league members and families for the purpose of communicating league events, and pertinent information about the league.

CC. LOCAL GAME RULES:

Unless noted below, all games will be played in accordance with the current season’s Little League International Official Regulations and Playing Rules. For interleague games, the current District 4 interleague rules will apply.

General Game Procedures:

1. Unsuitable Playing Field: Managers and coaches from both teams should meet at the field 45 minutes before game time to determine if field is suitable for play. If the two managers do not agree, or if either of the managers is not present at the field, the umpire or Board Member on Duty (BMOD) from the host league shall make the determination. The host league may close their facility to all play at the host league’s discretion. See rule 3.10 in the Little League Official Playing Rules. If field is not playable or the facility has been closed, contact the traveling team as much in advance of game time as possible.

2. Scheduling of Umpires: Home team is responsible for confirming the assignment of umpires, no matter which team’s field is used.

3. Game Balls: The home team shall furnish 2 new regulation game balls.

4. It is the responsibility of the two managers to reschedule a canceled game, or to complete a game that does not reach the minimum number of innings to become an official game. The Player Agent for that division should be notified within 48 hours after the regularly scheduled game was to be played that the game needs to be rescheduled. If one manager is willing to reschedule a game cancelled due to unplayable conditions or a partially completed game and the other manager is not, then the team not willing to reschedule the game will forfeit. Any disagreements between the two teams about rescheduling a game should immediately be taken to the Player Agent.

5. Managers unable to field a team of at least 9 players for a scheduled game during the season must notify the other team and the Player Agent for their division ASAP prior to that game or the game will go to the Board for possible forfeit.

6. The home team is responsible for providing the official scorekeeper (AAA and higher).

7. The home team takes the dugout on the 3rd base side. The home team is responsible for raking, lining, and getting the bases for the field prior to the game. The visiting team takes the dugout on the 1st base side. The visiting team is responsible for putting the bases away and raking the field after the game— unless it is an interleague game. In that case, the home team is responsible for both duties. Each team is responsible for leaving their dugouts and bleachers clean after the game.

8. No gum, candy, food, seeds or glass of any kind is allowed in the dugout or on the field during games. Sports drinks and water are allowed in the dugouts only. This rule applies to players, coaches, managers and umpires.

Tee Ball:

1. A game shall last for no more than 60 minutes.

2. No score will be kept.

3. All players should have equal playing time and equal time at all positions.

4. The entire lineup will bat each inning, regardless of the number of outs.

5. Defensively, there should be 10 players on the field, 6 in the infield and 4 in the outfield.

6. The player pitcher should have at least 1 foot on the pitcher’s rubber when the batter hits the ball (do not have the pitcher play way in) .

7. A batting tee will be placed on home plate for the batter to hit off. The ball must travel at least 15 feet (where a chalk line will be marked) to constitute a hit. Otherwise, it is a foul ball.

8. No throwing the bat. The first time is a warning. The second time, the batter is out.

9. The coach working with the batter will ensure the catcher remains out of the way when the batter is swinging the bat.

10. No bunting allowed.

11. No sliding allowed.

12. No stealing allowed.

13. No strikeouts.

14. Two coaches may be on the field to assist the team when on defense.

15. One coach will be with the batter, one base coach at first and third base, and one adult in the dugout helping with the batting order.

16. The coach at home plate helping the batter is the umpire. They will also be responsible to move the tee and bat when a base runner is running towards home plate.

17. One base only on an overthrow out of play.

18. Play stops when the pitcher has control of the ball.

19. The distance between bases is 50 feet and the distance from home plate to the pitcher’s mound is 46 feet.

20. For the final batter of each half inning, the defensive team should attempt to make a play on the batter. Do not immediately throw home and have the catcher waiting for the runner(s).

Single A (A) Baseball ( Coach Pitch): 

1. This is a non-competitive, instructional level of baseball. Score and standings are not kept. This is a pitching-machine and/or coach pitch league.

2. A game shall consist of 5 innings or 1 hour 30 minutes, whichever occurs first. If no game follows, the time limit may be extended if agreed by both managers.

3. Each batting team’s inning ends on 3 outs or 5 runs, whichever occurs first.

4. Score is only kept track when 5 runs have been reached each inning. The game score should not be shared with the players. The emphasis is on learning, not winning.

5. Managers should give all players equal playing time and equal time at all positions.

6. Offensive teams will bat their entire roster, including substitutes. If the third out is obtained before the 5-run limit is achieved, the inning is ended and the offensive team resumes the batting order where it left off their next at bat.

7. Defensive playing time should be equal. Defensive players should rotate between infield and outfield every inning and, unless an extreme safety risk, all players should get equal play at all infield positions. Players shall not be on the bench for more than one inning per game.

8. Coach pitches maximum 5 pitches. 

9. The pitching mound shall be located 46 feet from home plate. The player pitcher should not be standing closer than 46 feet when the adult pitcher releases the pitch.

10. No throwing the bat. The first time is a warning. The second time, the batter is out.

11. Play is dead when a fielder has the ball. If runner is over halfway to next base they may advance. If less, then they must retreat back to previous base.

12. No stealing allowed.

13. Two coaches may be on the field to assist the team when on defense.

14. One base only on an overthrow out of play.

15. Sliding is allowed at 2nd, 3rd and home. Feet first only.

16. The “softie” baseball must be used.

17. Must only have 1 player per position and no more than 10 defensive players (4 outfielders).The outfielders must be positioned no closer than the edge of the outfield grass.

Pee Wee Softball (Coach Pitch):

1. A game shall consist of 5 innings or 1.5 hours, whichever occurs first. If there is not another game following, then the time limit may be extended if agreed by both managers. For interleague games, interleague time limits must be followed.

2. Each batting team’s inning ends on 3 outs or 5 runs, whichever occurs first.

3. Score is only kept to track when 5 runs have been reached each inning. The game score should not be shared with the players. The emphasis is on learning, not winning.

4. Managers should give all players equal playing time and equal time at all positions.

5. Offensive teams will bat their entire roster, including substitutes. If the third out is obtained before the 5-run limit is achieved, the inning is ended and the offensive team resumes the batting order where it left off their next at bat.

6. Defensively, there should be 9 players on the field – 6 infield and 3 outfield.

7. If the batter does not put the ball in play after 3 swinging strikes or 7 total pitches then they are out. The only exception is that they cannot be out when the last pitch is fouled.

8. The first half of the season, an adult from the batting team will pitch to all the batters. There shall be no coaching to the batter by the adult pitcher.

9. The second half of the season, a player will pitch the first 4 pitches to each opposing batter. If the batter has not struck out after the 4th pitch, then an adult pitcher from the batting team pitches no more than 3 additional pitches to the batter.

10. The player pitcher should not be standing closer to the batter than 35 feet when the adult pitcher releases the pitch.

11. When the player pitches to the batter, they may stand closer than the 35-foot distance if they need to in order to help get the ball across the plate. However, they should stand far enough from home plate to be safe and they should not move closer just to gain an advantage on the batter.

12. Only those batters struck by a pitch from a youth player shall be awarded first base. They do not have to take first base if they want to continue batting. That pitch will not count as one of the 7 pitches per batter. A manager should consider replacing a pitcher who hits 3 batters.

13. No throwing the bat. The first time is a warning. The second time, the batter is out.

14. No stealing allowed.

15. Two coaches may be on the field to assist the team when on defense.

16. One base only on an overthrow out of play.

17. Play stops when the pitcher has control of the ball in the pitcher’s 8-foot radius circle. Runners less than half way to the next base must return to base.

Double A (AA) Baseball (Machine Pitch):

1. This division provides training/instruction for players who by reason or age or other factors who do not qualify for AAA. Teams are based on school the player attends, coach/friend requests and competitive balance.

2. Standings and score are not kept.

3. This is a pitching machine league.  Players who are ready to pitch should be considered for AAA teams.  In the event a pitching machine is not available, coach will pitch to their respective teams.  Board of Directors will review, discuss and have the option to modify AA pitching machine rule after 1 month of games.

4. Pitching machine is placed 42 feet from plate

5. Balls and strikes are called. Three strikes and the batter is out.  There are no walks.

6. The batter remains at bat if the pitch is fouled off.

7. Player pitchers must be within 3 feet of the pitching machine, even with, or behind the mound, not any closer to the plate.

8. Home team is required to provide the home plate umpire or an umpire behind the mound. All umpires behind the plate must wear proper umpire gear.

9. 5 run limit per inning.

10. A game shall consist of 5 innings or 1 hour 30 minutes, whichever occurs first. If no game follows, the time limit may be extended if agreed by both managers.

11. No coaches (other than coach pitching) are allowed on the field for instructional purposes.

12. Teams bat their entire roster, including substitutes. If the third out or 5-run limit is obtained, the inning is ended. The team resumes the batting order where it left off their next at bat.

13.  Must only have 1 player per position and no more than 9 defensive players (3 outfielders).  The outfielders must be positioned no closer than the edge of the outfield grass.

Triple A (AAA) Baseball:

1. The purpose of this division is to provide training and instruction for those players who by reason of age or skill level do not qualify for selection to Majors. Teams are formed by draft.

2. This division is all player pitching.

3. There will be 5 run limit per inning, unless it’s an out of the park home run.

4. Time limits apply. If a game is following, no new inning will start 1 hour 30 minutes after the scheduled start time and play will end at 1 hour 45 minutes. If no game is following, no new inning will start after 1 hour 45 minutes and play shall stop immediately at 9:00 p.m.  If play is stopped before qualifying as a regulation game (Rule 4.10 (c)), the conclusion of the game will need to be rescheduled. If play is stopped and qualifies as a regulation game, refer to Rule 4.11 to determine the final score.

5. No coaches are allowed on the field for defensive instructional purposes.

6. Managers and coaches may not warm up pitchers (only players may warm up pitchers).

7. Catchers must wear a catcher’s mask when warming up pitchers.

8. Offensive teams will bat their entire roster, including substitutes. If the third out is obtained before the 5-run limit is achieved, the inning is ended and the offensive team resumes the batting order where it left off their next at bat.

Minor Softball:

1. No more than 5 runs per inning shall be scored. There shall be no open or unlimited innings.

2. If the game is stopped short of an unofficial game, the conclusion of the game will have to be rescheduled. For interleague games, interleague time limits must be followed.

3. Managers and coaches of record are allowed on the playing field, when their team is on defense, for training purposes only. They shall not physically assist any player in any way.

4. Verbal instruction is allowed. At least one adult manager or coach shall be in the dugout with the players at all times.

5. Managers and coaches may not warm up pitchers (only players warm up pitchers). Catchers must wear a catcher’s mask when warming up pitchers.

6. On passed balls and wild pitches, runners may advance (steal) no more than one base per pitch, unless a play is made on the runner.

7. Runners may not advance from 3rd base to home on a passed ball, wild pitch or throw back to the pitcher for the first half of the season.

8. Runners may not advance past 1st base on a walk when the pitcher has control of the ball in the circle for the first half of the season. The “Circle rule” (Rule 7.08a.5b) will be in effect in the 2nd half of the season. 

9. Offensive teams will bat their entire roster, including substitutes. If the third out is obtained before the 5 run limit is achieved, the inning is ended and the offensive team resumes the batting order where it left off their next at bat.

Major Baseball:

1. There should be no time limits, unless league size and field availability require multiple games to be scheduled on the same night and fields. In only those cases, when a game is following, no new inning will start 1 hour 45 minutes after the scheduled start time and play will end at 2 hours. In all cases, play shall stop immediately at 9:00 p.m.  If play is stopped before qualifying as a regulation game (Rule 4.10 (c)), the conclusion of the game will need to be rescheduled. If play is stopped and qualifies as a regulation game, refer to Rule 4.11 to determine the final score.

2. For interleague games, interleague time limits must be followed.

3. The 10-run rule will apply (Rule 4.10(e)).

   1. If after three (3) innings, two and one-half innings if the home team is ahead, one team has a lead of fifteen (15) runs or more, the manager of the team with the least runs shall concede the victory to the opponent. If after four (4) innings, three and one-half innings if the home team is ahead, one team has a lead of ten (10) runs or more, the manager of the team with the least runs shall concede the victory to the opponent. NOTE: (1) If the visiting team has a lead of fifteen (15) or ten (10) runs or more respectively, the home team must bat in its half of the inning. (2) The local league may adopt the option of not utilizing this rule.

4. Managers and coaches may not warm up pitchers. Catchers must wear a catcher’s mask when warming up pitchers.

Major Softball:

1. If the game is stopped short of an official game, the conclusion of the game will have to be rescheduled. For interleague games, interleague time limits must be followed.

2. The 10 run rule will apply (Rule 4.10(e)).

   1. If after three (3) innings, two and one-half innings if the home team is ahead, one team has a lead of fifteen (15) runs or more, the manager of the team with the least runs shall concede the victory to the opponent. If after four (4) innings, three and one-half innings if the home team is ahead, one team has a lead of ten (10) runs or more, the manager of the team with the least runs shall concede the victory to the opponent. NOTE: (1) If the visiting team has a lead of fifteen (15) or ten (10) runs or more respectively, the home team must bat in its half of the inning. (2) The local league may adopt the option of not utilizing this rule.

3. Managers and coaches may not warm up pitchers. Catchers must wear a catcher’s mask when warming up pitchers.

Junior Baseball / 50/70:

1. If the game is stopped short of an official game, the conclusion of the game will have to be rescheduled. For interleague games, interleague time limits must be followed.

2. The 10 run rule will apply (Rule 4.10(e)).

3. Managers and coaches may not warm up pitchers. Catchers must wear a catcher’s mask when  warming up pitchers.

Junior Softball:

1. If the game is stopped short of an official game, the conclusion of the game will have to be rescheduled. For interleague games, interleague time limits must be followed.

2. The 10 run rule will apply (Rule 4.10(e)).

3. Managers and coaches may not warm up pitchers. Catchers must wear a catcher’s mask when warming up pitchers.

L. Senior Baseball:

1. If the game is stopped short of an official game (5 innings for Seniors), the conclusion of the game will have to be rescheduled. For interleague games, interleague time limits must be followed.

2. The 10 run rule will apply (Rule 4.10(e)).

3. Managers and coaches may not warm up pitchers. Catchers must wear a catcher’s mask when warming up pitchers.

M. Senior Softball:

1. If the game is stopped short of an official game (5 innings for Seniors), the conclusion of the game will have to be rescheduled. For interleague games, interleague time limits must be followed.

2. The 10 run rule will apply (Rule 4.10(e)).

3. Managers and coaches may not warm up pitchers. Catchers must wear a catcher’s mask when warming up pitchers.

N. Big League Softball:

1. If the game is stopped short of an official game (5 innings for Big League), the conclusion of the game will have to be rescheduled. For interleague games, interleague time limits must be followed.

2. The 10 run rule will apply (Rule 4.10(e)).

3. Managers and coaches may not warm up pitchers. Catchers must wear a catcher’s mask when warming up pitchers.

O. Protests: (Minor AAA & above divisions only)

1. All reasonable effort must be made to settle disputes on the field, to avoid a protest. If there is a dispute on the ruling, the disputing manager will have an opportunity to locate rules and persuade the umpire to change his/her mind. Managers may then exercise regular protest procedures. THERE ARE NO PROTESTS ALLOWED ON JUDGMENT CALLS. The umpire-in-chief may confer with the board member on duty to resolve the protest. If the manager still persists on a protest, the umpire will make sure the protest is noted in the official scorebook. The game will resume until completion. The protest then will be referred to the Protest Committee for review. ONLY MANAGERS CAN PROCLAIM A PROTEST.

2. The Protest Committee will meet in accordance with rule 4.19F in the official rules and regulations and playing rules book.

3. If a member of the Protest Committee is in any way connected with the teams involved then he/she shall be declared ineligible to rule on the protest.

4. The MANAGER/COACHES AND ALL UMPIRES involved in any protest will draft a letter to the League President within 24 hours. The Managers will forward their letter to the President. Letters will include a diagram of exactly what transpired and any necessary comments regarding the situation.

5. Board Member on Duty will notify President and UIC of any impending protests.

6. The League President will inform the Managers and Umpires of the Protest Committee ruling in writing.

P. Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct and volunteer expectations.