RDLL BELIEF STATEMENT
We are aligned with the Little League Mission: we believe in the power of youth baseball and softball to teach life lessons that build stronger individuals and communities. Our goal is for all children and families that come into our league to have fun, learn the sport of baseball or softball, and grow with peers. To achieve this goal, all players and volunteers in Rainier District Little League must be treated with respect, regardless of their ability, gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status, race, religion, or physical appearance. South Seattle is a diverse and vibrant part of our city and we are united in our goal to build a league that reflects the values and strengths of our community.
Adults set the tone. We all have a role to play in upholding inclusive league and team cultures.
RDLL COMMITMENTS
We keep it fun. We celebrate each other’s wins, play hard, and remember that the game belongs to the kids. Good sportsmanship is something we model, not just preach.
We are good teammates. We build each other up; we cheer for our teammates and not against the other team; we build a community that goes beyond the score of the game.
We keep each other safe. We speak up when something feels wrong and look out for every player, coach, and family, on and off the field.
We respect all. We use kind words and never use hate language.
ROLES
Coaches: Model these commitments; Regularly read commitment statements to players; Intervene when incidents occur; celebrate actions by players that demonstrate the commitments; encourage positivity
Families: Talk to players about these commitments at home; demonstrate respect for all opposing teams, coaches, and umpires
Umpires: Review commitments before interleague games at plate meeting; ensure that dugouts are staffed in a safe manner; uphold these values through game play
Board: Ensure that league values are clearly and effectively communicated and are reflected in all aspects of league culture and operations; set the tone for how we treat all members of our league community; develop learning opportunities for coaches, umpires, and board members; revisit and revise these procedures annually
All: Prioritize the experience of the young people in our league above all else.
PROCEDURES
RDLL’s goal is prevention. The commitments and roles outlined above are designed to build a culture where incidents of hate speech and discrimination are less likely to occur. Incidents of bullying or hate speech, including but not limited to the use of homophobic or racist slurs, violate RDLL’s community commitments. In the unfortunate event that this occurs during a game, practice, or other league-sponsored event, the following procedures ensure that the League responds with consistency and care.
Immediate Response Expectations During Games or Practices:
The first step in responding to hate speech in our league is immediate, thoughtful intervention by the coach. When something harmful is said, the coach separates the players and addresses it in the moment to stop the behavior and reinforce our shared expectations. They speak with the entire team to reaffirm values of respect and inclusion, making it clear why the language used is not acceptable. The coach also checks in directly with the player who was harmed to offer support and ensure they feel safe and valued. A separate, private conversation is held with the player who used the language, focusing on accountability, learning, and growth.
If a coach or umpire believes there is sufficient information, they may remove a player or coach from participation for the remainder of that game or practice. After the game/practice, the coach should email a member of the board to share what occurred.
If an Incident is Not Addressed or Identified in the Moment:
If an incident occurs outside of a league-sponsored event, or is not addressed in the moment, players or families are encouraged to notify a coach or a league board member so it can be reviewed.
First Infraction: Likely Suspension for One Game
League leadership will review the situation and gather additional information as appropriate to determine next steps.
Based on this review, the league may take disciplinary action, which will likely include a suspension from the next game/s and practices leading up to that game. Outcomes will be communicated to the coaches and families involved and ideally with the whole team (as appropriate, subject to wishes of families involved).
Upon return, coaches should convene the team to reassert the league values (the RDLL Way) and the disciplined player should share a verbal apology with the team. If relationships are still strained on the team, coaches should reach out to the Board for additional support.
Continued Behavior:
If a player engages in repeated harmful behavior, the league will follow a similar review process, with an expectation that consequences are more serious for older players. However, continued infractions may result in more serious consequences, including removal from the league for the remainder of the season.
Adult Infraction:
The board has a zero tolerance policy for adults who engage in these activities. Consequences are at the board’s discretion but likely will include removal from the league for the rest of the season.
Board Transparency
The board is committed to approaching each situation with empathy and respect. A season-long suspension is a significant decision, and the steps outlined above must be handled thoughtfully, prioritizing clear, personal communication and maintaining the dignity of all individuals involved.
Little League Rulebook: Regulation XIV.a.
The actions, on or off the field, of players, managers, coaches, umpires, and league officials must be above reproach. Any player, manager, coach, umpire, or league representative who is involved in a verbal or physical altercation, or an incident of unsportsmanlike conduct, at the game site or any other Little League activity including through online or social media, is subject to disciplinary action by the local league Board of Directors.