Baseball Program Philosophy

The Plantation Athletic Club (PAC) Baseball Program provides players an opportunity to receive quality baseball training in a positive environment where they can develop their skills and understanding of the game through participation, sportsmanship, competition, and discipline. It has always been the philosophy of PAC to place emphasis on player development and fundamentals rather than competition, especially in the younger age groups.

In the younger age groups (T-Ball), players are introduced to the core elements of the game....hitting, catching, fielding, throwing, base running, etc. This is an extremely positive environment in which sportsmanship is emphasized. Game scores are not kept and everyone wins.

In the middle age groups, the focus is on fundamentals and sportsmanship. Emphasis is placed on participation, skill development, and team concepts. This continues into the older age groups where players become more competitive.

Baseball Organization

< Commissioner*

< Baseball Committee :(Members: Commissioner, all Age Group Coordinators, One Board Member)

< Age Group Coordinators*

U-6 (T-Ball)

U-8

U-10

U-12

< Coaches*

< Registrar*

* See attached job descriptions

Baseball Programs

PAC will form teams and leagues as outlined below:

1. Recreational Baseball

In the Recreational Baseball League, players are grouped by age. Cut-off dates are as follows: Boys - August 1^st*....... Girls - April 1^st. The age of the child on their respective cut-off date will determine what age group the child plays in. Proof of players’ age must be on file at PAC prior to being placed on a team.

Seasons:

Typically there are two Recreational Baseball Seasons during the course of the year ( Winter: approximately 6 weeks during the months of November through January...... Spring: early April through early June). Teams will be selected using a method approved by the Age Group Coordinator. Teams will be disbanded after the season-ending tournament or jamboree.

Team Formation:

Age Group Coordinators will determine the method of team formation in each age group. The overall objective is to form teams of equal talent in order to have a fair and competitive league. A draft process is not mandatory, however, for 9 year old players and older, the preferred method of team formation is an open draft after a fair evaluation of talent.

Roster Size:

U-6 T-Ball The preferred roster size is 8 - 12 players per team.

U-8 The preferred roster size is 12 players per team. No less than 10 players and no more than 13 players are recommended per team.

U-10 The preferred roster size is 12 players per team. No less than 10 players and no more than 13 players are recommended per team.

U-12 The preferred roster size is 11 players per team. No less than 9 players and no more than 12 players are recommended per team.

* Beginning in 2006, the boy’s cut-off date is April 30^th.

Minimum Play:

All teams must bat their entire lineup. A player may not sit out 2 consecutive innings in the field or more than 3 innings in a game.

Playing Down in Age Groups:

Playing down in age groups is not allowed except in the case of a physical or mental handicap or for the purpose of getting a viable number of players and teams in a particular age group. In the case of a physical or mental handicap, the player may play down one age group. Exceptions must be approved by the Baseball Committee.

Playing Up In Age Groups:

Playing up in age groups is not allowed. Exceptions may be made only for the purpose of getting a viable number of players and teams in a particular age group. Exceptions must be approved by the Baseball Committee.

Outside Tournament Play:

Recreational teams may participate in recreational tournaments outside of PAC. These outside tournaments should not conflict with the recreational baseball schedule and teams participating in these outside tournaments must be recreational teams from PAC. These teams cannot be All Star teams.

Umpires:

The hiring of umpires is the responsibility of the Baseball Commissioner. The Baseball Commissioner is responsible for establishing the umpire fee schedule. Individual Age Group Coordinators are responsible for providing the season’s game schedule and rules to the Umpire Association. If an umpire does not show up for a scheduled game, it is the coaches’ responsibility to find a replacement umpire and to notify the Baseball Commissioner so that no fee is paid to the Umpire Association.

2. Developmental League

The Developmental League allows participants the opportunity to sharpen their skills prior to the Recreational Baseball League. Times, dates, and structure of the Developmental League will be determined by the Age Group Coordinators.

3. Summer Season ( aka: Extended Season)

The purpose of the Summer Season is to allow participants the opportunity to play baseball throughout the summer, further enhancing and developing their skills. The Summer Season typically begins two weeks after the spring Recreational Baseball Season concludes and ends during the last week in July. The Summer Season is open to all, including those who did not participate in the preceding Recreational Baseball Season. Times, dates, and structure of the Summer Season will be determined by the Age Group Coordinators.

4. All Star Baseball

All Star teams will be formed from players who participate in at least 50% of the games played during the Recreational Baseball Program. All Star teams may be selected in each individual age group (U-6, 7,8,9,10,11,and 12). Multiple teams in individual age groups may be formed should an adequate number of players and coaches be available. Players will not be allowed to “play up” on an All Star team if the age bracket to whom the player belongs fields an All Star team. If an age group does not field an All Star team, a player from that age group may be allowed to “play up” on another All Star team with the approval of the Age Group Coordinator and Baseball Commissioner. For example, a 7 year old player may not play on an 8 year old All Star team if PAC fields a 7 year old All Star team. However a 6 year old player may be allowed to “play up” on a 7 year old All Star team if no 6 year old team is formed.

All Star head coaches will be selected by the Age Group Coordinator and approved by the Baseball Commissioner. Only those coaches and / or assistant coaches who coached in the Recreational Baseball Season will be considered for All Star head coaching positions unless otherwise approved by the Age Group Coordinator and Baseball Commissioner.

Individual Age Group Coordinators, with the approval of the Baseball Commissioner, will determine the format for All Star selection. Typically, All Star coaches will hold try-outs prior to All Star selection. Dates of try-outs will be publicized in advance to allow all interested players adequate notice.

All Star coaches will be responsible for developing a preliminary schedule and team budget prior to beginning All Star play. A copy of the proposed budget must be provided to each player’s family. All Star teams and individual players will be responsible for paying all costs associated with playing All Star ball. This includes, but is not limited to, PAC Park fees, uniforms, tournament entry fees, and travel expenses.

All Star teams will be formed on or about May 1^st. It is the responsibility of the All Star coaches, players, and parents to ensure that the Recreational Baseball Season is not negatively impacted by the formation of All Star teams. All players and coaches must participate on their respective Recreational Baseball team until the conclusion of the Recreational Baseball Season. All Star games and practices must be scheduled when Recreational Baseball games and practices are not. It should be noted that on or about August 1^st, PAC’s fields begin conversion to the soccer configuration. As a result, All Star team practice space may not be available or will be severely limited after that date. Additionally, additional PAC Park fees may be required for teams playing after August 1^st. All Star teams must be disbanded no later than March 31^st. All Star rosters shall be provided to the respective Age Group Coordinator for final approval. Each All Star roster should be comprised of those players who, along with their families, will represent PAC in a positive manner.

5. Premier Baseball

Premier teams are made up of players who may not play in the Recreational Baseball League. Premier teams do not compete in the Recreational Baseball League. Players are responsible for paying the same fee to PAC as Recreational Baseball Players. Premier teams will be registered with the PAC affiliate and will have access to the PAC facilities for practice, scrimmages, etc. Premier teams are responsible for their own uniforms and equipment. Premier Baseball teams cannot be formed with players from the U-6, 7, or 8 year old age groups. Premier players who choose to participate in the Recreational Baseball League must fulfill their commitment to their Recreational Baseball Team.

Equipment / Uniforms

Equipment

PAC provides the following equipment to each team: baseballs and catcher’s equipment. A limited number of baseball bats are available. Players are responsible for their own baseball glove, batting helmet, cleats, shoes, baseball pants, socks, etc. All equipment must conform with the rules of the organization to whom PAC affiliates (ie. Babe Ruth, Dizzy Dean, USSSA, etc.). During the Recreational Baseball League, the Developmental Baseball League, and the Summer Season, baseball bats cannot exceed 2 ¼ inch diameter. Players aged 9 and older must wear a batting helmet with face protection and boys aged 9 and older must wear an athletic cup when playing catcher.

Uniforms

Uniforms for players are mandatory and shall consist of a uniquely numbered jersey with the Meadowcrest Park logo, baseball pants, socks, cleats / shoes, and hat. The jersey and hat will be supplied by PAC for the Recreational Baseball Leagues.

Uniforms for All Star teams will be selected by the All Star coach and must conform to the PAC approved color scheme of navy blue on white or white on navy blue. The Meadowcrest Park logo must be displayed on the jersey.

Scheduling - Practices and Games

Recreational Baseball Teams will be assigned an appropriate schedule for both practices and games including date, time and location. Schedules will be developed by the Age Group Coordinators and approved by the Baseball Commissioner. Scheduling for the Developmental League and Summer Season will be handled by the Age Group Coordinators. All Star Team and Premier Team scheduling will be handled by the individual teams.

Practices for players 8 years old and under should end by 8:00 pm. All other practices must end by 9:00 pm.

Coaches who coach more than one team will be given priority in selecting practice times.

Cancellation / Postponement of Scheduled Games

Regularly scheduled games may only be cancelled or postponed by the Coaches or Age Group Coordinator. Coaches wishing to re-schedule a game must contact the Age Group Coordinator who will help coordinate the re-scheduling so as not to conflict with other scheduled games or practices. In the event of a cancellation or postponement, the Coaches and Age Group Coordinator are responsible for contacting the Umpire Association to notify them of the cancelled or postponed game.

Inclement Weather

In the case of inclement weather prior to a scheduled game, both coaches are responsible for inspecting the field to assess its condition. Should it be determined that a game should be cancelled or postponed, the coaches must notify all players and the Age Group Coordinator. All players must show up for scheduled games at the assigned place and time unless notified prior to the game by the team’s coach. The Coaches and Age Group Coordinator are responsible for contacting the Umpire Association to notify them of the cancelled or postponed game.

Once a game has begun, the umpire or any Age Group Coordinator may suspend play if, in their judgement, the conditions are hazardous for the players. For all games except playoff games, if play is suspended after 3 complete innings, the game will be considered complete. If play is suspended before 3 complete innings, the coaches will work with the Age Group Coordinator to re-schedule the game.

If lightening is in the near area, the game shall be halted immediately.

Fee Collection

Registration fees must be paid in full prior to a player being placed on a team.

It is the responsibility of the Baseball Commissioner to collect registration fees and to ensure that all players have paid. The Baseball Commissioner will deliver to the Registrar all fees and registration forms.

Age Group Coordinators will be called on to help with the collection of fees from the Developmental League and Summer Season as well as from all All Star Teams and Premier Teams.

Scholarships

Three scholarships will be available to the Baseball Commissioner each season. They are to be used to help families get their children involved at PAC. Members of the Baseball Committee and / or Board of Directors may nominate individuals for baseball scholarships.

Baseball Job Descriptions

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Baseball Commissioner - Non-voting member of Board of Directors

< Ensure that all aspects of PAC’s Baseball Manual are being followed.

< Work with Registrar, Soccer Commissioner, Age Group Coordinators and Board of Directors to establish dates for individual seasons and calendar of events (evaluation dates, registration dates, date season begins, playoff dates, field prep, etc).

< Select Age Group Coordinators.

< Approve the selection of coaches by Age Group Coordinators.

< Work with Age Group Coordinators to provide coaching education / clinics for Rec Coaches.

< Coordinate Picture Schedule with designated photographer.

< Order uniforms for all age groups.

< Approve the All Star selection process for each age group.

< Approve All Star coaches.

< Work with Registrar and Age Group Coordinators to handle “in park” registration.

< Respond to telephone messages regarding PAC’s baseball programs.

< Handle complaints from PAC parents.

< Oversee maintenance and repair of baseball fields.

< Charter the Park with the organization of choice (ie. Dizzy Dean, Babe Ruth, USSSA, etc.)

< Handle baseball related insurance requirements.

< Order and distribute participation awards for each season.

< Provide each team with score books.

< Communicate with Board of Directors on all baseball matters.

Age Group Coordinators

< Work with Baseball Commissioner and Coaches to ensure that all aspects of PAC’s Baseball Manual are being followed.

< Identify and recruit volunteer coaches.

< Coordinate player evaluations prior to each league.

< Develop and implement a method to form teams.

< Work with coaches to establish practice schedules and batting cage times for each team.

< Establish game schedule to consist of at least 12 games not including playoffs.

< Distribute team uniforms.

< Communicate general PAC information to coaches when necessary.

< Communicate picture schedule to all teams.

< Handle all problems related to age group including those related to team formation, timing of games, field prep, etc. Handle parent concerns when they arise. Involve Baseball Commissioner if needed.

< Assist in the maintenance and repair of baseball fields and batting cages.

< Identify volunteers to assist with fall and spring field conversion.

< Provide league schedule and rules to the Umpire Coordinator. Contact Umpire Coordinator if schedule is changed for any reason.

< Organize Summer Season.

< Order participation awards within budget established by the Baseball Commissioner.

Coaches

< Work with Baseball Commissioner and Age Group Coordinators to ensure that all aspects of PAC’s Baseball Manual are being followed.

< Lead by example. Exercise good sportsmanship at all times. Remember that you are a role model for the players you coach.

< Inform players on your team within 1 day of forming / drafting teams. Be friendly and patient with the parents and provide as much information as possible.

< Teach baseball fundamentals.

< Hold structured practices throughout the season. Enlist the support of assistant coaches or parents to assist with practices.

< Provide timely communication with players and parents regarding schedules, pictures, changes, rainouts, etc.

< Know the league rules and make sure all assistant coaches know the rules.

< Primarily responsible for field preparation and maintenance, including keeping dugouts and spectator areas free from trash.

< Take care of PAC equipment issued to your team and return it promptly at the end of the season.

< Report game results to the Age Group Coordinator when necessary.

< Be available to participate in the Developmental League.

< Assist in recruiting parents to volunteer at PAC.

< Remember we are here for the children. If there is a dispute with a parent, do not take it out on the child.

< No tobacco products are allowed in the dugouts or on the fields during games or practices.

Reason for Ejection or Removal from Coaching

* Cheating * Use of foul language

* Physical or Verbal Abuse * Alcohol or Drug Abuse

* Poor sportsmanship * Continuous arguing with umpires

* Recurring failure to follow guidelines set forth in PAC’s Baseball Manual

Registrar

< Work with Baseball Commissioner to develop dates for registration and evaluations.

< Develop and send mail out registration forms to all current members.

< Coordinate In-Park registration

< Review all registration forms to verify correct amount has been paid and players are placed in correct age groups.

< Enter all registration information in the PAC data base before player evaluations.

< Provide printouts of registered players to Age Group Coordinators in time for player evaluations.

< Arrange for PAC registration signs to be placed in public places throughout the community.

< Provide information regarding number of registered players to the Board of Directors as needed.

Equipment Coordinator