2018

DENVILLE BASEBALL

Local Rules, Code Of Conduct,

and Safety Information

www.denvillebaseball.org

This manual is offered as a tool to place important

information at manager’s and coach’s finger tips.

So Please read it.

Denville Baseball Contact Information

Denville Recreation Department 973-625-8052

Denville Police Emergency 911

Emergency Medical 911

Denville Police – Non-emergency 973-627-4900

Rain-Out Information www.weatherclosings.com (Field Closing)

Denville Baseball Code of Conduct

No Board Member, Manager, Coach, Player or Spectator shall:

·         Speak disrespectfully to any manager, coach, official or representative of the league.

·         Be guilty of a physical attack upon any board member, official, manager, coach, player or spectator.

·         At any time, lay a hand upon, push, shove, strike, or threaten to strike an Umpire.

·         Shall challenge an umpire’s authority. The umpires shall have the authority and discretion during a game to penalize the offender according to the infraction up to and including removal from the game.

·         Be guilty of personal, verbal or physical abuse upon any official for any real or imaginary belief of a wrong decision or judgment.

·         Be guilty of an objectionable demonstration of dissent at an official’s decision by throwing of gloves, helmets, hats, bats, balls, or any other forceful unsportsmanlike action.

·         Be guilty of discussing publicly with spectators in a derogatory or abusive manner any play, decision or a personal opinion on any players during the game.

·         Be guilty of mingling with or fraternizing with managers, coaches and/or spectators during the course of the game.

·         Be guilty of using unnecessarily rough tactics in the play of a game against the body of an opposing player.

·         Be guilty of tampering or manipulation of any league rosters, schedules, draft positions or selections, official score books, rankings, financial records or procedures.

·         Be guilty of the use of profane, obscene or vulgar language in any manner at any time.

·         No throwing balls against dugouts or against backstop. (SOFT TOSS IN DESIGNATED AREAS ONLY)

·         Only a player at bat may swing a bat, NO On-deck circle.

·         During the game, players must remain in the dugout area.

·         After each game, each team must clean up trash in dugout and around stands.

·         Be guilty of gambling upon any play or outcome of any game with anyone at any time.

·         Smoke while in the stands or on the playing field or in any dugout at any time. Smoking rules and regulations are followed by the Township of Denville's ordinances.

·         Appear on the field of play, stands, or anywhere on the DBB complex while in an intoxicated state at any time. Intoxicated will be defined as an odor or behavior issue.

·         Observe local speed limits in all parking lots.

·         No alcohol allowed in any Denville field area without a permit from the township clerk.

Failure to comply with the above may result in disciplinary action by DBB Board of Directors

SafeKid Program

·         The following constitute the policies of Denville Baseball with regard to awareness and prevention of abuse within our organization:

   Denville Baseball is committed to provide a safe environment and to prevent child abuse and sexual misconduct.

·         Denville Baseball will make every reasonable effort to ensure that every person involved in coaching/training a sport activity in our organization will abide by the SafeKids guidelines.

·         Denville Baseball will make every reasonable effort to exclude any adult with a legally documented history of child abuse/molestation or any other conviction or record that would bring unnecessary risk to the health and safety of the participants of this organization.

·         Denville Baseball will perform a criminal background check on every person applying for a position at our organization.

·         Denville Baseball will take appropriate action on all allegations of child abuse and/or sexual misconduct. All allegations will be reported immediately to the authorities

for investigation and will cooperate fully with any such investigation.

·         The following represent the preventive measures of our organization with regard to abuse:

Physical, mental, and verbal abuse of any of the participants, coaches, managers, employees, volunteers involved in our   sponsored activities is not permitted.

·         Inappropriate touching of any kind is forbidden.

·         We agree to provide more than one adult working at or overseeing every activity. If a child needs special attention (one-on-one training or an individual meeting), it will be handled with the assistance or presence of another adult.

·         Coaches/trainers should never ride alone with a child or participant in the car. Procedures will be established for coaches to follow in the event a participant is stranded at an activity.

·         Parents are encouraged to attend sponsored activities.

SAFETY CODE FOR DENVILLE BASEBALL

·         Responsibility for safety procedures should be that of an adult member of the local league.

·         Managers, coaches and umpires should have some training in first-aid. First-Aid Kit should be available at the field and also be available at the concession stand, at all times.

·         No games or practice should be held when weather or field   conditions are not good, particularly when lighting is inadequate. Please check the field closing website www.cancellations.com, and look for signs posted on the fields

·         It is required that the fields are inspected by coaches/managers/umpires before games or practices for holes, damage, glass and other foreign objects/hazards.

·         Protective cup is suggested for all players (mandatory for catchers).

·         Only players, managers, coaches, and umpires are permitted on the playing field during play and practice sessions.

·         Responsibility for keeping bats and loose equipment off the field of play should be that of the managers, coaches or players assigned.

·         Procedures should be established for retrieving foul balls batted out of the playing area.

·         During practice and games, all players should be alert and watching the batter on each pitch.

·         During warm-up drills players should be spaced so that no one is endangered by wild throws or missed catches.

·         Equipment should be inspected regularly. Make sure it fits properly.

·         Batters must wear approved protective helmets during   practice, and during games.

·         Although not mandatory, Denville Little league encourages the use of face guards on all personally owned batting helmets.

Catchers must wear catcher’s helmet, mask, throat protector, long model chest protector, shin-guards and male catchers must wear a protective supporter and cup at all times.

·         Except when runner is returning to a base, head first slides are not permitted (12 years old and under.).

·         During sliding practice bases should not be strapped down and should be located away from the base anchoring system.

·         At no time should “horse play” be permitted on the playing field or in the dugouts during game play and practice sessions.

·         Parents of players who wear glasses should be encouraged to provide “Safety Glasses.”

·         Players must not wear watches, rings, pins, jewelry or other metallic items.

·         Catchers must wear catcher’s helmet and mask with a throat protector in warming up pitchers.

·         The use of mouth guards for all players is recommended, especially infielders. 

Denville Baseball Local Rules books are provided to the manager of each team by the local league or can be obtained by contacting Babe Ruth International Headquarters 1670 Whitehorse Mercerville Road, Hamilton, NJ 08619 (800) 880 3142. 

Section A – General

1. DEFINITIONS:

1.1. These rules shall apply to the Senior, Major, Minor, T-Ball, Travel, Tournament, and Summer leagues.

1.1.1. Section A shall apply to all the leagues.

1.1.2. Section B shall apply to Managers.

1.1.3  Section C shall apply to Umpires

1.1.4  Section D shall apply to Pitching.

1.1.5  Section E shall apply to Equipment

1.1.5 Section F through J shall apply only to the league specified.

1.2. These rules shall be approved by and be subject to change only by a vote of the Executive Board as outlined in the Constitution and By-Laws of the Denville Baseball.

1.3. These rules are a supplement to the Constitution and By-Laws of Denville Baseball, Inc. and the official playing rules for local leagues as published by Cal Ripken rules and, if applicable, the Babe Ruth League, Inc. Baseball Rules and Regulations and Official Playing Rules.

2. DRAFTS

2.1. Teams shall be stocked using the draft method determined by the Denville Baseball, Inc. Board. The purpose of the draft will be to ensure that teams are as balanced as possible.

2.2. The only options permitted are brother and transportation. Manager and coach's options are not permitted.

2.3. Trading of players after rosters have been released is not allowed.

2.4. All rosters must be completed at time of draft.

2.5. Only registered players are eligible for the draft, as per the Player Agent. Player Agent decisions are final.

2.6. Coaches may not contact any players on his team until the Player Agent releases the roster.

2.7. All teams will have a new draft each season.  Each manager will be allowed one (1) assistant coach pick.  The combined average of the two (2) players will give the order of the draft.  A snake draft will begin.

3. PROTESTS

3.1. Written protests shall be made to the League President. In filing a protest, the protesting manager must specifically point out the rule (by number and section) on which the protest is based.

3.2. Written protests addressed to the President and emailed directly to him/her within 24 hours of the incident being protested.

3.3. The protest committee (consisting of: The President, Secretary, Player Agent, Umpire-In-Chief and Director of said  Division) shall render a decision as soon as possible after the President receives the letter of protest, but no later than four (4) days.

3.4. If a protest is upheld, thereby requiring all or a portion of the protested game to be replayed, the schedule for this game shall be announced to the managers involved by the League   Director no later than 48 hours after the protest committee's decision.

4. POSTPONED OR SUSPENDED GAMES

4.1. Postponed and suspended games will be played at the next available date. Managers will consult as to next available date for game.  Once a date is agreed upon, the Home Team Manager will contact the Field Scheduler, Umpire-in-Chief and League Director as to change.

4.2. Once a game is rescheduled, if a team fails to show for that game it is grounds for a forfeit.

5. FORFEITS

5.1. There are no automatic forfeits. All situations deemed to be grounds for a forfeit will be decided by the Board of Directors on

an individual basis.  Any game not played for any reason other than inclement weather must reported to the Board of Directors within 24 hours.  Failure to do such will result in double-forfeit with zero points awarded to both teams.

6. LEAGUE STANDINGS

6.1. League standings will be determined on a point basis.

6.2. A team will be awarded 2 points for each victory, 1 point for a tie and 1 point for a loss.

6.3 Any game not made up by the end of the regular season will be considered a double-forfeit and no points will be awarded.

6.4. In the event of a tie at the end of the regular season, the   following tie-breakers will be used in this order:

1.   Percent of games played.

      2.   Fewest runs allowed per game played.

      3.   Head to head record

4.   Coin flip

7. ROSTER VACANCIES

7.1. In the event of a roster vacancy during the season, the   manager shall immediately notify the Player Agent and League Director.

7.2. The Player Agent will analyze the situation. Each situation will be different and will be analyzed as such. Replacement time will be at the option of the Player Agent. After his/her investigation, the Player Agent will advise the League Director and Manager of his/her decision.

7.3. If any youngster misses three (3) consecutive games, or it is apparent that three (3) games will be missed due to illness or injury, the manager shall immediately notify the Player Agent and League Director who will determine if a replacement should be made.

7.4. In the beginning of the season, League Directors will get a list of eligible Taxi Squad (General Section A, 8. Taxi Squad) players eligible participants to fill vacancies for one game at a time to the Player Agent.  The Player Agent will assign a player from the Taxi Squad to fill the vacant position.

7.5. Once the player is contacted and consent is given, the Player Agent will notify the two League Directors. Under no conditions will manager contact the youngster selected until contacted by the Player Agent.

7.6. If such replacement is made, the youngster replaced shall remain the property of his/her original team, even if the youngster is out for the balance of the season. If the youngster recovers prior to the conclusion of the season, he/she will return to his/her original team. NOTE: The thirteenth (13th) player shall be a returnee from the injury list only.

7.7. Failure by a manager to comply with this section will require said manager to appear before the Executive Board.

8. Taxi Squads

8.1.  For the purpose of this section these players will be referred to as “TS Player”.

8.2.  During the Recreational and Travel/Tournament seasons, teams may elect to use one (1) player from a lower level to “play up”.  Travel teams should use a player from the same level if there is a second team playing at the same level.

8.3.  This policy pertains to the Majors, Minors and Rookie levels.  The purpose of this policy is to help managers field a team to keep the season moving.  At no time will the addition of a TS Player increase the available game day roster to more than ten (10) players.

8.4.  It will not be necessary for a Rookie team to use a TS Player under this policy from a lower level.

8.5.  All requests for a TS Player shall be directed to the Player Agent who shall determine if there are any restrictions or safety concerns with the younger TS Player moving to a higher level.  The Player Agent will then contact the TS Player’s parents for approval.  This approval must be in writing, email will suffice.  If the parents approve, the Player Agent will contact the Division Manager of the approval.

8.6.  In the beginning of each season, each team manager will need to develop a list of interested candidates and provide the list to the Player Agent for final approval.

9. PLAYING TIME

* Special attention to this rule.  NO EXCEPTIONS!

9.1. Each youngster present at a game, in uniform and physically able to play, shall remain in the lineup for a minimum of three (3) full innings during the first seven (7) innings of a Senior game, or the first six (6) innings of a Major or Minor league game.  No player shall sit for more than one consecutive inning.  NOTE: (An inning is six (6) outs.)  Free substitution as per in 9.6 and 9.7.

9.2  No player can play more than 4 consecutive innings per game on one (1) position. Pitchers are exception to rule, but must follow pitching rule guidelines.

9.3  Each player must play a minimum of one (1) inning in an  Infield position per game.  Safety of player is first priority and player can be removed from infield position prior to finishing inning, if necessary.  Manager has authority, for safety, to not place a player in an infield position during a game.

9.4 The three (3) inning requirement is lessened to the extent a game is shorter than the standard seven (7) or six (6) inning game.

9.5 The rule may be waived entirely for disciplinary reasons as outlined in Section A, 10. Discipline.

9.6 Free substitution – players can be substituted throughout the game in the field. No player can sit out (or be scheduled to sit out) more than 3 innings in a game, nor can they sit out consecutive innings.  Once a pitcher has been removed, they cannot return as a pitcher.

9.7 Batting Order – A batting order that includes all members of the team must be submitted to the opposing manager prior to the start of the game.  All late comers will be added to the end of the lineup.  If a player in the batting order leaves the game for anything other than an injury and misses their turn at-bat, the player cannot re-enter the game.  No out is assessed.  Everyone bats the entire game.   

10. DISCIPLINE

10.1 A manager may elect to keep a youngster out of a game as a form of discipline.

10.2 Such action must have prior approval of the League Director and Player Agent, and notification to the President of the action taken.

10.3 If such action is to be taken, the manager must, prior to the game, inform both the Umpire-in-Chief and the opposing manager. Once announced, this decision is irrevocable. The youngster being disciplined may be in uniform and if so may be on the team bench. The youngster may participate in pre-game practice, etc., but he may not participate in the game.

10.4  Any defensive player who fakes a tag without possession of the ball, or makes a move intended to or which causes the runner to slide shall be ejected from the game.

10.5  Any ejection from a game, (player or adult) shall be reported by the umpire involved, in writing, to the Umpire-in-Chief, who shall notify the League Director and the President immediately, for possible disciplinary action.

10.6 Umpires will be using their own judgment regarding any discipline on a coach, player and parent.  The umpire has the right to eject any manager, coach, player or parent from a game.

10.6.1. Any player ejected from a game will be suspended for the next scheduled game (no exceptions) (including playoffs).

10.6.2. Any manager or coach ejected from a game will be suspended for the next 2 scheduled games (no exceptions and (including playoffs).

10.6.3. A 2^nd offense by anyone will result in a suspension for the remainder of the year (including playoffs).

11. MISCELLANEOUS

11.1 In the event of thunder or lighting, play must be stopped for a minimum of 30 minutes after the last sound or thunder or lightning strike before play can resume.  Resumption of play is at the discretion of the umpire.

11.2 If a game is halted due to weather, the game shall be suspended, declared an official game or declared not an official game, if the game cannot be resumed within 30 minutes after the applicable curfew (see curfew times on chart on next page).

11.3 NJ State Law requires that Denville Baseball require players wearing corrective eyewear to use protective eyewear that meets the frame standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F803 and lens standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z87.1. It is highly recommended that any sunglasses worn by players meet these standards as well.

11.4 Major and Minor league game require 8 players per team to start and end a game. It is coach’s discretion to request a player from the other team to play an outfield position.  If requested, it will be the player who made the last out.  The player does not bat.

11.5  All managers will select three (3) coaches.  Once selected, they will submit to the Board for approval.

12. REGULAR START TIMES:

Field 1 6:30 P.M.

Field 2 6:30 P.M.

Field 4 7:00 P.M.

Field 5 6:00 P.M.

Field 6 6:00 P.M.

Veteran’s Memorial Field 6:00 P.M.

13. CURFEW:

13.1. There is a 2-hour time limit on all Major League games.  No inning shall start after that limit. 

13.2. Minor League and below will be a 2-hour limit, no game will proceed after the 2-hour mark. 

13.3. 1 hour and 45 minutes after the game starts; all regular season games are considered complete at this point even if tied. 

13.4. A new inning starts once the third out is made in the prior inning. 

13.5. The Umpire is the official time keeper of all games.

13.6. During the week no inning can start after:

13.6.1. Senior League 10:00 P.M.

13.6.2 Majors/Minor League 9:00 P.M.

13.7 During the weekends no inning can start after

13.7.1 Senior League 10:30 P.M.

13.7.2. Major/Minor League 10:00 P.M.

14. UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS

14.1. School games, players will be allowed to wear school pants, but have to change into team shirt and hat.

14.2. All shirts will be tucked in.

14.3. Pitchers cannot wear wrist bands or white long sleeve tops of any kind.

15. BATTING CAGES

15.1. Batting cages will be reserved during the following times:

15.1.1 From 5:30pm – 6:30pm Teams scheduled for games on fields #1 and #2

15.1.2. From 5:30pm – 6:30pm Teams scheduled for games on field #4

Section B - Managers

1.      DEFINITIONS

1.1. The Manager is a person appointed by the Board of Directors Denville Baseball to be responsible for the team’s actions on the field, and to represent the team in communications with the umpire and the opposing team.

1.2. The Manager shall always be responsible for the team’s   conduct, observance of the official rules and deference to the umpires.

The Manager is also responsible for the safety of his players.   He/She is also ultimately responsible for the actions of designated coaches.

1.3. If a Manager leaves the field, that Manager shall designate a Coach as a substitute and such Substitute Manager shall have the duties, rights and responsibilities of the Manager.

2. MANAGER'S SPECIAL DUTIES

2.1. The home team manager on each field is responsible for obtaining the necessary equipment (e.g., bases) for their game. Specifically, ensuring the scoreboard tablet is working and scoreboard is on.

2.3. The winning manager will notify the league director of the outcome of each game and post to the website. 

2.4.  The winning manager must post the pitching counts on the website within 12 hours of the game conclusion.  Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.

2.5. Both team managers are responsible for policing the dugouts, field, and spectator areas after each game, including sweeping of dugouts.

2.6. Only approved managers, coaches, and team players are permitted in the dugouts or field area during games in all divisions of Denville Baseball. Only the manager or acting manager is permitted on the field to talk to players or umpires during games.

2.7. Field 2 or 4 home team manager to ensure snack stand personnel are escorted to their cars. Please do not leave if the stand is still operating.

2.8. Home team manager is responsible for distributing and signing umpire's reimbursement cards for payment.

2.9. All managers must fill out Denville Baseball Volunteer Application and complete a certified safety course. All managers must ensure all coaches have done the same.

2.10. Managers and coaches should use field watering and lining equipment before each game and return pitching mound cover at the conclusion of game.

2.11 Managers are responsible for supplying player evaluations to the Player-Agent.  Failure to do such will disqualify the manager from holding the position of Manager the following season. This shall be completed by May 21st of each year.

2.12 All managers and coaches are responsible to ensure there is no on-deck swinging except for 1st batter of each ½ inning.

3. PRe-Season Responsibilites

3.1. Take possession of a Safety Manual and the First-Aid Kit   supplied by DBB.

3.2. Attend a mandatory Managers meeting prior to the beginning of the season.  Have all members of the coaching staff attend this meeting as well.

3.3. All managers and coaches are required to complete the online Concussion Training Course “Heads Up, Concussion in Youth Sports”

3.4. Meet with all parents to discuss Baseball philosophy and safety issues.

3.5. Cover the basics of safe play with his/her team before starting the first practice.

3.6. Teach players the fundamentals of the game while advocating safety.

3.7. Notify parents, Division Director, and Player Agent that if a child is injured or ill, he or she cannot return to practice unless they have a note from their doctor. This medical release protects you if that child should become further injured or ill. There are no exceptions to this rule.

3.8. Encourage players to bring water bottles to practices and games.

3.9. Make sure equipment is in working order.  Any “bad” equipment must be destroyed or made unusable to stop children from attempting to “save it” from waste.  Notify the Equipment Director immediately for replacement of any unusable equipment.

3.10. Make sure that telephone access is available at all activities including practices and games.  It is suggested that a cellular phone always be available.

4. SEASON RESPONSIBILITIES

4.1. All listed under Pre-Season.

4.2. Not expect more from their players than what the players are capable of.

4.3. Reinforce the fundamentals including:

4.3.1. Catching fly balls

4.3.2. Sliding correctly, if applicable

4.3.3. Proper fielding of ground balls

4.3.4. Simple pitching motion for balance

4.3.5. Be open to ideas, suggestions or help.

4.3.6. Enforce that prevention is the key to reducing accidents to a minimum.

4.3.7. Suggest players wear sliding pads if they have cuts or

scrapes on their legs.

4.3.8. Always have First-Aid Kit and Safety Manual on hand.

4.3.9. Use common sense.

5. BEFORE, DURING, AFTER GAME RESPONSIBILITIES

5.1. Make sure that players carry all gloves and other equipment off the field and to the dugout when their team is up at bat.

5.2. Make sure no equipment shall be left lying on the field, either in fair or foul territory.

5.3. It is required that managers/coaches and umpires walk the fields for hazards before use.

5.4. The home team Manager is responsible for installing the league supplied bases located in the equipment room or designated storage container.

5.5. Make sure all players have been properly warmed up and stretched.

5.6. Keep players alert.

5.7. Maintain discipline at all times.

5.8. Be organized.

5.9. Keep players in the dugout unless participating in the game or preparing to enter the game.

5.10. Make sure catchers are wearing the proper equipment.

5.11. Encourage everyone to think Safety First.

5.12. Observe the “no on-deck” rule for batters and keep players behind the screens at all times. No player should handle a bat in the dugouts at any time. **On-Deck batters can warm up in designated areas on Fields 1 and 4 prior to batting in an inning.

5.13. Keep players off fences.

5.14. No practice batting off fences permitted at any time.

5.15. Get players to drink often so they do not dehydrate.

5.16. Not play children that are ill or injured.

5.17. Attend to children that become injured in a game.

5.18. Not lose focus by engaging in conversation with parents or other spectators.

5.19. Upon game completion the home team manager shall return the bases to the appropriate cubby in the equipment room.

5.20. Mangers/coaches are allowed to warm up pitchers as per Cal Ripken Rules.

Section C - Umpires

1. DEFINITIONS

1.1. All adult umpires must complete a Denville Baseball Volunteer Application.

1.2. All youth umpires must complete a training session to be scheduled by the Umpire-In-Chief prior to the start of the season.

1.3. The Umpire-In-Chief shall assign a minimum 2 staff umpires to each game in the Seniors, Majors, Minors, and Rookie League. Travel, Tournament and Summer leagues provide paid umpires.

1.4. If no umpires are present, the two opposing managers shall agree on one or two volunteer umpires.

1.5. In either event, once a volunteer umpire(s) is agreed upon, he shall have the full authority of a staff umpire and shall not be replaced in that game except by the League Umpire-in-Chief. However, a volunteer umpire may step aside in favor of a staff umpire who has arrived after a game is in progress.

1.6. Umpires are responsible for obtaining an expense reimbursement card from the home team manager. This card is “as good as cash” and will not be replaced.

1.7.  Umpires for all travel games will be paid cash by the teams playing the game. No vouchers.

2. PRE-GAME RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1. Check equipment in dugouts of both teams, equipment that does not meet specifications must be removed from the game.

2.2. Make sure youth catchers are wearing helmets when warming up pitchers.

2.3. Make sure all bats are official certified bats.

2.4. Make sure that bats have grips.

2.5. Make sure there are foam inserts in helmets.

2.6. Inspect helmets for cracks.

2.7. Any “bad” equipment must be destroyed or made unusable to stop children from attempting to “save it” from waste.  Inform manager of team whose equipment is not good.

2.8. Walk the field, along with coaches and managers, for hazards and obstructions.  E.G. rocks, glass, holes etc.

2.9. Make sure the bases are properly installed and secure.

2.10. Check players to see if they are wearing jewelry.

2.11. Check players to see if they are wearing metal cleats.

2.12. Secure official balls for play from home team.

3. GAME-TIME RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1. Govern the game as mandated by Cal Ripken rules and regulations.

3.2. Check baseballs for discoloration and nicks and declare a ball unfit for use if it exhibits these traits.

3.3. Act as the sole judge as to whether and when play shall be suspended or terminated during a game because of unsuitable weather conditions or the unfit condition of the playing field; as to whether and when play shall be resumed after such suspension; and as to whether and when a game shall be terminated after such suspension within the guidelines established above.

3.4. Enforce the rule that no spectators shall be allowed on the field during the game.

3.5. Make sure catchers are wearing the proper equipment.

3.6. Continue to monitor the field for safety and playability.

3.7. Make the calls loud and clear, signaling each call properly.

3.8. Make sure players and spectators keep their fingers out of the fencing.

4. UMPIRE SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

4.1. In the event of any issues that may arise, i.e. unruly manager, coach, player and/or spectator, you have sole authority to administer the following:

4.1.1. Suspend the game until the issue has been dealt with.

4.1.2. Eject the manager/coach/player/spectator if behavior continues.

4.2. If umpire, at any time, feels an issue/situation is beyond his/her control, he/she is to immediately suspend game and immediately contact the Umpire-In-Chief and President.  Game play will be suspended until either/or are able to come to the field.

Section D - Pitching

It will be the responsibility of all coaches to manage the pitching of players in both Rec and Travel Baseball. Players can pitch for both Rec and Travel. The Travel coach at each level is responsible for the administration of the pitching rules of any player on the Travel team whether they pitch for Travel or Rec. The Travel coach will have priority when scheduling a player to pitch. The Rec manager is responsible for the administration of the pitching rules for any Rec only player. The pitching rules are based on the pitch count chart on the following page.

1. PITCHING AND PITCH COUNT

1.1. The home team manager shall act as the official scorer for each game. The home team manager must keep an accurate pitch count for pitchers on both teams in his scorebook. It is the visiting team’s responsibility to confirm current pitch counts after every ½ inning. If there is a discrepancy between the home team manager’s count and the visiting team manager’s count, the home team manager’s count shall stand, as he is the game’s official scorer.

1.2. The Pitching Rules will be taken from the Official Regulations and Playing Rules for All Divisions of Cal Ripken Baseball.

1.3. We will not follow the innings standard in Cal Ripken Baseball.

1.4. Days of rest are rotating, we will not have a set week.   Number of pitches dictate the days of rest.  NOTE: If a pitcher reaches the limit imposed for his/her league age while facing a batter, the pitcher may continue to pitch until any one of the following conditions occurs: 1. That batter reaches base; 2. That batter is put out; 3. The third out is made to complete the half-inning.

1.5.  A pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of that day.  A catcher would catches more than 4 innings cannot play the position of pitcher for the remainder of that day.

1.6. All pitch counts MUST be entered on the website after the end of a game. Winning team manager is responsible to do so by the next morning.  Failure to due so will result in disciplinary action.  This rule is for both Recreation and Travel managers.

1.7. Travel pitching dictates the player’s ability to pitch in the Recreation League. The recreation team manager must get prior approval to use a travel pitcher during a recreation game.

Maximum Pitch Counts

Rest Periods Required

Section E - Equipment

The Equipment Manager is an elected Denville Baseball Board Member and is responsible for purchasing and distributing equipment to the individual teams. This equipment is checked and tested when it is issued but it is the Manager’s responsibility to maintain it. Managers should inspect equipment before each game and each practice.

The Denville Baseball Equipment Manager will promptly replace damaged and ill-fitting equipment. Furthermore, kids like to bring their own gear. This equipment can only be used if it meets the requirements as outlined in this Safety Manual and the Official Little League Rule Book.  Any “bad” equipment must be destroyed or made unusable to stop children from attempting to “save it” from waste.

At the end of the season, all equipment must be returned to the Denville Baseball Equipment Manager. First-Aid kits must be turned in with the equipment.

·         Each team, at all times in the dugout, and shall have five (5) protective helmets which must meet NOCSAE specifications and standards. These helmets will be provided by Denville Baseball at the beginning of the season. If players decide to use their own helmets, they must meet NOCSAE specifications and standards.

·         Use of a helmet by the batter and all base runners is mandatory.

·         Use of a helmet by a player/base coach is mandatory.

·         Use of a helmet by an adult base coach is optional.

·         Male catchers must wear the metal, fiber or plastic type cup and a long-model chest protector.

·         Female catchers must wear long or short model chest protectors.

·         All catchers must wear chest protectors with neck collar, throat guard, shin guards and catcher’s helmet, all of which must meet Cal Ripken specifications and standards.

·         All catchers must wear a mask, “dangling” type throat protector and catcher’s helmet during practice, pitcher    warm-up, and games.

·         If the gripping tape on a bat becomes unraveled, the bat must not be used until it is repaired.

·         Bats with dents, or that are fractured in any way, must be discarded.

·         Only Official balls will be used during practices and games.

·         Make sure that the equipment issued to you is appropriate for the age and size of the kids on your team. If it is not, get replacements from the Equipment Manager.

·         Make sure helmets fit.

·         Replace questionable equipment immediately by notifying the Denville Baseball Equipment Manager.

·         Make sure that players respect the equipment that is issued.

Section F – Babe Ruth League

1. DEFINITION

1.1. These rules shall apply only to the Senior League.

2. CURFEW

2.1. Curfew rule shall not be enforced until a regulation game has been played (reference Section A, Page 14, CURFEW)

2.2. No inning shall start after the scheduled starting time of the next game.

2.3. All play shall be suspended thirty (30) minutes after the scheduled starting time of the next game.

2.4. After a regulation game 12-run rule will be in effect, with no concession required by opposing manager.

2.5. These rules apply only after the first game becomes a regulation game.

3. MANAGER RESPONSIBILITY

3.1. The home team manager playing on Field 4, shall, at the   conclusion of the day, see that all stand personnel are safely to their cars. (See Section B; Subsection 2.7.)

4. ROSTER VACANCIES

4.1. Babe Ruth League team’s will be re-drafted every season.

4.2. In the event of a roster vacancy during the season, the manager shall immediately notify the Player Agent and League Director.

4.3. If any youngster misses three (3) consecutive games, or it is apparent that three (3) games will be missed due to illness or injury, the manager shall immediately notify the Player Agent and League Director who will determine if a replacement should be made.

4.4. Advise the Player Agent immediately of any injury. Replacement time will be at the option of the Player Agent who will determine how long a manager has to pick a new player.

4.5. If no replacement is selected, the Player Agent may assign a youngster to fill the vacancy.

4.6. Failure by a manager to comply with this section will require said manager to appear before the Executive Board.

5. VISITS AND OTHER

5.1. During visits, the manager shall be permitted to talk to the pitcher and catcher only. NOTE: A trip to the catcher counts the  same as a trip to the pitcher with the exception of equipment issues. Any trip out by the Manager counts. The umpire will make determination if the Manager makes a “trip out”.

5.2. A batter may not step out of the batter's box without permission of the umpire.

5.3. Offensive time, one per inning.

5.4. The pitching rules will be taken from the Official Regulations and Playing Rules for All Divisions of Babe Ruth Baseball, with the following exception: Pitchers shall be limited to 7 innings per   calendar week (age 13-15), a calendar week as defined by Lakeland Babe Ruth. Throwing as little as one pitch shall constitute an inning. Pitch limits age 13-15 - 95 pitches per day.

5.5. A pitcher shall be limited to 9 innings during any playoff series, even if the series occurs in more than one calendar week.

5.6. Players, umpires and managers are allowed to wear metal cleats.

6. SCHOOL ATHLETICS

6.1. No team shall be in jeopardy of a forfeit due to not fielding a team because of any youngster(s) being involved in other school sport programs, such as ValleyView, Morris Catholic or Morris Knolls.

6.2. Any game starting after six-thirty (6:30) PM that does not become a regulation game will be picked up at a later date from point of suspension and played to completion.

6.3. The latest a game will start:

Field 4 7:30PM

Field 5 7:00PM

Veteran’s Memorial Field (Zeek) 7:00PM

6.4. Games not played due to school activity will be rescheduled for Sunday of the next week.

Section F – Major League

1. DEFINITION

1.1. These rules shall apply only to the Major League.

1.2. All 11 and 12 year-olds in Denville Baseball will play in the Major league.

2. ROSTER VACANCIES

2.1. In the event of a roster vacancy during the season, the   manager shall immediately notify the Player Agent and League Director.

2.2. The Player Agent will analyze the situation. Each situation will be different and will be analyzed as such. Replacement time will be at the option of the Player Agent. After his/her investigation, the Player Agent will advise the League Director and Manager of his/her decision.

2.3. If any youngster misses three (3) consecutive games, or it is apparent that three (3) games will be missed due to illness or injury, the manager shall immediately notify the Player Agent and League Director who will determine if a replacement should be made.

2.4. In the beginning of the season, the Minor League Director will get a list of eligible Taxi Squad (General Section A, 8 Taxi Squad) players eligible participants to fill vacancies in the Majors for one game at a time to the Player Agent.  The Player Agent will assign a player from the Taxi Squad to fill the vacant position.

2.5. Once the player is contacted and consent is given, the Player Agent will notify the two League Directors. Under no conditions will the Major League manager contact the youngster selected until contacted by the Player Agent.

2.6. If such replacement is made, the youngster replaced shall remain the   property of his/her original team, even if the youngster is out for the balance of the season. If the youngster recovers prior to the conclusion of the season, he/she will return to his/her original team. NOTE: The thirteenth (13th) player shall be a returnee from the injury list only.

2.7. Failure by a manager to comply with this section will require said manager to appear before the Executive Board.

3. VISITS AND OTHER

3.1. A manager may come out twice in one inning, to talk to his pitcher, but the third time out the player must be removed as a pitcher. The manager may come out three times in a game, but

the fourth time out the player must be removed as a pitcher. This rule applies to each pitcher who enters a game.

3.2. During such visits, the manager shall be permitted to talk to the pitcher and catcher only. NOTE: A trip to the catcher counts the same as a trip to the pitcher. With the exception of equipment issues.  Any trip out by the   Manager counts. The umpire will make determination if the Manager makes a “trip out”.

3.3. A batter may not step out of the batter's box without permission of the   umpire.

3.4. Offensive time, one per inning.

3.5. The pitching rules shall be taken from the Official Regulations and Playing Rules for All Divisions of Cal Ripken  Baseball.

3.6. A pitcher shall be limited to the pitching counts on the chart on page 23. The calendar week is according to the chart, the week begins at the pitches reached.

3.8 Drafts for the Rookie and T-Ball leagues will utilize a collaborative approach to generate balanced teams.

4. CURFEW

4.1. Curfew rules are posted on pages 14-15.

4.2. No inning shall start after the scheduled starting time of the next game.

4.3. After a regulation game, 12-run rule will be in effect, with no concession required by the opposing manager.

5. ELIGIBLE YOUNGSTERS

5.1. A Youngster eligible to be picked for a Major League roster is defined as:

5.1.1. Any youngster who attends evaluations and/or tryouts.

5.1.2. Any youngster declared eligible by the Executive Board.

5.1.3. All 11 and 12 year-olds signed up for Denville Baseball.

6. “SUN RULE”

6.1. On field #2 there will be no stealing allowed on the throw from the catcher to the pitcher, when the sun is hindering the pitchers vision the umpire will announce when this is in effect. Safety of the players is of utmost importance and the umpire may impose the “Sun Rule” at any point in the game. The withdrawal of the “Sun Rule” is at the umpire’s discretion.

7. PITCHING WEEK

7.1. The Pitching Rules will be taken from the Official Regulations and Playing Rules For All Divisions of Cal Ripken Baseball. With two exceptions the calendar week runs according to the pitching chart’s days of rest.  Denville Baseball will follow the pitch count standard on the chart in manual.  We will not follow the innings standard in Cal Ripken Baseball.  In Series play, a pitcher may pitch a maximum of 6 innings per 3 game series, 9 innings max in a 4 game series. See pitching chart at end of rules.

Exception: If a pitcher reaches the limit imposed in Rule 7.1 for his/her league age while facing a batter, the pitcher may continue to pitch until any one of the following conditions occurs: 1. That batter reaches base; 2. That batter is put out; 3. The third out is made to complete the half-inning.

Note 1: A pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of that day.  A catcher would catches more than 4 innings cannot play the position of pitcher for the remainder of that day.

7.2. Travel pitchers must be approved by Travel Manager as per the Pitching Rules on page 22.  Any manager/coach found not following this rule will be brought before the Executive Board for possible disciplinary actions.  No exceptions to this rule.

8. Other

8.1. Tie games, after regulation play, should be continued to a conclusion, darkness, or curfew.

8.2. Minimum playing rules from general rules apply.

8.3. Advancing on a base from a wild pitch is allowed.  Stealing off the pitcher will begin after half of the scheduled games have been played and during playoffs.

·         Leading is allowed

·        Stealing (advancing) off a pick-off attempt or on overthrow is   allowed

·         Courtesy runner for catcher and/or pitcher with 2 outs

Runners cannot steal home if their team is winning by more than 8 runs, stealing off a passed ball is o.k.  Exception would be a pickoff play at 3^rd base.

8.3.1. If it is determined that stealing off the pitcher is not allowed, stealing on pick-off attempt or overthrow is allowed.  However, the baserunner can’t force a balk, so no secondary lead off the pitcher.

8.4. Infield fly is in effect.

8.5. Dropped Strike Rule - This rule is not in effect for any Recreation Baseball division level game.

8.6. Balks: Two warnings per pitcher per game.

8.7. No big barrel bats (Only 2 5/8" barrel maximum, non-wood bats, marked USA Baseball, NO BBCOR, will be allowed)

8.8. Pitching rules apply.

8.9. Mercy Rule: a game is officially over, once official (3 ½ or 4 innings) and the winning team is ahead by 12 runs. 

8.10. Playoff games will be played with the same rules as the   regular season.

Playoff games cannot end in a tie.

8.11. Sliding

·         The must slide or avoid rule will apply to all leagues, if in the judgment of the umpire a play is imminent.

·        Any player not sliding shall be deemed out at the umpire’s discretion.

·        There will be no running over of defensive players at any base.

·         There are no head first slides at any base (results in an automatic out). Players may dive back into a base.

8.12.  Games will be played on a 50 / 70 baseball field.

Section G – Minor League

1. DEFINITIONS

1.1. These rules shall apply only to the Minor League.

1.2. All players who are present shall be in the batting order.

1.3. No more than 5 runs scored per team in an inning, with the exception of the last inning. Play shall stop after the fifth (5th) run scored, or the 3rd out is made, whichever occurs first. Exception: In the last inning of the game teams may bat through the order once, or until the 3rd out is made, whichever occurs first. After hitting the ball, the last batter in the order may

advance until an out is made, or until the catcher, with the ball in his possession, touches home plate. No further advancement is permitted.

1.4. The number of batters in the batting order shall be determined by the team with the most number of players.  Example, if Team A has 11 batters and Team B has 9 batters, then Team B may have 11 players bat, before 3 outs are made, in the last inning.

1.5. Players may not steal home; they must score on either a walk or a batted ball. This rule will be dropped at the mid-point of the season based upon number of games scheduled as communicated by the League Director to all managers.  On an attempted steal on 3rd base, the runner cannot advance home on a catcher’s overthrow to third, but can from an attempted out from any other field position.

1.6. No balks may be called.

2. ROSTER AND PITCHING RULES

2.1. The number of players on a roster shall not exceed fifteen (15).

2.2. The pitching rules shall be taken from the Official Regulations and Playing Rules for All Divisions of Cal Ripken Baseball. Denville Baseball will follow the pitch count standard on the chart included in manual.  We will not follow the innings standard in Cal Ripken Baseball. 

2.3. A pitcher shall be limited to the pitch count on chart on page 23 during any playoff series, even if the series occurs in more than one calendar week.

2.4. A pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of that day. A catcher would catches more than 4 innings cannot play the position of pitcher for the remainder of that day.

2.5. Travel pitchers must be approved by Travel Manager as per the Pitching Rules on page 22.  Any manager/coach found not following this rule will be brought before the Executive Board for possible disciplinary actions.  No exceptions to this rule.

3. ROSTER ADDITIONS

3.1. Youngsters registering after the draft will be assigned by the Player Agent in the following priority:

3.1.1. Team with the least number of players on roster.

3.1.2. The same order of original draft.

3.2. If the best interest of the youngster and/or the League is served by an arbitrary assignment, the Player Agent, with the approval of the President, may make such an assignment.

3.3.  For vacancies due to injury or lack of players, a member of the Taxi Squad (General Section A, 8) can be used to replace a player.  No more than one player (1) may be used per game.  A roster cannot go above ten (10) players with the addition of a Taxi Squad player.

4. CURFEW

4.1. After a regulation game, the 12-run rule will be in effect with no concession required by the opposing manager. This will take effect after four innings of play. If a player did not have his/her full share of play, they will start first in the next game.

5.  OTHER

5.1. Tie games, after regulation play, should be continued to a conclusion, darkness, or curfew.

5.2. Minimum playing rules from general rules apply.

5.3. Base stealing is allowed as per rules in Section E 1.5.

5.4. Leading is not allowed.

·         Players may not leave the base before the ball crosses the plate. If either is thrown/tagged out the play stands but the other safe runner (if any) would be returned to mentioned base) the only exception is a HR over the fence.)

·         The 2^nd time a player leaves early (from the warned team) the player will be called out.

·         Delayed stealing is allowed.

·         Runners cannot steal home if their team is winning by more than 8 runs.  Exception would be a pick off play at 3^rd base.

·         No stealing home on throwbacks to the pitcher, unless pitcher drops or misses the ball.

·         On an attempted steal on 3rd base, the runner cannot advance home on a catcher’s overthrow to third, but can from an attempted out from any other field position.

·         Courtesy runner for catcher and/or pitcher with 2 outs.

5.5. Infield fly is in effect.

5.6. Dropped third strike is not in effect.

5.7. No balks.

5.8. No big barrel bats (2 5/8" barrel maximum, non-wood bats, marked USA Baseball, NO BBCOR, will be allowed)

5.9. Pitching rules apply.

5.10. Mercy Rule: a game is officially over, once official (3 ½ or 4 innings) and the winning team is ahead by 12 runs.  5 runs limit per inning.

5.11. Playoff games will be played with the same rules as the   regular season.  Playoff games cannot end in a tie.

5.12. Games will be played on a regulation 46 / 60 Baseball field.

Section H – Rookie League

1.  DEFINITION

1.1. The Rookie League Philosophy is to introduce and develop the players’ understanding of basic fundamentals and rules of baseball with a significant presence of coaches during game play.  These rules shall only apply to the Rookie League

1.2. The game is played in two parts: Coach Pitch and Player Pitch.

1.2.1. Coach Pitch is use to ensure equal batting opportunities and increase the amount of fielding opportunities on contacted balls.

1.2.2. Player Pitch is used to introduce and create more pitching opportunities.

1.3. Rookie League players will focus on three major areas of development: Offense, Fielding and Pitching.

1.3.1. Offense: Players should be positioned properly in the batters’ box in   relation to home plate.  A player’s feet, hands and head should be observed and adjusted to give them the best chance to make contact. After contact, the player will be instructed by the coaches to run the bases.

1.3.2. Fielding: Players should be positioned properly throughout the field and be instructed to execute the primary play off the batted ball.  Coaches in the field are encouraged to prepare the players on what to do before contact.

1.3.3. Pitching: Players should be positioned at the distance of 46 feet to home plate. (If a pitcher cannot reach home plate DO NOT move them closer.  This will increase the risk of injury from a batted ball.)  Each pitcher must throw with a traditional fastball grip.  Any pitches other then a fastball is prohibited. During the Player Pitch portion of the game, the focus and goal should be to throw the ball in the strike zone.

1.3.4. Rookie division games are six (6) innings.

2.  Innings 1-4 Coach Pitch

2.1. The ball will be pitched by a coach from the batting team.  The coach should pitch from a one-knee position or sit on a bucket to throw at the appropriate angle to the batter.  These innings are meant to be used as live batting practice.

2.2. All players on the roster in attendance will bat twice in the first four innings.  Each team will bat half of their lineup per    inning.  For example, a team with 11 players in attendance will bat batters 1-6 in the first, 7-11 in the second, 1-6 in the third and 7-11 in the fourth.

2.3. If three outs are recorded before the last batter of the inning, the bases will be cleared and the remaining batters will get their at-bats.

2.4. The batter and runners may advance extra bases during the primary play. For example, on a ball hit to the outfield. However, the batter and runners cannot advance more than one base on a secondary play.  For example, on a throwing error committed by an infielder.  It is the judgement of the coach that is pitching to determine the end of play.

3.  Innings 5-6 Player Pitch

3.1. A player will pitch with a coach with extra baseballs positioned next to them.  Coaches are encouraged to help with wild pitches, passed balls, over throws from the catcher by supplying baseballs throughout the inning.  This will allow for faster game play.  These innings are meant to be used as live bullpen sessions.

3.2. The batting lineup rules will continue into these innings.  Three outs will only clear the bases.

3.3. More than one pitcher can pitch in an inning.  No one pitcher may face more than six (6) batters.

3.4.  If a batter is walked on four consecutive balls than the coach will pitch to the batter.  If a strike is thrown at any time in the    at-bat and a player later walks, they are given first base.

3.5. Batting team coaches should be positioned on the mound and at the first and third base coaches box.  Fielding team coach should be positioned in the home plate area behind the shortstop and second baseman.

4.  OTHER

4.1.  No player may catch more than two innings.

4.2. Catchers must wear full equipment in all four innings, including throat protector and protective cup.

4.3.  All players not in the field must remain behind the screens at all times.

4.4. Managers, coaches and players must police dugouts, playing field, and spectator areas at the conclusion of the game.

4.5.  Home team is responsible for getting the bases, tarp and first aid kit before the games. The home team manager must return this equipment to the field house.

4.6.  Players must wear the uniform provided by the League.

4.7. Helmets must be worn by all batters, base runners, and player base coaches.

4.8. Time out may be called at any time for instructions or strategy. (Batting or fielding techniques.)

4.9.  There are no game protests in the Rookie Division.

4.10. A player pitcher must stay in the mound area during the first four innings. The adult pitcher may not field any batted ball.

4.11. Adult base coaches are REQUIRED, AND TWO COACHES ARE REQUIRED TO ASSIST THE FIELDING TEAM, dugouts must be supervised.  All bats must be placed along the fence.  The player at-bat should be the only player with a bat in their hands during the game.

4.12. There will be no more than TEN fielders in the field at any one time.

4.13. Fielding team's pitcher will stand behind and off to the side while the adults pitch.

4.14. In self-defense of a line drive, an adult pitcher may knock the ball down, but then a player in the field must make the actual play.

4.15. Each team must have a minimum of SEVEN players to start the game.  It is a Coach’s discretion to request a player from the other team to play an outfield position.  That player does not bat.

4.16. A runner must slide if a play is being made on him. (Except at first base).

4.17. The batting order stays the same throughout the game.

4.18. No base stealing or leading. This includes passed balls.

4.19. No bunting.

4.20. No infield fly rule.

4.21. One base on all overthrows.

4.22. Advancement of players between bases on overthrows will be left to BOTH MANAGER’S (umpire's) judgment.

4.23. All players must sit out one inning before any player sits out more than one inning. No player shall sit out more than 2 innings.

4.24. Players shall be moved around in the fielding positions.

4.25. Tie games at the end of regulation are final, extra innings are not permitted.

Section I – Tee Ball 5 & 6 Division - Instructional League

Tee Ball 5 & 6 Division is an instructional league. Following is an outline of suggestions. Please feel free to expand on suggestions. For the safety of the children, it is suggested that games not be played until instruction has been given.

You may want to consider:

First Session - explain the game of baseball, what each position does and how it is played. Run some exercises to keep children involved.

Second Session - catching, fielding, running, have them try   catcher’s equipment on.

Fifth Session - game, coach pitching for 6 year-olds

Sixth Session - game, coach pitching for 6 year-olds

You may want to break children into stations, each station working on a particular exercise and then rotate them to the next group. Children should have fun. Keep them as involved as possible.

Section J – Tournament/Travel/Summer League

1.  DEFINITIONS

1.1. These rules shall apply only to the Tournament/Travel/Summer League.

1.2. All Tournament/Travel/Summer teams are under the rules and regulations of Babe Ruth, Inc. Tournament Play and Denville Baseball, Inc.

2.  TENURE

2.1.  No youngster having been placed on a Tournament/Travel/Summer team, shall be required to relinquish his/her right to play on that team, as long as the youngster is eligible to participate in Denville Baseball, according to Babe Ruth Baseball, according to Babe Ruth Tournament rules and the By-Laws of    Denville Baseball, Inc.

2.2.  If a player is on a Tournament/Travel/Summer team roster and is released from that roster because the player opts not to play for the season, the player shall be eligible to try out for the team the following year.

2.3.  If any youngster misses more than three (3) consecutive games, or it is apparent that three (3) games will be missed due to illness or injury, the manager shall immediately notify the Player Agent and League Director who will determine if a replacement should be made.

3. TRYOUT PROCESS

3.1.  Tryouts will be held annually under the supervision of the Tournament/Travel Director and the Player Agent and will include evaluators and members of the Denville Baseball Board.

3.2.   All players eligible for a team will be permitted to tryout.

3.3.  Tryouts will be conducted in the fall to determine Spring and/or Spring and Summer teams.

3.4. Tryouts will consist of drills allowing the players to demonstrate their proficiency level in baseball fundamentals such as hitting, fielding and throwing.

3.5.  At the end of the tryout, the evaluators will assign an overall rating for each player based on the skills demonstrated.

3.6. Separate tryouts for summer only Travel teams will occur in the spring.

4. SELECTION PROCESS

4.1.  The Denville Baseball Board Travel Committee, comprised of the Tournament/Travel/Summer Director, President, Player Agent and other Board Members, will conduct the selection of players for each team.

4.2.   The selection will be based upon the annual tryout ratings along with the ratings from the previous recreational season, which is done by the recreational managers annually.

4.3.  Selection to the Spring Travel team also means the player will be on the Tournament team participating in the Cal Ripken District All-Stars Tournament at the conclusion of the recreational season.

4.4.  Selection to this team requires a player’s commitment to 80% of the Spring Travel games and practices.  The player and his family are expected to commit to 100% of the District All-Star Tournament games and practices.

4.5. The manager is not to contact the team until the rosters have been released by the Tournament/Travel Director and Player Agent.

5.  SELECTION OF MANAGERS/COACHES

5.1.  Annually, any person(s) interested in managing in the Travel program, shall inform the Denville Baseball Board Travel Committee will evaluate perspective managers and conduct a vote by the Denville Baseball Board to determine the successful manager.

5.2.  The selected manager shall identify and nominate three (3) coaches to assist.

5.3.  The Denville Baseball Board will evaluate and confirm all coaches to the manager.

6.  TRAVEL COMMITTEE GUIDELINES

6.1.  Annually a Travel Committee will be implemented to review the current program and all applicable rules, policies and procedures.

6.2.  The Travel Committee will determine the League for the spring and summer, and summer only teams to participate, as appropriate.

6.3.  The Travel Committee shall notify the Denville Baseball Board of any issue and potential remedies, and any rule, policy or procedure changes. 

6.4.  Any changes to the current program will be put to vote by the Denville Baseball Board.

7.  RULES FOR MANAGERS AND COACHES

7.1.  Managers and coaches are expected to conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times with players, parents, officials, opponents, etc.

7.2.  Managers and coaches are to be in compliance with all Code of Conduct rules, expectations and guidelines set forth by Denville Baseball, Inc. outlined in this manual, By-Laws and     Constitution.

7.3.  The Denville Baseball Executive Board will oversee any and all conduct issues and related discipline.

7.4.  Managers are to follow all rules set forth by Denville Baseball, Inc. in regards to pitching, playtime, etc. as outlined in Section A, with the exception of individual Tournament Rules the team is participating in.

7.5.  Managers must submit all pitch counts online within 24 hours of a game.  Failure to do so will result in manager being called to a meeting with the Executive Board for possible disciplinary actions.

8.  RULES FOR PARENTS

8.1.  Parent are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner at all times with players, other parents, officials, opponents, coaches, managers, etc. and be in compliance with expectations set forth by Denville Baseball in their Code of Conduct Policies.

8.2.  The Denville Baseball Executive Board will oversee any and all conduct issues.

8.3.  Inappropriate behavior can result in actions against parents and players.

9.  MISC.

9.1.  Players will be expected to attend Winter Workouts that will be planned and coordinated by team manager.

9.2.  All fees associated with the Spring and Summer and/or Spring Travel teams will be based on Winter Workouts, uniforms, league fees, umpires and equipment.  Fee will be due upon receipt.

9.3.  Additional fees can be incurred if team participates in other Tournaments or goes into Summer Travel.

9.4. All players selected for a team must be registered for Denville Baseball Recreation League prior to beginning Winter Workouts.

Volunteer Application

All volunteers (Board Members, Managers, Coaches, Team Moms…) MUST fill out every year a Little League Volunteer Application before the season begins.

(To obtain a form go to www.denvillebaseball.org and scroll down on the right-hand side of the page, and then click on Volunteer Form)

Include a copy of a government-issued photo ID for verification.

Volunteers who refuse or do not complete and submit a “Volunteer Application Form” will be ineligible to participate in Denville Baseball.

Background checks of all volunteers including board members, managers, and coaches shall be conducted.

In addition, the Township of Denville requires that an independent background check of all volunteer participating in local youth sports programs be administered though the      Township’s Department of Law Enforcement. Background check will include review of sex offender registries, child abuse and criminal history records through LexisNexis.

Suggested Communicable Disease Procedures (Contact emergency hotline immediately for assistance)

·   Bleeding must be stopped, and the open wound covered

·   Always use latex gloves to prevent mucous membrane exposure when contact with blood or other body fluids are anticipated.

·   Immediately wash hands and other skin surface if contaminated with blood clean all blood contaminated surfaces and equipment

·   Managers, coaches, and volunteers with open wound should refrain from all direct contact until the condition is resolved.

·   Follow accepted guidelines in the immediate control of bleeding and disposal when handling bloody dressing, mouth guards, and other articles containing body fluids.

Some Important Do’s and Don’ts:

·   Reassure and aid children who are injured, frightened, or lost.

·   Provide, or assist in obtaining, medical attention for those who require it.

·   Know your limitations.

·   Carry your first aid kit to all games and practices.

·   Assists those who require medical attention and when administering air remember to:

1.      LOOK for signs of injury (blood, black and blue, deformity of joints, etc.)

2.      LISTEN to the injured describe what happened and what hurts if conscious.

3.      Before questioning, you may have to soothe any child FEEL gently and carefully the injured area for signs of swelling, or grating of broken bones

Don’t:

·         Administer any medications.

·         Provide any food or beverages (other than water).

·         Hesitate in giving aid when needed.

·         Be afraid to ask for help if you’re not sure of the proper procedures.

·         Transport injured individuals except in extreme emergencies.

·         Leave an unattended child at a practice or game.

·         Hesitate to report any present or potential safety hazard of the Director of Safety immediately.

Lightning Evacuation Procedures

·         Stop game/practice at first sign of lightning.

·         Stay away from metal fencing (including dugouts)!

·         Do not hold a metal bat.

Walk to car and wait for a decision on whether or not the game or practice will continue.

Attached to this manual is a Safety Guide prepared by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration with additional details and precautions to be taken during Lightning and Thunder storms.

First Aid Kits

Each team is issued a stocked first aid kit as a component of the team’s standard equipment. It is the Manager’s responsibility that this kit must be present at all practices and games.

A well-stocked kit will (but is not limited to) the following items:

Latex gloves                                                    1 first aid cream

4 Instant cold packs                                        10 nonstick pads

20 bandages 1 x 3 inches                                1 tweezer’s

5 bandages 2 x 4.5 inches                               Saline rinse

1 safety scissors                                              2 Rolls athletic tape

List of items in kit for restocking purposes

Note: Request for refills from the safety director when these materials are near depletion.

Accident Reporting Procedures

What to report – An incident that causes any player, manager, coach, umpire, volunteer or spectator to receive medical treatment and/or first aid must be reported to the Safety Director of Denville Baseball. includes even passive treatments such as the evaluation and diagnosis of the extent of the injury or periods of rest.

Reporting incidents can come in a variety of forms. Most typically, they are telephone conversations. At a minimum, the following information must be provided:

·         The name and phone number of the individual involved.

·         The date, time, and location of the incident.

·         As detailed a description of the incident as possible.

·         The preliminary estimation of the extent of any injuries.

The name and phone number of the person reporting the incident.

When to report – All such incidents described above must be reported to your League Director within 24 hours of the incident. 

Treatment At Site

Do . . .

·         Assess the injury. If the victim is conscious, find out what happened, where it hurts, watch for shock.

·         Know your limitations.

·         Call 9-1-1 immediately if person is unconscious or seriously injured.

·        Look for signs of injury (blood, black-and-blue, deformity of joint etc.)

·         Listen to the injured player describe what happened and what hurts if conscious. Before questioning, you may have to calm and soothe an    excited child.

·         Feel gently and carefully the injured area for signs of swelling or grating of broken bone.

·         Talk to your team afterwards about the situation if it involves them. Often players are upset and worried when another player is injured. They need to feel safe and understand why the injury occurred.

Don’t . . .

·         Administer any medications.

·         Provide any food or beverages (other than water).

·         Hesitate in giving aid when needed.

·         Be afraid to ask for help if you’re not sure of the proper Procedure, (i.e., CPR should be given by those that have had Certified training. Improperly administered CPR can do more damage than good.)

·         Transport injured individual except in extreme emergencies.

Storage Room Procedures

All umpire gear, bases, etc. must be returned to the storage room by the home team at the conclusion of the practice or game and the room must be locked.The home team manager is responsible for making sure the equipment is returned and the room is locked. Before using any equipment (lights, scoreboards, and public address system) be sure you understand the operating procedures.

Concession Stand Procedures

The snack stand must be staffed with at least 3 parents for all shifts. It is the Managers responsibility to staff the stand and make sure the parents are courteous to Denville Baseball Concession Stand Director and any patrons.  No children under the age of 13 are permitted to work the stand. Stand captain will unlock the stand, explain the procedures for stand duty, return to lock up the stand and collect the money at the end of the shift. If 1 person shows to work the stand it will be closed for that shift.

It is the Managers responsibility to schedule their team in the stand.  It is also their responsibility to inform the parents that this is mandatory.  Each team will have to staff the stand at least twice during the regular season, and once during the playoff season.  Teams will be assigned during a time that their child’s team is playing.  A schedule will be posted online and in the stand.

 Concession Stand Safety

The Concession Stand Director is an elected Denville Baseball Board Members and are responsible for staffing and general   operation of the food serving facilities.  The Stand Director has been adequately trained by the local board of health officials.

Stand Captains will be assigned at least one (1) for each day of the week.  The Concession Stand Director will provide essential food handling safety information and guidance to the daily appointed stand captains.

The following are essential safety tips which must be adhered to during the daily operation of the Snack Stand.

1.   Upon opening, check that all fire extinguishers are adequately charged and the gauge indicates the extinguishers are safe and ready for use.

2.   Turn on and inspect that all electrical appliances are operational and safe for use. (Report all non-functional equipment to the Concession Stand Director immediately)

3.      Follow the basic food handling guidelines presented below:

Reheating.

Rapidly reheat potentially hazardous foods to 165° F. Do not attempt to heat foods in crock pots, steam tables, over sterno units or other holding devices.

Cooling and Cold Storage.

Foods that require refrigeration must be cooled to 41° F as quickly as possible and held at that temperature until ready to serve. To cool foods down quickly, use an ice water bath (60% ice to 40% water), stirring the product frequently, or place the food in shallow pans no more than 4 inches in depth and refrigerate. Pans should not be stored one atop the other and lids should be off or ajar until the food is completely cooled. Check temperature periodically to see if the food is cooling properly. Allowing hazardous foods to remain unrefrigerated for too long has been the number ONE cause of food borne illness

Hand Washing.

Frequent and thorough hand washing remains the first line of defense in preventing food borne disease. The use of disposable gloves can provide an additional barrier to contamination, but they are no substitute for hand washing!