York County Oldtimers Baseball League, York, PA

While the York County Oldtimers Baseball League (YCOBL) continues to prepare for its 33rd season, we are fully aware that a “normal” season – or a season at all, for that matter – may not be possible due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our hope is to play a full schedule with as few disruptions as possible, while doing our best to keep everyone safe. Still, there is much uncertainty as to how this season will look and how things may pan out. The following questions and answers are our best attempt to be as transparent and honest as possible. Please understand that the answers provided are as of today (September 2, 2021); future decisions could change depending on the ever evolving status of the virus and the efforts to contain it.

Q: Is there a possibility the season may be halted, altered, or cancelled?

A: We are hoping and planning to play a full season, but if the virus worsens and federal, state, or local mandates prohibit us from playing, then yes, that is a possibility.

Q: If the league is cancelled, halted, or altered, will my registration money be returned?

A: If the 2021 season should be cancelled prior to the August 26th draft, full refunds for all players will be granted. If the 2021 season is cancelled after the draft but before three (3) games have been played, a partial refund will be given (after the cost of uniforms and any other costs incurred by the league at the start of the season are accounted for).  Once three (3) games have been played, no refunds will be given – even if a full season does not take place. (Reminder: only players who have paid their registration fee will be drafted.  Do not withhold your registration payment because you are concerned about the season being cancelled.)

Q: Will the league be doing things such as temperature checks to ensure all players are symptom free before games?

A: No. The league is counting on players to use common sense and refrain from coming to games if you do not feel well.  If you are sick or suspect you may have been exposed to COVID-19, stay home.

Q: What will the league be doing to help ensure my safety?

A: The YCOBL will be providing hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes in both dugouts and in the spectator area at all fields for use by all. The league will also provide a supply of masks at each field. Beyond that, the league recommends that all players and spectators provide their own mask and disinfectant supplies, use them appropriately, wash their hands, and practice social distancing.

Q: What happens if a player tests positive for COVID-19?

A: We are asking that anyone who tests positive notify their manager and/or the commissioner so that contact tracing efforts may be initiated. It is imperative that people are honest about how they are feeling and that positive tests be reported for the safety of others. We will do our best to maintain the anonymity of anyone reporting a positive test.

Q: Will a positive test shut down the league?

A: No. A positive test by itself does not mean the end of the league – though it could impact our schedule.  We will address this if or when it becomes an issue.

Q: Will spectators be allowed at games?

A: Yes, spectators will be allowed. However, we ask that all spectators follow social distancing protocols and adhere to any federal, state, or local mandates regarding masks.

Q: Must players, coaches, or umpires wear masks during games?

A: We will not be requiring players, coaches, or officials to wear masks during games.

Q: Are players allowed to wear masks or other personal protective equipment on the field if they want to?

A: Yes.

Q: Must players maintain social distancing while at games?

A: Baseball is a contact sport and there are times close proximity is unavoidable. But as much as possible, social distancing protocols should be followed, particularly when you are not on the field. Dugouts will be allowed to be used, but players are encouraged to bring their own chairs or use the bleacher areas to allow proper spacing. Pregame or post-game pep talks or meetings should only take place with proper distancing.

Q: Will players be allowed to use “team” equipment?

A: The YCOBL is encouraging all players to bring their own baseball equipment and protective gear (bats, helmets, mitts, etc.) as a way of limiting contact. The league will continue to provide bats, helmets, and catcher’s gear for anyone that doesn’t have any, but players who use the “team” equipment do so at their own risk. We encourage players to disinfect any equipment they use. Managers or league officials will disinfect all equipment before and after games.

Q: Are handshakes, fist bumps, and high fives permitted?

A: Yes. However, anyone who does not wish to participate in the traditional handshake line at the conclusion of games will not be required to do so. Each player should do what he feels is in his best interest. Aside from that, each player is asked to do your best to limit any unnecessary contact.

Q: How closely will YCOBL officials and managers be monitoring the aforementioned COVID-19 policies?

A: It is not the intent of the league to police the actions of players and spectators. Our main guidelines are that you use common sense and be respectful of all people.  We will not be monitoring player contact, nor will we be measuring how closely people are sitting to each other. But officials or managers may address any blatant violations of policies, especially anything that endangers the safety of others.

Q: How will the league handle comments from players or bystanders regarding people’s personal safety habits?

A: The league will have a zero tolerance policy for anyone making comments or using language that attempts to belittle or shame anyone for their use or non-use of masks or other protective equipment. If you can’t handle someone wearing a mask, stay home.  If being around a player who isn’t wearing a mask makes you feel uncomfortable, stay home. Keep your comments to yourself.  Above all else, respect one another.