YOUTH BASEBALL ASSOCIATION OF ROYAL PALM BEACH, INC.

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1 YOUTH BASEBALL ASSOCIATION OF ROYAL PALM BEACH, INC. LEAGUE REGULATION Youth Baseball Association of Royal Palm Beach, Inc. P.O. Box Royal Palm Beach, FL February 2010, revised July 2010, February 2011, January 2013, January 2016, August 2016, December 2016, March 2017 The Board of Directors of the Youth Baseball Association of Royal Palm Beach, Inc. adopted the following League Rules and Regulations, Consisting of Section I - Policy and Procedure and Section II - Recreation Park Baseball Rules. The League Rules and Regulations may only be modified by amendment approved by the Board of Directors. Section I. POLICY AND PROCEDURES MISSION STATEMENT The Youth Baseball Association of Royal Palm Beach, Inc. ( YBARPB or the League ), a Florida not-for-profit corporation, was organized in November 2009 to educate and instruct the youth of Royal Palm Beach, and the surrounding Western Communities, in the ideals of sportsmanship and fair play; to educate our youth that they will be better able to conduct themselves in future years in a manner becoming good citizens of Royal Palm Beach, Palm Beach County, the State of Florida and the United States of America. The League will seek to solidify in our youth of the community the ideals of good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, integrity, and courage to assist our youth as they grow into happy and healthy adults. This will be accomplished through an environment of a well organized and supervised recreational baseball program. The primary goal of the League is to organize and promote youth baseball at its best: to provide equal competition on an equal playing field for all of our youth. ALCOHOL, TOBACCO AND ILLEGAL DRUGS 1

2 All representatives of YBARPB, Inc. including Directors, Managers, Coaches, parents and players are prohibited from using any and all drugs or alcohol products while involved in any YBARPB-sponsored activities (including, but not limited to, before, during and after practice and games), whether such activities take place at the Bob Marcello Baseball Complex or otherwise. Any Manager or Coach seen using or thought to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol during a practice or game will be asked to leave the field and will be brought before the Board of Directors to discuss their status with the League. Cigarette smoking and the chewing of tobacco is not allowed on or near the fields, dugouts, backstops, outfield fences, bathrooms, batting cages, etc. However such use is allowed in designated areas, such as the pavilions and parking lot. PARK SAFETY Per Ordinance of the Village of Royal Palm Beach, dogs, bicycles, skateboards, skates or scooters (motorized or otherwise) are not allowed at Bob Marcello Baseball Complex. CHAIN OF COMMAND The volunteers of YBARPB welcome the opportunity to assist anyone who has a question, concern or problem, using the following chain of command: A Player or Parent who has a question, concern or problem should contact his Manager. If the Manager cannot assist such person, the Manager should contact the Divisional Coordinator. If the Divisional Coordinator cannot assist such person, the Divisional Coordinator should contact the Baseball Commissioner. If the Baseball Commissioner cannot assist such person, he should contact his fellow Board of Directors members. In addition, Field Coordinators are available to assist whenever possible. Any issue that cannot be resolved at the Field Coordinator level shall be brought to the Commissioner, and if he cannot resolve the issue, he will then bring the issue before the Board of Directors, whose decision will be final, and will ensure the best interests of the children and the League. For the convenience of all, mailboxes for all Board of Directors and League Leaders are located in the Press box at the Main Concession. RECREATIONAL SEASONS The League will offer two (2) recreational seasons per year. The first, being the Fall Season, will serve as the instructional season; will primarily be based around teaching our youth the fundamentals of baseball. The second, being the Spring Season, will serve as the competitive season; will primarily be based around the fair and equal competition for all of our youth. Registration is open to all children ages 4 through 18. The season runs from August 1st July 31st. In age divisions 14 and below, the player s age prior to May 1 st determines the player s eligible age division for the current season. Players can play up an age division and this will only be allowed with the approval of the Board of Directors. League age is that age attained by a Participant prior to May 1 st of the current year. Age determines the Participants legality for a particular division of play. During the Fall (instructional) Season, all Participants will play in the division they will play during the upcoming Spring Season. DIVISIONS Shetland 6U (T-Ball) All Participants must turn four (4) by May 1 st of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season, and may not turn seven (7) by May 1 st of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season. 2

3 Pinto 8U (Coach Pitch) All Participants must turn seven (7) by May 1 st of the of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season, and may not turn nine (9) before May 1 st of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season. Mustang 10U (Kid Pitch) All Participants must turn nine (9) by May 1 st of the of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season, and may not turn eleven (11) before May 1 st of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season. Bronco 12U All Participants must turn eleven (11) by May 1 st of the of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season, and may not turn thirteen (13) before May 1 st of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season. Pony 14U All Participants must turn thirteen (13) by May 1 st of the of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season, and may not turn fifteen (15) before May 1 st of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season. Colt 15U All Participants must turn fifteen (15) by May 1 st of the of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season, and may not turn seventeen (17) before May 1 st of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season. Palomino 17U All Participants must turn seventeen (17) by May 1 st of the of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season, and may not turn nineteen (19) before May 1 st of the next available Spring Season, if Fall, or current Spring Season. REGISTRATION Eligibility of all applications is established by the applicant's age. Any applicant, as defined in paragraphs 1 through 6 of the "Divisions" section is eligible to register in YBARPB, Inc.'s baseball program. To be classified as "registered," each applicant must fulfill the following requirements: The registration form supplied by YBARPB, Inc. must be completed and signed by a parent or guardian. Each applicant must attach to the registration form or have on file a copy of his Birth Certificate. All applicable registration fees must be paid at registration. There will be a minimum of three (3) open registration sessions per season. The League will, to the best of its ability, advertise the dates of said registration sessions using ads, flyers, and direct mailings to past players. Any registration that is made after the last advertised date will be assessed a late fee of Ten Dollars ($10.00). There will be a 20% non-resident fee applied to all applications based on the list of boundaries provided by the Village of RPB. For those families with more than one child in the league, we offer a $10.00 sibling discount after the first registered child. 3

4 Refunds: Refunds prior to Player Evaluations will be paid in full. Refunds after Player Evaluations will be paid in full less a Ten Dollar ($10.00) service fee. Refunds after draft will be paid in full less a Twenty five Dollar ($25.00) service fee. Refunds after practice/season has begun may be paid depending on circumstances. All refunds will be prorated. Cost of uniforms will be deducted from any refund. If a child is withdrawn due to a medical condition, the League will require written verification from the attending physician. ALL requests for refunds shall be made directly to the League Treasurer at info@youthbaseballrpb.com. All refunds will be paid within twenty (20) days of request. Returned Checks: A check returned unpaid by your bank for any reason will incur a service fee of Twenty five Dollars ($25.00). Checks returned will not be redeposited. Repayment will be made in the form of cash, cashier's check or money order. Siblings: During Fall Season, siblings playing in the same division may be selected on the same team for convenience purposes. However, during Spring Season, where there may be a AA/AAA system in effect, there is no guarantee that siblings will be selected on the same team. Evaluation scores will mandate round placement. HARDSHIP CASES The Board of Directors will consider hardship requests received in writing from the parent(s) in the placement of Players on particular teams and will inform the affected Manager of such requests prior to Player Draft so that such requests can be taken into account at the time of Player Draft. In the event the hardship request is not resolved through the Player Draft, then the Board of Directors will handle each situation on a case by-case basis. It should be noted that any hardship request shall be subject to the League's goal and desire to begin each season with all teams as equally balance as possible. Where such goal and desire is adversely impacted by the hardship request, such request will likely be denied. It is also emphasized that the stated hardships must be EXTREME and, as an example, "car pooling" standing alone constitutes insufficient hardship. During Spring Season, where there may be a AA/ AAA system in effect, there is no guarantee that siblings will be selected on the same team. Evaluation scores will mandate round placement. SCHOLARSHIPS League policy provides that no child be denied the opportunity to participate in its baseball program due to financial hardship. The League will do all it can do to provide qualifying Players the opportunity to secure financial aid, which could include, for example, reduced registration, payment plans, player sponsorships, full or partial scholarship, or increased fundraising opportunities. In many instances, the qualifying Player and/or his Parent or Guardian will be required to volunteer his or her time to the League as "payment". Scholarships will be prescribed by the League. All potential recipients should contact the League to obtain the proper documentation to apply for a scholarship. 4

5 SELECTION OF MANAGERS/COACHES Managing and Coaching is a privilege NOT A RIGHT! Any person interested in managing or coaching a team must complete a Volunteer Information/ Release of Liability form, pass a background check and be in good standing with the League. "Good standing" shall be defined as a person who is NYSCA (National Youth Sports Coaches Association) certified, passes a background check, and has addressed any oral or written complaints against him or her to the satisfaction of the League. Background checks are performed to ensure the safety of our children and are not intended to be an invasion of privacy. NYSCA mandates that Coaches must be at least 16 years of age and Managers must be at least 18 years of age. Prior to the commencement of any season, the League Registrar will provide the Board of Directors with a list of all Managers who are interested and eligible to return to manage. The Board of Directors shall approve all appointments of Managers. Managers will be selected after a review by the commissioner in conjunction with the Divisional Coordinator and approved by the Executive Committee. This managerial selection process will remain the same if 2 managers have equivalent seniority. The hierarchies in selecting Managers are: - Consecutive seasons managing. - Consecutive seasons managing and coaching. - Total seasons (not consecutive) managing and coaching. If a manager leaves our league then they will lose their seniority, and if they return to our league then their seniority will be reset as a new manager entering our league. During Spring Season, any AAA Coach returning to the same division will have priority over a AA Manager moving up. Such returning AAA Coach would have to have held a Manager's position prior to becoming a AAA Coach. A "Returning Manager" is defined as any Manager who has managed any team within the League and has remained active in the League for the prior two (2) consecutive Spring Seasons. Each Manager may roster up to three (3) Coaches to assist him or her. Managers shall have the authority to select their Coaches with the understanding that all Coaches selected must be in good standing with the League (as herein defined). The Board of Directors shall approve all appointments of Coaches. In cases where unusual circumstances prevail, the Board of Directors has the authority to adjust such list to ensure that the best interests of the children and the League are served. PLAYER EVALUATION Evaluation of Players shall take place in all divisions. Every Player must attend player evaluation in order to attempt to create teams of balanced talent. Each division shall have scheduled evaluation time for which appointments will be given at registration. Each division 5

6 will also have a supplemental evaluation date for those unable to attend the scheduled evaluation or for late sign-ups. The Baseball Commissioner, in conjunction with the Divisional Coordinators, is responsible for creating an evaluation that will determine skill level in throwing, catching, base running, etc., which will be approved by the Board of Directors. An independent panel will judge player evaluations. All potential Managers, along with their potential coaches, are encouraged to attend player evaluations to help them determine which players best suit their needs. Each Player will be assigned a registration number and will wear it on the front or back of his/ her shirt. This number corresponds to the number that is placed on the Player's registration form, and will identify the Player throughout Evaluation and Player Draft. Players will be evaluated in selected categories on a scale of 1-10 (1 representing a more advanced skill level, 5 representing the all-around average player, and 10 representing an unskilled player). Players being evaluated for the Shetland (T-Ball) Division will be evaluated in selected categories on a scale of 1-5. Players will be evaluated by three (3) judges. After all Players have been evaluated, the Divisional Coordinators, in conjunction with the Board of Directors, shall average Player's evaluation scores and create a Ratings Sheet to be used at Player draft. In cases where unusual circumstances prevail, the Board of Directors shall have the authority to review any Player's evaluation scores to ensure that the best interests of the child are served. PLAYER DRAFT The appropriate Divisional Coordinator and a minimum of two (2) Board of Directors members will supervise Player Draft. Player Draft is not open to the public. The Manager will be allowed to represent each team. In the event a Manager cannot attend a coach may fill his place. In the event a Manager has not been selected, a Divisional Coordinator and/or a member of the Board of Directors shall draft a "ghost team", and a Manager will be selected at a later date. The Divisional Coordinator shall post Player registration numbers on the board at Player Draft by round. Round 1 shall represent the highest rated Players. Each Round shall contain the same number of Players as there are teams in a division, e.g., if there are nine (9) teams in a division, 9 Players per Round shall be posted. In this example, there are six (6) teams and Player #42 is the highest skilled player, and Player #3 is the lowest skilled player. Freezes: EXAMPLE: Round Round Round Round Round Each team is allowed two (2) freezes at the Player Draft; namely, the Manager's child and that of his Head Coach. The Player Number of any Freezes shall then be removed from the board. In this example, Player #38 and #44 are Manager/Head Coach Freezes. A Manager will then forfeit selecting during the round where the Player Freeze is rated. In this example, the Manager loses his 1st and 3 rd round draft picks. If both Freezes are rated in the same round (i.e., 2 nd round), the Manager will forfeit his 1 st and 2 nd round draft picks. 6

7 With the intent to keep all teams as balanced as possible, when a draft situation occurs with multiple freezes in any of the same rounds, the following penalty will apply: If you have 2 freezes in any given round, you will forfeit 1 round of draft If you have 3 freezes in any given round, you will forfeit 2 rounds of draft. Ex. If your 2 freezes are rated in round 1, those 2 freezes will be marked as your 1 st and 2 nd round picks and you will forfeit your 3 rd round pick and not be allowed to draft another player until the 4 th round and selecting two picks in the 5 th round. Ex. If your 3 freezes are rated in round 1, those 3 freezes will be marked as your 1 st, 2 nd and 3 rd round draft picks and you will forfeit your 4 th and 5 th round picks and not be allowed to draft another player until the 6 th round and selecting two picks in the 7 th round. Any Manager may also serve as a Head Coach or Coach in another division. However, only the children on the teams in which he serves as Manager and as Head Coach may be frozen; that is, he cannot freeze more than (2) of his children in the League. Order of Selection: Managers shall be given a random selection order, i.e., pulling a number from a hat. The Managers shall then select Players in that order using a reciprocating selection process, i.e., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1. When this is established, the Player Draft shall commence, with each Manager selecting Players, two (2) Rounds at a time (e.g., in a draft where there are six (6) teams in a division, all six (6) Managers must make their Round 1 selections from the field of Players placed in Rounds 1 and 2 before the Players in Round 3 can be made available for selection. If there are fewer players available on the board then there are teams, the next immediate round will be opened. Selection shall continue in this manner until there are no evaluation numbers left on the board and each Player has been placed on a team. Trading of Players: Once all Players have been selected, the Divisional Coordinator shall oversee any trading. The trade must be an equal trade (i.e., within one (1) round) and approved by the affected Managers, the Divisional Coordinator and the Baseball Commissioner. At the conclusion of Player Draft, each Manager will be given the registration cards for the Players he has selected for his team. From those cards, he will complete a Team Roster, which MUST be completed and turned in before leaving the draft room. Upon submission of the Team Roster to the League, each Manager will receive an information packet, which will include all required League documentation. Any team that has a paid sponsor can turn in their Sponsorship Form and payment at this time. An announcement will be made regarding the distribution of equipment and required deposit. Any changes to Team Rosters after the Player Draft must be approved by the Parents of the affected Players, the affected Managers, the Divisional Coordinator, and the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors shall have the authority to ensure that the best interests of the children and the League are served. Late Evaluations: Late Sign-Ups: Unregistered Children: 7

8 Any Player who has registered with the League, but did not attend the Player Evaluation, must be evaluated at a supplemental evaluation, which will be scheduled by the League prior to the Player Draft. Such Player will then be eligible to be drafted by a Manager during Player Draft. Any Player who does not register with the League until after the Player Draft will remain in a pool of late registered players. The board will determine a time that meets our league s mission statement whereas these post-draft late players will then be drafted in a blind draft. Each divisions blind draft order will be determined by the board based upon that division s needs. Children who have not registered to play with YBARPB are not considered Players and will not be allowed to practice or play with any team. MANAGER'S MEETING Prior to Opening Day, Managers will be required to attend a Managers Meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the upcoming season, and provide Managers with information regarding upcoming Player baseball schools, NYSCA clinics, opening day activities, rule changes, etc. Managers are also required to attend a divisional coaching clinic that will be held prior to opening day. This clinic is mandatory and any Manger not in attendance without authorization from the Divisional Coordinator will automatically forfeit the manager s position of his/her team. In addition, Managers will turn in all required League documentation. Coaches are encouraged to attend. AA/AAA During Spring Season, the League may use a AA/AAA system. Player Draft will be affected, as follows: Prior to draft, Ratings Sheets will be reviewed by the Board of Directors to determine a obvious breaking point so as to split a division based on Player ability. A Player Draft will then be conducted for the AAA division, followed by the AA division, as described in the Section entitled "Player Draft. Manager selection shall use the same criteria as described in the Section entitled "Manager Selection", with the following exception: The Evaluation Score of a Player shall determine where his parent/manager manages. During Player Draft in seasons where a AA/AAA system is used, each AAA team shall be paired with a AA team which will be its "farm team." These paired teams will be scheduled for joint practice sessions by the Divisional Coordinator for the purpose of educating all Players, Managers and Coaches involved. TEAM SPONSORS To help defray the cost of baseball, each team is required to secure a sponsor. All Sponsorship Forms and money must be submitted to the League Secretary. Any team that does not have a paid sponsor ten (10) days prior to the start of the season will not have sponsor's names printed 8

9 on team shirts. Any team who cannot secure a sponsor within such time period should contact the League Secretary to request assistance with respect to the same. UNIFORMS The Board of Directors will determine the criteria for uniform selection and will provide baseball caps, socks and shirts to each Player, and caps and shirts to each Manager and Coach. There is a limit of three (3) caps and shirts provided to the Managers and Coaches, additional coaches uniforms will be $25 each. Each team will be responsible for selecting and purchasing its own baseball pants. Players, Managers and Coaches are to wear the proper team uniform issued by the League, i.e., no substitution of baseball caps or socks. Nothing is to be pressed or sewn on any part of the uniform, unless specified by the League, including, without limitation, hat pins, patches and bands. Hats are to be worn in a proper fashion by all Players, Managers and Coaches at all times. No jewelry, except for medical identification and plastic clasp fabric necklaces are to be worn by any Player during games or practices. Metal cleated shoes are not permitted from Shetland through Bronco. League Issued Equipment (to Teams): EQUIPMENT Managers are responsible for the care of all League-furnished equipment appropriate for his division (i.e., equipment bag, batting helmets, baseballs, batting T, pitcher's helmet with mask, and catcher's equipment, including helmet with mask, shin guards, and chest protector, and catcher's mitt) and the return of same equipment at the end of the regular playing season. Upon receipt of League-furnished equipment, each Manager will submit a deposit in the form of a signed personal check made payable to YBARPB, Inc. in the amount of One Hundred Fifty Dollars ($150.00). This deposit will be held and returned only upon receipt of said equipment at the end of the season. Each Manager is required to turn in their equipment the day of their last game to the Equipment Director. Failure to do so will result in the forfeiture of the deposit, as well as an unfavorable rating and the issue may be brought before the Board of Directors for forfeiture of coaching privileges. All offensive players participating in YBARPB event must wear a double ear flapped helmet while on the playing field. This includes bat boys and bat girls while performing their duties. Youth coaches under 18 years of age must adhere to this standard. If the umpire observes any violation of these rules, he or she directs the violation to be corrected. The catcher must wear a head protector, body protector, protective cup (male players), shin guards, and a mask with a throat protector. The throat protector, which is part of or attached to 9

10 the mask, must adequately protect him or her. The helmet must have full ear protection. The head, face, dual ear flaps, and throat protector can be one piece. Bats must be made of an approved material, and they must be smooth and round. High school divisions must use NFHS (National Federation of State High School Associations) bat limitations. A batter using an altered bat is declared out, and all runners return to the base occupied at the time of the pitch. A batter is deemed to have used or attempted to use an illegal bat if the player brings such a bat into the batter s box. Any out or outs made during the play stand. RESPONSIBILITY OF MANAGERS Each Manager will: Always to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects good sportsmanship and leadership, and ensure that the Coaches do the same. No Manager or Coach will discourage any Player from participation in the League, or display behavior or be involved in activities considered detrimental or damaging to the League or its Players. The welfare of the Players is the primary concern of the League, and any Manager or Coach who repetitively fails to conduct himself in an exemplary manner risks his good standing with the League and may be subject to expulsion from the League. If during a game, any Manager or Coach is involved in a physical altercation or engages in the use of abusive or foul language, they shall be immediately ejected from the game and subject to further disciplinary action at the discretion of the Board of Directors. All Managers and Coaches are prohibited from using any and all drugs or alcohol products while involved in any YBARPB-sponsored activities (including, but not limited to, before, during and after practice and games), whether such activities take place at the Bob Marcello Baseball Complex or otherwise. Any Manager or Coach seen using or thought to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol during a practice or game will be asked to leave the field and will immediately receive a one (1) game suspension to be served during his team's next scheduled game. If offenses continue, the Manager or Coach will be brought before the Board of Directors to discuss his status with the League. Ensure that cigarette smoking is only permitted in the pavilion and parking lot areas. Ensure that their team, including Parents, abides by all League Regulations. Ensure that the name of any Youth Assistant is provided to the Divisional Coordinator, and, if the Youth Assistant is not a registered Player, that a fully-completed Volunteer Application is turned in to the Divisional Coordinator. Ensure that their team participates fully in all League functions, including, but not limited to, opening day, picture day, year-end parties, etc, to include monthly board meetings. Have one (1) preseason team meeting with the Players and the Parents to discuss League and team rules and policies. A representative of the League will, on request, attend a meeting for each team or a meeting of all teams within the Division. Complete an Incident Report with respect to an injury to a Player, Coach or Manager and submit the same to the League Secretary as soon as possible. Incident Reports will be included in the Manager's packet received prior to the commencement of the season and can also be found in 10

11 the office area of the Main Concession. They should also notify the Divisional Coordinator, who will then notify the Board of Directors as soon as possible. Follow the practice schedule set by the Divisional Coordinator. Practices may be terminated for any reason or re-scheduled by the Divisional Coordinator, Baseball Commissioner and/or the Board of Directors. Complete a Line-up Sheet, including the first and last name, position and shirt number of each Player, including substitutes, and deliver the same to the Press box fifteen (15) minutes prior to the scheduled game start time. Sign the Official Score sheet after each game. Return League-issued equipment to the Equipment Manager at the end of the season. After Coaches are selected, the Manager must notify the Divisional Coordinator who his coaching staff will be. If a manager is also a head coach in a different age division, they will only receive scheduling priorities for those 2 teams. Coaching Review Process; Any parent has the right to contact the league, while remaining anonymous, if they feel their child is experiencing inappropriate coaching. The board will research and review the details of the parent s request, and if warranted will assist the coach and addressing these needs. In the board s estimation if the coach has repeated offenses then his YBARPB coaching privileges will be suspended. The proper protocol to request a coaching review is for the parent to contact their respective Division Director, who will then initiate the review and subsequently report their findings to the board for a majority decision. RESPONSIBILITY OF PLAYERS Each Player will always conduct themselves in a manner that reflects good sportsmanship; display his/her best personal behavior, and refrain from activities considered detrimental or damaging to himself, the League or any of its Players. If during a game, any Player is involved in a physical altercation or engages in the use of abusive or foul language, they shall be immediately ejected from the game and subject to further disciplinary action at the discretion of the Board of Directors. RESPONSIBILITY OF PARENTS Each Parent or spectator will always conduct themselves in a manner that reflects good sportsmanship; display his/her best personal behavior, and refrain from activities considered detrimental or damaging to the League or any of its Players. If during a game, any Parent or spectator is involved in a physical altercation or engages in the use of abusive or foul language, they shall be directed to immediately leave the playing area. Play shall not resume until such person leaves, and they will be subject to further disciplinary action at the discretion of the Board of Directors. 11

12 It is every Parent's responsibility to ensure that their child attends every scheduled practice and game. Parents are required to remain present at practices and games. If a Player will be absent for any reason, it is the Parent's responsibility to make sure that the Manager, Coach or Team Parent has been given reasonable notice. It is every Parent's responsibility to ensure that their child is in the proper uniform. It is every Parent's responsibility and obligation to volunteer in the concession booth as assigned by the Manager and as described more fully in the Section entitled "Concession." The League recommends that Parents provide their child with a drink and food, when appropriate. TEAM PARENTS Each Manager shall select a Team Parent who will assist him in organizing the team. The Team Parent may be responsible for providing roster/contact information, creating a snack schedule (if appropriate) and concession schedule (and providing the same to the Concession Manager prior to the start of the season), contacting Parents regarding schedule changes, providing information regarding team picture day, fundraisers, ensuring that his team disposes of the trash and removes all equipment from the dugouts and surrounding areas after each game, etc. In the Shetland (T-Ball) and Pinto divisions, the Team Parent is encouraged to oversee the dugout to help maintain order. CONCESSION Each team will be required to work the concession stand following the schedule provided by the league. Each team should be present 30 minutes prior to the start of the first game, if they are the opening shift. If no one has filled the position in the concession stand by the scheduled game start time, the concession manager will advise the Umpire to delay the start of the game until the concession is staffed. Concession workers must be at least sixteen (16) years of age to work inside the concession stand, and at least eighteen (18) years of age to work at the grill/ fryers TEAM PICTURES During each season, the League will provide a photographer who will photograph all teams and individual Players. There will be a scheduled make-up day for those Players and/or teams who were unable to attend their schedule appointment. It is mandatory that all teams make themselves available for team pictures to ensure that there is a team photo for the Sponsor's Award at the end of the season. Failure to do so will result in the Manager of said team being suspended for one (1) game, the date of which will be determined by the Board of Directors. PLAYOFFS 12

13 The Shetland (T-Ball) Division shall not participate in Playoffs. Playoff seeding shall be according to regular season win/loss record. In the event of a tie, Pony playoff seeding rules will apply. The higher seeded team shall be the home team, until the championship game where the winner's bracket will be the home team. If a second game is required to determine the champion, the home team shall be selected by coin toss. With regard to Time Limits, all games shall be played using regular season time limits. In the event of a tie and time has expired, the game shall continue using a Kansas City Tie-breaker until there is a winner. Kansas City Tie Breaker: The inning will start with one (1) out and the Player who made the last recorded out will be the runner at second base. The batting order continues from the previous inning. Championship games shall have no time limit and shall be played until there is a winner. AWARDS/TROPHIES All Players in the Shetland (T-Ball) and Pinto Divisions shall receive participation trophies at the end of each season. All other divisions shall receive a participation award at the discretion of the Board of Directors. Playoff trophies will be awarded to the Players on the teams in Pinto, Mustang, Bronco, Pony, Colt, and Palomino Divisions who finish in 1 st and 2 nd place. During the Spring Season, a regular season trophy shall be awarded to the Players on the team in each division that places 1 st in regular season play. TOURNAMENT TEAMS Each age group may field a tournament team for both the Fall and Spring seasons. These teams will be comprised of potential Spring season All Star candidates. These teams will compete in tournaments throughout the year provided they do not conflict with the recreational season s practice and game schedules. Rosters will be selected by the Baseball Commissioner in conjunction with the Divisional Director and approved by the majority vote of the Board of Directors. NOMINATION AND ELECTION OF ALL-STAR PLAYERS The Philosophy behind All-Stars: At the end of each Spring Season, YBARPB will sponsor Teams to enable outstanding players in each division the opportunity to compete at a higher level in Local Tournaments, and represent the league in the Pony District, Section, Regional, Zone, World Series Sanctioned Tournaments. The objective is to select the top players in each division who will roster an "A" team and a "B" team for each division. However, nominees should be selected based not only on their athletic ability, but also have a good attitude, good sportsmanship and encompass the overall image of an "All-Star" ballplayer. Each Manager (and only AAA Managers in divisions which are split) must submit a list of at least five (5) Players from their regular season team who will be placed on a divisional roster for All- Star Team Elections to the Divisional Coordinator two (2) weeks prior to an All-Star election 13

14 meeting so that the other Managers may have the opportunity to "scout" these Players. Each list must include each Team Name, player's first name, last name and uniform number. A Divisional Coordinator or a Board of Director can then nominate any Player from his/her division (including AA teams in divisions which are split) who he/she feels was overlooked for any reason or truly deserves to be considered for nomination. "A" Blue team and "B" Silver team All-Stars will be selected by each team s Manager in each division, and approved by both the respective Division Director and the majority vote of the Board of Directors. No more than thirteen (13) players will be elected to each All-Star team, i.e., "A" and "B" teams. Once team rosters are finalized, no additions or deletions to the team roster shall be made by the All-Star Managers without the prior approval of the Board of Directors. Only Managers from the current Spring Season are eligible to apply for the position of All-Star Manager. Election of All-Star Managers will be addressed immediately after All-Star Teams are elected. Only Managers or Coaches from the current Spring Season are eligible to act as All-Star Coaches. NOMINATION AND ELECTION OF AA ALL-STAR PLAYERS At the end of the Spring Season, in split divisions, the League will allow for an AA All-Star tournament (best 2 of 3 games) to be held at Bob Marcello Baseball Complex. AA All-Star Nomination and Election will be held in the same manner as AAA All-Star Nomination and Election, except that solely AA Players and Managers will participate. ELECTION OF AAA/AA ALL-STAR MANAGERS The AAA/AA All Star Managers shall be elected directly after the election of All-Star Players by a majority of the Managers in that division. At least three (3) Board of Directors members shall be present at and shall oversee the election of All-Star Managers. AAA ALL-STARS There will be a fee charged to all AAA All-Star Players. This fee, which may vary each year depending on League finances, shall include payment of team registration for up to three (3) local tournaments, the appropriate district level tournament, team hats, shirts and socks. Parents will be required to sign a letter of intent to allow All-Star participation. There will be no refund of All-Star fees once the letter of intent and fees have been submitted. The League does not provide transportation to All-Star events. Should an All-Star team advance past the local level of tournaments, the League, depending on funds available, may make a donation to assist with travel expenses when said team is forced to play out of area, i.e., Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Fort Myers, and the like. This donation of 14

15 funds would not exceed Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) per team. Players and Parents on such All-Star teams would be required to fundraise to earn money for extended play. AA ALL-STARS There will be a fee charged to all AA All-Star Players. This fee, which may vary each year depending on League finances, shall include a League-sponsored AA All-Star Tournament (best 2 of 3 games), a team shirt, and fees for umpires and trophies. All Player shall wear hats from their regular season team. Parents will be required to sign a letter of intent to allow All-Star participation. There will be no refund of All-Star fees once the letter of intent and fees have been submitted. TRAVEL TEAMS Must Play: YBARPB requires all of their affiliated travel teams to have 80% of their roster enroll and participate in the Spring seasons. Each travel team may submit a hardship waiver to the YBARPB board to deviate from the 80% participation minimum if they have a justified hardship request. With the board s majority the hardships may be approved or denied. 1. All Travel Teams must be comprised of a minimum 25% Royal Palm Beach residents. 2. ALL participants are required to reside within the boundaries set forth in this agreement: a. Northern Boundary: Northlake Blvd. (incl. 91 th St. PL N to 100 th LN N) b. Southern Boundary: Lake Worth Road c. Western Boundary: 20 mile bend d. Eastern Boundary: Florida Turnpike 3. Each Royal Palm Beach travel team will be assessed the following per team per season; a. teams comprised of 51% residents or greater: $250 per season payable to the Village and $100 payable to YBARPB. b. teams comprised of 25%-50% residents: $500 per season payable to the Village and $100 payable to YBARPB. 4. Each travel team must submit a team roster to the YBARPB board before each season which must be approved by the Executive Committee before they are approved for use of Village facilities for that season. 5. Travel teams are independent of Recreation League Teams with a single representative on the Primary Provider Board of Directors. 6. Primary use of Village owned facilities is given to the Recreation League teams. 15

16 7. Travel Teams will have access to Village baseball facilities if available on Friday evenings and Sundays for games and Monday thru Thursday based on percentage of enrollment as compared to the Recreational League and availability. 8. Use of existing concession facilities is prohibited. However an independently operated concession is permitted. 9. All permits and licenses required by the State of Florida Health Department along with all permits required by the Village of Royal Palm Beach. 10.Travel League season will not begin more than 2 weeks prior to the scheduled beginning of the Recreation season nor will it extend more than 2 weeks of the end of the Recreation regular season schedule. 11. No additional Parks staff required. However should the need arise all charges will be accessed as listed in the Village s Fees and Charges Schedule. (see attached) 12.No Recreational League equipment will be used by travel teams. Travel Teams are responsible for their own equipment. 13.Each travel Team will be responsible for its finances however monthly financial statements are to be submitted to the Travel provider representative at its monthly Primary Provider Meeting. 14.All other policies and procedures set forth in this agreement are in effect. 15.The pitching rest rules defined in our rules apply to travel games. OFFICIAL SCOREKEEPERS The League may provide Official Scorekeepers for each scheduled game. Scorekeepers must be at least twelve (12) years of age. Scorekeepers will be required to attend training clinics and will be scheduled by the Head Scorekeeper based on their qualification. Scorekeepers will arrive to the field to which they are assigned at least fifteen (15) minutes prior to the scheduled start time. Scorekeepers are responsible for obtaining Line-up Sheets from both Managers, completing the Official Score sheet and obtaining the signatures of the Managers and Umpire(s) after each game and placing such Official Score sheet in the appropriate binder, running the scoreboard, and announcing the game (where applicable). The Official Score sheet is the basis for payroll; therefore, if it is not properly submitted, paychecks may be delayed. All final paychecks will be mailed to the address provided to the League Treasurer. Scorekeepers will also be responsible for playing the National Anthem five (5) minutes prior to game time during weeknight games and five (5) minutes prior to the start of the first (1 st ) game only on Saturday. Only Official Scorekeepers and League Officials are permitted in the Press box. In the event that the League decides not to provide scorekeepers, the Home team will be asked to run the score board. UMPIRES The League will provide Umpires for each scheduled game. Umpires must be at least twelve (12) years of age. Umpires will be required to attend training clinics and will be scheduled by the Umpire in Chief based on their qualifications. All Umpires age eighteen (18) and older must 16

17 pass a background check. Background checks are performed to ensure the safety of our children and are not intended to be an invasion of privacy. Umpires will arrive at the field to which they are assigned at least fifteen (15) minutes prior to the scheduled start time, wearing the appropriate uniform and carrying the equipment necessary to properly and safely umpire such game. The Umpire should ensure that the game is started on time and is played at a reasonable pace. All Umpires must sign the Official Score sheet for the game in order to be compensated. Failure to do so may result in the delay of paychecks. Umpires are in full charge of the baseball field to which they are assigned and the Players, Managers and Coaches on that field. Umpires are to be treated with respect. If a manager or coach has a question for the umpire, than only one coach or manager may approach the umpire. The umpire has the right under his discretion to eject any additional coach who maliciously violates this rule in that particular game. When a game has been declared a forfeit, the Umpire shall stay and work the game as a scrimmage game if the Managers elect to "play out" the forfeited game. The Official Score sheet will be completed as usual, except that it will be marked "forfeited by [Team Name] for lack of players. GUIDELINES FOR SUSPENSION AND DISMISSAL Any member of YBARPB behaving in an unsportsmanlike manner can be subject to dismissal or suspension. Any verbal or physical attack on any YBARPB participant or member during a YBARPB event or following a YBARPB event can result in suspension or dismissal. Any player competing under an assumed name or illegal birth certificate or ID card could result in suspension or permanent dismissal. This rule also applies to coaches and managers who have previous knowledge of such infraction. Any suspended member of YBARPB is not allowed to participate in any YBARPB event until such suspension is lifted. This rule applies to players, umpires, coaches, and member of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors is responsible for the determination on the lifting of all suspensions of YBARPB members. All records of suspension must be submitted to all parties involved including YBARPB in a timely manner. All suspended or dismissed parties have the right to present evidence and information on the reported infraction on their behalf. This evidence must be reviewed within two days by the YBARPB Board of Directors. EJECTIONS 17

18 A Manager or Coach ejected from a game shall also be automatically suspended for his next scheduled game. The ejectee shall have the right, within forty-eight (48) hours after said ejection, to contact the Divisional Coordinator to request a hearing. Such hearing shall be held within five (5) days. If the Divisional Coordinator is unavailable for any reason, the ejectee may contact the League at If the ejectee's next scheduled game is prior to the requested hearing, such suspension, if upheld, shall be deferred to the next scheduled game following said hearing. The responsibility for requesting a hearing rests solely with the ejectee. The Umpire in charge of such game shall note the ejection on the Official Score sheet (if available) and notify the Umpire in Chief immediately following such game. The Umpire in Chief shall then notify the Baseball Commissioner, who will, in turn, notify the Board of Directors. Within forty-eight (48) hours following any Player ejection, the League shall hold a hearing to discuss the circumstances surrounding the ejection. Depending on the circumstances surrounding the ejection, the Board of Directors may impose an additional suspension to be served during the next immediate game. In instances concerning a Player or other person under age eighteen (18), that person's parent shall be invited to attend. DISCIPLINARY ACTION The following is a guideline for the handling of Player or adult discipline problems The Board of Directors shall have the authority to discipline any Player, Manager, Coach, Umpire, or other person whose conduct is in violation of the Rules and Regulations of YBARPB is considered detrimental to the best interests of the League. The Board of Directors shall have authority to discipline any YBARPB member who is in such violation. Persons subject to discipline shall have the right to a hearing before the Board of Directors before such discipline is imposed. In the event of such a hearing involving a Player or other person under age eighteen (18), that person's parent shall be invited to attend. Persons (youth or adult) who refuse to comply with the YBARPB Baseball Rules & Regulations may be considered for disciplinary action. Recognizing the difficulty of establishing specific penalties for a variety of violations of unacceptable conduct, the following penalties may be imposed. The Board of Directors may impose the penalty, which, in their opinion, appears to match the severity of the offense. Warning The offending person is to be advised, verbally or in writing, of the offense and further advised that repetition of the offense shall result in a more severe penalty. Probation The offending person is to be advised, in writing, that he has been placed on probation for a specific period of time. Suspension The offending person is to be advised, in writing, that he has been suspended from all League activity for a specific number of games or days. Players who must serve a suspension may attend their game, but are not allowed on the playing field. 18