PARADISE PHANTOMS ALL-STAR Baseball Program Handbook

PARADISE PHANTOMS ALL-STAR Baseball Program Handbook

TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Contact Information II. Mission Statement III. Program Goals IV. Player Expectations V. Team Selection Process VI. Baseball Communication Process VII. Baseball Code of Conduct VIII. Baseball Team Rules and Policies IX. Rules for Missed Practice and Tardiness X. Keys to Winning XI. Sportsmanship XII. Team Equipment and Uniform Policy XIII. Safety Team Rules XIV. Player Information Sheet XV. Parent/Player Information Form

CONTACT INFORMATION John Saunders Email: jsaunder@mun.ca Websites: www.sport.ca/pmb www.sport.ca/2014pmbbantamaa Telephone: 709-781-0596 Cell: 709-691-5785 MISSION STATEMENT Develop athletes who are committed to achieving excellence in the on the field, and in the community. COACHING PHILOSOPHY My coaching philosophy at the all-star level is based on teambuilding, hard work, and commitment. I ask the players to focus on working hard and to their maximum potential. We will work hard to have fun and learn at the same time and this is done through drills and strategy sessions. PROGRAM GOALS I. Field a successful team at the following levels a. On the field b. In the community II. Provide each player with the opportunity to learn, develop, and III. improve baseball skills on a daily basis Provide each player with an atmosphere that encourages mental, social, and emotional maturity PLAYER EXPECTATIONS An athlete in the Paradise Phantoms Baseball Program is expected to: 1. Show up on time. 2. Work hard. 3. Maintain a positive attitude. 4. Dedicate yourself to improvement every day. 5. Put the TEAM ahead of personal goals. 6. Respect your coaches, teammates, opposing teams and officials. 7. Encourage your teammates. 8. Discuss questions or concerns with your coach in a positive, mature manner. 9. Represent the program appropriately on the field, and in the community.

TE AM PROCESS The Baseball Evaluation Matrix will be used as an assessment of each player during the season. This will play a part in field positions, batting order, and pitching rotation. PART A Skills The skill set for a baseball player is influenced by position and game situation. A good offensive player may need work to improve their defensive or mental game, while a good defensive player may have to work on their hitting. Each player will be given opportunity to show the defensive skills in ground balls, catches, positioning, and mental aspect. In addition focus will be placed on players who can play the position of pitcher and catcher. Finally all will have a turn at batting and bunting. PART B Attitude and coachability A good attitude sets an example for the rest of the players on the team. The best players usually have the best attitudes. Since baseball is a team sport, everyone needs to be working together when they are on the diamond. If you have a few players who think they are above the team, or they don t need to put out the same effort as other players on the team, they can affect an entire lineup. The players with good attitudes are great motivators for the players that do have the better skills and they can be valuable in pushing those players to greater heights. PART C Athleticism and potential This can be hard for some coaches to gauge, but I think it is important. All you have to do is think of that players that can throw the ball 100 miles an hour, but can t hit the broad side of a barn. Or the big swinger that can hit it over the fence every time, but misses more than he or she makes contact. Athleticism is an important tool in determining the quality of a player. Potential is a funny thing. Uncovered talent is all over the place, but some players need a little more coaching than others.

PRACTICE and EXHIBITIONS There will be regular weekly practices and time reserved for the batting cage at Peter Barry Duff. All players are expected to show up on time for practice, there will be 2 practices per week and 1 to 2 batting cage sessions. In addition we will attempt to schedule exhibition games with local teams in CBS, Mount Pearl, and St. John s as field resources permit. SAMPLE PRACTICE June 30 4pm to 540pm Peter Barry Duff June 30 3pm to 4pm Batting Cage Group A with Summer Students PROVINCIAL TOURNAMENT and INVITATIONAL TOURNAMENTS Provincials August 29-31 - Pepsi Bantam AA - Mount Pearl September 12-14 - Atlantic Bantam AA - Nova Scotia (Team who wins Provin) Invitationals July 11-13 - Mary Tavenor Memorial Tournament - Corner Brook July 18-20 - Festival of Baseball - St. John's Aug. 8-10 - Bantam AA All Star Invitational Tournament- St. John s

COMMUNICATION PROCESS When a player or parent has questions or concerns regarding the program or a player's individual role on the team, it is important to keep in mind the following communications process that has been adopted by the baseball program. This process provides an effective and efficient progression, focused on solving any problem that may develop throughout the season. FOUR STEP ACTION PLAN STEP 1. The concerned player should approach his immediate head coach to schedule a time to discuss his questions or concerns. If the player does not feel comfortable and satisfied with the outcome of this meeting, he should move forward with Step 2. STEP 2. The concerned player should request a meeting involving himself, and the coordinator and if the player does not feel comfortable and satisfied with the outcome of this meeting, he should move forward with Step 3. STEP 3. A meeting involving the player, the necessary Paradise Baseball coaches and parent(s)/guardian(s) should be requested via e-mail. This e-mail should include a brief explanation of the player/parent concerns. If this meeting does not resolve the situation, the player and his parents should then move forward with Step 4. STEP 4. A meeting should be requested involving the player, appropriate Paradise baseball coaches, parent(s)/guardian(s), and the Coordinator. If all the parties involved are still not comfortable with the outcome of this meeting, additional alternatives should be discussed to resolve this matter.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 1. All discussion should focus on individual questions or concerns. 2. The performance and ability of other players will not be a subject of discussion. This is contrary to our team values of mutual respect and support. 3. Before leaving any meeting, be sure to clarify and summarize your thoughts and feelings. This will ensure that everyone involved has a clear understanding of the meeting's outcome. 4. Do not attempt to confront a coach before or after practice/ game. This is emotional times for coach and parents. Meetings of this nature do not promote resolution. THINGS NOT APPROPRIATE TO DISCUSS: Team strategy Play calling Field position Other athletes BASEBALL CODE OF CONDUCT Conduct Statement The mission of Paradise Baseball Program is to foster the quest for excellence by creating an educational and competitive experience within an atmosphere of sportsmanship. We strive to develop and realize individual and team potential by promoting high standards of competence, character, civility, and citizenship. Statement of Philosophy Paradise understands that athletics are a significant part of the growth and development process. This reflects our belief that the teamwork, the mental and physical challenges of training and competition, and the experience of winning and losing graciously and respectfully are important life lessons in every student s development experience. These lessons will serve players well in their future. Developing good character habits requires time and effort. Coaches and parents can help players develop such habits by continually discussing, modeling, and reinforcing the desired attitudes and beliefs over time. We also understand that participation on an athletic team or teams demands a commitment that involves both dedication and sacrifice. This is required of

not only student athletes, but also the coaches and parents. Statement of Purpose What defines the positive expectations that we have for coaches, parents and athletes? The common values in our program needs to reflect shared goals and a framework of principles agreed upon by the stakeholders and a need for active support from the stakeholders, including the school board, school administration, the school staff, parents, students and the community. This common understanding defines how we as a school will establish and maintain a healthy environment in which student athletes can mature through athletics. This athletic code is meant to be a useable, dynamic document to guide the educational process through our school s athletic program. It defines the mission, philosophy, goals and parameters of the program, and the following priority activities: 1. Pre-season Coach and athletes discuss their expectations for the team; define success for the season ahead; communicate with parents. 2. During the season physical and character training; striving for excellence in performance and attitude; communication with parents; encouraging parents and other adults to support and model the character traits we are trying to instill in students. 3. Post-season encouraging student athletes to maintain a high level of personal commitment to academic achievement, physical and character development during their off-season. 4. Boundaries establishing positive behavioral and achievement expectations, while defining the consequences for behavior that is out of bounds. Overall Baseball Program Goals As we strive for an athletic program of excellence, we also understand that research tells us the most important reasons students participate in athletics: 1. Enjoyment (Fun!) 2. Participation (in practice and contests) 3. Personal improvement (skills of the sport and/or conditioning) Therefore, the Paradise Minor Baseball Program commits to the following: o Offer students an enjoyable experience; o Provide the greatest opportunity possible for athletes to participate in both practice and competitions; o Promote personal improvement in skills, physical condition and knowledge of the sport o Promote programs of excellence which will accomplish the above and lead to success on and off the playing field.

Fans Expectations We desire a program of excellence and strive to win every contest in which our teams compete. Central to the goals of Paradise is the belief that interscholastic athletics can and should enhance the character of our youth. We put forth the following as the positive expectations we hold for the primary stakeholders in our Athletic Program. Coach s Code We understand that the Coaches are leaders and are dedicated to more than the X s and O s of competition. The Coach will do the following: 1. Exemplify the highest character as a role model for young people. Recognize the individual worth and reinforce the self-image of each team member. 2. Establish a realistic team goal or vision for each season and communicate that to the athletes and parents. 3. Encourage and assist team members to set personal goals to achieve their highest academic potential. 4. Create a set of training rules for athletes that reflect the positive values of abstaining from the use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs (performance degrading substances). 5. Strive to develop the qualities of competence, character, civility and citizenship in each team member. 6. Provide a safe, challenging and encouraging environment for practice and competition. 7. Gain an awareness of the importance of prevention, care and treatment of athletic injuries. 8. Respect the integrity and judgment of the game officials. 9. Teach and abide by the rules of the game in letter and in spirit. 10. Build and maintain ethical relationships with coaches and administrators. Strive for excellence in coaching skills and techniques through professional improvement. 11. Promote personal fitness and good nutrition. Be modest in victory and gracious in defeat.

Parent Code We understand that parents play a vital role in the development of athletes and the success of our program. Therefore we expect parents to do the following: 1. Be a positive role model through their own actions to make sure their child has the best athletic experience possible. 2. Be a team fan, not a my kid fan. 3. Weigh what their children say; they will tend to slant the truth to their advantage. 4. Show respect for the opposing players, coaches, spectators and support groups. 5. Be respectful of all officials decisions. 6. Don t instruct their children before or after a game, because it may conflict with the coach s plans and strategies. 7. Praise athletes in their attempt to improve themselves as students, as athletes and as people. 8. Gain an understanding and appreciation for the rules of the contest. 9. Recognize and show appreciation for an outstanding play by either team. 10. Help their child learn that success is experienced in the development of their skills, and that they can feel good about themselves, win or lose. 11. Take time to talk with coaches in an appropriate manner, including proper time and place, if there is a concern. Be sure to follow the designated chain of command. (Coach, Coordinator, President) 12. Please reinforce our alcohol, tobacco and other drug-free policies by refraining from the use of any such substances before and during athletic contests. Supporter s Code (other adult fans) We understand that the larger community has an interest and investment in the success of our Program. These other adults in the community can play a key role in r e i n f o r c i n g t h e goals of o u r p r o g r a m. Therefore, we e x p e c t t h e s e important program supporters to do the following: 1. Be a positive role model through their behavior at athletic contests. 2. Show respect for the opposing players, coaches, spectators and support groups. 3. Be respectful of all officials decisions. 4. Recognize and show appreciation for an outstanding play by either team. 5. Praise athletes in their attempt to improve themselves as students, as athletes and as people. 6. Gain an understanding and appreciation for the rules of the sport. 7. Reinforce our alcohol, tobacco and other drug-free policies by refraining from the use of any such substances before and during athletic contests.

Athlete s Code We understand that athletics provide a unique opportunity for the development of not only physical conditioning and athletic skill, but also character traits essential for success in life. To that end, we expect every athlete to strive for the following. Competence - the necessary level of knowledge and skill to sufficiently train and compete. o To develop the skills necessary to participate competently in the game. o To demonstrate knowledge of the rules and conventions of the game. o To demonstrate knowledge of the strategies of the game. o To demonstrate a level of physical conditioning and fitness sufficient to participate competently in the game. o To demonstrate knowledge of healthy behaviors including nutritional issues. o To understand the necessity of abstaining from the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs in order to achieve the positive benefits of athletics. Character the pattern of beliefs, attitudes, and behavior that relate to moral strength, constitution, and essential qualities that embrace the positive values of Paradise Minor Baseball and the community. o To be dependable in fulfilling obligations and commitments. o To accept responsibility for consequences for actions and not to make excuses or blame others. o To strive to excel. o To be committed. o To persevere, give 100% effort and not give up in the face of setbacks. o To demonstrate truthfulness. o To play by the rules of the game. o To control anger and frustration and refrain from displays of temper and bad language. o To accept losing and winning graciously; by congratulating opponents and by not sulking or displaying, other negative behaviors. Civility to demonstrate behavior that exemplifies appropriate respect and concern for others. o To practice good manners on and off the field. o To refrain from trash talk and other put-downs of opponents and teammates. o To treat all persons respectfully regardless of individual differences

and to show respect for legitimate authority (e.g., Coaches, Officials, Captains). o To be fair and treat others as one wishes to be treated. o To listen to and try to understand others. o To be compassionate and sensitive to others. o To actively support teammates and others. Citizenship social responsibility as part of a community. o To be faithful to the ideals of the game including sportsmanship. o To keep commitments to team. o To show team spirit, encourage others and contribute to good morale. o To put the good of the team ahead of personal goals. Consequences The best scenario for athletics is to have logical consequences for behavior that is out of bounds. The process of applying logical consequences when athletes break their ode commitments has three critical, developmental goals, as follows: a. Educational help the Athlete learn from their mistake. b. Corrective help the Athlete change the behavior. c. Restorative require the Athlete to answer for their behavior to the coach and teammates, and perhaps others, so that here is team closure around the incident. Current Best Practice combines wisdom from other athletics and substance abuse prevention in establishing a logical response to behavior problems or other code violations. It is a framework of three tiers of consequences, with each tier having an increased level of severity of the offense. The best possible option for consequences for behavioral problems or code violations is a three tiered consequence framework with the understanding that the severity of the consequence may be lessened or greatened by the Association. A. Consequences for out of bounds behavior, include language, violence, and behavior unbecoming of a representative of the association. B. Special Circumstances The Association must also have at his/her discretion the ability to impose consequences of greater magnitude if she/he feels the Athlete has not learned from said consequences, has not made corrective changes in behavior or is not willing to carry out the prescribed restorative measures. C. Chain of Command The proper Chain of Command is as follows: Player to Head Coach, Coordinator, and Executive.

PARADISE PHANTOMS BASEBALL TEAM RULES AND POLICIES The following team rules have been developed as a guideline for all Paradise players to follow and adhere. These guidelines will set the foundation for a successful and respected baseball program. While it may be difficult at times to follow these rules, it is important to remember: As a Paradise Baseball Player, you not only represent yourself, your parents, the Paradise Minor Baseball program, and your community. Your performance and success will not only be measured by wins and losses, but also by your conduct. After careful consideration, the following rules and guidelines have been selected to best exemplify respectable appearance, attitude, and actions of a baseball player in this program. 1. Athletes are expected to be on time for all practice and games. 2. Athletes are expected to display proper sportsmanship before, during, and after events. Please see the attached Sportsmanship policy for further clarification. 3. Athletes are responsible for the care, maintenance, and return of all equipment and uniforms. 4. Athletes are expected to personally notify their coach if they will be late or miss a practice or game. 5. Athletes are expected to attend all practices and games. Unexcused absence will result in a loss of playing time and possible further discipline. 6. Athletes are expected to follow the criteria listed below when dressing for all practices and games: a. COME PREPARED TO GO OUTSIDE EVERYDAY. b. All players must wear a hat. No hat, no practice. c. Shirts/Sweatshirt d. Pants grey baseball pants or sweatpants or athletic shorts. e. Shoes Spikes and sneakers or turf shoes. 7. Athletes are expected to discuss all concerns and disagreements with your coach or teammate in private and according to our attached communication guidelines. 8. Athletes are expected to report all injuries to coach. 9. All athletes must realize their obligation to the team and refrain from scheduling any conflicting activity during the season.

RULES FOR MISSED PRACTICE AND TARDIES Infraction Absences (Unexcused) Tardiness (Unexcused) After 1 hour you are considered absent. Inc ide 1 st missed practice 2 nd missed practice 3 rd missed practice 4 th missed practice 1 st & 2 nd tardy 3 rd & 4 th tardy 5 th tardy 6 th tardy Consequence 20 Poles/No Start 20 Poles/Sit Out 1Game 30 Poles/Sit Out 1Game Parent Conference/ Possible Dismissal 10 Poles 10 Poles/No Start 20 Poles/Sit Out 1Game Parent Conference/ Possible Dismissal

KEYS TO WINNING If our team shows the ability to follow this philosophy, we will always be in position to win. We may not win them all but we will have given ourselves the chance. I. TEAM a. Play hard b. Practice harder c. Trust one another d. Believe in one another e. Play with confidence f. Pick each other up g. Make the other team beat you h. Execute i. Keep a positive attitude II. PITCHERS a. Challenge hitters b. Throw strikes c. Work ahead of hitters d. Keep ball down e. FOCUS III. DEFENSE a. Make the routine plays b. Remember, great plays happen, routine plays win ballgames c. Deny the big inning d. Take away individual hitters tendencies e. Cover every base f. FOCUS IV. OFFENSE a. Focus on one pitch at a time b. Swing at strikes c. Hit line drives and hard groundballs to all fields d. Run the bases with the desire to always take an extra base e. Do not miss signs OFFENSE WINS GAMES; PITCHING and DEFENSE WIN CHAMPIONSHIPS

SPORTSMANSHIP All players in the program are expected to conduct themselves in a mature, disciplined, and professional manner. It is important to remember the significance and responsibility of participating as a member of the Paradise Baseball team. Every time you step onto the field, you not only represent yourself, but also your school, your parents, the Paradise Minor Baseball program, and your community. ACT APPROPRIATELY. Sportsmanlike Behavior Statement Athletes are expected to display proper Sportsmanlike Behavior before, during, and after contests. Athletes and teams are subject to BNL mandated suspensions from contests as a result of disqualification. Athletes should know that they may be subject to additional association mandated or recommended penalties for unsportsmanlike behavior (regardless of time of season). Such penalties to include, but not limited to, suspension from contests, and expulsion from the team. TEAM EQUIPMENT/UNIFORM CARE AND POLICIES 1. Each player will be responsible for any team equipment handed out. Any equipment lost, or damaged, will be replaced at the player s expense. 2. All equipment will be treated with respect and kept clean. 3. Players should never throw, kick, or abuse a batting helmet or any other piece of equipment. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE. 4. Uniform and spikes should be cleaned before every game. 5. Players designated to carry equipment to and from a practice or game are responsible for that equipment from the time they pick it up to the time they bring it back.do NOT EXPECT OR COUNT ON SOMEONE ELSE TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES. SAFETY/TEAM RULES Player and coach safety must be the concern of Baseball Coach and Team Players. 1. Players must have permission to swing a bat. The most dangerous action that takes place on a baseball field is the swing of a bat. Many injuries occur every year when a player walks into a swing zone when another player is swinging the bat. Players must understand the dangers involved if every player can swing a bat any time they want. They must understand that the only time they are

allowed to swing a bat is when they are on deck, in the batter's box, or participating in a drill. At all other times their bat is to be left alone or in their bat bag. 2. Have players have eye contact with the coach/player before throwing a ball to them. Many coaches/players have been hit unexpectedly by a ball thrown by a player throwing a ball back in during batting practice. 3. Maintain a cleared safety zone around the batter. - No one stands behind or near the batter during batting practice. The area behind the batter should be kept clear of coaches and players. There is a constant danger of being hit by a ball or a swung bat if players and coaches do not maintain a clear safety zone around the batter. 4. Batting helmets must be worn at all times when batting or running the bases during practice. 5. The floor must be kept clear of balls and bats. - The floor is the floor of the dugout and the floor of the batting box. A coach must take on the responsibility of watching for stray balls under the feet of the batter during batting practice. The walk way to and inside the dugout should be kept neat and clear of bats and balls. This rule is enforced to prevent a leg or ankle injury from occurring should a player step onto a ball or bat. 6. No throwing balls in the dugout. 7. Dugout be kept tidy and all garbage removed after games and practices. 8. Warm-up for throwing to be done in lines as this reduces risk of injury. 9. No talking when the coaches are talking and explaining drills or strategies. 10. Players and Coaches shall Treat everyone with respect Treat team-mates, coaches, opponents, event organizers and spectators with respect. Respect and accept with dignity the decisions of officials and Baseball Canada, Baseball Newfoundland and Labrador, and Local Minor Baseball Association. Be generous in winning and graceful in losing.

Exercise self -control at all times Remember that there is no place in baseball for drugs, performance enhancing drugs or supplements, alcohol or tobacco products. Refrain from unsportsmanlike gestures, talk, language, or profanity. Taunting or teasing players on the opposing team is not acceptable. Refrain from throwing equipment in disgust (bat, helmet, glove, or any object). Refrain from the use of physical force outside of the rules of the game. Follow the guidelines set forth by your coach for your team and program. Follow the guidelines set forth by Baseball Canada, Baseball Newfoundland and Labrador, and Local Minor Baseball Association. Play fair Play within the rules and the spirit of the rules of the game at all times. Play within the rules and the spirit of the rules of Baseball Canada, Baseball Newfoundland and Labrador, and Local Minor Baseball Association. 11. Players are asked to arrive ½ hour before game times and 15 minutes before practice times. 12. Players are required to be in full uniform for games hat, jersey, pants, socks. 13. Players who are going to be absent are request to let the coach know in advance. 14. Only players and coaches are permitted on the field.

Paradise Phantoms Baseball Player Information Sheet 1. Name _/ / (Last) (First) (Middle) 2. Local Address / (Street) 3. Parents Name / (Father) 4. Parents Address / 5. Birth Date / / (Street) (City/Postal) (Mother) (City/Postal) (Month) (Day) (Year) 6. Age 7. Year in school 8. Telephone # (Home) Cell # 9. Parents Work Phone# / (Father) (Mother) 10. Primary Position Secondary Position 11. Email Address for you and your parents 12. Will need a hotel room For Tournaments (Circle): Yes No 13. Vacation Dates: Departs Returns 14. Jersey Size (Circle) Youth L Youth XL Adult S Adult M Adult L Adult XL (34-35) (36-37) (37-39) (41-43) (45-47) (49-51) Pant Size (Circle) Youth M Youth L Youth XL Adult S Adult M Adult L Adult XL (14-16) (16-18) (18-20) (28-30) (32-34) (36-38) (40-42) Hat Size Shoe Size

Parent / Player Information Form I have read and understand all of the following information concerning the baseball team at Paradise. Please sign and initial (parent/player) this form that you have read all of the information. Parent s Signature: Player s Signature: