Menlo Atherton Little League
Handbook
Little League is the largest youth sports program in the world. There are over two and a half million youth enrolled in more than 17,800 chartered programs in over 40 countries. Founded in 1939, Little League was incorporated as Little League Baseball, Inc. in January 1950 under the laws of the State of New York, and granted a Congressional Charter of Federal Incorporation in July 1964. Little League Baseball, Inc. is a tax exempt nonprofit organization headquartered in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
The values of Little League are many, with the balanced development of the child as the ultimate goal. Through Little League Baseball, youngsters develop and appreciate the need for teamwork, sportsmanship, and unselfish cooperation - disciplines to be treasured a lifetime. Physical development is a prime concern, as is the enjoyment that comes in learning and playing a team sport under proper guidance and exemplary leadership. To help achieve these objectives, the national organization provides each league with a standardized competitive program in the form of Rules and Policies of Little League Baseball, Inc.
Menlo Atherton Little League:
Goals of MA Little League Organization & Administration
Levels of Play/Divisions Coaches
Commissioners Player Representative
Playoffs City Championships
All Stars Umpires
Uniforms & Equipment Insurance
Standards of Conduct Conflict Resolution Process
2012 MA Little League Board of Directors
Menlo-Atherton Little League, Inc. is a legally recognized corporation within the State of California. It is a nonprofit organization and charter member of Little League Baseball, Inc. Menlo-Atherton Little League abides by operating policies and procedures set forth by Little League Baseball, Inc. through the Little League Baseball Official Regulations and Playing Rules and the Little League Baseball Operating Manual. This handbook provides a practical translation of Little League philosophy and policy as set forth in the Little League Baseball Operating Manual. It also reflects local goals and objectives as articulated by the Board of Directors.
Goals of Menlo Atherton Little League
Organization and Administration
The Menlo-Atherton Little League serves approximately 530 children between the ages of 6 and 15. The boundaries include all of Atherton, and the incorporated areas of Menlo Park east of El Camino Real and west of Highway 101. Children who reside in Menlo Park west of El Camino Real play in the Alpine League and those who reside in Menlo Park east of Highway 101 play in the Ravenswood League.
Only those families who reside within the boundaries of the Menlo-Atherton Little League are eligible to participate in the Menlo-Atherton Little League, with the following exception: Families who previously lived within the boundaries of the Menlo-Atherton Little League for two or more years and were actively involved (e.g., as a coach, board member, etc.) may petition to have their children play in the Menlo-Atherton Little League, provided that they continue to serve as a dedicated volunteer, and the league in which the family now lives waives all claim to the player(s). Additionally, for Juniors and Seniors and for all Softball teams, Menlo-Atherton has combined these leagues with the Alpine Little League (whose boundaries include the balance of Menlo Park).
The Menlo-Atherton Little League is governed by a Board of Directors who generally meet once a month. All board meetings are open to the public. An executive committee comprised of the President and Vice Presidents serve as the operating body. This arrangement provides for a distribution of responsibilities and tasks among more people, and provides for an efficient way of managing communications and utilizing volunteers within the community. The names of the Board of Directors appear below under "Board of Directors".
Costs for operating the League are approximately $80,000 per year. Field improvements cost the League an additional $5 -$10,000 each year. Annual expenses go towards uniforms, upgrading and buying new equipment, paying field rental fees and umpires, printing and mailing notices and newsletters, purchasing insurance, paying charter and tournament fees, buying trophies, team photographs, etc. Although a substantial portion of the operating budget is funded through player registration fees and from team sponsors, the remaining funds come from additional parent contributions.
The Board is committed to encouraging all interested children to participate regardless of the family's ability to pay the registration fee. Therefore, we have established a Scholarship program so that all children will have an opportunity to play Little League. Contact the league by calling the M-A LL telephone number at
Levels of Play Menlo-Atherton Little League offers eight divisions of baseball and three levels of softball. Participation at each level is determined by a combination of skill, interest, and age. Juniors and Seniors (ages 13-15) require an advanced level of ability and commitment that is to be judged by a committee of coaches. Baseball ages of players are determined by the age players will be on April 30 of the calendar year that includes the season. The individual Division sections below contain information on each division's target age, skill levels and team formation. Menlo Atherton Little League is comprised of eight baseball divisions: and three girl’s softball divisions: Player placement is generally a function of age and ability. Age for eligibility purposes is determined by a player’s age as of April 30, 2010. The primary objective in the formation of teams is to provide balance within each level. At the T-Ball and Challenger levels, this is accomplished by placing children on teams. A "draft" system, as specified by Little League Baseball, is used to form teams at the upper levels. This system is most effective where different skill levels are more readily apparent and where play becomes progressively competitive. The general format for establishing teams at each level is outlined below. Specific procedures are prepared for each level before teams are selected since the number of teams and returning players vary each year. Note: All players wishing to play in the A, AA, AAA and Majors divisions must participate in the “2010 Player Evaluation Day.” Division roster spots will be assigned based on age, experience and professional/independent player evaluation. T-Ball Division Note: Children interested in playing T-Ball DO NOT participate in the league’s “Player Evaluation Day.” Recommended Age: 7-8 The Single A division (A) is an instructional/developmental program designed for girls and boys between 7-8 years of age. Emphasis is placed on furthering hitting, fielding, throwing and base running fundamentals and good sportsmanship stressed in T-Ball. Pitching Machines will be used to consistently pitch to batters at speeds ranging from 30-35 mph allowing players to learn the intricacies of hitting fundamentals. In addition to the emphasis placed on “hitting” fundamentals focus will also be placed on basic defensive infield skills. Team practices will be augmented by league sponsored team clinics conducted by baseball professionals. Games are considered learning opportunities where fun, sportsmanship and skills development are stressed. Consequently, scores are not kept during the general season. Generally, practices, Player Development Clinics and games are held at The German-American School. Children 7 years of age, interested in playing Single A must have played one year of T-Ball or the equivalent and must demonstrate an appropriate level of skill at the league’s “Player Evaluation Day.” Children 7 years of age, participating in “Player Evaluation Day” will either be assigned to play in the Single A division or in the T-Ball division based on league evaluation. Teams in Single A are formed by a "draft" system, with new teams formed from scratch every year. Coaches will contact their players in late February. Note: 7 Year Olds participating in “Evaluation Day” are not guaranteed a roster spot in the Single A division. Recommended Age: 8-9 The Double A division (AA) is an instructional/developmental program designed for girls and boys between 8-9 years of age. Emphasis is placed on furthering hitting, fielding, throwing and base running fundamentals and good sportsmanship stressed in Single A. Pitching Machines will be used to consistently pitch to batters at speeds ranging from 40-50 mph allowing players to hone their hitting fundamentals in preparation for AAA. Additional emphasis will be placed on defensive infield and outfield skills development. Team practices will be augmented by league sponsored team clinics conducted by baseball professionals—with particular emphasis on hitting fundamentals. Games are considered learning opportunities where fun, sportsmanship and skills development are stressed. Consequently, scores are not kept during the general season. Generally, practices, Player Development Clinics and games are held at Las Lomitas School. Children interested in playing “AA” must have played one year of “Single A” or the equivalent and must demonstrate an appropriate level of skill at the league’s “Player Evaluation Day.” All players wishing to play “AA” must participate in the “Player Evaluation Day.” Teams in AA are formed by a "draft" system, with new teams formed from scratch every year. Upon player selection, coaches will contact their players in late February. Note: 8 Year Olds participating in “Evaluation Day” are not guaranteed a roster spot in the “AA” division. AAA Division The Triple A division (AAA) is an instructional/developmental program designed for girls and boys between 10-11 years of age. Further emphasis is placed on teaching the fundamentals of baseball and sportsmanship, but in a competitive live pitching environment as preparation to compete at the Majors division level. Team practices will be augmented by league sponsored team clinics conducted by baseball professionals. Particular emphasis will be placed on advanced hitting fundamentals and basic pitching/catching fundamentals. While games are competitive in nature, in keeping with our league philosophy, fun, sportsmanship and skills development remain paramount. Generally, practices, Player Development Clinics and games are held at Encinal School, Holbrook Palmer Park and or Willow School. Children interested in playing “AAA” must have played one year of “Double A” or the equivalent and must demonstrate an appropriate level of skill at the league’s “Player Evaluation Day.” All players wishing to play “AAA” must participate in the “Player Evaluation Day.” Teams in AAA are formed by a "draft" system, with new teams formed from scratch every year. Upon player selection, coaches will contact their players in late February. Note: It is recommended that in preparation for AAA, interested AA players participate in the Fall Ball program. Recommended Age: 11-12 The Majors division is an instructional/developmental program designed for 12 year old girls and boys and the most experienced 11 year old girls and boys. Further emphasis is placed on teaching the fundamentals of baseball and sportsmanship, but in a competitive live pitching environment as preparation to compete at the Juniors/Seniors division or middle school level. Team practices will be augmented by league sponsored team clinics conducted by baseball professionals. Particular emphasis will be placed on advanced hitting fundamentals and pitching/catching fundamentals. While games are competitive in nature, in keeping with our league philosophy, fun, sportsmanship and skills development remain paramount. Generally, practices, Player Development Clinics and games are held at Burgess Park or St. Joseph’s school. Children interested in playing “Majors” must have played one year of “AAA” or the equivalent and must demonstrate an appropriate level of skill at the league’s “Player Evaluation Day.” All players wishing to play “Majors” must participate in the “Player Evaluation Day.” Upon evaluation, returning players will be placed on their previous season team. New Majors players are selected by existing teams using a "draft" system. Upon selection, coaches will contact their new players in late February. Note: All returning Majors players must participate in the league’s “Player Evaluation Day.” They will still be placed on their previous season team. Recommended Age: 13-15 The Juniors division is an instructional/developmental program designed for player’s ages 13-15. Games are played on a regulation/full-sized baseball field. Junior teams play in a District-wide league that includes teams from San Francisco to Palo Alto. The season begins in April and ends in early June. Each Saturday in February is dedicated to Spring Training. All players train together in all phases of the game. Teams are then selected to provide balanced competition. There are 12 to 14 players on each team. The division provides a full range of tournament play, including a Junior League Baseball World Series Recommended Age: 15-16 The Seniors division is an instructional/developmental program designed for player’s ages 15-16. The Senior teams play in a District-wide league that includes teams from San Francisco to Palo Alto. The season for Senior League begins in May after the high school season ends in late June. There are 12 to 14 players on each team. The division features a full range of tournament play, including a Senior League Baseball World Series. The Challenger Division of Little League is a program open to children with physical and mental disabilities of ages 6-18 years old. No skill level is required. Games will be played on Sundays against teams from surrounding towns. Practices will be limited to a few prior to the start of the season. Players may use the “Buddy” system to assist them during games. There will be one Challenger team in the League and it is formed on a first-come (i.e. first to register) basis. A team will consist of no more than 15 players. The MALL Challenger team will play its games with teams from the surrounding towns whose Little League offers a Challenger program. Teams include towns from Foster City, Palo Alto, San Carlos and San Jose. Softball Divisions Note: Girls Softball programs are managed in conjunction with the Alpine Little League. Registration for all Girls Softball divisions is handled through the AMA Girl's Softball web site. Recommended Age: 7-12 The Minors/Majors softball division is designed for 7-12 year old girls, regardless of experience. Teams are formed by the commissioner. Games are played at Sacred Heart, Woodside High and Menlo College. In addition, consideration to join with other leagues for additional games is underway with active efforts to increase participation with all ages a primary goal. Registration for Softball Minors/Majors divisions is handled through the Alpine Little League. Recommended Age: 13-15 The Seniors Softball division is designed for 13-15 year old girls, with some previous softball experience. Teams are formed by the commissioner or by draft. Games are played at the same sites as the Majors/Minors divisions. Registration for Softball Minors/Majors divisions is handled through the Alpine Little League. Each team is comprised of a manager, and a coach with the agreement of the Board of Directors. Managers are responsible for all aspects of the team, including players, coaches, parents, equipment, uniforms, and teaching the game of baseball. Coaches have a narrower range of responsibilities since they tend to focus more on the players and teaching the game of baseball. Assistant Coaches provide assistance as requested under the direction of the Manager and Coach. Each team is assigned a manager and a coach. Assistant coaches are not assigned to a team, but rather go with the team that their child was drafted to play on. The assistant coaches are approved by the Board in coordination with each division Commissioner. Managers and coaches are critical to the success of a Little League organization. They are the face of the League and in many ways responsible for the quality of the experience of the League’s players. As such, identifying and selecting the most qualified managers/coaches is a vitally important task. The process should be clearly articulated and transparent, with predefined criteria to increase objectivity and better manage expectations and perceptions. Based on the above, the M-A Little League Board has established basic criteria for the selection of Managers and Coaches and have detailed them in this document. The criteria are applicable to all divisions, but are most relevant for Majors/AAA divisions where the coaching environment is more complex.
The criteria do not represent minimum standards for managers, but rather establish a framework for assessing and comparing candidates. Manager prospects, for example, are not required to have played high school baseball in order to manage in the League. However, prior baseball experience will be a factor in the overall assessment and those with more experience will be viewed as more desirable, all other things equal.
Note: it is recommended that in the future we require prospective managers/coaches to complete a short application form in which they can detail their baseball and coaching experience. Such a form could be added to the registration process. Formally capturing this information will ensure that the Board has the relevant background data on all prospective coaches, enabling a more informed selection decision.
Managers (aka Head Coaches) Selection Criteria
Candidates will be assessed in the following categories: Coaches (aka Assistant Coaches)
Coaches are assessed via the same criteria above. The MA Little League Board will consider a Manager’s request for a certain individual to coach, but will have final say as to whether that’s the best or most fair pairing. In general, if the requested individual is on par with the other eligible candidates per the above criteria, then the request will be granted. If the individual is another “level” below the other eligible candidates, then the request will not likely be granted.
3rd coaches are coaches that are not pre-assigned to a team. They are parents (typically) who agree to assist the manager/coach in areas such as practice drills and dugout management. Managers are given a lot of leeway in who they can select as a 3rd coach. The coaches are not subject to the baseball criteria above, but must meet the sportsmanship and behavior criteria as well as clear the screening tests. The Board approves 3rd coaches as well. Commissioners Each division is assigned a Commissioner. The role of the Commissioner is to provide a communication link between the Board, officers, coaches, and parents and to ensure that Menlo-Atherton Little League policies and procedures are carried out and adhered to. Commissioners play an important role in managing the process for forming teams, distributing and collecting equipment and uniforms, clarifying rules and procedures, addressing and resolving conflict, etc. Commissioners should be the first level of contact regarding procedural issues, rules and regulations, and questions regarding the Menlo-Atherton Little League. Player Representative A player representative is assigned by the Board of Directors to ensure that player concerns are dealt with equitably and impartially. Any parent issues that cannot be resolved by the Commissioner should be directed to the Player Representative. Playoffs City Championship All Stars Players Rights:
Players Responsibilities: Parents Responsibilities: Managers/Coaches Rights:
Managers/Coaches Responsibilities: MA Little League Board Rights: MA Little League Board Responsibilities: Conflict Resolution Process
The Menlo-Atherton Little League Board hopes that everyone connected with the Little League Program has a fun and positive year. Little League can be one of the most enjoyable experiences in a child and parent's life. There is nothing that quite matches the excitement of a Little League game!
Players interested in playing baseball in either the T-Ball, A, AA, AAA or Majors division must register by January 19, 2010. As part of the registration process all players (except T-Ball) must also participate in the league’s “Player Evaluation Day” in order to be placed on a team for the 2010 season. “Player Evaluation Day” is to be held on January 30, 2010.
Players interested in playing baseball in either the Juniors, Seniors or Challenger divisions must register by April 4, 2010.
Players interested in playing softball in either the Minors, Majors or Seniors division must register through the AMA Girl's Softball web site.
Formation of Teams
Baseball Divisions
The T-Ball division is an instructional/developmental program designed for 6-7 year old boys and girls. Five and a half year olds are eligible to play in the T-Ball division as long as they are 5½ by April 30, and currently enrolled in kindergarten. Children will be introduced to the basic fundamentals of throwing, fielding, catching, hitting and base running. Hitting T’s will be used to introduce basic hitting mechanics and will be augmented by “coach pitching” mid-season. The season will start with league organized “Player Development” clinics and practices for each team. Games that follow are considered learning opportunities where fun and sportsmanship will be stressed. Consequently, scores are not kept. Practices are generally held during the week and games are played on Saturdays at Laurel School and or Las Lomitas School. Teams are formed by random assignment. Coaches will contact their selected players by early March.
Manager/Coach Selection Criteria
In addition to approving team coaches, the Board may elect to identify specialty coaches, such as pitching coaches, who will be available to provide instruction to all teams within specific levels. Preference is given to people who have actual experience in the skill they are teaching, or demonstrate adequate knowledge of the skill.
It is expected that managers, coaches, and assistant coaches will be in agreement with the general philosophy and goals of the Menlo-Atherton Little League and will make every effort to work within the guidelines set forth in this handbook. Any manager, coach, or assistant coach who has strong reservations about the Menlo-Atherton Little League philosophy, goals, and procedures should make their feelings known to the Board prior to the formation of the teams so that differences can be discussed and, if necessary decisions made regarding their participation.
Coaches are some of the League's most dedicated volunteers. It is important that they be recognized and given credit for their good intentions, the time they devote, and the responsibilities they assume. Generally speaking, they should be given the benefit of the doubt in terms of coaching techniques and decisions. Invariably, disputes arise and concerns are expressed about behaviors, proper role models, ability to teach children the game of baseball/softball, etc. The Menlo-Atherton Little League has adopted Standards of Conduct and a Conflict Resolution Process that apply to all League participants. Adults who elect to serve in a coaching capacity are encouraged to read those standards and procedures very carefully.
A list of penalties and consequences associated with infractions have not been developed since most problems are unique and vary in terms of severity. However, it is important for all concerned to understand that the Board of Directors will act quickly and decisively when conflicts arise, and that the action taken by the Board will be considered final.
Playoffs may be held at all levels other than T-Ball. Playoffs add a competitive element that most young players enjoy and facilitates a normal climax to regular season play. Playoffs are particularly meaningful in the Majors, with the winner representing the League in the City Championship game against the Alpine League.
The playoff schedule and specific procedures may differ at each level, depending on the length of the season, the number of teams involved, etc. While playoff specifics may be determined by the Commissioner and coaches, the following guidelines will prevail at all levels:
The winner of the Menlo-Atherton League Major playoff tournament plays the winner of the Alpine League at Burgess Park. The Commissioner for Majors and the coaches from the team representing the Menlo-Atherton Little League should plan to meet with the Alpine League representatives and coaches one week prior to the game to exchange rosters, confirm responsibilities and to go over basic rules and regulations.
See the "All Star Selection Process" web page.
Equipment will be issued to team managers right after teams are formed. Uniforms will be issued prior to the first game. Managers will be held responsible for equipment and uniforms throughout the season and for their return after the season is concluded. They will be required to sign the equipment out and sign it in when returned. All uniforms are to be laundered and packed for storage. Managers will be held responsible for equipment and/or uniforms that are not returned.
All new purchases of equipment and uniforms will flow through the League President or Equipment Manager and/or Uniform Manager. Purchases made by coaches or other volunteers with the intention of being reimbursed without prior authorization may not be honored.
Menlo-Atherton Little League carries player accident insurance, through Little League Baseball. The policy also contains an excess coverage provision which prevents unwarranted double payment of medical bills. Specifically, the accident insurance carried by the League takes over only where personal medical insurance leaves off, and provides full coverage in those few instances where there is no personal medical insurance.
The League also carries general liability insurance ($1,000,000) as well as Directors and Officers Liability Insurance. The latter provides protection for all volunteers officially associated with the League.
Accident insurance carried by the League does not cover participation in other baseball or softball activities, including authorized high school programs. All of the insurance carried by the League through Little League Baseball are limited to designated managers and head coaches. None of the insurance provides coverage to assistant coaches or other volunteers.
The Menlo-Atherton Little League Board of Directors has adopted standards of conduct for all participants in the Menlo-Atherton Little League. Those standards are spelled out below for players, parents, manager and coaches (including other adult volunteers) and the Little League Board. It is in the interest of all participants to understand and comply with these standards. Any question about these standards should be raised with members of the Board.
Parents Rights:
Occasionally, conflicts do arise among participants in Little League. The Board cares very much that conflicts be resolved quickly, objectively, and equitably with the very first consideration being given to the welfare of the children. Therefore, the Board has provided the following Conflict Resolution Process. It is designed for, and should be followed by, all adult participants in the league if a conflict arises.
2012 MA Little League Board of Directors
President
Mike Gardner
Vice President
Jon Duane
Treasurer
Gina Ryan
Majors Commissioner
Dave Lombardi
Charlie Ryan
AAA Commissioner
Scott Giesler
AA Commissioner
James Bergeron
A Commissioner
Dan Burke
TBall/Coach Pitch Commissioner
John Crevelt
Challenger Commissioner
Bob Crowe
Juniors/Seniors Commissioner
Lindsay Bowen
Fall Ball Commissioners
Dave Lombardi (Majors)
Rich Ferrick (AAA)
Uniforms
Paul Marini
Umpires
Jon Duane (Majors/AAA)
Mike McKay (AA/A)
Player Agent
Rich Ferrick
PCA (Positive Coaching Alliance)
Scott Barnum
Anurag Chandra
Mike Mainiero
Field Development
Chris Weseloh
Mike McKay
Mike Mimeles
Jim Pflaging
Rory Fuerst
Field Scheduling
Gary Kirkham
Megan Freiermuth
Player/Coach Development
Larry Nelson
Scott Barnum
Jeff Phillips
Stan Drake
Dan Burke
Dave Bragg
Registration
Doug Kaufman
Sponsors/Fund Raising
Kevin Sheetz
Bob Oyster
Gary Dillabough
Tryouts/Evaluations
Larry Nelson
Safety Officer
Dave Bragg
Equipment
John Crevelt
Web Site/Newsletter
Doug Kaufman
Photo Day
Megan Freiermuth
Awards
John Crevelt
Insurance
David Wright
City Liason
Gary Kirkham
Snack Shack
Megan Freiermuth
Player Appreciation Day
Mike Haven
Hit-A-Thon
Bob Oyster
Brian Rodrigues
League Survey
Mike Mainiero
Tournaments
Stan Drake
Legal/Contracts
Tim Cronin
David Wright
Community Outreach
Anurag Chandra
Special Projects
Bob Hellman
Arron Retterer
Anurag Chandra
Mike Haven
Advisory Board
Bob Crowe
Bob Hellman
Rory Fuerst
Arron Retterer
Brian Rodrigues
Website services and online registration
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