HOPEWELL AREA BOYS BASEBALL
HOPEWELL AREA BOYS BASEBALL AND GIRLS SOFTBALL ARTICLE I - NAME This organization shall be known as the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League. (HABBGS)
ARTICLE II - OBJECTIVE (A) The objective of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League shall be to implant firmly in the boys and girls of the community the ideals of good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage and reverence so that they may be finer, stronger and happier boys and girls and will grow to be good, clean, healthy men and women. (B) The objective will be achieved by providing supervised competition baseball and softball games. The Board of Directors and members shall bear in mind that the attainment of exceptional athletic skill or winning of games is secondary and the molding of future men and women is of prime importance.
ARTICLE III - GOVERNMENT (A) The government of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League shall be under the supervision of the President, the Board of Directors, and the General Membership. The Board of Directors shall consist of all officers and such selected personnel as the President may appoint and as approved by the elected members of the Board of Directors. The General Membership shall consist of all general, volunteer and active members (see Article VII). (B) At the August meeting of each year the active members of the General Membership shall elect from its own members the following officers (1) President; (2) Vice-President; (3) Treasurer; (4) Recording Secretary; (5) Corresponding Secretary; (6) Player Agent; (7) Equipment Manager; (8) Chief Umpire; (9) Director of Boys and Girls Fields; (10) Concession Director, and 11.) Uniform Director. The aforementioned officers shall be elected for a one-year term which will end at the next year’s election. Any officer is eligible for re-election. (C) All matters, including but not limited to the powers set forth in these by-laws to the Board of Directors, concerning management and activities of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League shall be supervised by the Board of Directors as 1
decided by a majority vote of the active members of the General Membership, and no motion shall be carried without a majority vote of those present at a regular or special meeting. (No proxy voting is permitted at any time) (D) One League Director will be appointed by the President and approved by the elected members of the Board of Directors, for each division as set forth in these by laws. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: 1. Attendance of the Board Meetings, 2. Scheduling rainouts in their league, 3. Maintain the win/loss record, 4. Mediate disputes within the league, 5. Disseminate rules to the other managers in the league, 6. Maintain pool player lists, 7. Additional responsibilities as assigned by the bylaws.
ARTICLE IV - RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OFFICERS President - He/She shall preside at all General Membership and Board of Directors Meetings of the League, and preserves order. Along with the Board of Directors, he/she assumes responsibility for upholding the By-Laws, rules, and integrity of the League. He/She shall assure the bylaws and rules of HABBGS are carried out, subject to an appeal to the General Membership at a regular or special meeting. He/She shall appoint all committees not otherwise provided for, subject to approval of the Board of Directors by a majority vote and be ex-officio member of all committees. He/She shall be a non voting member and may only vote if the Board of Directors or members are equally divided. He/She shall enforce these by-laws and Rules of the League. He/She shall call special meetings by a request of a majority of the Board of Directors or by request of a minimum of ten (10) general members. Vice-President – In the case of the absence or disability of the president, and provided he/she is authorized by the President or Board of Directors to so act, the vice president shall perform the duties of the president and when so acting, shall have all the powers of that office, and shall have such other duties as from time to time maybe assigned by the Board of Directors or the President. Treasurer - He/She shall receive all monies due the League; deposit same in the designated bank. He/She shall dispense League funds as authorized by the President and approved by the General Membership. He/She shall also keep regular and correct accounts of the League and shall, at all times, have his book open for examination by the Auditing Committee. He/She shall make out various financial reports, as requested by the President including but not limited to: profit/loss statement; checking account summary and reconciliation and report at each meeting the status of the League funds. Recording Secretary - He/She shall maintain an accurate record of minutes of any meeting of the league. He/She shall maintain a list of all members, active and regular, Directors and Committee members. Perform such other duties as required by the ByLaws. 2
Corresponding Secretary - He/She is responsible for all League correspondences and forms and acts as the Recording Secretary in his/her absence. Player Agent - He/She conducts an annual tryout and draft and player registration; assists the President in checking birth records, determines eligibility of the players and shall perform such duties as the League may require. Has the authority on Board approval, to settle any player participation questions and disputes. Chief Umpire - He/She assigns umpires to all league games, trains all umpires, distributes rule books and any other publications for the proper instruction of umpires, will formulate League playing schedules with approval of the Board of Directors and will be responsible for all equipment used by the umpires. Equipment Manager - It shall be the duty of the equipment manager to have charge of all league equipment, subject to the direction of the Board of Directors. Director of Fields - To make sure that all the fields are in proper playing condition at all times. Concession Director – He/She shall be responsible for the operations of the all concession stand(s), be responsible for the procurement of the necessary goods to sell, be responsible for the financial operations of the concession stand(s) and be responsible for the scheduling of members to assist in the manning of the concession stand during hours of operations. Uniform Director – He/she shall be responsible for the procurement of uniforms for all divisions of the league, including hats, shirts and pants. Bids for the manufacturing of uniforms will we be solicited by at least three vendors. The uniform director’s duties are to order and distribute all uniforms for regular season, All Stars, Memorial Classic, Spring camp, and Fall ball.
ARTICLE V - FINANCIAL POLICY
(A) The Board of Directors, upon approval by the General Membership, shall decide all matters pertaining to the finances of the League and it shall place all income in a common league treasury, directing the expenditure of same in such manner as will give no individual or team within the same division an advantage over the other, as to equipment, or other matters. (B) The Board of Directors shall not permit the contribution of funds to individuals or teams and shall solicit same for the common treasury of the League. The above 3
regulation is to discourage favoritism among teams and to equalize the benefits of the League. (C) No contributions to outside organizations will be permitted. (D) The Auditing Committee shall consist of three (3) members and shall be appointed by the President on an annual basis. Its purpose shall be the auditing of the League treasury books and accounts immediately after the annual election of officers and at such other times it is deemed necessary. (E) All checks shall be signed by two (2) of the following three (3) officers: President, Vice-President and Treasurer. (F) No director or officer of HABBGS shall have any business dealings, directly or indirectly, with the league. This includes but is not limited to , any salary, compensation or benefit from the operation of the league
ARTICLE VI - MEETINGS (A) A meeting of the General Membership shall be conducted in August of each year for the reading of reports and the election of officers. There will be a standing regular meeting of the General Membership on the first Wednesday of each month except for December and January. (B) Special meetings may be called by the President at any time or by a request of a majority of the Board of Directors or by request of a minimum of ten (10) general members. (C) Notice of all regular meetings shall be given in advance thereof to all members of the General Membership unless waiver of such notice is received. Notice for all special meetings shall be posted on the league website and the concession stand(s) area.
(D) A majority of the Board of Directors constitutes a quorum at any meeting and a majority vote shall govern, except as otherwise provided herein. (E) Roberts Rules of Order shall govern the conduct of all league meetings.
4
ARTICLE VII - MEMBERSHIP
(A) General {parent-guardian} Members: Any parent or guardian may be considered a regular member upon payment of all registrations fees for the current league season identified as January 1 to December 31 of each year. (B) Volunteer Member Participants (Not a parent or legal guardian of any registered player in (HABBGS) This includes any active coaches, managers, assistant coaches or Board members. (C) Active Members: Any general or volunteer member that has attended at least two meetings in the current or prior league season. Only active members can vote in any general or special meeting of the league. All members of the Board of Directors are active members upon election or appointment. A list of active members shall be provided by the recording secretary on a monthly basis at each meeting. It is the member’s responsibility to comply with the recording secretary’s method for verifying attendance. (D) Only residents of the Hopewell Area School District can be an Active member (E) Membership may be terminated by resignation. The Board of Directors, by two thirds vote of those present (which must be two thirds of the elected Board of Directors) shall have authority to suspend any general, volunteer or active member whose conduct is considered detrimental to the best interest of the League. The member involved shall be informed of the general nature of the charges and given the opportunity to appear at a meeting to answer such charges. The deliberations and subsequent vote of the Board of Directors shall be conducted in a closed session.
5
ARTICLE VIII - LEAGUE ORGANIZATION
The League organization will consist of Spring and Fall Baseball. Leagues shall be known as: T Ball (4-5), Modified T Ball (6), Coach’s Pitch (7-8), Minor League (9-10), Little League (11-12) Pony League (13-14) and Colt League (15-16), Spring and Fall Softball for players 18 and under ( The numbers of teams per League will be determined by the Board of Directors, based on the number of registrants per league .
ARTICLE IX - TEAM MANAGERS (A) Team managers shall be annually appointed by the Selection Committee, which shall consist of the President, vice President the Player Agent, and approved by the Board of Directors. The selection committee shall advance the choices of the committee for managers to the Board of Directors for approval of majority vote. Team managers shall have the discretion to select their assistant coaches and scorekeeper, provided they comply with the proscribed conduct below.
(B) Conduct of Team Managers, Assistant Coach(es) and scorekeeper: 1. Shall be responsible to teach the fundamentals of baseball /softball and good sportsmanship to their players. 2. Shall distribute playing time (per league rules) and positional play in a fair manner. 3. Shall attempt to maintain a safe environment for their players. 4. Shall issue and or collect uniforms and equipment distributed by the organization as requested by the league director(s) and equipment manager. 5. Shall comply with the guidelines of (HABBGS) 6. Shall be responsible for the actions of the players that are assigned to their team. 7. Shall be responsible for maintaining the field and the surrounding area. 8. Shall make every effort to attend monthly meetings of (HABBGS). 9. Shall refrain from use of any abusive or foul language, smoking or alcohol use during any (HABBGS) event. (C) Application for Team manager shall be submitted to the Player Agent according to the following rules: 1. Application must be made annually in writing by all candidates for managerial positions, on a form proscribed by the league. . 2.. All applications must be received during the approved Spring and Fall Registration periods. 3. Exceptions to rules one (1) and two (2) will be at the discretion of the Board of Directors. 6
(D) Only four (4) people are permitted on the field during the games: Manager, Assistant Manager, and two (2) coaches. (Includes the scorekeeper) (E) The primary criterion for the selection of team managers shall be seniority. Seniority is defined as set forth below. Past conduct, picking up and turning in equipment by designated dates and acceptable performance of responsibilities (including but not limited to (B) above). 1. In order for managers to obtain and maintain seniority, you must be credited for six (6) meetings per year. The accrual of seniority shall begin on September 1 and end on August 31 each year, and continue cumulatively and consecutively. The six (6) meetings may be attained by the following: a. attend six (6) regular meetings. b. attend five (5) regular meetings plus one (1) make-up. c. attend four (4) regular meetings plus two (2) make-ups. d. attend three (3) regular meetings plus three (3) make-ups. A maximum of one make-up credit may be attained in each of the following categories: a. Work one (1) full registration. b. Work at a scheduled field workday. c. Work as a head coach (manager) for Spring or Fall Season - 1 credit. 2.) Managers that were selected the prior year, who wish to remain in the same league as a manager, shall have first choice to remain as the manager of that same team – provided that they have met the criteria set forth above. 3.) In the event a manager position is available in the next sequential league, for a manager who desires to advance to that league, active members with managerial experience shall be given preference over those with no managerial experience. (F) All managers of Little League teams shall act as the plate umpire for one Minor League game during the regular season. Managers of Minor League teams shall act as the plate umpire for one Little League game during the regular season. Article X – DRAFT Only managers or a representative approved by the player agent can attend the draft. Team managers are responsible for the selection of their team. (A) Within league age restrictions, all returning players excluding the team manager’s child will be redrafted. (B) Managers may not select assistant coaches until after the draft. (C) Sponsors of Teams will not be assigned until after the draft. (D) Required players must try out to be eligible for the draft. Placement of players who do not tryout will be 1.) Permitted to be in the general draft if a majority of managers can agree to rank that player; or 2.) In the event a majority of the 7
mangers cannot agree as to a rank, the president and player agent will assign the said player a ranking. (E) A manager’s child be will ranked and assigned a round to be picked. 1.) Ranking and round will be determined by a majority of managers; or 2.) In the even a majority of the managers cannot agree as to a ranking and draft round, the president and player agent will assign the manager’s child a ranking and round to be drafted. (F) Players ranking will be agreed upon by the managers. A ranking of 1, 2, or 3 (3 being the highest rating) will be assigned to ensure equality during drafting. 1.) The returning age players will be drafted before the players that are entering the league for their first year. 2.) Rated players with a 3 will drafted first, then the rated players as 2s , etc. 3.) Mangers will repeat this process for the players entering the league for their first year. (G) Brothers and sisters must play on the same team unless drafted into different leagues or requested by a parent. (H) Siblings drafted in the same league will be drafted according to their rating. (I) Teams’ draft order will be decided by chance. Draft will be conducted in a snake format. (J) Once the 2nd year players are drafted in a league the snake draft will reverse order for the 1st year players in said league. (K) Any dispute not covered by the by-laws will be decided immediately by the president and player agent of the HYBBA. ARTICLE XI - TEAM PLAYERS (A) Any player meeting the requirements as to the age and the residence and monetary assessment as set forth in these by-laws and the rules of the Little League, Pony, Colt, Baseball Inc. and the Amateur Softball Association, shall be eligible to compete for and participate in the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League.
(1.) Residence is defined as the physical boundaries established as the Hopewell Area School District. (2.) Players from neighboring areas, not offering a team, shall be eligible to participate in HABBGS. (B) Players affiliated with any other organization or sponsoring group must give priority to their HABBGS team. (C) Upon evidence of misconduct, the Board of Directors shall have the full power to suspend or revoke such players' right to future participation. (D) Any debts owed to the organization must be paid in full prior to the start of the forthcoming season. Unpaid debts will render the child ineligible to participate. 8
(E) All fees for the current season must be paid in full before a player can begin regular season play or receive a uniform. (F) Player conduct:
Players shall:
Display good sportsman ship and team play at all times. Follow the direction of the coaching staff. Respect all coaches, players, league officials, umpires and spectators.
Players shall NOT:
Use abusive or profane language Taunt or humiliate any other player Argue an umpires call Abuse, mistreat or mishandle any HABBGS equipment or property.
ARTICLE XII - RULES - ALL DIVISIONS Tee Ball, Manager’s Pitch, Minor League, Little League (A) The official playing rules and regulations as published by Little League, Pony, Colt Baseball and Major League and Amateur Softball Association will guide the rules for this League. The Rules, Regulations, and by-laws of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League shall have precedence. (B) No changes in playing rules will be permitted after the April General Membership meeting for the forthcoming season. (B) A proposed change or modification to the rules should be presented in writing to the Board of Directors and approved by a majority vote at the next General Membership meeting. Only Active members may vote.
(D) The managers of both teams shall agree on the fitness of the playing field before the game starts. The umpire at each game is authorized to overrule the managers at any time that the safety of the players is in doubt. If the managers can not agree the chief umpire or his designee shall make the determination. The umpire may call rain outs. When a game is called for rain prior to the completion of the fourth inning (middle of fourth if home team is ahead) it shall be considered a complete game. Games called earlier will be replayed from the start. Both team managers shall contact the league director immediately to re-schedule any rainout. (E) All championship games will be scheduled by the chief umpire and approved by the 9
Board of Directors. (F) A League Director shall be designated by each division to manage the affairs of the division including scheduling of make-up and playoff games and reporting game results to the webmaster. (G) Rain out games will be scheduled on a first open date, in order of rain out, by the League Director. (H) League curfews for games: NO INNING SHALL BEGIN AFTER 8:30 p.m. If curfew is involved the teams will complete the inning in progress if home team is behind (I) The home team has the right to the field for practice from 5:00 PM to 5:25 p.m. The visiting team has the right to the field from 5:25 p.m. to 5:55 p.m. Game time is at 6:00 p.m. Except T-Ball. (J) All managers must have signed medical release forms present at each game.
(K) Every player on a team roster will participate in each game for a minimum of three (3) defensive innings, and bat at least once per game. Batting order will be continuous. Penalty for breaking this rule is forfeiture of the game. Every one of the three (3) innings must be played. Rain completed games are exceptions. (L) Any player deliberately throwing a bat or helmet will automatically be ejected from the game by the umpire.
(M) Players missing two (2) practices or games without a legitimate excuse will result in the manager notifying the Player Agent. A third game or practice missed without a legitimate excuse will result in a one game suspension to be imposed by the player agent. (N) Player Pools are to be established in the minor league, little league and Pony Leagues as follows: Minor league: Three (3) players from each team of exceptional ability from the oldest age group to be used for the Little League. All other players are eligible for Intra league play. Little League: Two (2) players from each team of exceptional ability from the oldest age group for use in the next higher age bracket league. 1. Players selected by the team managers are to be reported to the appropriate league directors. Lists will be approved by the Board of Directors before use. Lists must be prepared and submitted before the start of the regular season.
10
2. Pool players must play the outfield and bat last. a. Ponies, Little league and Minor League - When using the pool players, a manager may only have a maximum of ten (10) players. Of the ten (10) no more than three (3) can be pool players. Examples: 8 roster + 2 pool = 10 7 roster + 3 pool = 10 6 roster + 3 pool = 9 3. A pool player can only be called to play one game per week. 4. A player cannot be called the day they have a game in their own league. 5. A pool player cannot play more innings than a roster player, except in case of an injury. 6. Pool players must be selected on a rotation basis from the list as established by the league director. See rule N(1). 7. Penalty for breaking these rules is forfeiture of the game. (O)Safety 1. Lightning – If lightning is observed in the area, the game will be suspended temporarily for fifteen (15) minutes. If no further lightning is observed, the game may continue. If lightning is subsequently observed after the initial observation, the fifteen-minute suspension shall re-start with each subsequent observation. (P) Only the team manager shall address the umpire or opposing team manager on the field in matters of dispute. (Q) Runners must slide OR avoid contact. (R) Free substitution of players is permitted except as noted in the specific division rules. ARTICLE XIII - SPECIFIC DIVISION RULES
TEE BALL LEAGUE - AGE GROUP 5 & 6 year olds. PURPOSE OF LEAGUE - The league is intended to be an ORIENTATION for kids into organized baseball. All games are designed to be fun, semi-organized and shall be non-competitive in nature. NO TROPHIES will be given. 1. LENGTH OF GAMES: Games will be of a 6-inning duration. (1 hour 15 min. curfew) 2.. DEFENSE a. All players will play in the field. b. Normal infield positions + 1 additional player at 2nd base. Outfielders must all play at equal depth. One player should stand near pitchers area prior to hit. It is “encouraged” that each player plays a different position 11
each defensive inning. c. Infield fly rule will NOT be enforced. d. Encourage each player to throw each fielded ball to the first baseman. 3. OFFENSE (note - all players bat in rotation) ALL players bat in each inning. a. NO swinging of bats is permitted in dugout area. b. Batter will be given a warning for throwing a bat the first time. Batter will be called out for throwing a bat after warning has been given. 4. BASERUNNING a. No leads or stealing is permitted. b. Runners must advance only 1 base per batter. Even though defensive plays are to be made, no actual outs are to be recorded and scores are not to be kept. 5. . GENERAL RULES a. Umpires are not scheduled. b. Warm up - Home team shall warm up 30 minutes before scheduled game time and visiting team 15 minutes. c. Home team shall be responsible for lining the field d. In case of rain out home team shall advise DIRECTOR. e. Each team is scheduled to practice 1 time per week. Additional practices may be scheduled by contacting the Tee Ball League Director. f. Coaches are urged to develop teamwork. (i.e. pitchers who make defensive plays should be encouraged to make throw to 1B when it is the proper play) g. Managers will umpire the game. Manager of defensive team will make decision on any close plays. i. When the batter HITS THE RUBBER stem off the tee, it will be considered a foul ball. j. Safety ball will be used. k. The coach is permitted to pitch up to 3 pitches to each child prior to using the tee.
MANAGER'S PITCH LEAGUE - AGE GROUP 7 & 8 BOYS & GIRLS PURPOSE OF THE LEAGUE: Manager’s Pitch shall be Noncompetitive, No trophies and Instructional. 1. Coaches must pitch all game. 2. The coach must pitch from within the circle around the mound. 3. Catcher must be in position for pitch. 4. Each batter will be given a maximum of 7 pitches. Player will be called out following the 7th pitch unless the batter strikes the ball into fair play or fouls the pitch. 12
5. 5 run limit per inning - except in last inning. 6. Eleven players in field - minimum nine; 6 in infield (including catcher) 5 in the outfield. The minimum number of players to finish a game is 8. 7. Games will be played with continuous batting orders, in which all players must be assigned a batting position in which they must remain for the entire game. Each player must play in the field for a minimum of 3 defensive innings. Failure to comply will result in forfeiture. 8.. NO stealing, no leading off - no infield fly rule. 9. A ten (10) foot radius circle will be limed around the mound. 10. Ball thrown in area of mound, and touched by fielding pitcher is considered dead ball - even if not caught - fielding pitcher must have one (1) foot in circle. 11. A line shall be placed across the base line at the three fourths point between bases, between first and second, second and third and third an home. 12. If ball is thrown to pitcher's area, runner(s) will advance if over the line if at least one foot of a runner(s) has touched the ground across the drawn line when pitcher touches ball - even if not caught - pitcher must have one (1) foot in circle. Runner will go back to base if not over the line - this will be pitching coach’s decision. Only one runner may occupy a base. Also, when a "batted ball" does not make it to the outfield grass, all runners may only advance one base (maximum) from their original base. This is regardless of any overthrow. With no runners on base, the batter/runner is permitted to advance to second base at his own risk, only on an overthrow to first base. 13. Good sportsmanship shall be exhibited by all MANAGER'S, COACHES, and PLAYERS at all times. 14. Batter will be given a warning for throwing a bat the first time. Batter will be called out for throwing the bat after the warning has been given. 15. Pitching: boys will be pitched to overhand; girls may be pitched an underhand pitch with an arc. 16. A player cannot play the infield more than four (4) innings a game. 17. It is encouraged that each child play a different position each inning.
MINOR LEAGUE: Age Group 9 -10 1. Pitcher balk rule will not be enforced. 2. Infield fly rule will NOT be enforced. 3. A player will not be allowed to pitch more than five (5) innings in a calendar week in league play with a maximum of three (3) innings per game or 9 defensive outs. A pitcher may not pitch in more than one (1) game per day. a. If a pitcher hits 2 batters in an inning he will be Removed from the mound for the remainder of the game. A pitcher moved to another position cannot return to pitch in that game. b. A pitcher less than 10 must pitch a minimum of (1) one inning or (3) three defensive outs, within the first four innings and a minimum of (2) two innings in a six inning game. 13
c. Players who are league age 9+10 year olds: 65 pitches per day limit. If a pitcher reaches their maximum limit imposed by this rule while facing a batter, the pitcher may continue to pitch until any one of the following conditions occurs: (i) that batter reaches base; (ii) that batter is put out. NOTE: A pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of that day. Rest In addition, all pitchers league age 14 and under must adhere to the following rest requirements: • If a player pitches 66 or more pitches in a day, four (4) calendar days of rest must be observed. * If a player pitches 51 - 65 pitches in a day, three (3) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 36 - 50 pitches in a day, two (2) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 21 - 35 pitches in a day, one (1) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 1-20 pitches in a day, no (0) calendar day of rest is required. 4.Batters strike zone is extended from the bottom of the batter's chin, in his natural stance, to the bottom of the knees. 5. A player who reaches third base and stops at that base may advance home in one of two ways. Batter hits the ball in play; A walk, which forces the runner home. 6. There will be no advance of the runners when: a. The catcher returns the ball back to the pitcher and the pitcher misses it unless the runners were already in the act of stealing. b. An infielder returns the ball back to the pitcher and the pitcher misses it. unless the runners were already in the act of stealing.
7. Games will be played with continuous batting order in which all players must be assigned a batting position. Each player must play in the field for 3 defensive innings. Failure to comply will result in forfeiture. 8. Teams shall be allowed a fourth outfielder; ten (10) total fielders, provided: a. Teams play at equal strength at start of the game. It shall be intent of managers to use maximum player participation. d. All outfielders play at equal depth. e. free substitution of any defensive player shall be permitted. 9.
All Players must wear a batting helmet when batting in practice or games. 14
All helmets supplied by the league will have a full wire cage for the front of the helmet. Any player not having his own batting helmet must wear a helmet supplied by the league. However, the parent of any player may supply their own child with their own batting helmet, which may or may not be fitted with a full wire cage. Any parent providing a helmet to their child, without a full wire cage, must advise the player’s coach that the parent permits the said player to use only that players own batting helmet without a full wire cage. Any injury or risk thereof by a player not wearing a full wire cage batting helmet is assumed by that respective player’s parents. 10. The 10 run rule applies after 5 innings, and the 15 run rule after 4 innings. 11. A team must have a minimum of 8 players to start and finish a game or the game will be forfeited. 12. If a player is injured or ill and unable to bat in order the team must accept an out for that batting position unless the player is removed from the game. Once a player is removed from a game for illness or injury that player cannot return.
LITTLE LEAGUE: Age group 11 - 12 1. Pitcher balk rules will not be enforced. 2. Any number of players age twelve (12) may be used as pitchers during a calendar week. 3. All Players must wear a batting helmet when batting in practice or games. All helmets supplied by the league will have a full wire cage for the front of the helmet. Any player not having his own batting helmet must wear a helmet supplied by the league. However, the parent of any player may only supply their own child with their own batting helmet, which may or may not be fitted with a full wire cage. Any parent providing a helmet to their child, without a full wire cage, must advise the player’s coach that the parent permits the said player to use only that players own batting helmet without a full wire cage. Any injury or risk thereof by a player not wearing a full wire cage batting helmet is assumed by that respective player’s parents. 4. Games will be played with continuous batting order, in which all players must be assigned a batting position. Each player must play in the field for 3 defensive innings. Failure to comply will result in forfeiture. Free substitution of any defensive player shall be permitted. 5. Any base can be stolen. Once the pitcher is on the rubber with the ball the runner must remain in contact with the base until the pitch reaches the plate. 6. Infield fly rule will be enforced. 7. Each 12 year old pitcher is limited to a maximum of (4) four innings, or (12) twelve defensive outs per game. A pitcher less than 12 must pitch a minimum of (2) two innings or (6) six defensive outs per game. 15
8. A player may pitch a maximum of seven innings per week (Monday through Sunday). Delivery of a single pitch constitutes one inning pitched. 9. A pitcher can not pitch in two games during the same day. 10. Any pitcher, who hits two batters in one inning, or three batters in a game, must be removed from the pitching position for the remainder of the game. 11. A pitcher moved to another position cannot return to pitch in that game. 12. Players who are league age 11+12 year olds: 75 pitches per day limit. If a pitcher reaches their maximum limit imposed by this rule while facing a batter, the pitcher may continue to pitch until any one of the following conditions occurs: (i) that batter reaches base; (ii) that batter is put out. NOTE: A pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of that day. Rest In addition, all pitchers league age 14 and under must adhere to the following rest requirements: • If a player pitches 66 or more pitches in a day, four (4) calendar days of rest must be observed. * If a player pitches 51 - 65 pitches in a day, three (3) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 36 - 50 pitches in a day, two (2) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 21 - 35 pitches in a day, one (1) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 1-20 pitches in a day, no (0) calendar day of rest is required. 13. In- house Championship Tournament pitching – All regular season rules will be in effect, with the following exceptions: Rule 8,9,10 – replaced by: A player who pitches 3 or more innings in a game, cannot pitch in the following game. A pitcher, who pitches 2 or less innings in a game, can pitch in consecutive games provided they meet pitch count and rest requirements (13). A player may pitch a maximum of 15 innings in a tournament. 14. A team must have a minimum of 8 players to start and finish a game or the game will be forfeited, 15. If a player is injured or ill and unable to bat in order the team must accept an out for that batting position unless the player is removed from the game. Once a player is removed from a game for illness or injury that player cannot return.
BOYS TRAVELING PONY: Age group 13 - 14 1. Foreign organizational rules must be approved by the Hopewell Board of Directors in order for Hopewell teams to participate.
BOYS COLT LEAGUE: Age group 15 - 16 1. Foreign organizational rules must be approved by the Hopewell Board of Directors in order for Hopewell teams to participate.
16
ARTICLE XIV - LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP (A) Final record at season's end will determine the League Champions. (B) If a two (2)-way tie occurs, the league champion will be determined by a one (1) game play - off. (C) If a three (3) way tie occurs, a lottery will be conducted to determine a play-off system. One team will receive a bye. The winner of the two remaining teams will play the team that received the bye. There will be a three (3) day period between games. The two- (2) team managers, upon mutual consent, may waive the three (3) day waiting period. (not applicable to t-ball or coaches pitch). (C) Play-off games will affect the teams' final record for purpose of the draft (section only) (not applicable to t-ball or coaches pitch) (E) Little league and Minor League championship will be determined by single elimination tournament to determine champion. Seeding to be determined by regular season finish. The results of this tournament will not effect the draft rules which will be based on season finish.
ARTICLE XV – TOURNAMENT TEAMS (Advanced Baseball)
It is the mission of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball Association (HBS) to involve as many children as possible in tournament baseball. Since this is a higher level of playing ball, it is HBS’s goal to instill in these players what competition involves. This will raise the standard of playing and prepare them for competition at the Junior High and High School level. The following selection process will be implemented: 1. A flyer explaining the system will be distributed at registration or during the spring practice session. 2. Any person interested in managing a team will apply to the HBS board at registration or during the spring practice session. 3. The “Board” will vote on managers in ages 9 – 14 (see team manager selection). 4. The manager will appoint his coaching staff for each respective team. 5. The manager is asked to keep his/her team regardless if his child is to play or not. 6. In the age groups of 9-14 “Advanced Baseball” registration forms will be distributed during all regular season registrations and up to the second week of inhouse practice by their in-house manager. Any child wanting to play will fill out a registration form and return it to their manager. 7. In age groups 9, 10, 11 and 12 year old players will only be permitted to register and try out for the age group commensurate with their regular season 17
league age. (For example : A player who is 10 or 11 years old and plays in the 11-12 league and is considered league age 11 can only tryout for the 11 year old all star team. A player who is 8 but played in the 9-10 league can not be selected per the rules defined for the 7-8 age group All Star Team selection. Pony league players are not permitted to play down (i.e. 12 year age group). 8. These players signing up to play “Advanced Baseball” will practice as soon as practical. This means everyone that registered to play. This form will also explain any associated costs. 9. Practices would be only on weekends and any games against other travel teams would use players on a random basis. (I.e. Half of the team plays one Sunday and the other half stays home and practices, or if playing a double header, half the team plays the first game and half the team plays the second game.) 10. These practices and travel games would be a “continuous” tryout, which would last approximately one month. 11. During the first week of May, the managers will pick the top 12 players from their age group, based on talent and participation. Participation/attendance is strongly encouraged and will weigh into final selections. The final selection will be at the sole discretion of that team’s manager based on above requirements. These 12 players would make up the first all- star team, (White team). The next top 12 players would be picked from the remaining players. This would make up the second all-star team, (Blue team). A third and fourth all-star team would be picked if there are enough remaining players. 12. The HABBGS would pay fees for up to (4) four tournaments per age group. (I.e. four tournaments for ages 9-10, four tournaments for ages 11-12, and four tournaments for ages 13-14.) 13. Each manager will be responsible for the conduct of his players. Any misconduct by a manager or player while representing HABBGS will not be tolerated. 14. Each manager will be responsible for the selection and scheduling of practice games, tournaments and times and places needed for HABBGS funded tournament. 15. The Uniform Director shall be responsible for selecting, with board approval, and distributing all all-star uniforms . 16. It is the responsibility of each manager to notify the Director of Concessions when his games would be scheduled at Hopewell’s fields. 17. In the age groups 7-8 (Managers Pitch), a manager will be appointed by the board and will be encouraged to participate in (2) two HABBGS funded tournaments. Each in house manager will submit 3 players for the tournament team. 18. Parents of players selected to an All Star team will be responsible for the cost of the player’s uniform uniform, 19. No All Star practices or games may interfere with league games or play-offs. ARTICLE XVI - AMENDMENTS These By - Laws or any section thereof may be amended or repealed by a two - thirds vote at a duly constituted General Membership meeting; provided that the proposed change shall be presented to and read at a meeting, at least, one month prior to the 18
meeting at the which the proposed change is to be submitted to vote.
Revised: 05/97, mrd 12/97, mrd 10/99, mrd 10/00,cbf 03/03, jaf 04/07 mac 02/08 mac 02/08 mac 03/08 mac 4/08 mac 3/09 mac 11/14 csb
19
ARTICLE II - OBJECTIVE (A) The objective of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League shall be to implant firmly in the boys and girls of the community the ideals of good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage and reverence so that they may be finer, stronger and happier boys and girls and will grow to be good, clean, healthy men and women. (B) The objective will be achieved by providing supervised competition baseball and softball games. The Board of Directors and members shall bear in mind that the attainment of exceptional athletic skill or winning of games is secondary and the molding of future men and women is of prime importance.
ARTICLE III - GOVERNMENT (A) The government of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League shall be under the supervision of the President, the Board of Directors, and the General Membership. The Board of Directors shall consist of all officers and such selected personnel as the President may appoint and as approved by the elected members of the Board of Directors. The General Membership shall consist of all general, volunteer and active members (see Article VII). (B) At the August meeting of each year the active members of the General Membership shall elect from its own members the following officers (1) President; (2) Vice-President; (3) Treasurer; (4) Recording Secretary; (5) Corresponding Secretary; (6) Player Agent; (7) Equipment Manager; (8) Chief Umpire; (9) Director of Boys and Girls Fields; (10) Concession Director, and 11.) Uniform Director. The aforementioned officers shall be elected for a one-year term which will end at the next year’s election. Any officer is eligible for re-election. (C) All matters, including but not limited to the powers set forth in these by-laws to the Board of Directors, concerning management and activities of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League shall be supervised by the Board of Directors as 1
decided by a majority vote of the active members of the General Membership, and no motion shall be carried without a majority vote of those present at a regular or special meeting. (No proxy voting is permitted at any time) (D) One League Director will be appointed by the President and approved by the elected members of the Board of Directors, for each division as set forth in these by laws. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: 1. Attendance of the Board Meetings, 2. Scheduling rainouts in their league, 3. Maintain the win/loss record, 4. Mediate disputes within the league, 5. Disseminate rules to the other managers in the league, 6. Maintain pool player lists, 7. Additional responsibilities as assigned by the bylaws.
ARTICLE IV - RESPONSIBILITY OF THE OFFICERS President - He/She shall preside at all General Membership and Board of Directors Meetings of the League, and preserves order. Along with the Board of Directors, he/she assumes responsibility for upholding the By-Laws, rules, and integrity of the League. He/She shall assure the bylaws and rules of HABBGS are carried out, subject to an appeal to the General Membership at a regular or special meeting. He/She shall appoint all committees not otherwise provided for, subject to approval of the Board of Directors by a majority vote and be ex-officio member of all committees. He/She shall be a non voting member and may only vote if the Board of Directors or members are equally divided. He/She shall enforce these by-laws and Rules of the League. He/She shall call special meetings by a request of a majority of the Board of Directors or by request of a minimum of ten (10) general members. Vice-President – In the case of the absence or disability of the president, and provided he/she is authorized by the President or Board of Directors to so act, the vice president shall perform the duties of the president and when so acting, shall have all the powers of that office, and shall have such other duties as from time to time maybe assigned by the Board of Directors or the President. Treasurer - He/She shall receive all monies due the League; deposit same in the designated bank. He/She shall dispense League funds as authorized by the President and approved by the General Membership. He/She shall also keep regular and correct accounts of the League and shall, at all times, have his book open for examination by the Auditing Committee. He/She shall make out various financial reports, as requested by the President including but not limited to: profit/loss statement; checking account summary and reconciliation and report at each meeting the status of the League funds. Recording Secretary - He/She shall maintain an accurate record of minutes of any meeting of the league. He/She shall maintain a list of all members, active and regular, Directors and Committee members. Perform such other duties as required by the ByLaws. 2
Corresponding Secretary - He/She is responsible for all League correspondences and forms and acts as the Recording Secretary in his/her absence. Player Agent - He/She conducts an annual tryout and draft and player registration; assists the President in checking birth records, determines eligibility of the players and shall perform such duties as the League may require. Has the authority on Board approval, to settle any player participation questions and disputes. Chief Umpire - He/She assigns umpires to all league games, trains all umpires, distributes rule books and any other publications for the proper instruction of umpires, will formulate League playing schedules with approval of the Board of Directors and will be responsible for all equipment used by the umpires. Equipment Manager - It shall be the duty of the equipment manager to have charge of all league equipment, subject to the direction of the Board of Directors. Director of Fields - To make sure that all the fields are in proper playing condition at all times. Concession Director – He/She shall be responsible for the operations of the all concession stand(s), be responsible for the procurement of the necessary goods to sell, be responsible for the financial operations of the concession stand(s) and be responsible for the scheduling of members to assist in the manning of the concession stand during hours of operations. Uniform Director – He/she shall be responsible for the procurement of uniforms for all divisions of the league, including hats, shirts and pants. Bids for the manufacturing of uniforms will we be solicited by at least three vendors. The uniform director’s duties are to order and distribute all uniforms for regular season, All Stars, Memorial Classic, Spring camp, and Fall ball.
ARTICLE V - FINANCIAL POLICY
(A) The Board of Directors, upon approval by the General Membership, shall decide all matters pertaining to the finances of the League and it shall place all income in a common league treasury, directing the expenditure of same in such manner as will give no individual or team within the same division an advantage over the other, as to equipment, or other matters. (B) The Board of Directors shall not permit the contribution of funds to individuals or teams and shall solicit same for the common treasury of the League. The above 3
regulation is to discourage favoritism among teams and to equalize the benefits of the League. (C) No contributions to outside organizations will be permitted. (D) The Auditing Committee shall consist of three (3) members and shall be appointed by the President on an annual basis. Its purpose shall be the auditing of the League treasury books and accounts immediately after the annual election of officers and at such other times it is deemed necessary. (E) All checks shall be signed by two (2) of the following three (3) officers: President, Vice-President and Treasurer. (F) No director or officer of HABBGS shall have any business dealings, directly or indirectly, with the league. This includes but is not limited to , any salary, compensation or benefit from the operation of the league
ARTICLE VI - MEETINGS (A) A meeting of the General Membership shall be conducted in August of each year for the reading of reports and the election of officers. There will be a standing regular meeting of the General Membership on the first Wednesday of each month except for December and January. (B) Special meetings may be called by the President at any time or by a request of a majority of the Board of Directors or by request of a minimum of ten (10) general members. (C) Notice of all regular meetings shall be given in advance thereof to all members of the General Membership unless waiver of such notice is received. Notice for all special meetings shall be posted on the league website and the concession stand(s) area.
(D) A majority of the Board of Directors constitutes a quorum at any meeting and a majority vote shall govern, except as otherwise provided herein. (E) Roberts Rules of Order shall govern the conduct of all league meetings.
4
ARTICLE VII - MEMBERSHIP
(A) General {parent-guardian} Members: Any parent or guardian may be considered a regular member upon payment of all registrations fees for the current league season identified as January 1 to December 31 of each year. (B) Volunteer Member Participants (Not a parent or legal guardian of any registered player in (HABBGS) This includes any active coaches, managers, assistant coaches or Board members. (C) Active Members: Any general or volunteer member that has attended at least two meetings in the current or prior league season. Only active members can vote in any general or special meeting of the league. All members of the Board of Directors are active members upon election or appointment. A list of active members shall be provided by the recording secretary on a monthly basis at each meeting. It is the member’s responsibility to comply with the recording secretary’s method for verifying attendance. (D) Only residents of the Hopewell Area School District can be an Active member (E) Membership may be terminated by resignation. The Board of Directors, by two thirds vote of those present (which must be two thirds of the elected Board of Directors) shall have authority to suspend any general, volunteer or active member whose conduct is considered detrimental to the best interest of the League. The member involved shall be informed of the general nature of the charges and given the opportunity to appear at a meeting to answer such charges. The deliberations and subsequent vote of the Board of Directors shall be conducted in a closed session.
5
ARTICLE VIII - LEAGUE ORGANIZATION
The League organization will consist of Spring and Fall Baseball. Leagues shall be known as: T Ball (4-5), Modified T Ball (6), Coach’s Pitch (7-8), Minor League (9-10), Little League (11-12) Pony League (13-14) and Colt League (15-16), Spring and Fall Softball for players 18 and under ( The numbers of teams per League will be determined by the Board of Directors, based on the number of registrants per league .
ARTICLE IX - TEAM MANAGERS (A) Team managers shall be annually appointed by the Selection Committee, which shall consist of the President, vice President the Player Agent, and approved by the Board of Directors. The selection committee shall advance the choices of the committee for managers to the Board of Directors for approval of majority vote. Team managers shall have the discretion to select their assistant coaches and scorekeeper, provided they comply with the proscribed conduct below.
(B) Conduct of Team Managers, Assistant Coach(es) and scorekeeper: 1. Shall be responsible to teach the fundamentals of baseball /softball and good sportsmanship to their players. 2. Shall distribute playing time (per league rules) and positional play in a fair manner. 3. Shall attempt to maintain a safe environment for their players. 4. Shall issue and or collect uniforms and equipment distributed by the organization as requested by the league director(s) and equipment manager. 5. Shall comply with the guidelines of (HABBGS) 6. Shall be responsible for the actions of the players that are assigned to their team. 7. Shall be responsible for maintaining the field and the surrounding area. 8. Shall make every effort to attend monthly meetings of (HABBGS). 9. Shall refrain from use of any abusive or foul language, smoking or alcohol use during any (HABBGS) event. (C) Application for Team manager shall be submitted to the Player Agent according to the following rules: 1. Application must be made annually in writing by all candidates for managerial positions, on a form proscribed by the league. . 2.. All applications must be received during the approved Spring and Fall Registration periods. 3. Exceptions to rules one (1) and two (2) will be at the discretion of the Board of Directors. 6
(D) Only four (4) people are permitted on the field during the games: Manager, Assistant Manager, and two (2) coaches. (Includes the scorekeeper) (E) The primary criterion for the selection of team managers shall be seniority. Seniority is defined as set forth below. Past conduct, picking up and turning in equipment by designated dates and acceptable performance of responsibilities (including but not limited to (B) above). 1. In order for managers to obtain and maintain seniority, you must be credited for six (6) meetings per year. The accrual of seniority shall begin on September 1 and end on August 31 each year, and continue cumulatively and consecutively. The six (6) meetings may be attained by the following: a. attend six (6) regular meetings. b. attend five (5) regular meetings plus one (1) make-up. c. attend four (4) regular meetings plus two (2) make-ups. d. attend three (3) regular meetings plus three (3) make-ups. A maximum of one make-up credit may be attained in each of the following categories: a. Work one (1) full registration. b. Work at a scheduled field workday. c. Work as a head coach (manager) for Spring or Fall Season - 1 credit. 2.) Managers that were selected the prior year, who wish to remain in the same league as a manager, shall have first choice to remain as the manager of that same team – provided that they have met the criteria set forth above. 3.) In the event a manager position is available in the next sequential league, for a manager who desires to advance to that league, active members with managerial experience shall be given preference over those with no managerial experience. (F) All managers of Little League teams shall act as the plate umpire for one Minor League game during the regular season. Managers of Minor League teams shall act as the plate umpire for one Little League game during the regular season. Article X – DRAFT Only managers or a representative approved by the player agent can attend the draft. Team managers are responsible for the selection of their team. (A) Within league age restrictions, all returning players excluding the team manager’s child will be redrafted. (B) Managers may not select assistant coaches until after the draft. (C) Sponsors of Teams will not be assigned until after the draft. (D) Required players must try out to be eligible for the draft. Placement of players who do not tryout will be 1.) Permitted to be in the general draft if a majority of managers can agree to rank that player; or 2.) In the event a majority of the 7
mangers cannot agree as to a rank, the president and player agent will assign the said player a ranking. (E) A manager’s child be will ranked and assigned a round to be picked. 1.) Ranking and round will be determined by a majority of managers; or 2.) In the even a majority of the managers cannot agree as to a ranking and draft round, the president and player agent will assign the manager’s child a ranking and round to be drafted. (F) Players ranking will be agreed upon by the managers. A ranking of 1, 2, or 3 (3 being the highest rating) will be assigned to ensure equality during drafting. 1.) The returning age players will be drafted before the players that are entering the league for their first year. 2.) Rated players with a 3 will drafted first, then the rated players as 2s , etc. 3.) Mangers will repeat this process for the players entering the league for their first year. (G) Brothers and sisters must play on the same team unless drafted into different leagues or requested by a parent. (H) Siblings drafted in the same league will be drafted according to their rating. (I) Teams’ draft order will be decided by chance. Draft will be conducted in a snake format. (J) Once the 2nd year players are drafted in a league the snake draft will reverse order for the 1st year players in said league. (K) Any dispute not covered by the by-laws will be decided immediately by the president and player agent of the HYBBA. ARTICLE XI - TEAM PLAYERS (A) Any player meeting the requirements as to the age and the residence and monetary assessment as set forth in these by-laws and the rules of the Little League, Pony, Colt, Baseball Inc. and the Amateur Softball Association, shall be eligible to compete for and participate in the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League.
(1.) Residence is defined as the physical boundaries established as the Hopewell Area School District. (2.) Players from neighboring areas, not offering a team, shall be eligible to participate in HABBGS. (B) Players affiliated with any other organization or sponsoring group must give priority to their HABBGS team. (C) Upon evidence of misconduct, the Board of Directors shall have the full power to suspend or revoke such players' right to future participation. (D) Any debts owed to the organization must be paid in full prior to the start of the forthcoming season. Unpaid debts will render the child ineligible to participate. 8
(E) All fees for the current season must be paid in full before a player can begin regular season play or receive a uniform. (F) Player conduct:
Players shall:
Display good sportsman ship and team play at all times. Follow the direction of the coaching staff. Respect all coaches, players, league officials, umpires and spectators.
Players shall NOT:
Use abusive or profane language Taunt or humiliate any other player Argue an umpires call Abuse, mistreat or mishandle any HABBGS equipment or property.
ARTICLE XII - RULES - ALL DIVISIONS Tee Ball, Manager’s Pitch, Minor League, Little League (A) The official playing rules and regulations as published by Little League, Pony, Colt Baseball and Major League and Amateur Softball Association will guide the rules for this League. The Rules, Regulations, and by-laws of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball League shall have precedence. (B) No changes in playing rules will be permitted after the April General Membership meeting for the forthcoming season. (B) A proposed change or modification to the rules should be presented in writing to the Board of Directors and approved by a majority vote at the next General Membership meeting. Only Active members may vote.
(D) The managers of both teams shall agree on the fitness of the playing field before the game starts. The umpire at each game is authorized to overrule the managers at any time that the safety of the players is in doubt. If the managers can not agree the chief umpire or his designee shall make the determination. The umpire may call rain outs. When a game is called for rain prior to the completion of the fourth inning (middle of fourth if home team is ahead) it shall be considered a complete game. Games called earlier will be replayed from the start. Both team managers shall contact the league director immediately to re-schedule any rainout. (E) All championship games will be scheduled by the chief umpire and approved by the 9
Board of Directors. (F) A League Director shall be designated by each division to manage the affairs of the division including scheduling of make-up and playoff games and reporting game results to the webmaster. (G) Rain out games will be scheduled on a first open date, in order of rain out, by the League Director. (H) League curfews for games: NO INNING SHALL BEGIN AFTER 8:30 p.m. If curfew is involved the teams will complete the inning in progress if home team is behind (I) The home team has the right to the field for practice from 5:00 PM to 5:25 p.m. The visiting team has the right to the field from 5:25 p.m. to 5:55 p.m. Game time is at 6:00 p.m. Except T-Ball. (J) All managers must have signed medical release forms present at each game.
(K) Every player on a team roster will participate in each game for a minimum of three (3) defensive innings, and bat at least once per game. Batting order will be continuous. Penalty for breaking this rule is forfeiture of the game. Every one of the three (3) innings must be played. Rain completed games are exceptions. (L) Any player deliberately throwing a bat or helmet will automatically be ejected from the game by the umpire.
(M) Players missing two (2) practices or games without a legitimate excuse will result in the manager notifying the Player Agent. A third game or practice missed without a legitimate excuse will result in a one game suspension to be imposed by the player agent. (N) Player Pools are to be established in the minor league, little league and Pony Leagues as follows: Minor league: Three (3) players from each team of exceptional ability from the oldest age group to be used for the Little League. All other players are eligible for Intra league play. Little League: Two (2) players from each team of exceptional ability from the oldest age group for use in the next higher age bracket league. 1. Players selected by the team managers are to be reported to the appropriate league directors. Lists will be approved by the Board of Directors before use. Lists must be prepared and submitted before the start of the regular season.
10
2. Pool players must play the outfield and bat last. a. Ponies, Little league and Minor League - When using the pool players, a manager may only have a maximum of ten (10) players. Of the ten (10) no more than three (3) can be pool players. Examples: 8 roster + 2 pool = 10 7 roster + 3 pool = 10 6 roster + 3 pool = 9 3. A pool player can only be called to play one game per week. 4. A player cannot be called the day they have a game in their own league. 5. A pool player cannot play more innings than a roster player, except in case of an injury. 6. Pool players must be selected on a rotation basis from the list as established by the league director. See rule N(1). 7. Penalty for breaking these rules is forfeiture of the game. (O)Safety 1. Lightning – If lightning is observed in the area, the game will be suspended temporarily for fifteen (15) minutes. If no further lightning is observed, the game may continue. If lightning is subsequently observed after the initial observation, the fifteen-minute suspension shall re-start with each subsequent observation. (P) Only the team manager shall address the umpire or opposing team manager on the field in matters of dispute. (Q) Runners must slide OR avoid contact. (R) Free substitution of players is permitted except as noted in the specific division rules. ARTICLE XIII - SPECIFIC DIVISION RULES
TEE BALL LEAGUE - AGE GROUP 5 & 6 year olds. PURPOSE OF LEAGUE - The league is intended to be an ORIENTATION for kids into organized baseball. All games are designed to be fun, semi-organized and shall be non-competitive in nature. NO TROPHIES will be given. 1. LENGTH OF GAMES: Games will be of a 6-inning duration. (1 hour 15 min. curfew) 2.. DEFENSE a. All players will play in the field. b. Normal infield positions + 1 additional player at 2nd base. Outfielders must all play at equal depth. One player should stand near pitchers area prior to hit. It is “encouraged” that each player plays a different position 11
each defensive inning. c. Infield fly rule will NOT be enforced. d. Encourage each player to throw each fielded ball to the first baseman. 3. OFFENSE (note - all players bat in rotation) ALL players bat in each inning. a. NO swinging of bats is permitted in dugout area. b. Batter will be given a warning for throwing a bat the first time. Batter will be called out for throwing a bat after warning has been given. 4. BASERUNNING a. No leads or stealing is permitted. b. Runners must advance only 1 base per batter. Even though defensive plays are to be made, no actual outs are to be recorded and scores are not to be kept. 5. . GENERAL RULES a. Umpires are not scheduled. b. Warm up - Home team shall warm up 30 minutes before scheduled game time and visiting team 15 minutes. c. Home team shall be responsible for lining the field d. In case of rain out home team shall advise DIRECTOR. e. Each team is scheduled to practice 1 time per week. Additional practices may be scheduled by contacting the Tee Ball League Director. f. Coaches are urged to develop teamwork. (i.e. pitchers who make defensive plays should be encouraged to make throw to 1B when it is the proper play) g. Managers will umpire the game. Manager of defensive team will make decision on any close plays. i. When the batter HITS THE RUBBER stem off the tee, it will be considered a foul ball. j. Safety ball will be used. k. The coach is permitted to pitch up to 3 pitches to each child prior to using the tee.
MANAGER'S PITCH LEAGUE - AGE GROUP 7 & 8 BOYS & GIRLS PURPOSE OF THE LEAGUE: Manager’s Pitch shall be Noncompetitive, No trophies and Instructional. 1. Coaches must pitch all game. 2. The coach must pitch from within the circle around the mound. 3. Catcher must be in position for pitch. 4. Each batter will be given a maximum of 7 pitches. Player will be called out following the 7th pitch unless the batter strikes the ball into fair play or fouls the pitch. 12
5. 5 run limit per inning - except in last inning. 6. Eleven players in field - minimum nine; 6 in infield (including catcher) 5 in the outfield. The minimum number of players to finish a game is 8. 7. Games will be played with continuous batting orders, in which all players must be assigned a batting position in which they must remain for the entire game. Each player must play in the field for a minimum of 3 defensive innings. Failure to comply will result in forfeiture. 8.. NO stealing, no leading off - no infield fly rule. 9. A ten (10) foot radius circle will be limed around the mound. 10. Ball thrown in area of mound, and touched by fielding pitcher is considered dead ball - even if not caught - fielding pitcher must have one (1) foot in circle. 11. A line shall be placed across the base line at the three fourths point between bases, between first and second, second and third and third an home. 12. If ball is thrown to pitcher's area, runner(s) will advance if over the line if at least one foot of a runner(s) has touched the ground across the drawn line when pitcher touches ball - even if not caught - pitcher must have one (1) foot in circle. Runner will go back to base if not over the line - this will be pitching coach’s decision. Only one runner may occupy a base. Also, when a "batted ball" does not make it to the outfield grass, all runners may only advance one base (maximum) from their original base. This is regardless of any overthrow. With no runners on base, the batter/runner is permitted to advance to second base at his own risk, only on an overthrow to first base. 13. Good sportsmanship shall be exhibited by all MANAGER'S, COACHES, and PLAYERS at all times. 14. Batter will be given a warning for throwing a bat the first time. Batter will be called out for throwing the bat after the warning has been given. 15. Pitching: boys will be pitched to overhand; girls may be pitched an underhand pitch with an arc. 16. A player cannot play the infield more than four (4) innings a game. 17. It is encouraged that each child play a different position each inning.
MINOR LEAGUE: Age Group 9 -10 1. Pitcher balk rule will not be enforced. 2. Infield fly rule will NOT be enforced. 3. A player will not be allowed to pitch more than five (5) innings in a calendar week in league play with a maximum of three (3) innings per game or 9 defensive outs. A pitcher may not pitch in more than one (1) game per day. a. If a pitcher hits 2 batters in an inning he will be Removed from the mound for the remainder of the game. A pitcher moved to another position cannot return to pitch in that game. b. A pitcher less than 10 must pitch a minimum of (1) one inning or (3) three defensive outs, within the first four innings and a minimum of (2) two innings in a six inning game. 13
c. Players who are league age 9+10 year olds: 65 pitches per day limit. If a pitcher reaches their maximum limit imposed by this rule while facing a batter, the pitcher may continue to pitch until any one of the following conditions occurs: (i) that batter reaches base; (ii) that batter is put out. NOTE: A pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of that day. Rest In addition, all pitchers league age 14 and under must adhere to the following rest requirements: • If a player pitches 66 or more pitches in a day, four (4) calendar days of rest must be observed. * If a player pitches 51 - 65 pitches in a day, three (3) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 36 - 50 pitches in a day, two (2) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 21 - 35 pitches in a day, one (1) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 1-20 pitches in a day, no (0) calendar day of rest is required. 4.Batters strike zone is extended from the bottom of the batter's chin, in his natural stance, to the bottom of the knees. 5. A player who reaches third base and stops at that base may advance home in one of two ways. Batter hits the ball in play; A walk, which forces the runner home. 6. There will be no advance of the runners when: a. The catcher returns the ball back to the pitcher and the pitcher misses it unless the runners were already in the act of stealing. b. An infielder returns the ball back to the pitcher and the pitcher misses it. unless the runners were already in the act of stealing.
7. Games will be played with continuous batting order in which all players must be assigned a batting position. Each player must play in the field for 3 defensive innings. Failure to comply will result in forfeiture. 8. Teams shall be allowed a fourth outfielder; ten (10) total fielders, provided: a. Teams play at equal strength at start of the game. It shall be intent of managers to use maximum player participation. d. All outfielders play at equal depth. e. free substitution of any defensive player shall be permitted. 9.
All Players must wear a batting helmet when batting in practice or games. 14
All helmets supplied by the league will have a full wire cage for the front of the helmet. Any player not having his own batting helmet must wear a helmet supplied by the league. However, the parent of any player may supply their own child with their own batting helmet, which may or may not be fitted with a full wire cage. Any parent providing a helmet to their child, without a full wire cage, must advise the player’s coach that the parent permits the said player to use only that players own batting helmet without a full wire cage. Any injury or risk thereof by a player not wearing a full wire cage batting helmet is assumed by that respective player’s parents. 10. The 10 run rule applies after 5 innings, and the 15 run rule after 4 innings. 11. A team must have a minimum of 8 players to start and finish a game or the game will be forfeited. 12. If a player is injured or ill and unable to bat in order the team must accept an out for that batting position unless the player is removed from the game. Once a player is removed from a game for illness or injury that player cannot return.
LITTLE LEAGUE: Age group 11 - 12 1. Pitcher balk rules will not be enforced. 2. Any number of players age twelve (12) may be used as pitchers during a calendar week. 3. All Players must wear a batting helmet when batting in practice or games. All helmets supplied by the league will have a full wire cage for the front of the helmet. Any player not having his own batting helmet must wear a helmet supplied by the league. However, the parent of any player may only supply their own child with their own batting helmet, which may or may not be fitted with a full wire cage. Any parent providing a helmet to their child, without a full wire cage, must advise the player’s coach that the parent permits the said player to use only that players own batting helmet without a full wire cage. Any injury or risk thereof by a player not wearing a full wire cage batting helmet is assumed by that respective player’s parents. 4. Games will be played with continuous batting order, in which all players must be assigned a batting position. Each player must play in the field for 3 defensive innings. Failure to comply will result in forfeiture. Free substitution of any defensive player shall be permitted. 5. Any base can be stolen. Once the pitcher is on the rubber with the ball the runner must remain in contact with the base until the pitch reaches the plate. 6. Infield fly rule will be enforced. 7. Each 12 year old pitcher is limited to a maximum of (4) four innings, or (12) twelve defensive outs per game. A pitcher less than 12 must pitch a minimum of (2) two innings or (6) six defensive outs per game. 15
8. A player may pitch a maximum of seven innings per week (Monday through Sunday). Delivery of a single pitch constitutes one inning pitched. 9. A pitcher can not pitch in two games during the same day. 10. Any pitcher, who hits two batters in one inning, or three batters in a game, must be removed from the pitching position for the remainder of the game. 11. A pitcher moved to another position cannot return to pitch in that game. 12. Players who are league age 11+12 year olds: 75 pitches per day limit. If a pitcher reaches their maximum limit imposed by this rule while facing a batter, the pitcher may continue to pitch until any one of the following conditions occurs: (i) that batter reaches base; (ii) that batter is put out. NOTE: A pitcher who delivers 41 or more pitches in a game cannot play the position of catcher for the remainder of that day. Rest In addition, all pitchers league age 14 and under must adhere to the following rest requirements: • If a player pitches 66 or more pitches in a day, four (4) calendar days of rest must be observed. * If a player pitches 51 - 65 pitches in a day, three (3) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 36 - 50 pitches in a day, two (2) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 21 - 35 pitches in a day, one (1) calendar days of rest must be observed. • If a player pitches 1-20 pitches in a day, no (0) calendar day of rest is required. 13. In- house Championship Tournament pitching – All regular season rules will be in effect, with the following exceptions: Rule 8,9,10 – replaced by: A player who pitches 3 or more innings in a game, cannot pitch in the following game. A pitcher, who pitches 2 or less innings in a game, can pitch in consecutive games provided they meet pitch count and rest requirements (13). A player may pitch a maximum of 15 innings in a tournament. 14. A team must have a minimum of 8 players to start and finish a game or the game will be forfeited, 15. If a player is injured or ill and unable to bat in order the team must accept an out for that batting position unless the player is removed from the game. Once a player is removed from a game for illness or injury that player cannot return.
BOYS TRAVELING PONY: Age group 13 - 14 1. Foreign organizational rules must be approved by the Hopewell Board of Directors in order for Hopewell teams to participate.
BOYS COLT LEAGUE: Age group 15 - 16 1. Foreign organizational rules must be approved by the Hopewell Board of Directors in order for Hopewell teams to participate.
16
ARTICLE XIV - LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP (A) Final record at season's end will determine the League Champions. (B) If a two (2)-way tie occurs, the league champion will be determined by a one (1) game play - off. (C) If a three (3) way tie occurs, a lottery will be conducted to determine a play-off system. One team will receive a bye. The winner of the two remaining teams will play the team that received the bye. There will be a three (3) day period between games. The two- (2) team managers, upon mutual consent, may waive the three (3) day waiting period. (not applicable to t-ball or coaches pitch). (C) Play-off games will affect the teams' final record for purpose of the draft (section only) (not applicable to t-ball or coaches pitch) (E) Little league and Minor League championship will be determined by single elimination tournament to determine champion. Seeding to be determined by regular season finish. The results of this tournament will not effect the draft rules which will be based on season finish.
ARTICLE XV – TOURNAMENT TEAMS (Advanced Baseball)
It is the mission of the Hopewell Area Boys Baseball and Girls Softball Association (HBS) to involve as many children as possible in tournament baseball. Since this is a higher level of playing ball, it is HBS’s goal to instill in these players what competition involves. This will raise the standard of playing and prepare them for competition at the Junior High and High School level. The following selection process will be implemented: 1. A flyer explaining the system will be distributed at registration or during the spring practice session. 2. Any person interested in managing a team will apply to the HBS board at registration or during the spring practice session. 3. The “Board” will vote on managers in ages 9 – 14 (see team manager selection). 4. The manager will appoint his coaching staff for each respective team. 5. The manager is asked to keep his/her team regardless if his child is to play or not. 6. In the age groups of 9-14 “Advanced Baseball” registration forms will be distributed during all regular season registrations and up to the second week of inhouse practice by their in-house manager. Any child wanting to play will fill out a registration form and return it to their manager. 7. In age groups 9, 10, 11 and 12 year old players will only be permitted to register and try out for the age group commensurate with their regular season 17
league age. (For example : A player who is 10 or 11 years old and plays in the 11-12 league and is considered league age 11 can only tryout for the 11 year old all star team. A player who is 8 but played in the 9-10 league can not be selected per the rules defined for the 7-8 age group All Star Team selection. Pony league players are not permitted to play down (i.e. 12 year age group). 8. These players signing up to play “Advanced Baseball” will practice as soon as practical. This means everyone that registered to play. This form will also explain any associated costs. 9. Practices would be only on weekends and any games against other travel teams would use players on a random basis. (I.e. Half of the team plays one Sunday and the other half stays home and practices, or if playing a double header, half the team plays the first game and half the team plays the second game.) 10. These practices and travel games would be a “continuous” tryout, which would last approximately one month. 11. During the first week of May, the managers will pick the top 12 players from their age group, based on talent and participation. Participation/attendance is strongly encouraged and will weigh into final selections. The final selection will be at the sole discretion of that team’s manager based on above requirements. These 12 players would make up the first all- star team, (White team). The next top 12 players would be picked from the remaining players. This would make up the second all-star team, (Blue team). A third and fourth all-star team would be picked if there are enough remaining players. 12. The HABBGS would pay fees for up to (4) four tournaments per age group. (I.e. four tournaments for ages 9-10, four tournaments for ages 11-12, and four tournaments for ages 13-14.) 13. Each manager will be responsible for the conduct of his players. Any misconduct by a manager or player while representing HABBGS will not be tolerated. 14. Each manager will be responsible for the selection and scheduling of practice games, tournaments and times and places needed for HABBGS funded tournament. 15. The Uniform Director shall be responsible for selecting, with board approval, and distributing all all-star uniforms . 16. It is the responsibility of each manager to notify the Director of Concessions when his games would be scheduled at Hopewell’s fields. 17. In the age groups 7-8 (Managers Pitch), a manager will be appointed by the board and will be encouraged to participate in (2) two HABBGS funded tournaments. Each in house manager will submit 3 players for the tournament team. 18. Parents of players selected to an All Star team will be responsible for the cost of the player’s uniform uniform, 19. No All Star practices or games may interfere with league games or play-offs. ARTICLE XVI - AMENDMENTS These By - Laws or any section thereof may be amended or repealed by a two - thirds vote at a duly constituted General Membership meeting; provided that the proposed change shall be presented to and read at a meeting, at least, one month prior to the 18
meeting at the which the proposed change is to be submitted to vote.
Revised: 05/97, mrd 12/97, mrd 10/99, mrd 10/00,cbf 03/03, jaf 04/07 mac 02/08 mac 02/08 mac 03/08 mac 4/08 mac 3/09 mac 11/14 csb
19
