rancho cucamonga ace softball league 2016 2017 constitution

RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION ARTICLE 1 - NAME This organization shall be known as the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League, affiliated with the Amateur Softball Association of AmericaUSA Softball. ARTICLE 2 - OBJECTIVE The objective of the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League is to impart in the children the ideals of good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty and courage so that they grow to be good, healthy citizens in our community. This objective will be reached by teaching the fundamentals of fastpitch softball in a fun, recreational and instructional environment. The supervisors shall bear in mind AT ALL TIMES that the building of character and molding of personality transcends the acquisition of exceptional athletic skills or the winning of games. ARTICLE 3 - GENERAL MEMBERSHIP The general membership of this organization shall be comprised of the parents/guardians of the youth playing in the association and any adult citizen who is participating in the organizationadult approved volunteer.

1.

ARTICLE 4 - POSITIONS, ELECTIONS AND REPLACEMENT To be eligible and/or maintain a board position, a person must be, or have been a coach, manager, umpire or parent, in good standing with the organization and currently live in Rancho Cucamonga or surrounding area. If at any time a Board member is found to be using their position to influence managers, coaches or umpires and/or are found to be utilizing their position for activities that negatively affect the RC ACE League, it will be the duty of the Board to investigate the matter and be brought for disciplinary action up to and including removal from the Board. a)

Spouses can share a board position and work as a team. This shared position shall have only one (1) vote.

2.

All Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball Board positions are elected by a simple majority vote of the General Membership. If no volunteer is available, the President shall have the authority, with Board approval, to combine Board positions, create a new board position or leave one or more positions vacant or fill an open position with a qualified individual.

3.

At the annual closing ceremonies, the General Membership shall elect from the eligible membership, the following officers and members of the Board: 1. President 2. Vice-President & Public Relations Director 3. Secretary 4. Treasurer & Sponsor Resource 5. Player Representatives & 6. Draft Specialist 67. Division Coordinators – 3-5

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION 78. Umpire-In-Chief 89. Field Coordinators-2 & Equipment Manager 910. Snack Bar Coordinator 1011. Scheduler 1112. Uniforms and Trophies & Special Events Coordinator 13. Website Director

4.

Division Coordinator will be elected appointed to represent divisions at the end of the year.

5.

The Board has the authority to designate auxiliary positions as needed. However, these positions have no voting privilege.

6.

A vacancy exists in the Board if any of the following instances occur: a) The authorized number of offices is increased b) The removal of an officer with Board approval as a result of his/her missing four regularly scheduled Board meetings. c) The removal of a Board member for conduct unbecoming a League Official as stated in the Code of Conduct.

7.

Any Board member who is in good standing with the league will pay for uniform cost only as registration cost for any child participating in the league. If the board member resigns prior to the season ending the discount is to be owed back to the league. ARTICLE 5 - OFFICERS AND DUTIES

1.

President a) The President shall preside at all meetings of the General Membership and the Board of Directors. He/she shall also be an ex-officio member of all committees except the Nominating Committee. b) Shall coordinate and administer the rules, policies and principles of Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball. c) Shall appoint all members of the various committees except the Nominating Committee. d) Shall be responsible for securing fields for play through the City of Rancho Cucamonga and USA Softball ASAUSA SOFTBALL Affiliation. e) Shall be responsible for providing a roster to the Sports Advisory Committee/City of Rancho Cucamonga.

2.

Vice-President(s) & Public Relationships Director a) Shall assist the President and in the absence of the President, shall perform the duties of the President. b) Shall be the parliamentarian. c) Oversee USA Softball ASAUSA SOFTBALL administration and all background checks. d) Shall head the Nominating Committee.

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION e) Oversee fundraising. f) Will be in charge of putting together a disciplinary committee, one that is approved by the Board when needed and such disciplinary committee will deem out any necessary punishment as deemed necessary. g) Shall be responsible for all press releases and television appearances. h) Shall be responsible for the printing and distribution of all league information. i) Shall be responsible for maintaining league websites. k) Shall be in charge of coordinating opening and closing day ceremonies. l) Shall coordinate the picture taking activities of the organization. 3.

Secretary a) The Secretary shall keep an accurate record of the proceedings and activities of all meetings of the General Membership and the Board of Directors and shall maintain minutes of all meetings. b) Shall conduct all necessary correspondence of the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League. c) Shall notify all officers and members of their appointment to committees. d) Shall send out notices of meetings. e) Shall schedule all Board meetings (including special meetings). f) Assist Player Rep with ASAUSA SOFTBALL Registration and Background Checks.

4.

Treasurer / Sponsor Resource a) The Treasurer shall receive all monies for the league and deposit it in the name of the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League in a bank approved by the Board of Directors. b) Shall keep an itemized account of receipts and disbursements and maintain books and records in an orderly fashion. c) Shall give a written report at the 1st meeting of each month and a complete written annual report to the Board of Directors at the end of each calendar year. d) Shall prepare and submit the league budget to the Board of Directors for action prior to the start of each playing season. e) The Treasurer shall receive all monies for the league and deposit it in the name of the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League in a bank approved by the Board of Directors and shall keep an itemized account of receipts and disbursements and maintain books and records in an orderly fashion. f) The Treasurer shall receive all team collected fundraising monies and deposit it in the name of the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League in a separate “Team Sponsor Funds” account at a bank approved by the Board of Directors and shall keep an itemized account of team sponsorship receipts and disbursements. g) Shall be responsible for maintaining a list of all sponsors. h) Shall assist teams in obtaining sponsors when needed. i) Shall be responsible for purchasing and distributing appreciation plaques for each sponsor at the end of each season. j) Shall be responsible for collecting and coordinating any sponsorship or fundraiser.

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION

5.

Player Representative(s) a) The Player Representative(s) shall be the agents of all the players in the league. b) Shall be informed of all grievances between players, parents and/or team management. c) Shall be responsible for the selection of all league teams. d) Shall keep a current file of all the registration cards of the league. e) Shall be responsible for advising and notifying ASAUSA SOFTBALL of new teams, new members and deletion of teams or members. f) Shall be responsible to maintain a log of all grievances. g) Shall oversee player representatives and managers to select All Star players, managers and coaches. h) Shall coordinate the All Star commitment letter. i) Organize and run all drafts for each division. k) Submit All Star League Tournament to the ASAUSA SOFTBALL Blue Book in November.

6.

Division Coordinators a) The Division Coordinators shall supervise all the activities of their divisions. b) Shall receive and coordinate information received from the teams of the divisions. c) Shall attend all managers’ meetings. d) Shall be responsible for Team Parents in their division. e) Shall receive official protests from their division managers for presentation to the Board. 1) All protests submitted to the Coordinator must be accompanied by an administrative fee of an amount set in the Rules and Regulations. This fee will be returned to the protesting manager in the event the protest is upheld. If, after a hearing, the protest is not upheld, the fee will be deposited in the league's checking account. f) Shall review the schedule of practices and games for their divisions. g) Shall be responsible for all grievances between managers, coaches, players and parents in their division and communicate with the Player Representative.

7.

Umpire-in-Chief (UIC) a) The Umpire-In-Chief shall be responsible for coordination and scheduling of umpires for each game. The UIC with Board approval may use an outside source for scheduling of umpires. b) Shall serve on protest committee and rules committee. c) Shall preside over all playing rules and score keeping clinics. d) Shall review all umpires’ qualifications and abilities on an on-going basis.

8.

Field Coordinator & Equipment Manager a) The Field Coordinator shall be responsible for the condition and safety of all fields and field equipment. b) Shall be responsible for storing all field equipment, maintaining the equipment and

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION obtaining approval for replacement when needed. c) Shall organize work parties for maintaining of said fields. d) Shall be responsible for field preparation for all games for all age divisions and/or assigning individuals for field preparation for all games. e) Shall be responsible for overseeing the maintenance of practice fields on a weekly basis. f) Shall be responsible for purchasing game balls and field supplies throughout the season. g) Shall be responsible for maintaining sufficient gas for the ATV field maintenance vehicle. h) Shall be responsible for the condition and safety of all playing equipment. i) Shall be responsible for inventory and storage of all league equipment. j) Shall be responsible for making sure that each team has sufficient amount of equipment to practice and playing games. k) Shall be responsible for the “Trade In and Trade Up” program. l) Shall be responsible for distributing and tracking CMS keys. m) Shall be responsible for filling all propane tanks. 9.

Snack Bar Coordinator a) Shall be in charge of the snack bar and all related duties. b) Shall be in charge of scheduling Board members snack bar duty. c) Shall be in charge of inventory management and purchasing. d) Shall notify the Scheduler, Division Coordinator and Player Rep. immediately regarding the failure of a team to fulfill their snack bar duties. e) Shall be in charge on tracking and distributing all snack bar keys. 10. Scheduler a) Shall make and have approved by the Board all practice templates prior to the draft. b) Shall make and have approved by the Board all game schedules. c) Shall review umpire schedule with Umpire-In-Chief, or send game schedule if using an outside source for scheduling umpires. d) Shall distribute game schedules to all Managers and Board Members. e) Shall be the person contacted in the event of a request to reschedule a game by managers and will notify all parties involved of any rescheduled games. Rescheduling of games shall follow Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League Rules and Regulations. f) Shall Schedule All Star Tournament games in the event Rancho Cucamonga Ace Softball holds an All Star Tournament.s. g) Schedule and Request All Star fees.

11. Uniforms and Trophies & Special Events Coordinator a) Shall quote and purchase all league supplied uniforms. b) Shall quote and purchase all league supplied trophies and pins. c) Shall quote and purchase all sweatshirts for fundraising purposes. Rev.4.29.20161.2.2017

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION d) e) f) g)

Shall coordinate with Sponsor Resource for all sponsorship plaques. Shall be responsible for the distribution of uniforms to all teams. Shall be responsible for scheduling special events throughout the season. Shall be responsible for planning opening and closing ceremonies.

12. Website Director a) Shall be responsible for maintaining all league websites 1213. General Responsibilities of Rancho Cucamonga ACE Board Members: In addition to the above listed duties, it is expected that Board Members shall equitably share in the responsibilities necessary to facilitate the smooth operation of the league. This includes duties at games and other functions where they will be responsible for opening, obtaining equipment, turn lights on/off, overseeing the snack bar, closing up, and trash pick-up. Executive Board shall consist of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Player Representative.

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ARTICLE 6 - APPOINTMENTS, NOMINATIONS AND VOTING The Nominating Committee shall be headed by the Vice-President. The Board shall appoint three (3) other Board members to the committee during spring of each year. The committee will prepare a proposed slate of officers for the following year. It shall be this committee’s responsibility to insure that all nominees meet the criteria for Board members as described above. All parties seeking office will be made public via newsletter, public postings, etc.

2.

The election of the officers for the following year will be held during playoff week, by written ballot. Each adult member of the association will receive a ballot after verification of the current league rosters. Results will be posted on website by midnight of Closing Day.

3.

The Nominating Committee shall elect a Ballot Counting Committee from the General Membership. These persons must be over the age of 21 and must include at least one (1) non Board member.

4.

All Board members and members of standing committees shall serve in office for a period of one year and shall be eligible for reelection.

5.

The President can only serve two consecutive 1-year terms. After the second consecutive year, a new President must be nominated and elected.

6.

The new Board will assume duties and hold its first meeting in June and on a regular basis as scheduled thereafter. Board members shall assume their duties immediately upon completion of a 30-day transition period of working in conjunction with the old board following closing day ceremony.

1.

ARTICLE 7 - BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES, RULES AND PROCEDURES Each Board position shall have one (1) vote, excluding the President, who will vote only in

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION the case of a tie. 2.

A quorum for any Board meeting shall be a simple majority of its membership.

3.

A schedule of regular Board meetings will be posted at the beginning of each year. All members are welcome to attend any open Board meeting; however, if they wish to address the Board on a particular issue, they must inform the President a minimum of three (3) days in advance to be included in the agenda for that meeting.

4.

Robert's Rules of Order, Revised, shall govern the proceedings of all meetings, except where in conflict with the constitution or bylaws of the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball league.

5.

The President has the authority to call before the Board any league personnel, including Board members, whose conduct is considered detrimental to the best interest of the league for the purpose of, reprimand or exclusion from participation in League activities. Dismissal can occur only after a majority vote by the Board.

6.

For issues that come to the board between regular scheduled meetings, the Executive Board will first determine if it will require an emergency board meeting to resolve it. If not the matter may be resolved and voted upon via email, texting or telephone communication. The secretary will draft a summary to be entered into the minutes in the next meeting.

1.

ARTICLE 8 - CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGES On the 1st meeting of January of each new year, “The Constitution of the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League” or any section thereof will be approved by a majority vote of the league’s general membership present at the meeting. Notice of yearly changes to the Constitution must be posted in writing 30 days prior to the 1st board meeting in January.

2.

The Constitution of the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League or any section thereof may be amended or repealed in a special meeting. For the constitution or any section thereof to be amended or repealed at a special meeting there must be a 2/3 vote of a majority of the overall membership, provided the General Membership has been informed of such proposed changes in writing, thirty (30) days in advance. The website shall be the official notice of any and all proposed Constitutional changes. The only exception to this will be winterball draft formation as it will be left open and voted on prior to winterball assessments.

3.

Any item to be amended, repealed or added to the Constitution will be in effect as dictated by its proposals. Proposals may be revised at the General Membership meeting during discussion before being voted upon.

4.

The Board shall have the authority to make simple corrections, amend typographical errors and provide minor changes in wording for purposes of clarifying previously approved

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION sections.

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ARTICLE 9 - FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY The organization is organized and operated exclusively for educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

2.

Not withstanding any other provision of these articles, the organization shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on.

3.

The organization shall be a corporation exempt from Federal Income Tax under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue Law).

4.

The organization shall be a corporation to which contributions are deductible under Section 170(c)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code (or the corresponding provision of any future United States Internal Revenue Law).

5.

No substantial part of this organization shall consist of carrying on propaganda. The organization shall not participate or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office.

6.

No part of the net earnings of this organization shall ever be utilized for the benefit of or be distributed to its members, trustees, officers or other private persons, except that the organization shall be empowered to pay reasonable compensation for services rendered and to make payments and distributions in furtherance of the exempt purposes for which it was formed.

7.

Upon the dissolution of this organization, after paying or adequately providing for the debts and obligations of the organization, the remaining assets shall be distributed to another youth organization in the local area with general membership approval.

8.

The Board of Directors shall decide all matters relating to finance. a) It shall be the general policy to deposit all monies received in the league treasury. b) Monies shall be expended in a manner that will provide all individuals and teams’ equal benefits and privileges.

9.

The Board of Directors shall strictly observe and regulate all fund raising activities, which shall include, but not be limited to, sponsorship, boosters, sales, etc. These activities must conform to the fundraising policies published by the league. a) All teams or members shall promptly remit all funds collected on behalf of the league fundraising activities. It is general policy to deposit all monies received in the league treasury. b) Any League Sponsor monies collected shall be expended in a manner that will provide all individuals and teams’ equal benefits and privileges.

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c)

Any Team Sponsor monies collected shall be expended in a manner that will a specific team with additional benefits as determined by the sponsored team and with Board Approval. 1) Sponsor funds and donations intended by the sponsor for a specific team rather than for the league general fund, shall be remitted to the treasurer and placed in a “Team Sponsor Funds” account. 15% of team sponsorship funds will be remitted to the league general fund. The remainder of sponsorship funds will be made available for team expenses. 2) Reimbursements for team expenses may be issued against that team’s sponsor funds with proper documentation of the team related expenditure (i.e. receipts an/or invoices) Reimbursements will be distributed within 7 days of receipt. 3) Any unused team sponsor funds will be forfeited to the league general fund 30 days following the conclusion of the last season game. d) The Board shall take immediate and appropriate action in the event of an irregularity in the fund raising activities of the league.

10. The league’s books are to be reviewed at the end of each playing season and Prior to the new Board taking over by an outside independent committee approved by the Board of Directors. a) They shall provide a copy of the annual report and auditor's report to each officer of the organization. b) These reports shall be authenticated and verified by the officers of the organization excluding the Treasurer and remain sealed until that time. 11. Any team soliciting funds or other financial support from the team sponsor other than the League Sponsorship fees shall be in compliance with the appropriate IRS codes. 12. Refunds will be issued within 10-14 business days from request. Refunds requested prior to assessments will be refunded at 100%, prior to draft will be refunded at 75% and no refund after draft due to uniform ordering.

1.

ARTICLE 10 - TEAM PERSONNEL Team Personnel shall consist of a manager, coaches and team parents. One of the aforementioned must be of the same gender as the team. An adult of the same gender must be present at all team functions. a) The team manager must be at least 21 years of age. All team personnel must be 18 and over, unless approved as a junior coach. b) All junior coaches must be female and must complete the registration form and be registered with ASAUSA SOFTBALL as a player. c) The manager shall be responsible for the conduct of the team on and off of the field including the conduct of the player’s parents at all league functions. d) All managers and team personnel must complete an ASAUSA SOFTBALL

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION

e)

f) g) h)

i) 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6)

k)

Background Check and have background clearance as required by ASAUSA SOFTBALL. All managers, coaches and team personnel must have their league issued badge at all times on the field. In the event the badge is not displayed that individual shall be asked to leave the field of play. This will be strictly enforced by the umpire or board member on duty. The league will pay for a maximum of 4 background checks per team including but not limited to the manager, coach and team mom. All team staff must complete the official online volunteer form provided by the league. This form must also be submitted by anyone wishing to become a manager or coach. These positions are not automatic and are subject to approval by the Board of Directors. Managers, coaches and parents must agree to the League Code of Conduct form in order to participate. No metal cleats are to be worn by any team personnel. No manager may manage more than one (1) team within the entire RC ACE Softball league. When approving a manager for the season, the Board of Directors will take the following into consideration in this order: Managers returning from the previous season in same division in good standing Coaches returning from the previous season in same division in good standing Managers/Coaches returning from previous season moving up a division in good standing Previous managing/coaching experience without prior negative board actions Petitions and complaints not following code of conduct. Attendance at mandatory meetings and clinics. Manager approval is considered on case by case basis; other factors may be considered in the approval if necessary. In the event of a manager or coach resigning or being permanently removed from a team for any reason, a member of the Board may be appointed to fill the manager or coach position until a replacement can be found. Under no circumstance will a division coordinator manage or coach a team for the division, which they are the coordinator. In the event a team is at risk for forfeit due to a manager or coach not being available to coach the team, the board reserves the right to appoint a member in good standing with league to fill in. ARTICLE 11 - MANAGER RESPONSIBILITY

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SECTION 1 - SCORE KEEPING It is the duty of the home team to provide the official scorekeeper or a mutually acceptable substitute to keep score. In the event the home team is unable to provide a scorekeeper and the visitor can provide a scorekeeper, then visitor will become the home team. a) All scorekeepers must know how to keep score and be 18 years of age or older. b) All teams are required to send a minimum of 1 representative to the mandatory score keepers meeting. Scorekeepers only need attend once per calendar year, the board will

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION keep a record of attendance for said meetings. c) The Official scorekeeper must sit in the vicinity of home plate. d) Official scorekeepers are reminded that they are to make no comments to either team while fulfilling their duties regarding the progress of the game. If a team scorekeeper requests to see how the official scorekeeper is keeping a certain section, this will be allowed. e) If a manager disputes a player’s stat as recorded (e.g. hit, error, fielder’s choice, etc.) he/she must bring it to the attention of the umpire prior to signing the scorecard. The umpire has the discretion to change a particular stat. Once the scorecard is signed all player stats are final. It is highly recommended teams keep their own book in addition to official score to ensure accuracy. f) Once a scorecard is signed by both managers it is considered official regardless of the accuracy. 1) If there is a score card dispute and the score card is not signed by either manager, the dispute will be brought to the attention of the board member on duty. 2) The final score will result in a 0-0 tie until an investigation can be conducted. 3) Once an investigation is conducted and a vote of the league board on the dispute occurs, the scorecard will be made final. Once the board vote occurs no additional action can occur.

1.

SECTION 2 - SNACK BAR Each player will pay a snack bar buyout fee at an amount determined by the league. In the event parents are required to work snack bar, specifications will be noted in the season rules for said season,

1.

SECTION 3 - EQUIPMENT All Teams must have a First Aid Kit at each game and all practices. This is to be kept with the manager.

2.

All safety rules apply to practices as well as games.

3.

All equipment used for league activities shall meet the safety requirements required by ASAUSA SOFTBALL whether furnished by the league or the individual.

4.

Each manager must sign an equipment agreement and provide a $50 cash/check security deposit before equipment can be released to him or her. All equipment must be turned in at the end of the season or the manager will be liable for the equipment. Any manager who fails to return league assigned equipment shall be liable for the total cost of equipment. Failure to comply will result in ineligible to manage or coach the following season.

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION

5.

All equipment is to be used for official youth softball functions only. This would include all normal functions, including all-star tournaments.

6.

Each manager will be provided a key to Cucamonga Middle School when their equipment is distributed. There will be a $10 deposit at the time the keys are distributed.

7.

Equipment will be issued only at the designated meeting and only after all requirements are fulfilled.

1.

SECTION 4 - LEAGUE MEETINGS All managers, coaches, and team parents are required to attend league meetings and clinics as directed by the league. If a manager is unable to attend a managers’ meeting, they may appoint a coach to represent their team. Any manager who fails to attend mandatory meetings will be in jeopardy of being replaced or losing their manager eligibility status for the following season.

2.

The manager or designee must attend mandatory rules and coach’s clinic, attend the ratings clinic and assist in the rating process of all players in their division prior to each season. The team parent or designee shall attend the team parent and scorekeeping clinic.

3.

All managers must attend a mandatory field cleanup day; collect any money due from Fundraisers, sponsor fees or any other monies.

4.

It shall be the responsibility of the Team Manager to notify players’ parents of: a) League policy regarding playing times of players. b) League policy regarding player’s attendance at practices and games. c) Conduct expected of parents at games and practices. d) Collection of fundraising. e) Snack bar duty.

1.

2.

SECTION 5 - NICKNAMES, BANNERS, SPONSORS All teams may display either a sponsor’s name or aand team name. Team banners with a sponsor’s name shall be constructed in spring season only. For the safety of our players there should be no uniform numbers on the banner. All team names and logos shall be approved by the Board prior to use by the team. ARTICLE 12 – TEAM FORMATION

1.

SECTION 1 - REGISTRATION Registration dates and fees shall be determined each year by the Board of Directors. a) No player may participate in any RCACE activity without a properly completed and signedonline registration form.

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION b) c)

1.

2.

1.

The Board of Directors may provide scholarships for players with a properly completed scholarship form. Any player that has illegally registered shall can be immediately banned from further League activity for the current season. Player will be replaced from the player waiting list if appropriate.

SECTION 2 - DIVISIONS Players are to be placed in division based on their ages (per ASAUSA SOFTBALL guidelines) as follows: T-Ball 4&5 Girls 6- under 5 (with prior t-ball experience) & 6 Girls 8-under 7&8 Girls 10-under 9 & 10 Girls 12-under 11 & 12 Girls 14-under 13 & 14 Girls High School 15 – 18 Girls Based upon the number of registrations, the Board of Directors shall have the authority to combine divisions or realign age limits as would be required to facilitate fair and competitive play. SECTION 3 - PETITIONS Petitions to move up or down in an age division will not be granted, except in an extreme circumstance, in which the petition would have to be approved by the board. In the winter ball season a player may move up with natural progression, meaning if the player is supposed to move up in the following spring, they will be allowed to move up in the winter ball prior. a) A player must show exceptional skill for their division before a petition to move-up will be granted. b) Petitions to request to not play for a certain manager are kept confidential, and only one request per player is allowed. b)c) Players petitioning up must assess in their age appropriate division and the division they are petitioning to play up in. SECTION 4 - PLAYER ASSESSMENTS
 1. All players for 6U and up will be assessed prior to each draft/draw. Each player will be assessed based on overall Playing ability, catching ability (8U & up) and pitching ability (8U & Up). a. All players will be assessed in front of a committee that will consist of an umpire, a division coordinator and a board member that does not have a daughter in the division.

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION b. The managers in their respective divisions for the season can observe the assessments in preparation for the draft. c. The committee will provide an overall rating for each player and a separate rating for each pitcher and catcher to be supplied to any managers that did not make the assessments. 
 d. Players in 8U and up participating in the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball playing season who have any pitching experience (including lessons) must have a pitcher assessment or will not be eligible to pitch. i. The rating committee and RC Ace board will identify the top pitchers assessed in each division who will be designated as impact pitchers. There will be as many impact pitchers designated, as there are teams in the division. ii. If Siblings desiring to be on the same team consist of more that one designated impact pitcher, the parents must decide which sibling is to pitch in the upcoming season and the other sibling(s) will not be allowed to pitch during that same season on the same team. SECTION 5 - THE SPRING SEASON DRAFT (6U – 18U) 
 1. General Draft Policy a. Attendance: Only managers and one coach can attend the draft. b. Number of teams: The Board of Directors based upon the results of registration will determine the Maximum number teams and players per team. Age as of January 1 will dictate level of play c. Team Numbers: Teams will be assigned team numbers by a random pulling of numbers. 
 d. Promotion and Demotion: The Board must approve any player petitioning to play up or down from their age appropriate Division. 
 e. All protected payers that want to pitch must be evaluated as a pitcher at the assessments prior to the draft. 2. Protected players: a. Each manager can protect up to two players. b. The protected players must consist of the manager’s daughter and his/her assistant coach’s daughter. A manager without a daughter on the team may protect 1 player and his/her assistant coach’s daughter. c. Only one of the protected players can be designated as an impact pitcher based on the pre-draft assessment.

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION 3. Draft Restrictions: Once the draft begins the following actions require board approval (hence 
will not occur on draft night) a. Changing a players pitching status. 
 b. Add a player to a team after the draft 
 c. Move a player up or down a division. 
 d. Changing the rating of a player. 
 e. Trade of a player after first contact with the player or parent. 
 4. Procedure: All Managers from each respective division will meet and draft players until all 
eligible players have been selected. The Player Representative and Division Coordinator for 
each respective division will oversee their division’s draft and record the results. 
 a. Draft Order: The drafting order will be based on a blind draw for the team number on or before 
the day held for the draft. In the odd number rounds, Managers will draft from first (1st) to last. In even number rounds managers will draft from last to first (1st). 
 b. Trading: Trading of one assessed player per team may occur and shall be completed during draft night and prior to first contact. Trade must be like for like in rating. All trades must be approved by the Division Coordinator and Player Rep. After first contact, the board must approve all trades. Trading may not occur for blind draft picks or with unmanaged teams. 
 c. Post-Draft Balancing: Players may be added or moved to team rosters to keep teams balanced only with Board approval. 
 5. Pitcher Draft Rounds: The impact pitchers will be drafted in the first round. If a manager has a protected impact pitcher, they will be his/her first round draft pick. If a manager does not have an impact pitcher protected, they must draft one of the designated impact pitchers during the first round. (Exception: Tee Ball & 6U divisions) 6. Player Draft Rounds: The remaining players will be drafted in the following rounds. If a manager has protected players that are not designated as impact pitchers they will be drafted in the second and third rounds respectively. Once all of a teams protected players are drafted, they can draft any available player from the list that was assessed. 7. Siblings- When one of the siblings desiring to be on the same team is drafted. The remaining siblings will be drafted in the rounds immediately following. 8. Non-assessed Players: All players that fail to asses will be placed in a blind draft at the end of the assessed draft unless under unusual circumstances and with board approval. 
 All non assessed players will be blindly selected after all of the assessed players have been selected

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1.

SECTION 4 - PLAYER RATINGS All players will be rated prior to each draft/draw. Each player will be rated based on overall playing ability, and on their pitching ability based on the rating system outlined below.

2.

The player ratings procedure will be followed for all pitcher ratings. Players in all age divisions participating in the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball playing Season who has any pitching experience (including lessons) must receive a pitcher rating or will not be eligible to pitch.

3.

All players and pitchers will be rated by a rating committee that will consist of an umpire, a division coordinator and a board member that does not have a daughter in the division. The rating committee will provide an overall rating for each player and a separate rating for each pitcher. a) The Board will review all player ratings prior to the draft/draw and with a majority vote of the board have the authority to adjust individual ratings to correct any errors or oversights in the spirit of maintaining fairness and balance. b) The rated score will be the only rating assigned to each player for purposes of the draft/draw.

4.

The following player ratings guidelines will be handled the same for all seasons. The guidelines for player ratings shall range from .5 to 5, with “5” being the highest rating and “1” being the lowest. This rating system is relative to the division and players of that division. Rating Committees will take into consideration of a player who has made a Select or All Star Team in Previous Seasons A description of each rating is described below. 1) “4 to 5” - Player with exceptional ability in hitting, catching and throwing in their division of play. 2) 3.5 to 3 – Player with above average ability in hitting, catching and throwing in their division. 3) 2.5 to 2 - Player with average ability in hitting, catching and throwing in their division. 4) 1.5 to 1 - Player with some skills in a few areas of the game in their division. 5) .5 to 0 – Player with little or minimal experience and/or skill

a)

5.

The following pitcher ratings guidelines will be handled the same for all seasons. The guidelines for pitcher ratings shall be from 0 to 4, with “4” being the highest rating and “1” being the lowest. This rating system is relative to the division and players of that division. A description of each rating is described below. 1) “4” - Player that demonstrates exceptional pitching ability, shows exceptional range, velocity and control within their division of play. 2) 3.5 to 3 - Player shows above average pitching ability and can consistently pitch strikes within their division of play. 3) 2.5 to 2 - Player shows average ability who can pitch consistently enough to have the ball put into play without walking many runners around the bases.

a)

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION 1.5 to 1 - Player rating shows limited ability to get the ball near the plate with moderate mechanics. 5) 0 - Player with no pitching experience and displays no pitching ability or mechanics. All players who pitched during any prior season must be rated for their pitching abilities. Any player with pitching experience or reasonable pitching ability, or one who has taken pitching lessons must be rated by the rating committee in order to be eligible to pitch in the current season. 4)

b)

1.

SECTION 5 - THE SPRING SEASON DRAFT (6U – 18U) General Draft Policy: The general policy and procedures of the draft are outlined below. a) Number of teams: The Board of Directors based upon the results of registration will determine the Maximum number teams and players per team. Age as of January 1 will dictate level of play. b) Team Numbers: Teams will be assigned team numbers by a random pulling of numbers. c) Promotion and Demotion: The Board must approve any player petitioning to play up or down from their age Division. d) Protected players: A team may enter the draft/draw with up to 11 (eleven) protected player points with the following limitations: 1) All protected payers must be rated at a scheduled tryout. Failure to show to tryouts will result in a rating of a 5 player, and rating 4 if a pitcher if selected for protection. 2) A maximum of 1 (one) 4 or above rated player may be protected. 3) A maximum of 3 (three) 3 or 3.5 rated players may be protected. 4) A maximum of 4 players may be protected in total. 5) The protected players must include all team staff’s daughters. 6) Only one of protected players can be a pitcher rated 2.5 or higher. (Exception: Sister pitchers) e) Draft Restrictions: Once the draft begins the following actions require board approval (hence will not occur on draft night) 1) Changing a players pitching status. 2) Add a player to a team after the draft 3) Move a player up or down a division. 4) Changing the rating of a player. 5) Trade of a player after first contact with the player or parent. f) Non-Rated Players: All players that fail to try out will be placed on the wait list and added to a team as needed, unless under unusual circumstances and with board approval. g) Attendance: Only managers and one coach can attend the draft. h) Procedure: All Managers from each respective division will meet and draft players until all eligible players have been selected. The Player Representative and Division

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION Coordinator for each respective division will oversee their division’s draft and record the results. Draft Order: The drafting order will be based on a blind draw for the team number on or before the day held for the draft. In the odd number rounds, Managers will draft from first (1st) to last. In even number rounds managers will draft from last to first (1st).

i)

j)

k)

Trading: Trading of one rated player per team may occur and shall be completed during draft night and prior to first contact. Trade must be like for like in rating. All trades must be approved by the Division Coordinator and Player Rep. After first contact, the board must approve all trades. Trading may not occur for blind draft picks or with unmanaged teams. Post-Draft Balancing: Players may be added or moved to team rosters to keep teams balanced only with Board approval.

2.

Pitcher Draft Rounds: The Division Coordinator and the Player Representative will rank the Pitchers from the highest rated pitchers through the lowest rated pitchers based on their rating at the evaluation. Pitchers will be selected in Rounds 1 based on the draft procedure outlined below. (Exception: Tee Ball & 6U divisions) a) Pitchers will be grouped by their rank in descending order, beginning with 5 rated pitchers, and organized into rounds based on the number of teams in the division for the draft. b) If more pitchers evaluate than would be necessary to provide one pitchers per formed team the remaining pitchers will be ranked based on their overall player evaluations and will be drafted in the player rounds beginning with Round 2, 3 and 4.

3.

Player Draft Rounds: The Division Coordinator and the Player Representatives will rank the all non-pitching players from the highest rated players through the lowest rated players based on their rating at the evaluation. This will comprise Rounds 2, 3 and 4 etc. until all the available rated players are drafted based on the draft procedures outlined below. a) Players will be grouped by their rank in descending order, beginning with 5 rated players, and organized into rounds based on the number of teams in the division for the draft. All protected players will show first in the rounds, then players will be placed in round by their registration number which is given in the order the players register for the season. b) After the first round is completed, Managers may select players from the current draft round or 2 rounds below the current draft round unless as outlined above (i.e. in Round 3, managers may draft at that point from Round 4 or 5 but not 6, 7 etc.) c) If more than three rounds contain players of the same rating a manager may select in the lower rounds, but may only take a player that is rated the same as the round they are currently drafting. d) Protected players and siblings will be drafted in the round they are ranked. Player Retention - As a returning manager you will be given the opportunity to retain a maximum of 2 players who were on your team from the previous season. These players

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION must have played on the team you managed in the previous Spring or Winter season and after the current season's assessment process have no higher than a 2 player rating and not carry a pitching rating higher than a 1.5. This rule is different and separate from the protected player rule. Player retention only gives you the first right to that player/players over returning managers. They will still be available to any new manager or a manager who did not participate in the previous 2 seasons. Notes and clarifications: Protected players supersedes player retention. If a player is protected by another manager (with parent’s consent) they cannot be retained by the previous manager. (Retained players are NOT protected players. A manager that's new to the league has precedence over player retention) A retained player will be selected in the round that their rating falls in and at the first opportunity that the player can be drafted, so if the player is rated as a 7th round player she will be your 7th round selection. All retained players will have to be turned in prior to the draft so that they can be marked by the division coordinator and draft conductor. A new manager is defined as a manager who have never managed with RC ACE or a manager who has not managed for 2 consecutive seasons. A manager who is new to the division/age group are not considered as new managers as they will have opportunities to retain also. Once a retainable player is passed by their previous manager they will be available to all managers at the draft. If your player is slotted in round 5 you have until round 5 to select them or your retain rights are negated. In the event a protected player and a retained player fall in the same round the protected player will be taken first and your option of retaining the other player in that round will be negated, said player will then be available for draft by any manager.

1.

Tee Ball Draft The Division Coordinator and Player Representative will group the players by their schools. They will try to balance the teams with equal number of experienced and inexperienced players and equal number of older and younger players.

SECTION 6 - WINTER SEASON TEAM FORMATION Winterball draft formation will be voted on by the board prior to winterball assessments. Formation and revised constitution will be posted on the website as notice to the general membership.

ARTICLE 13 - ALL-STARS

1.

2.

SECTION 1 - INFORMATION The Player Representative, Division Coordinator and persons designated by the ACE board of directors will determine the number of All-Star teams to represent the Rancho Cucamonga ACE League Softball in All-Star tournaments. In addition to the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League All-Star tournament, the Board

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION of Directors will decide which other tournaments the All-Star teams will participate in. 3.

If a “Select” All Star team is selected for 10-under, 12-under or 14-under in the spring season it will occur after January 31st. All other All-Star team selections will occur after May 1st of each season.

4.

If a “Select” All Star team is formed for the 10-under, 12-under or 14-under winter season the formation will occur after August 1st.

5.

An All-Star Committee will be formed to facilitate and coordinate the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball Tournament. The committee will consist of the Player Representative, the Division Coordinator of the division being drafted and a board member selected by the board.

1.

SECTION 2 - ALL-STAR MANAGER SELECTION All managers and coaches need to be ASAUSA SOFTBALL “A.C.E. Certified” in accordance with USA Softball ASAUSA SOFTBALL rules to be selected to manage an allstar team.

2.

All-star managers for the Gold, and Silver and/or Bronze teams will be selected by the board after an interview process.The Board with manager input shall determine how many All Star Teams will be formed each season.

3.

If an “Select All Star” team is selected to represent the league on or after January 31st, the manager will be selected by the RC ACE Board of Directors by a majority vote.

1.

2.

SECTION 3 - TEAM SELECTION Player Eligibility: The All-Star roster shall consist of a team with a maximum of 12 players. a) If two or more teams exist a maximum of 12 players will be selected for each team. b) Any additional All-Star teams must have proper player skill support in order to be League Sanctioned. The “Gold” team must be comprised of the best players of their respective division. A “Silver” team may only be assembled after the “Gold” team is completely assembled. c) Players must qualify for an All-Star team in their age-appropriate division only. d) Once a player drops, she cannot be picked up by any other team.

Player Ranking: At an All-Star voting meeting, managers will be given individual ballots for All-Star voting. The player votes will be tabulated and ranked using the point system described below. a) Players will be ranked by the points received and the All-Stars will be determined by the rankings. For example, on a manager’s or selected umpire’s ballot, players will be ranked in order (from 1 to the number determined by the all-star committee) and assigned a score based on that ranking.

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION b)

c) d) e)

f)

g)

h)

3.

The player’s score from each manager or selected umpire will be averaged; this overall score will be the player’s combined ranking. Once all ballots are tabulated the list will be sorted and ordered by combined ranking. If one All-Star teams exists, the top 20 players by combined ranking will be designated for final selection as an All-Star. If two All-Star teams exist, the top 30 players by combined ranking will be designated for final selection as an All-Star. The board committee will review all ballots, and question in private any manager or selected umpire who by all appearances to the committee, grossly misplaces or forgets a girl compared to most other voters (i.e. - in the top five, when most or no one had her in the top ten; in the top ten when most or no one had in the top 15, etc; or a player of top ten talent left off a ballot). Justification will be asked for and the committee may ask the manager or selected umpire to adjust their ballot if adequate substantiation cannot be provided. A ballot or votes can be rejected by consensus of the above vote selection process committee if the manager or selected umpire refuses to cooperate or the manager has failed to watch games of all teams in the division for evaluation. Tiebreakers for rankings will be first by number of votes in the top ten (or top twenty for a second team), followed by number of times on a ballot, and followed by the committee breaking the tie if still deadlocked. The player list ranked by total points as voted by the managers and selected umpire defines the complete All-Star player pool.

Select Team: If a “Select All Star” team in the 10-under, 12-under and 14-under divisions is formed it will consist of the best 12 players at the time of its draft. The Gold or Silver All Star teams will be selected as outlined below, with the remaining players that are available during their draft. a) If a “Select All Star” team is formed b) All-Star voting for the “Select All Star” team will occur within three days of their final tryout. The Player Representative, Division Coordinator an umpire selected by the RC board and managers who attend the try-outs will meet to select the “Select All Star” teams. Board of directors shall provide final approval for all “Select All Star” Teams. Managers and an umpire selected by the RC board will vote for particular players as defined below. c) The manager who attended the try-out may attend the “Select All Star” selection meeting, but only one ballot per team will be allowed. No proxy voting is permitted. Opportunity for discussion will be allowed regarding player performance during the tryout. The number of players voted for by each manager and the selected umpire will be the equal to the total players needed for the “Select All Star” team in the division (i.e. 20 for one team). Managers should be encouraged at the meeting to give consideration for pitching and catching needs on the team(s) during their rank voting process. d) At the voting meeting, managers will be given individual ballots for All-Star voting. All managers and the selected umpire will rank their top 20 players in order. e) If a player does not receive a ranking she will be given a rank of 20. All ballots will be

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f)

collected and then tabulated by the above listed board committee. The managers’ and selected umpire’s votes and rankings are confidential and should be destroyed after completion and approval of the selected team. Any discussions about the conversations/discussions in the meeting to other individuals not in the meeting are not tolerated and are grounds for suspension. Once the “Select All Star” team has been selected the players will be notified immediately.

1. Gold / Silver/Bronze Team: If a Select Team is not formed in the division or if a Silver and/or Bronze team is formed, The Division Coordinator, the player representative, an umpire selected by the RC board will host a one day tryout for 8U Gold, & Silver & Bronze (1 tryout for all of the 8U girls attending), 10U Silver, and 12U Silver on the 1st Sunday of May. A manager and Board vote for 6U. a) There will be a zero tolerance for any Managers/Coaches that are found to be dealmaking or negotiating during the season and/or during the All-Star/Select Player Selection Voting Process. If this has occurred, the matter will be brought to the attention of the Board for disciplinary action, if deemed necessary. The Board reserves the right to postpone any draft that cannot be conducted fairly and to decide and oversee the corrective action needed to rectify the matter. This may include a Board approved committee to select both the team and the manager. b) All-Star voting for the “Gold, & Silver, & Bronze All Star” team will occur after their final try-out. The Player Representative, Division Coordinator an umpire selected by the RC board and managers who attend the try-outs will meet to select the “Select All Star” teams. Board of directors shall provide final approval for all “Gold, & Silver & Bronze All Star” Teams. Division managers, division coordinator, the player representative, and an umpire selected by the RC board will vote for particular players as defined below. c) The manager or a designated coach may attend the gold or silver selection meeting, but only one ballot per team will be allowed. No proxy voting is permitted. Opportunity for minimal discussion will be allowed regarding player performance during the observation period since the informational meeting. Voting will take place first for the Gold Team or Silver (if there was a select team first). The managers, division coordinator, player representative and selected umpire will rank the players 1 to 15. All ballots will be collected and then tabulated, all rankings shall be kept confidential and will be destroyed after completion and approval of the selected teams. Any discussions about the conversations/discussions in the meeting to other individuals not in the meeting are not tolerated and are grounds for suspension. Managers, division coordinator, player representative and selected umpire will then evaluate the remaining girls and determine if a Silver or Bronze Team will be formed. The process will repeat for Silver and/or Bronze Teams, if formed. The number of players voted for by each manager, division coordinator, the player representative, and the selected umpire will be the equal to the total players needed for the Gold or Silver All-Star teams in the division (i.e. 30 players for 2 teams or 15 for one team). Managers should be encouraged at the meeting to give consideration for pitching and catching needs on the team(s) during their rank voting process. Rev.4.29.20161.2.2017

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION The top 30 players will be given a ranking. All ballots will be collected and then tabulated by the above listed board committee. The managers’ and selected umpire’s votes and rankings are confidential and should be destroyed after completion and approval of the selected team. Any discussions about the conversations/discussions in the meeting to other individuals not in the meeting are not tolerated and are grounds for suspension. b) After the first All-Star manager for the gold has selected the final players that night, the next highest ranking twelve players will be invited to play on the second All-Star team (if applicable). SECTION 4 – TEAM MAINTENANCE When the gold or silver teams have been formed, once practice begins, a player may be called up from the second team to the first team only if the first team falls below 12 players on the roster, or for compelling circumstances, such as only one healthy pitcher. This is only with pre-approval by the board committee, and upon permission of the parents and player involved. a)

1.

2.

If a silver team falls below 12 players the silver all star manager can select a replacement player(s) from the next five rated players from the original all star draft that were not selected.

3.

All Star practices will be limited to a maximum of 4 times per week, and a maximum of 3 hours per practice.

4.

The “Select All Star” team will be eligible to begin practice or playing immediately after their selection.

1.

2.

SECTION 5 - FUNDING All-Stars is considered a second season. All All-Star players/parents should expect to participate in an All-Star fundraiser. There will be separate fees to play all stars. These fees will be set by the board. A deposit amount determined by the board will be required of all All-Star parents prior to uniforms being issued. This deposit will be returned upon the completion of the parent working at the Rancho Cucamonga ACE All-Star Tournament for the number of hours as specified by the Board of Directors (minimum of 6 hours). It is the responsibility of the team manager to collect the deposits and turn them into the Treasurer. a) No individual funding of teams is allowed until all deposits for each team is turned into the Treasurer. b) The All Star teams will receive complete uniforms, an All-Star pin, game balls (when needed), and a maximum of three (3) tournament fees paid for, in addition to the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Softball League tournament. This does not include fees for State or Nationals. Any additional items or funds will come from sponsors, parents, or board approved fundraisers.

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3.

Managers are to provide an itemized expense report to the Board for all monies collected. ARTICLE 14 - DISCIPLINE AND POLICY

1.

SECTION 1 - UMPIRE DIRECTED DISCIPLINE During the officiating of any game, the umpire shall warn the manager of any player(s)exhibiting behavior that may be construed as “unsportsmanlike conduct”. If the behavior persists, the umpire may take further action against the manager, the offending player(s), or both.

2.

Any player showing an act of unsportsmanlike conduct, including but not limited to swearing or obscene gestures towards an umpire, another player, manager, coach, or spectator, may be ejected from the game by the umpire.

3.

Any player ejected by an umpire for unsportsmanlike conduct during a game shall not be allowed to play in that team’s next game.

4.

The Board strives to support umpires in their decisions on the field. If a manager, coach or player has been thrown out of a game for any reason, he/she will not, under any circumstances, be allowed to participate in the following: a) First offense: one-two game suspension (including all preceding practices.) b) Second and subsequent offenses during the same season: two game suspension (including all preceding practices.) Further, the manager, coach or player may be subject to Board Discipline, up to and including removal from the league, in accordance with the Rules set forth in Section 3 below.

1.

2.

SECTION 2 – MANAGER/COACH DIRECTED DISCIPLINE The manager/coach is responsible for the behavior of the individual members of his/her team. In order to uphold the objectives of Rancho Cucamonga ACE Youth Softball League, the manager/coach may invoke any or all of the following disciplinary measures. When benching or dropping a player, as described below, the manager/coach must notify the Player Representative prior to taking such action. Benching a player - the manager/coach may bench any player as a disciplinary measure when any or all of the following incidents occur: a) A player misses two (2) consecutive practices without notifying and being excused by the manager. A player misses any regular season game without notifying and being excused by the manager/coach. b) Player exhibits behavior not conducive to teamwork, including refusal to follow direction, repeated tardiness to practices and/or games, poor sportsmanship, or failure to be properly uniformed. The manager/coach shall notify the umpire and the official scorekeeper prior to the start of the game of any benched player.

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION c)

3.

1.

2.

The scorekeeper will make the annotation “Benched” beside the player’s name in the official scorebook. The benched player must be in uniform and remain in the dugout throughout the game, or will be ineligible to participate in the team’s next game.

Dropping a player - the manager/coach may drop a player from the team following three (3) unexcused absences or because of behavior deemed to be detrimental to the overall good of the team. When dropping a player, the manager/coach must adhere to the following procedure: a) Manager/coach must warn the player that her behavior must be corrected or risk being dropped from the team. b) Manager/coach must notify the player’s parents/guardians of the problem and enlist their help in correcting the problem. c) When the two steps outlined above prove to be ineffective, the manager/coach will notify the Player Representative of his/her intent to drop the player. The Player Representative will contact the player in question and inform her or her parents/guardians of the League’s intention to drop her. If the player indicates no challenge to this action, the Player Representative will seek the approval of the Board at the next regularly scheduled board meeting. If the player indicates a desire to challenge this action, the Player Representative shall inform the President of the need for a special session by the Board to conduct a disciplinary hearing. d) In the event the player wishes to challenge the manager’s/coach’s action to drop, a disciplinary hearing will be conducted as follows: 1) The manager or appointed representative and the player’s parent or guardian will be allowed five (5) minutes to present their case to the board behind closed doors. 2) Board members will be able to question each party following their presentation. Each party will then be granted two (2) minutes to summarize their case. 3) Following the decision of the board that will be based on a simple majority, the league President or other designated Board Member will inform the parties of the decision within 24 hours. e) Upon approval by the Board, the Player Representative will drop the player. All Board decisions are final.

SECTION 3 - LEAGUE DIRECTED DISCIPLINE Disciplinary actions may be taken against league members in circumstances including, but not limited to, an umpire taking action on the field of play, or the hearing and investigation of a complaint brought to the Board’s attention by any concerned party. In the event that the actions of a board member, manager, coach, player, parent or spectator are referred to the Board for further review which could result in disciplinary action, the following steps will be taken: a) If the alleged allegation, in the opinion of the President or, in his/her absence, an

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b)

c)

d)

e)

f)

g)

3. 4.

Executive Board member who receives the complaint, is of a heinous nature (e.g., acting violently toward a player, coach, manager, or spectator), or any other act which on its face jeopardizes the physical safety of another, the alleged offender will be immediately and indefinitely suspended from all league activities, including team practices and games, and shall be barred from being present at any league activities until the allegation has been investigated and a final decision reached. For non-heinous allegations, upon receipt of the allegation, the Board shall notify the alleged offender by telephone, in person or in writing within 48 hours of completion of investigation. Notification will include the nature of the allegation as well as an invitation for the alleged offender to present his/her case to the Board before any ruling is made on the matter. The alleged offender’s presentation may take place in person at the following Regularly-scheduled Board meeting. This presentation may include the presence of up to three people who were actual witnesses to the alleged violation who may speak on behalf of the alleged offender. The presentation may last no more than five minutes per speaker, unless the Board specifically grants permission for a longer presentation. If conditions dictate that the presentation of the alleged offender’s defense cannot wait until the next Board meeting, the alleged offender may request a telephonic conference call to decide the issue, in lieu of a regular Board meeting, with a minimum of the Division Coordinator responsible for the division involved, the Player Representative, and one Executive Board member. Which Executive Board member will participate will be at the discretion of the President or his/her designee. Once the conference call option has been chosen by the alleged offender it cannot be revoked by him/her in favor of a regular Board meeting without the approval of the President or his/her designee. The Board retains ultimate authority in how an issue is to be heard. If the matter cannot be resolved by conference call without the input of the entire Board, an emergency Board meeting may be convened to address the issue. If insufficient Time exists for the issue to be resolved at either the next regularly scheduled Board meeting or for an emergency Board meeting to be convened, the Board may impose the conference call option. The Board shall make every reasonable attempt to gather all facts of the alleged offense from all appropriate sources, hear the defense of the alleged offender, and render a decision and remedy within one week’s time of receipt of the complaint. The Secretary will notify the alleged offender in writing of the ruling of the Board and will ensure that the nature of the complaint, a summary of the facts, testimony and findings are entered into the record of the following regularly scheduled Board meeting minutes. This entry shall be kept confidential in any subsequent requests for meeting minutes transcripts by third parties.

No disciplinary action may be taken against any league member other than by the rules stated above. The Board shall be responsible for all managers, coaches and team parents. A manager or coach can be removed from team responsibility for conduct not conducive to the good

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION intent of the program as outlined in the Code of Conduct. The Board shall be responsible for and lend support to all managers and coaches.

1.

SECTION 4 – SPORTSMANSHIP The highest standards of conduct and good sportsmanship must be maintained at all times by players, managers and coaches, spectators and other participants. All managers and coaches are expected to be courteous and civil, and to always display the best example of good sportsmanship while on the field. Managers, coaches and parents must cheer in a positive and encouraging nature. There will be no disruptive or discouraging cheering such as but not limited to screaming during the delivery of the pitch or yelling swing after the pitch has been released.

2.

Foul, abusive and disruptive language, or any other disruptive actions directed towards an umpire, player, spectator, manager or coach will not be tolerated from anyone. The umpire will suspend play and eject the disruptive person from the grounds (not just the playing field). If a disruptive manager or coach does not leave the grounds within two minutes after being so ordered, a forfeit will exist in favor of the opposing team no matter what the score or inning. The same guidelines apply for the ejection of a spectator. Actions constituting disruption of the games are the sole judgment of the umpire.

3.

If, after it has been explained, an umpire’s decision continues to be challenged by a manager or coach, the umpire may eject him/her from the game (under the same condition as the above paragraph).

4.

Any ejection of a manager or coach may result in further disciplinary action in Accordance with the Rancho Cucamonga ACE Constitution.

5.

If any player is determined by the league board to have misrepresented their playing abilities during the try-out process she will be removed from the league and will not receive a refund of her registration fee.

6.

No person can be under the influence of any substance while in the vicinity of the playing field or on the playing field during practices or games. This is strictly forbidden. Anyone in violation of this will be suspended from the league. ARTICLE 15 – GAME PROTESTS

1.

2.

SECTION 1 - PROTEST COMMITTEE The protest committee shall consist of the VP, Player Rep, Division Coordinator and another Board member not affiliated with the division in question or designee. A quorum shall consist of no less than four members plus the Umpire-In-Chief heading the committee. This committee will adjudicate all legitimate protests duly submitted. Each committee

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION member will have one vote. No committee member may take part in judging a protest originating from a team on which they hold a managing or coaching position or a division in which they are involved. A substitute committee member will be appointed at the discretion of the Umpire-In-Chief. The protest committee will review only that information submitted to them concerning the protest at hand. 3.

The protest committee shall obtain from the Umpire-In-Chief a detailed written explanation from the two managers and Umpire(s) involved of the protested situation. The committee shall meet within three days after the receipt of the written materials from the Umpire-InChief to decide upon the validity of the protest and as to what action, if any, is to be taken. This decision is final.

4.

All managers will be notified by the Division Coordinator of the protest committee’s decision. It will be the responsibility of the managers to inform the players on their team of this decision.

1.

SECTION 2 – INITIATING PROTEST Protests shall only be considered when based on the violation of, or misinterpretation of a playing rule or the use of an ineligible player. No protest shall be considered on a situation involving a judgment decision.

2.

Only the manager of the protesting team shall have the right to protest (or coach in the absence of the manager). The Manager (or coach in the absence of the manager) shall immediately and before the next pitched ball (legal or illegal) to the next batter, notify the plate umpire that the game is being played under protest. The plate umpire shall in turn notify the opposing manager and official scorekeeper. The intention to protest the game will be entered in the official scorebook at the appropriate point in the game. The Umpire and both managers will sign the official scorebook in the area where the protest is written. The manager protesting the game shall deliver, within 48 hours from termination of play of the protested game, his/her written basis for the protest lodged to the Umpire-In-Chief.

3.

Each protest shall be accompanied with a $40 cash fee, and will be paid at the time of protest to the plate Umpire, who will turn the money over to the responsible assigned board member. At this time it should be noted by the scorekeeper that a protest fee has been paid by the protesting team. This fee will be refunded if the protest is upheld. Refunds will be paid through RC ACE Softball League by a League check within seven days. Forfeited protest fees shall be deposited in the general fund.

4.

The written protest should contain the following information: a) The date, time and place of the game. b) The names of the umpire(s) and official scorekeeper c) The rule and section of the official rule(s) or league rule(s) under which the protest is made. d) The information details and conditions pertinent to the decision to protest.

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RANCHO CUCAMONGA ACE SOFTBALL LEAGUE 2016 2017 CONSTITUTION

5.

e) All essential facts involved in the matter protested. Equipment, which does not meet the requirements of the league, must be removed from the game and does not constitute the basis for a protest.

1.

SECTION 3 - REMEDY The decision rendered on a protested game must result in one of the following.

2.

The protest is considered to be invalid and the game score stands as played.

3.

When a protest is determined to be valid because of the misinterpretation of a playing rule or league rule, the decision will be corrected and the game shall be replayed from the point at which the incorrect decision was made. If the protesting team wins the game, the protest then becomes meaningless.

4.

When a protest for ineligibility is determined to be valid, the offending team may forfeit the game being played or the game last played to the offending team. ARTICLE 16 - UMPIRES

1.

Once the game has started the Umpire shall determine if the game is to be suspended due to rain, fog, smog, darkness, hazardous conditions, or violation of the Code of Conduct.

2.

However, in the case of Junior Umpires, the Umpire-in-Chief or in his/her absence a Board Member shall determine if the game is to be suspended due to rain, fog, smog, darkness, hazardous conditions, or violation of the Code of Conduct.

3.

All Umpires will attend a clinic each year for certification and to learn new rules or changes (if any) by the American Softball Association.

4.

All Junior Umpires have to be registered with the American Softball Association.

5.

Umpire(s) shall inspect the playing field for safety prior to the start of each game.

6.

A scheduled Umpire shall wear a blue shirt or an approved American Softball Association’s Umpire uniform and rubber/plastic cleats or tennis shoes. All Umpires are required to wear a facemask.

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