step up to the plate
Harrisonburg Little League Association
STEP UP TO THE PLATE
TABLE OF CONTENTS League Information
3
Board Member Information
4
HLLA 2017 Calendar
7
Sub-League Information
8
2017 Baseball & Softball League Age Charts
10
Communication Information
12
Volunteer Information & Opportunities
13
Fundraising Information
16
Sponsor Information
17
Scholarship Information
18
2
LEAGUE INFORMATION
History
Formed prior to the 2000 spring season, Harrisonburg Little League Association (HLLA) is the local Harrisonburg, Virginia Little League affiliate. In previous years, there only existed a Parks & Recreation baseball league available in the Harrisonburg area. HLLA was also the first organization to bring softball to the city of Harrisonburg. The founding president of HLLA was former James Madison University baseball player Mark Siciliano. The mission of Little League is to... “promote, develop, supervise, and voluntarily assist in all lawful ways, the interest of those who will participate in Little League Baseball and Softball.” Little League is an international organization with leagues established in more than 80 countries with over 2.4 million players worldwide.
Finances
HLLA has a budget of nearly $70,000 per year. The city of Harrisonburg provides HLLA with $6,000 a year and much of HLLA’s additonal funding comes from its 41 sponsors. A large majority of HLLA’s funds also come from its fundraising efforts, such as Bat-a-Thon, coupled with profits from the concession stand and other events.
Ball Fields
There are a few main fields that HLLA uses to accommodate each game in each league, but HLLA's home is Purcell Park. Fields 1, 2 and 3 are all located at Purcell Park in Harrisonburg, Va. Purcell Park is located at 41 Monument Ave. in Harrisonburg. The park boasts three baseball/softball fields that HLLA teams will rotate around during the season. Simms Field is located at the Lucy Simms Educational Center at 620 Simms Ave. in Harrisonburg.
Purcell Park
3
BOARD MEMBER INFORMATION
Dean Warlitner
Crystal Taylor
Jannell Driscoll
Time with HLLA: 23 years Outside of HLLA: Working at Tenneco Walker for 30+ years
Time with HLLA: 11 years Outside of HLLA: Runs a daycare called The Little Playhouse for 20 years; enjoys photgraphing for fun
Time with HLLA: 1st year on board Outside of HLLA: Working at Merck for 8 years in purchasing
President
[email protected]
Vice President
[email protected]
Vice President - Softball
[email protected]
Heather Cheshire
Jeff Wolter
Steve Reich
Time with HLLA: 3 years as volunteer, 1st year on board Outside HLLA: 2 young sons, Asst. Director at Oasis Preschool and Nursery
Time with HLLA: 13 years Outside HLLA: Owner of University Outpost
Time with HLLA: 12 years Outside of HLLA: History professor at James Madison University
Secretary
Treasurer
[email protected]
[email protected]
4
Operations Officer
[email protected]
Isaac Woo
Communications Coordinator
Time with HLLA: 4 years as parent, 1st year on board Outside HLLA: Assistant Professor in the School of Communication Studies at JMU
James Blakely
Chris Hughes
Time with HLLA: 7 years Outside HLLA: Technician at Comcast
Outside HLLA: Physics and Astronomy professor at JMU
Equipment Coordinator
[email protected]
Information Officer
[email protected]
[email protected]
Tina Puffenbarger Safety Officer
tpuffenbarger@harrisonburg. k12.va.us
Jennifer Nunez
Will Zampini
Time with HLLA: 9 years Outside HLLA: Office Services in Harrisonburg Health Department
Time with HLLA: Former player, 5 years as coach/ board member Outside HLLA: Escrow Agent at Stewart Title
Fundraising Coordinator
[email protected]
5
Player Agent - Baseball
[email protected]
Obie Hill
Mikala Wolter
Player Agent - Softball
Coach Coordinator Softball
Time with HLLA: 3 years as coach, 1st year on board Outside HLLA: Professional Counselor
Time with HLLA: 1 year as coach, 1st year on board Outside HLLA: Graduate student working toward a master's degree in Education
[email protected]
6
HLLA 2017 Calendar February Feb. 25: Skills Evaluation -- baseball and softball; Waterman Elementary School
March Mar. 4: Tee Ball Orientation -- parents and players; Waterman Elementary School Mar. 4: Challenger Orientation -- parents and players; Waterman Elementary School Mar. 11: Practice Begins (weather permitting) - junior, major and minor league baseball and softball (no earlier than this date) Mar. 20: Farm Baseball and Sandlot Begin (no earlier than this date) Mar. 21: Team Parent Meetings -- Sandlot and Farm Leagues: room above concession stand, side 1, 6:30pm Mar. 22: Team Parent Meetings -- Major and Minor Leagues: room above concession stand, side 1, 6:30pm Mar. 23: Team Parent Meetings -- Junior and Softball Leagues: room above concession stand, side 1, 6:30pm
April Apr. 8: 2017 Opening Day (make-up date: Apr. 9) Apr. 17: Tee Ball begins (no earlier than this date) Apr. 18: Team Parent Meetings -- Tee Ball: room above concession stand, side 1, 6:30pm
May May 20: Bat-a-Thon (HLLA Fundraiser) (make-up date: May 21)
June Jun. 1: All Star Commitment Letters Due (distributed in Bat-a-Thon packets)
7
Sub-league INFORMATION The Harrisonburg Little League Association hosts sub-leagues in baseball, softball, tee ball, and the Challenger Division. Placement into divisions within sub-leagues is determined by a combination of league age (see age charts on pages 10 & 11) and skill set. For divisions with multiple teams, assignment to teams is determined via a draft format following skills evaluation in March.
Intermediate (50/70) Division
This division is intended for players league age 12-14. HLLA fields about one team in this division that plays against intermediate teams from Elkton and Broadway.
HLLA Major League Division-1
Baseball
This division is intended for players league age 11-12. HLLA fields about two teams in this division each year.
HLLA Minor League Division
This division is intended for players league age 9-10. HLLA fields about four teams in this division each year.
HLLA Farm Division
This division is intended for players that are league age 7-8. HLLA fields about three or four teams in this division each year. Games for all baseball divisions are played on Field 1 and Field 2 at Purcell Park as well as at away sites with neighboring little league teams such as Bridgewater, Broadway, Grottoes, and others.
HLLA Major League Division
This division is intended for players that are league age 11-12. HLLA fields about one or two teams in this division each year.
Softball
HLLA Minor League Division
This division is intended for players that are league age 9-10. HLLA fields about one or two teams in this division each year.
HLLA Farm Division
This division is intended for players that are league age 7-8. HLLA fields about three or four teams in this division each year. Games for all softball divisions are played on Field 2 at Purcell Park as well as at away sites with neighboring little league teams such as Bridgewater, Broadway, Grottoes, and others.
8
Tee Ball
Challenger
Tee Ball is intended for players that are 6-years-old and under as a way to introduce them to the sport of baseball or softball. Games are considered learning experiences in this division so score is not kept and no official umpires are present. HLLA fields many teams for the tee ball division. Due to the amount of teams, games are played primarily on Field 3 at Purcell Park. Players practice twice a week from April 17 - April 28 and play two games a week from May 1- June 16.
The Challenger Division is intended for children ages 5-18 or up to 22 if still enrolled in school, who cannot safely participate in other baseball programs due to physical and/or intellectual challenges. No score is kept, everyone bats every inning, and each player is assigned a trained buddy who works to ensure safety and success.
9
2017 Little League Age Chart FOR BASEBALL DIVISION ONLY
baseball League age chart Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
AGE
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013 2013 2013 2013 2012
2012
2012
2012
4
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012 2012 2012 2012 2011
2011
2011
2011
5
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011 2011 2011 2011 2010
2010
2010
2010
6
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010 2010 2010 2010 2009
2009
2009
2009
7
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009 2009 2009 2009 2008
2008
2008
2008
8
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008 2008 2008 2008 2007
2007
2007
2007
9
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007 2007 2007 2007 2006
2006
2006
2006
10
2006 2006
2006
2006 2006 2006 2006 2006 2005
2005 2005
2005
11 11
2005 2005 2005 2005 2005
2005
2005
2005
2004 2004 2004 2004 2004
2004
2004
2004
12
2004
2004
2004
2004
2003 2003 2003 2003 2003
2003
2003
2003
13
2003
2003
2003
2003
2002 2002 2002 2002 2002
2002
2002
2002
14
2002
2002
2002
2002
2001 2001 2001 2001 2001
2001
2001
2001
15
2001
2001
2001
2001
2000 2000 2000 2000 2000
2000
2000
2000
16
NOTE: This age chart is for BASEBALL DIVISIONS ONLY, and only for 2017.
10
Softball league age chart 2017 Little League Age Chart FOR SOFTBALL DIVISION ONLY
Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
AGE
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
4
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
5
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
6
009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
7
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
8
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
9
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
10
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
11
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
12
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
13
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
14
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
15
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
16
NOTE: This age chart is for SOFTBALL DIVISIONS ONLY, and only for 2017.
11
Communication information Stay connected with league updates and news:
• HLLA uses social media as a way to provide the latest news and day-to-day updates, including the status of games and practices, to players’ families. • HLLA’s Twitter and Facebook pages are also connected directly to the league’s website. • Receive text message updates from the league by texting
AllUsersSports5854 to 84483. • League calendars and game schedules will be distributed by coaches at the start of the season. To read league stories visit: http://hllastory.weebly.com. • Receive league email from [email protected].
When you want to register:
• For information about registration and how to sign-up, parents should directly visit HLLA’s website at http://sports.bluesombrero.com/hlla.
Where to find coaches' contact information:
• Coaches will provide their phone numbers and email addresses to parents once a child has been placed on a team.
#AskHLLA
When you have general questions:
• Ask via Twitter by Tweeting using #AskHLLA. • Post on the HLLA Facebook page. • Email the league’s president through HLLA’s primary contact email address: [email protected].
When you have questions about volunteering:
• There will be a list of volunteer opportunities distributed to all parents at the time of registration, whether they register electronically or in-person. • Further information and reminders about volunteer opportunities will be discussed by coaches and team parents throughout the season. • All general information about HLLA’s sponsors and fundraising initiatives can be found on the league's website. • Any further questions about volunteering can be best answered by contacting HLLA’s Vice President, Crystal Brown at [email protected]. Website: http://sports.bluesombrero.com/hlla Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/HburgLLA Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HburgLLA
12
Volunteer INFORMATION Everyone involved with the Harrisonburg Little League Association is a volunteer. Coaches, team managers, team parents and board members are all donating their time to HLLA. Aside from these positions, many more volunteers are needed for fundraising events, concession stands, opening day activities and more. Assistance will be needed and greatly appreciated at events such as registration, opening day, baseball and softball games, Bat-a-Thon, etc. Any amount of time you are willing and able to give to the league will be utilized and appreciated. There are committees held throughout the year that discuss the specific details about exactly what is to be done and where help is needed most during events and throughout the season. We respect your time and understand that you have busy lives and schedules, but every minute of time that you can offer will make a difference. So, if you’re interested in donating a bit of your time, want to know when committee meetings are or want to know how you can help, email [email protected] or message us on Facebook with any questions, comments or concerns. During the month of November, in the offseason, a general membership meeting will be hosted. At this meeting, all HLLA members are invited to come and learn information about the league and discuss any ideas for the upcoming season. During the meeting the group will also decide on the year’s new board members.
13
Volunteer opportunities Coaches
Do you want to be a coach?
Fill out the Volunteer Application, check the Managers or Coaches box while registering your child online. You may also send a request through email to HLLA President Dean Warlitner at [email protected].
Are you ready to be a coach?
Passing the background check with the Volunteer Application is a must. Having a background in baseball or softball is helpful but not always required.
What will you do as coach?
Duties include managing the team, preparing for each game and practice, finding a team parent to assist and communicating with the league director whenever necessary.
Assistant Coaches
Do you want to be an assistant coach? Same as procedure for coach.
Are you ready to be an assistant coach? Same as qualifications for coach.
What will you do as assistant coach? To help assist the manager in all facets.
Team Parents
Do you want to be a team parent?
Sign-up during registration online or make a verbal request to be a team parent.
Are you ready to be a team parent?
You must be a good communicator and keep in contact with the V.P.
What will you do as a team parent?
Assisting the manager with handouts, helping to organize team concession duties, handing out the team picture form and helping to answer questions about Bat-a-Thon fundraiser. To sign-up to be a team parent, contact Vice President Crystal Taylor at [email protected].
14
Concession Stand Assistance
League Participant Requirement: Each parent must work one time during the season. When: Parents will be assigned to work a shift during their child(ren)’s scheduled game. The Opt-Out Option: The opt out option allows parents to pay $30 instead of working a concession stand shift; the money will be used to have somone cover their shift.
Opening Day
Time: The day begins at 7:00am and runs until 8:00pm. Tasks: Concession assistance, watch bouncy houses, face painting, apparel tent, raffle table and etc. When: Teams will be assigned to cover all the specific needs at a designated time.
Example: Players and parents of one league will help with set-up from 7:00am to 8:00am; players and parents of another league will manage the raffle table from 1:00pm to 2:00pm, and so on. The scheduling will work around the game times for that day.
Bat-a-Thon
Time: 8:00am to 6:00pm Tasks: Volunteers are needed to work at concession stands, operate the Bat-a-Thon prize tent, shag balls, manage check-in table and etc.
An email will be sent out later on how to get involved in these and other fundraisers. Attraction coupon books and discount cards will be sold, contact HLLA President Dean Warlitner at [email protected] or [email protected] for pick-up.
15
FUNDRAISING INFORMATION For the Harrisonburg Little League Association, fundraising is a crucial step in achieving success. While the city of Harrisonburg funds other sports fully - such as football and basketball - HLLA does not receive enough funding to operate the league the way it should be while also following standard rules and regulations. Because of this, HLLA relies heavily on donations, sponsorships and fundraising events to be successful. During the months leading up to and during the Little League season, volunteers associated with HLLA actively try to raise money for the league. Often, families and volunteers sell discount cards and local attraction dining books to bring revenue to the organization. Additionally, HLLA hosts a raffle at which local businesses and other organizations are invited to participate and donate prizes for the cause. In the past, organizations such as the Washington Nationals have donated to HLLA, bringing attention to the organization and its fundraising efforts. While all of these events are beneficial, the event that brings in the largest amount of money is Bat-a-Thon. With the money raised through all of these efforts, HLLA hopes to be able to upgrade its facilities and offer more scholarships to children who cannot afford to play. Last year, 33 players received either a full or partial scholarship. The Harrisonburg Little League Association would love to increase these numbers, but it needs help from parents and volunteers in order to succeed.
Bat a Thon Bat-a-Thon is an annual fundraising event that takes place in May, where kids can play baseball, earn tickets and win prizes. Bat-a-Thon is meant to be a FUN event for kids, but it serves a dual purpose as this event is necessary to help fundraise for HLLA.
Every player that participates is a winner at Bat-a-Thon!
Players must raise funds in order to earn prize tickets that can later be redeemed at the Bat-a-Thon prize tent. The more money that a player raises, the more tickets he earns and the more prizes he wins. Swinging the bat is another way to win at Bat-a-Thon; players and teams with the most hitting points at the end of the day will earn prizes. Points are earned based on how many balls are hit and how far they traveled. Players must raise a league minimum of $50 in order to be eligible for hitting prizes.
Everyone can enjoy this fun family event, but in the end, HLLA is the real winner. Visit http://hllastory.weebly.com/blog/batter-up-harrisonburg-little-league-stepsup-to-the-plate-for-bat-a-thon for more information about Bat-a-Thon.
16
SPONSOR INFORMATION Become a sponsor of the Harrisonburg Little League Association! As a non-profit organization, we are determined to provide a structured environment for youth to learn and grow as part of a team. The league relies financially on donations from the community and fundraising activities. There are different levels of sponsorships to fit your budget and your contributions will help supplement the cost of uniforms, equipment, fees, etc. We are a tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law for 501c non-profit. To become or to introduce a sponsor, call us at 540-280-1976. Visit our website at http://sports.bluesombrero.com/hlla or give us a call with any further questions. Emails can be sent to [email protected]. All sponsors will be acknowledged on our HLLA Facebook page and website.
17
SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION In order to make sure that every child has the opportunity to play and that none is ever denied due to financial circumstances. The Tony Montavon Scholarship Fund was created to give under-privileged children the chance to participate in Harrisonburg Little League Baseball and Softball. The fund covers uniform, equipment and insurance costs. Tony Montavon was a passionate HLLA coach until his untimely death in 2013. Tony went beyond his responsibilities as a coach to make sure that ALL kids had a chance to play baseball. He often covered their registration costs and provided them with transportation to practices and games. To apply or refer someone who needs this scholarship, contact HLLA on our website or by phone. If you would like to donate to the scholarship fund, donations can be made as part of the registration process each season or you can send a check made out to the Harrisonburg Little League Association to the address listed below. All applications and donations can be sent to: HLLA Attn: Tony Montavon Scholarship Fund P.O. Box 641 Harrisonburg, VA 22803 Thank you for your generosity!
18
The Harrisonburg Little League Association Needs You To
STEP UP TO THE PLATE
STEP UP TO THE PLATE
TABLE OF CONTENTS League Information
3
Board Member Information
4
HLLA 2017 Calendar
7
Sub-League Information
8
2017 Baseball & Softball League Age Charts
10
Communication Information
12
Volunteer Information & Opportunities
13
Fundraising Information
16
Sponsor Information
17
Scholarship Information
18
2
LEAGUE INFORMATION
History
Formed prior to the 2000 spring season, Harrisonburg Little League Association (HLLA) is the local Harrisonburg, Virginia Little League affiliate. In previous years, there only existed a Parks & Recreation baseball league available in the Harrisonburg area. HLLA was also the first organization to bring softball to the city of Harrisonburg. The founding president of HLLA was former James Madison University baseball player Mark Siciliano. The mission of Little League is to... “promote, develop, supervise, and voluntarily assist in all lawful ways, the interest of those who will participate in Little League Baseball and Softball.” Little League is an international organization with leagues established in more than 80 countries with over 2.4 million players worldwide.
Finances
HLLA has a budget of nearly $70,000 per year. The city of Harrisonburg provides HLLA with $6,000 a year and much of HLLA’s additonal funding comes from its 41 sponsors. A large majority of HLLA’s funds also come from its fundraising efforts, such as Bat-a-Thon, coupled with profits from the concession stand and other events.
Ball Fields
There are a few main fields that HLLA uses to accommodate each game in each league, but HLLA's home is Purcell Park. Fields 1, 2 and 3 are all located at Purcell Park in Harrisonburg, Va. Purcell Park is located at 41 Monument Ave. in Harrisonburg. The park boasts three baseball/softball fields that HLLA teams will rotate around during the season. Simms Field is located at the Lucy Simms Educational Center at 620 Simms Ave. in Harrisonburg.
Purcell Park
3
BOARD MEMBER INFORMATION
Dean Warlitner
Crystal Taylor
Jannell Driscoll
Time with HLLA: 23 years Outside of HLLA: Working at Tenneco Walker for 30+ years
Time with HLLA: 11 years Outside of HLLA: Runs a daycare called The Little Playhouse for 20 years; enjoys photgraphing for fun
Time with HLLA: 1st year on board Outside of HLLA: Working at Merck for 8 years in purchasing
President
[email protected]
Vice President
[email protected]
Vice President - Softball
[email protected]
Heather Cheshire
Jeff Wolter
Steve Reich
Time with HLLA: 3 years as volunteer, 1st year on board Outside HLLA: 2 young sons, Asst. Director at Oasis Preschool and Nursery
Time with HLLA: 13 years Outside HLLA: Owner of University Outpost
Time with HLLA: 12 years Outside of HLLA: History professor at James Madison University
Secretary
Treasurer
[email protected]
[email protected]
4
Operations Officer
[email protected]
Isaac Woo
Communications Coordinator
Time with HLLA: 4 years as parent, 1st year on board Outside HLLA: Assistant Professor in the School of Communication Studies at JMU
James Blakely
Chris Hughes
Time with HLLA: 7 years Outside HLLA: Technician at Comcast
Outside HLLA: Physics and Astronomy professor at JMU
Equipment Coordinator
[email protected]
Information Officer
[email protected]
[email protected]
Tina Puffenbarger Safety Officer
tpuffenbarger@harrisonburg. k12.va.us
Jennifer Nunez
Will Zampini
Time with HLLA: 9 years Outside HLLA: Office Services in Harrisonburg Health Department
Time with HLLA: Former player, 5 years as coach/ board member Outside HLLA: Escrow Agent at Stewart Title
Fundraising Coordinator
[email protected]
5
Player Agent - Baseball
[email protected]
Obie Hill
Mikala Wolter
Player Agent - Softball
Coach Coordinator Softball
Time with HLLA: 3 years as coach, 1st year on board Outside HLLA: Professional Counselor
Time with HLLA: 1 year as coach, 1st year on board Outside HLLA: Graduate student working toward a master's degree in Education
[email protected]
6
HLLA 2017 Calendar February Feb. 25: Skills Evaluation -- baseball and softball; Waterman Elementary School
March Mar. 4: Tee Ball Orientation -- parents and players; Waterman Elementary School Mar. 4: Challenger Orientation -- parents and players; Waterman Elementary School Mar. 11: Practice Begins (weather permitting) - junior, major and minor league baseball and softball (no earlier than this date) Mar. 20: Farm Baseball and Sandlot Begin (no earlier than this date) Mar. 21: Team Parent Meetings -- Sandlot and Farm Leagues: room above concession stand, side 1, 6:30pm Mar. 22: Team Parent Meetings -- Major and Minor Leagues: room above concession stand, side 1, 6:30pm Mar. 23: Team Parent Meetings -- Junior and Softball Leagues: room above concession stand, side 1, 6:30pm
April Apr. 8: 2017 Opening Day (make-up date: Apr. 9) Apr. 17: Tee Ball begins (no earlier than this date) Apr. 18: Team Parent Meetings -- Tee Ball: room above concession stand, side 1, 6:30pm
May May 20: Bat-a-Thon (HLLA Fundraiser) (make-up date: May 21)
June Jun. 1: All Star Commitment Letters Due (distributed in Bat-a-Thon packets)
7
Sub-league INFORMATION The Harrisonburg Little League Association hosts sub-leagues in baseball, softball, tee ball, and the Challenger Division. Placement into divisions within sub-leagues is determined by a combination of league age (see age charts on pages 10 & 11) and skill set. For divisions with multiple teams, assignment to teams is determined via a draft format following skills evaluation in March.
Intermediate (50/70) Division
This division is intended for players league age 12-14. HLLA fields about one team in this division that plays against intermediate teams from Elkton and Broadway.
HLLA Major League Division-1
Baseball
This division is intended for players league age 11-12. HLLA fields about two teams in this division each year.
HLLA Minor League Division
This division is intended for players league age 9-10. HLLA fields about four teams in this division each year.
HLLA Farm Division
This division is intended for players that are league age 7-8. HLLA fields about three or four teams in this division each year. Games for all baseball divisions are played on Field 1 and Field 2 at Purcell Park as well as at away sites with neighboring little league teams such as Bridgewater, Broadway, Grottoes, and others.
HLLA Major League Division
This division is intended for players that are league age 11-12. HLLA fields about one or two teams in this division each year.
Softball
HLLA Minor League Division
This division is intended for players that are league age 9-10. HLLA fields about one or two teams in this division each year.
HLLA Farm Division
This division is intended for players that are league age 7-8. HLLA fields about three or four teams in this division each year. Games for all softball divisions are played on Field 2 at Purcell Park as well as at away sites with neighboring little league teams such as Bridgewater, Broadway, Grottoes, and others.
8
Tee Ball
Challenger
Tee Ball is intended for players that are 6-years-old and under as a way to introduce them to the sport of baseball or softball. Games are considered learning experiences in this division so score is not kept and no official umpires are present. HLLA fields many teams for the tee ball division. Due to the amount of teams, games are played primarily on Field 3 at Purcell Park. Players practice twice a week from April 17 - April 28 and play two games a week from May 1- June 16.
The Challenger Division is intended for children ages 5-18 or up to 22 if still enrolled in school, who cannot safely participate in other baseball programs due to physical and/or intellectual challenges. No score is kept, everyone bats every inning, and each player is assigned a trained buddy who works to ensure safety and success.
9
2017 Little League Age Chart FOR BASEBALL DIVISION ONLY
baseball League age chart Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
AGE
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013 2013 2013 2013 2012
2012
2012
2012
4
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012 2012 2012 2012 2011
2011
2011
2011
5
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011 2011 2011 2011 2010
2010
2010
2010
6
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010 2010 2010 2010 2009
2009
2009
2009
7
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009 2009 2009 2009 2008
2008
2008
2008
8
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008 2008 2008 2008 2007
2007
2007
2007
9
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007 2007 2007 2007 2006
2006
2006
2006
10
2006 2006
2006
2006 2006 2006 2006 2006 2005
2005 2005
2005
11 11
2005 2005 2005 2005 2005
2005
2005
2005
2004 2004 2004 2004 2004
2004
2004
2004
12
2004
2004
2004
2004
2003 2003 2003 2003 2003
2003
2003
2003
13
2003
2003
2003
2003
2002 2002 2002 2002 2002
2002
2002
2002
14
2002
2002
2002
2002
2001 2001 2001 2001 2001
2001
2001
2001
15
2001
2001
2001
2001
2000 2000 2000 2000 2000
2000
2000
2000
16
NOTE: This age chart is for BASEBALL DIVISIONS ONLY, and only for 2017.
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Softball league age chart 2017 Little League Age Chart FOR SOFTBALL DIVISION ONLY
Match month (top line) and box with year of birth. League age indicated at right.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
AGE
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
2012
4
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
2011
5
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
2010
6
009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
2009
7
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
2008
8
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
2007
9
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
2006
10
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
2005
11
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
2004
12
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
2003
13
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
2002
14
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
2001
15
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
2000
16
NOTE: This age chart is for SOFTBALL DIVISIONS ONLY, and only for 2017.
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Communication information Stay connected with league updates and news:
• HLLA uses social media as a way to provide the latest news and day-to-day updates, including the status of games and practices, to players’ families. • HLLA’s Twitter and Facebook pages are also connected directly to the league’s website. • Receive text message updates from the league by texting
AllUsersSports5854 to 84483. • League calendars and game schedules will be distributed by coaches at the start of the season. To read league stories visit: http://hllastory.weebly.com. • Receive league email from [email protected].
When you want to register:
• For information about registration and how to sign-up, parents should directly visit HLLA’s website at http://sports.bluesombrero.com/hlla.
Where to find coaches' contact information:
• Coaches will provide their phone numbers and email addresses to parents once a child has been placed on a team.
#AskHLLA
When you have general questions:
• Ask via Twitter by Tweeting using #AskHLLA. • Post on the HLLA Facebook page. • Email the league’s president through HLLA’s primary contact email address: [email protected].
When you have questions about volunteering:
• There will be a list of volunteer opportunities distributed to all parents at the time of registration, whether they register electronically or in-person. • Further information and reminders about volunteer opportunities will be discussed by coaches and team parents throughout the season. • All general information about HLLA’s sponsors and fundraising initiatives can be found on the league's website. • Any further questions about volunteering can be best answered by contacting HLLA’s Vice President, Crystal Brown at [email protected]. Website: http://sports.bluesombrero.com/hlla Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/HburgLLA Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HburgLLA
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Volunteer INFORMATION Everyone involved with the Harrisonburg Little League Association is a volunteer. Coaches, team managers, team parents and board members are all donating their time to HLLA. Aside from these positions, many more volunteers are needed for fundraising events, concession stands, opening day activities and more. Assistance will be needed and greatly appreciated at events such as registration, opening day, baseball and softball games, Bat-a-Thon, etc. Any amount of time you are willing and able to give to the league will be utilized and appreciated. There are committees held throughout the year that discuss the specific details about exactly what is to be done and where help is needed most during events and throughout the season. We respect your time and understand that you have busy lives and schedules, but every minute of time that you can offer will make a difference. So, if you’re interested in donating a bit of your time, want to know when committee meetings are or want to know how you can help, email [email protected] or message us on Facebook with any questions, comments or concerns. During the month of November, in the offseason, a general membership meeting will be hosted. At this meeting, all HLLA members are invited to come and learn information about the league and discuss any ideas for the upcoming season. During the meeting the group will also decide on the year’s new board members.
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Volunteer opportunities Coaches
Do you want to be a coach?
Fill out the Volunteer Application, check the Managers or Coaches box while registering your child online. You may also send a request through email to HLLA President Dean Warlitner at [email protected].
Are you ready to be a coach?
Passing the background check with the Volunteer Application is a must. Having a background in baseball or softball is helpful but not always required.
What will you do as coach?
Duties include managing the team, preparing for each game and practice, finding a team parent to assist and communicating with the league director whenever necessary.
Assistant Coaches
Do you want to be an assistant coach? Same as procedure for coach.
Are you ready to be an assistant coach? Same as qualifications for coach.
What will you do as assistant coach? To help assist the manager in all facets.
Team Parents
Do you want to be a team parent?
Sign-up during registration online or make a verbal request to be a team parent.
Are you ready to be a team parent?
You must be a good communicator and keep in contact with the V.P.
What will you do as a team parent?
Assisting the manager with handouts, helping to organize team concession duties, handing out the team picture form and helping to answer questions about Bat-a-Thon fundraiser. To sign-up to be a team parent, contact Vice President Crystal Taylor at [email protected].
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Concession Stand Assistance
League Participant Requirement: Each parent must work one time during the season. When: Parents will be assigned to work a shift during their child(ren)’s scheduled game. The Opt-Out Option: The opt out option allows parents to pay $30 instead of working a concession stand shift; the money will be used to have somone cover their shift.
Opening Day
Time: The day begins at 7:00am and runs until 8:00pm. Tasks: Concession assistance, watch bouncy houses, face painting, apparel tent, raffle table and etc. When: Teams will be assigned to cover all the specific needs at a designated time.
Example: Players and parents of one league will help with set-up from 7:00am to 8:00am; players and parents of another league will manage the raffle table from 1:00pm to 2:00pm, and so on. The scheduling will work around the game times for that day.
Bat-a-Thon
Time: 8:00am to 6:00pm Tasks: Volunteers are needed to work at concession stands, operate the Bat-a-Thon prize tent, shag balls, manage check-in table and etc.
An email will be sent out later on how to get involved in these and other fundraisers. Attraction coupon books and discount cards will be sold, contact HLLA President Dean Warlitner at [email protected] or [email protected] for pick-up.
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FUNDRAISING INFORMATION For the Harrisonburg Little League Association, fundraising is a crucial step in achieving success. While the city of Harrisonburg funds other sports fully - such as football and basketball - HLLA does not receive enough funding to operate the league the way it should be while also following standard rules and regulations. Because of this, HLLA relies heavily on donations, sponsorships and fundraising events to be successful. During the months leading up to and during the Little League season, volunteers associated with HLLA actively try to raise money for the league. Often, families and volunteers sell discount cards and local attraction dining books to bring revenue to the organization. Additionally, HLLA hosts a raffle at which local businesses and other organizations are invited to participate and donate prizes for the cause. In the past, organizations such as the Washington Nationals have donated to HLLA, bringing attention to the organization and its fundraising efforts. While all of these events are beneficial, the event that brings in the largest amount of money is Bat-a-Thon. With the money raised through all of these efforts, HLLA hopes to be able to upgrade its facilities and offer more scholarships to children who cannot afford to play. Last year, 33 players received either a full or partial scholarship. The Harrisonburg Little League Association would love to increase these numbers, but it needs help from parents and volunteers in order to succeed.
Bat a Thon Bat-a-Thon is an annual fundraising event that takes place in May, where kids can play baseball, earn tickets and win prizes. Bat-a-Thon is meant to be a FUN event for kids, but it serves a dual purpose as this event is necessary to help fundraise for HLLA.
Every player that participates is a winner at Bat-a-Thon!
Players must raise funds in order to earn prize tickets that can later be redeemed at the Bat-a-Thon prize tent. The more money that a player raises, the more tickets he earns and the more prizes he wins. Swinging the bat is another way to win at Bat-a-Thon; players and teams with the most hitting points at the end of the day will earn prizes. Points are earned based on how many balls are hit and how far they traveled. Players must raise a league minimum of $50 in order to be eligible for hitting prizes.
Everyone can enjoy this fun family event, but in the end, HLLA is the real winner. Visit http://hllastory.weebly.com/blog/batter-up-harrisonburg-little-league-stepsup-to-the-plate-for-bat-a-thon for more information about Bat-a-Thon.
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SPONSOR INFORMATION Become a sponsor of the Harrisonburg Little League Association! As a non-profit organization, we are determined to provide a structured environment for youth to learn and grow as part of a team. The league relies financially on donations from the community and fundraising activities. There are different levels of sponsorships to fit your budget and your contributions will help supplement the cost of uniforms, equipment, fees, etc. We are a tax-exempt organization and your donation is tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law for 501c non-profit. To become or to introduce a sponsor, call us at 540-280-1976. Visit our website at http://sports.bluesombrero.com/hlla or give us a call with any further questions. Emails can be sent to [email protected]. All sponsors will be acknowledged on our HLLA Facebook page and website.
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SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION In order to make sure that every child has the opportunity to play and that none is ever denied due to financial circumstances. The Tony Montavon Scholarship Fund was created to give under-privileged children the chance to participate in Harrisonburg Little League Baseball and Softball. The fund covers uniform, equipment and insurance costs. Tony Montavon was a passionate HLLA coach until his untimely death in 2013. Tony went beyond his responsibilities as a coach to make sure that ALL kids had a chance to play baseball. He often covered their registration costs and provided them with transportation to practices and games. To apply or refer someone who needs this scholarship, contact HLLA on our website or by phone. If you would like to donate to the scholarship fund, donations can be made as part of the registration process each season or you can send a check made out to the Harrisonburg Little League Association to the address listed below. All applications and donations can be sent to: HLLA Attn: Tony Montavon Scholarship Fund P.O. Box 641 Harrisonburg, VA 22803 Thank you for your generosity!
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The Harrisonburg Little League Association Needs You To
STEP UP TO THE PLATE
