Responsibilities and Information for Managers/Coaches of ...files.leagueathletics.com/Text/Documents/3755/2197.doc · Web viewCoaches that are pitching from the mound in Single

VLL Manager’s HandBook

Instructional Leagues - 2007

Compiled by : Al DeFazio Eric Weber

document.doc Page 1 of 26

Contact Numbers 1. Bill Cervenak, Chairman VLL cell phone 703-966-9566

2. Nottoway Park field ops 703-938-75323. Glyndon Park field ops 703-255-63604. VLL Voice Mail use website first!! 703-573-33395. Yeonas Snack Bar 703-573-42856. Single A Director see www.vll.org7. Rookie Director see www.vll.org8. Tee Ball Director see www.vll.org


VLL Instructional League’s Manager Handbook (2007)

TABLE OF CONTENTS1. OVERVIEW - VLL INSTRUCTIONAL LEAGUE’S HANDBOOK............................................................52. VLL INSTRUCTIONAL LEAGUES.........................................................................................................53. MANAGERS/COACHES SECTION:.......................................................................................................5

MANAGING A TEAM.................................................................................................................................... 5VLL PROCESS FOR TEAM FORMATION (SEE DETAIL SECTION FOR EACH LEAGUE)..........................................5

Tee-Ball:............................................................................................................................................... 5Rookie:................................................................................................................................................. 5Single A:............................................................................................................................................... 6Local Rules (also website and details in league specific sections):......................................................6

SPRING TRAINING (PRE-OPENING DAY) - ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES...............................................................63.1 LEAGUE ORGANIZATION........................................................................................................6

League pre-season meeting:...............................................................................................................................6Confirm Rosters..................................................................................................................................................6

3.2 TEAM COMMUNICATION & ADMINISTRATION......................................................................6Team Welcome Letter:........................................................................................................................................6Team Roster:.......................................................................................................................................................6Pre-Season Team Meeting(s):............................................................................................................................6Team Parent:.......................................................................................................................................................6“Volunteer Forms” and “Medical Forms”:............................................................................................................7Field Permits:......................................................................................................................................................7Practice Schedule:..............................................................................................................................................7Opening Day Program:........................................................................................................................................7Opening Day:......................................................................................................................................................7Picture Day:.........................................................................................................................................................7Volunteer Status:.................................................................................................................................................8

3.3 EQUIPMENT & UNIFORMS..........................................................................................................8Equipment:..........................................................................................................................................................8Uniforms:............................................................................................................................................................. 8

3.4 REGULAR SEASON: PRACTICE / GAME MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION........................................8Game Day Procedures:........................................................................................................................ 8Field Assignments:............................................................................................................................... 8Field Closure Communication Process:................................................................................................8Officer of the Day (OOD) Duties...........................................................................................................8

POST SEASON - ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES:...................................................................................9

MANAGER’S RESPONSIBILITIES - DETAILS........................................................................................10LEAGUE DESCRIPTIONS – DETAILED..........................................................................................................10

Single A Overview.............................................................................................................................. 10League Format:.................................................................................................................................................10League Level Rules:..........................................................................................................................................10Game and Practice Schedule:...........................................................................................................................11League Director:................................................................................................................................................11

Rookie League Overview................................................................................................................... 11League Format:.................................................................................................................................................11League Level Rules:..........................................................................................................................................11Game and Practice Schedule:...........................................................................................................................11League Director:................................................................................................................................................12

T-Ball.................................................................................................................................................. 12League Format:.................................................................................................................................................12Game and Practice Schedule:...........................................................................................................................12League Director:................................................................................................................................................12

4. PRACTICE: MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION..........................................................................1290 MINUTE PRACTICE EXAMPLE:...............................................................................................................13



EXPLANATION AND DEFINITIONS OF PRACTICE FORMAT:.............................................................................13

5. MANAGER/COACHING DEVELOPMENT:..........................................................................................14MANAGING / COACHING – CLINICS / INFORMATION RESOURCES.................................................................14

League Specific Manager/Coaches Clinics:.......................................................................................143rd Party Manager/Coaches Clinics and Workshops...........................................................................15

MANAGING / COACHING INFORMATION RESOURCES:..................................................................................15

6. PLAYER DEVELOPMENT: RECOMMENDED SKILLS FOR INSTRUCTIONAL LEAGUES........16SINGLE A - SKILLS:.................................................................................................................................. 16

Single A: Mental Aspects....................................................................................................................161) Understand how the game is played—basics.........................................................................................16

Single A: Physical Aspects.................................................................................................................161) Running...................................................................................................................................................162) Hitting...................................................................................................................................................... 163) Fielding....................................................................................................................................................164) Throwing.................................................................................................................................................165) Catching..................................................................................................................................................16

TEE BALL AND ROOKIE BALL - SKILLS (AGES 5-7)......................................................................................17Mental Aspects:.................................................................................................................................. 17Physical Aspects:............................................................................................................................... 17

1. Hitting............................................................................................................................................................172. Base running.................................................................................................................................................173. Fielding..........................................................................................................................................................174. Throwing........................................................................................................................................................175. Running.........................................................................................................................................................17

7. MANAGER ADMINISTRATION............................................................................................................17PRESEASON TEAM LETTER....................................................................................................................... 17PRESEASON TEAM MEETING.....................................................................................................................18ROSTER & TEAM CONTACT LIST...............................................................................................................18RECOMMENDING PROPER EQUIPMENT.......................................................................................................18

8. GAME DAY PROCEDURES - SUMMARY..........................................................................................19PRE GAME............................................................................................................................................ 19

General:.............................................................................................................................................. 19Preparing the Field:............................................................................................................................ 19Dugouts:............................................................................................................................................. 19Ground Rules:.................................................................................................................................... 19Locks & Access:................................................................................................................................. 19

DURING THE GAME............................................................................................................................. 19Inning Transition:................................................................................................................................ 19Dugout Management:.........................................................................................................................19

POST GAME.......................................................................................................................................... 19Field Maintenance & Clean Up:..........................................................................................................19Locks & Access:................................................................................................................................. 20

SAFETY RULES THAT YOU MUST OBSERVE!...................................................................................20GAMES AT YEONAS – SINGLE A........................................................................................................20

APPENDIX A: OFFICER OF THE DAY RESPONSIBILITIES..................................................................21APPENDIX B: SAMPLES AND EXAMPLES............................................................................................23

Sample Introduction Letter to Parents:..............................................................................................................23Sample Line-Up Card:.......................................................................................................................................25

Appendix C: Adding Material to the Handbook.....................................................................................26



1. Overview - VLL Instructional League’s HandbookThe purpose of this handbook is to provide managers, coaches and volunteers a reference point to assist them and their team throughout the Vienna Little League (VLL) season. This handbook will provide information that has been collected from past and current volunteers that has proven helpful based on experience.

VLL would like to thank everyone who volunteers to help make VLL one of the premier Little Leagues anywhere. Thanks for time and remember if you have suggestions please provide them to your League Director.

2. VLL Instructional Leagues Vienna Little League (VLL) maintains 3 instructional leagues. They are:

Tee-Ball Rookie Single A

Instructional leagues are dedicated to the development of players’ skills and advancement of their understanding of baseball. To help facilitate this and ensure all players receive adequate opportunities, no scores or standings are kept in any of the instructional leagues. Each instructional league also has its own set of modified rules to help facilitate the best overall experience for each player with a strong emphasis on their skill development.

3. Managers/Coaches Section: The Managers and Coaches section of the handbook is focused on providing general outline of a manager’s responsibilities and serve as a general guide for managing a VLL team in the instructional leagues.

Managing a TeamIf you want to volunteer to manage a team, inform the appropriate league Director. You can find the active director for any given league by going to: http://www.vll.org, select Contacts on the left hand menu and then select Board of Director (BOD).

Selection of Managers and Team assignments cannot be confirmed until registration has closed and higher-level leagues (Majors, AAA, AA, etc.) have completed their drafts and confirmed their rosters. Familiarize yourself with the Local Rules, League Information, and safety rules (vll.org.; forms; league information). The assignment of team names, practice times and all other operational logistics of a league will be administered by the League Director in conjunction with the League scheduler.

VLL Process for Team Formation (see detail section for each league)Tee-Ball: Teams are formed by neighborhood and by special requests (carpooling, same school). You can assist the Tee Ball Director by helping to form your own roster: if you have a group of boys from a particular neighborhood or school, submit their names to the Director, indicating that you would like them all to play together.

Rookie:Teams are formed by neighborhood and by special requests (carpooling, same school, same Tee Ball team). Rookie Managers can assist the Rookie Director by helping to form your own roster: if you have a group of boys from a particular neighborhood or school, submit their names to the Director (when requested), indicating that you would like them all to play together. Best attempts will be made to honor all requests made from managers and parents, but based on volunteers, logistics and the number of


http://www.vll.org/


players and teams some request my not be able to be met. The director will complete and finalize rosters based on registration information following the formation and finalization of Single A teams.

Single A: Managers may retain up to 7 players from their previous year’s Single A or Rookie team; the Director fills rest of your roster, aiming for balance among all teams.

Local Rules (also website and details in league specific sections):

Team formation is fully described in the Local Rules (see vll.org “forms”)

Spring Training (Pre-Opening Day) - Administrative Duties

3.1 LEAGUE ORGANIZATIONEach league has an appointed League Director. Each League Director has full authority over the league and is responsible for representing the needs and status of the league to the VLL Board of Directors. You can see the Directors for all VLL Leagues on the VLL website at http://www.vll.org.

League pre-season meeting:Attend your league’s pre-season meeting. At your leagues’ pre-season managers’ meeting(s) you will receive rosters; review local rules; review skills appropriate for your league; sign your Coach’s Code of Conduct. The Coach’s code of conduct can be found on the VLL website and MUST be signed prior to any team Practices or other team functions. Please note that there may be multiple manager meetings if determined necessary to by the league director to ensure a well organized and effective season.

Confirm Rosters All managers MUST CONFIRM THEIR ROSTERS WITHIN 48 HOURS OF INITIAL RECEIPT and provide confirmation via email to their respective League Director

3.2 TEAM COMMUNICATION & ADMINISTRATION

Team Welcome Letter: Issue a “Welcome to the Team” letter or email (see samples).

Team Roster:Develop a team roster and contact sheet with emails and phone numbers

Pre-Season Team Meeting(s):Hold a pre-season team meeting with the parents. Make equipment recommendations.

Team Parent:Select a “team parent” who will handle your snack schedule, end of year party, any other team social events, etc.



“Volunteer Forms” and “Medical Forms”:Instruct parents to complete “Volunteer Forms” and “Medical Forms”. These forms can be found on the VLL website (http://www.vll.org) in the forms section. All volunteers (manager, coaches, team mom, etc. must complete a copy of the volunteer form and provide a photocopy of a driver’s license or passport. Forward the completed Volunteer Forms and copies of all IDs to the League Director. Collect the completed Medical Forms for each of your players and keep this on hand throughout the season. You should bring them to all scheduled team events including all games and practices.

Field Permits: All county fields utilized by VLL require a permit for their use. VLL works with Fairfax County to acquire the permits for fields assigned to VLL from the county. You should keep a copy of all field permits with you at all times; for from time to time county officials will police the field and request a permit. Field Permits (i.e., documentation of county field assignments) will be provided from the VLL Chairman.

Practice Schedule:Tee Ball & Rookie:Tee Ball & Rookie are assigned the fields at Stenwood Elementary School as their primary location for all practices and games. The Tee Ball and Rookie director will work with the manager to formulate a practice schedule among the teams to coordinate the use of Stenwood and prevent field conflicts. Please work with your league director if you have any special needs.

Single A:

Opening Day Program: When asked, submit the confirmed roster of your team to the volunteer who is compiling the Opening Day Program. What you submit is what will be printed in the program, and the MUST BE ON TIME to be included in the program. All players and their families in VLL will receive a copy of the program. Managers are responsible for the distribution of the program to their respective teams.

Opening Day:Distribute the Opening Day schedule and other information to your team promptly.

As a manager you should plan to attend Opening Day and prearrange a meeting spot for your team. Typically managers pick up and distribute photo-order forms and Opening Day Programs/Yearbooks at Opening Day. If you cannot attend Opening Day, ensure photo-order forms and Opening Day Programs/Yearbooks are distributed to all players/parents within 1 week of Opening Day.

Remember Parking is a challenge for Opening Day due to number of attendees. Please inform your teams of this and plan accordingly.

Dates and times will be available on the VLL website.

Picture Day: Distribute the picture day schedule and other information to your team regarding Picture Day. Each team will be allocated a single time slot and it is imperative that you have your team in uniform and ready with picture forms completed 10 minutes prior to your scheduled picture time. This will allow the day to run smoothly and allow the photographer to keep on schedule.


http://www.vll.org/


Dates and times will be available on the VLL website.

Volunteer Status: The League Director will provide you with the volunteer status each family provided when they registered. Please ensure all are doing their part and fulfilling their commitments.

3.3 EQUIPMENT & UNIFORMS

Equipment: Pick up your gear from the Quartermaster. Use S5 “safety balls” for all instruction leagues.

Single A Managers: remember to ask the Quartermaster for an “A1 Key” so that you can open field locks at Yeonas Park.

Uniforms: Collect shirts/hats from your league’s Director and distribute

3.4 REGULAR SEASON: PRACTICE / GAME MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION

Game Day Procedures: These are written with the Majors, AAA and AA in mind. Your Director will high light the procedures that apply to you. Instructional leagues play only a few games at Yeonas and do not use the batting cages.

Field Assignments: Field assignments are designated by the league and league scheduler. Tee-Ball and Rookie ball typically practice and play at Stenwood Elementary. Each Tee Ball and Rookie team will be schedule for at least one game at Yeonas Park.

Single A typically practices at Westbriar and plays at Flint Hill, Nottoway, Glyndon, and Yeonas Park.

Field Closure Communication Process: Please do not practice on the field if it is closed. Designate one person to call the relevant hotline number and then communicate with the rest of the team. a. Closure at Yeonas is indicated by:

a) the red flag is flying on the flagstaff at Nance Field OR b) the “red light” next to the field name on the web page.

If Yeonas Park is closed, then games are cancelled at Southside, Glyndon, and all school fields.

b. Closure at Nottoway is indicated by: a) the “red light” next to the field name on the web page OR b) the link to Fairfax County Field Closures http://s51b209.co.fairfax.va.us/parks/fieldstatus.asp?Closed_OPER=EQ&Closed=1&SUBMIT=List+Closed+Fields OR c) the field closure hotline for Nottoway (703) 324 – 5264.

Officer of the Day (OOD) Duties


http://s51b209.co.fairfax.va.us/parks/fieldstatus.asp?Closed_OPER=EQ&Closed=1&SUBMIT=List+Closed+Fields

http://s51b209.co.fairfax.va.us/parks/fieldstatus.asp?Closed_OPER=EQ&Closed=1&SUBMIT=List+Closed+Fields


Note: see specific responsibilities in Appendix A.

Post Season - Administrative Responsibilities: a. T-Ball Managers:

Return gear to quartermaster promptly! (Within 1 week of season end) Notify Director when gear is returned. Pick up/distribute your trophies.

b. Rookie Mangers: Return gear to quartermaster promptly! (Within 1 week of season end) Notify Director when gear is returned. Promptly submit your Player Evaluations (by June 30th). Notify Director when Player Evaluations are complete.

c. Single A Managers: Marshal your team through our end-of-season Field Day, Distribute Field Day trophies/medals to participants; Encourage boys to consider fall ball; Return gear to quartermaster promptly! (Within 1 week of season end) Complete your Player Evaluations. (by June 30th).

d. Procedures to Complete Player Evaluations (Rookie & Single A) the Manager should: go to the VLL web page click on admin login type in the password: [get this from your Director] click on “view rosters” fill in the windows and then click on “rate players” use the drop down windows to rate your players Even though no one pitches or really catches in Rookie, place a zero in the column

requesting how many innings the player caught/pitched. Due to the limitation of the website you cannot leave this column/field blank.



Manager’s Responsibilities - Details League Descriptions – Detailed

Single A OverviewSingle A is an instructional coach-pitch league primarily for 8 year old players but includes some experienced 7 year olds and some inexperienced 9 year olds (by special request of parents). No 6 year olds may play Single A. The A Director forms teams through a combination of parent/manager requests and placement. Requests for placement of players are given the utmost consideration.

League Format: Single A is sometimes called “coach-pitch” because the coach or manager pitches (from a standing or kneeling position and from within a few feet of the pitching rubber). Scores and standings are not kept. Coaches and parents serve as umpires. With the exception of the pitcher, the base coaches, and perhaps a parent backing up the catcher, no coaches are permitted on the field.

League Level Rules: No defensive coaches in the field. The adult pitcher may not coach from the field but can advise

a batter about his or her position in the batter’s box. Adult pitcher must throw from within 5’ of the rubber (or 40’ from the plate; at Yeonas Park you must be on the dirt area of the mound). If the adult pitcher is struck with a hit ball, the ball is dead and all runners advance to the next base while the batter is awarded first base.

Base coaches may serve as umpires but may not touch (push, pull, stop) or otherwise assist runners.

An adult may be positioned behind the catcher, near the screen, to assist with passed balls (coaching from this position is not allowed). Pitched balls should be returned directly to the pitcher player or the adult pitcher.

Player-Pitcher: one player will be positioned behind the pitching rubber and will make all defensive plays ordinarily made by the pitcher. The pitcher-player may not leave his position behind the rubber until the ball reaches the batter.

No bunting, stealing, walks, or awarding first to players hit by pitch. When a batter has taken five (5) swings at a pitched ball and the last swing is not a foul ball, the

batter is retired. When the batter makes no attempt to swing at a strike after three (3) called strikes, the batter will be given a warning. After two (2) additional called strikes, the batter shall be called out on strikes. We all need to follow this “five-strike rule” so that the game keeps moving.

Teams may field up to 10 defensive players with no more than six (6) infielders (counting the pitcher-player and catcher as infielders). The fourth outfielder may be positioned anywhere 10- feet on the outside of the imaginary line between 1st and 2nd and 2nd and 3rd. This player may cover 2nd base and make plays there.

There will be NO advancing on an overthrown ball. Teams change each half inning after three outs (no more batting through the order as in Rookie

League). Managers are responsible for their players and their fans. Opposing managers should not

directly address fans (and fans should not hassle opposing pitchers). If fans are unruly, the opposing manager needs to take the issue to the manager of the unruly fans, and that manager needs to tell the fans to quiet down.

Gear belongs in the gear cage at the end of the dugout (provided you have a dugout). No bats or balls in the dugout (safety issue); no equipment in the foul area along baselines (safety issue as well).



Time limits: no new (complete) inning may start after 1:50 from your scheduled start time; by 2:05 you must have vacated the field.

Game and Practice Schedule: There are approximately 15-20 teams of 12 players. Single A teams usually play 14 games (depending on number of teams), once during the week and once on Saturday. Teams typically practice twice per week. Practice starts in mid-March; games begin around the 3rd week of April and ends by June 10th . Practice fields and practice days vary from week to week to allow all teams the opportunity to have ideal times and locations. Most practices are held at Westbriar; games are usually at Yeonas, Glyndon, Flint Hill, and Nottoway.

At the end of the season, there is a Field Day with each Single A team competing against other Single A teams in competitions involving running, hitting, fielding, and throwing.

League Director: There are numerous rules specific to Single A and parents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the unique rules of Single A; a complete list is available on the web page under local rules. The Director of Single A is Al DeFazio ([email protected]).

Rookie League OverviewThe Rookie League is and instructional coach-pitch league primarily for players 7 years old. Depending on the experience level of the player some 6 year olds, and a few inexperienced 8 year olds will also find Rookie to be the appropriate level. Any 6-year-old participating in Rookie must have played Tee Ball the previous year. No 5-year olds may play in the Rookie League.

League Format: The Rookie League is a coach pitch league (similar to Single A) where the coach or manager pitches the ball, usually from one knee and from about 8-10 feet inside the pitcher’s mound. No scores or standings are kept and there is no post-season tournament. The league does not provide umpires at the Rookie level. Coaches and parents from both teams serve as umpires. During games managers and coaches are permitted on the field to instruct players.

League Level Rules: This league is considered instructional, which means the league is tailored to primarily focus on a player skill development. This is accomplished through the following league rules:

Every player bats every inning. Every player has an opportunity to play first base and pitcher once before any child plays those

positions twice. When the defensive team makes three outs, the bases are cleared; however, the offensive team

continues to bat until all players have had one opportunity. No stealing or sliding. Games are of one hour and fifteen minute duration.

Game and Practice Schedule: Rookie teams usually play a 14-game schedule. Teams are formed by neighborhood, elementary school and parent requests. Every attempt is made to honor all requests; however this is not guaranteed.


mailto:[email protected]


Teams typically play once during the week and once on Saturday. There are usually one or two practices a week. During the first three or four weeks (before daylight saving time) of the season, Rookie teams only play on Saturday; after the first three weeks or so, teams begin to play twice a week.

The assigned practice field for Rookie is Stenwood Elementary, which is also shared with T-Ball. Therefore the Rookie and T-Ball typically organize a practice schedule to prevent/minimize conflicts.

Practice starts in mid-March, the season begins April 22nd, and the season ends June 10th.

League Director: The Rookie Director is Mr. Eric Weber; his email address and phone number islisted on the web page. He is in charge of all facets of Rookie play, administration, and communication.

T-Ball

League Format: T-Ball consists of 5s and 6s. This is an instructional league with no scores or standings kept. Teams are formed by neighborhood or parents’ requests. Every effort is made to honor all requests. A 6-year old may skip T-Ball and go directly to the Rookie League if the player is currently in the 1st grade, and if the player’s parents request it.

No coach pitch is allowed during games. The players hit off of a tee. T-Ball teams usually play a 14 game season (depending on number of teams). Players bat through the batting order once each inning. Game length is not determined by innings but rather a one hour and fifteen minute time limit on all games.

Game and Practice Schedule: Practice begins in mid to late March; the season begins in late April and ends June 10th. For the first three weeks of the season, T-Ball teams play once a week on Saturday. After three weeks, T-Ball teams begin to play twice a week, once during the week and once on Saturday. Each team may practice once or twice a week. Most practices are at Stenwood Elementary. At the end of the season, each T-Ball player is presented a trophy by the league.

Tee-Ball: Placement of the Tee--the tee positions the ball in the middle of the plate, which is not an appropriate place to make contact with the ball. Suggest that you slide the entire tee toward the pitcher’s mound so that the ball is actually on the front edge of the plate. Be certain that your batters are in the batter’s box when they’re batting.

League Director: The T-Ball Directors are Mr. Tim Nayak; email addresses and phone numbers are listed on the web page; he is in charge of all facets of T-Ball play, administration, and communication.

4. Practice: Management and OrganizationPlease design practices so that boys are always engaged in a variety of activities and getting the maximum number of “touches” per hour. Have a plan (script your practice—it takes 5 minutes) because practice time is precious. Avoid “wait time” for your players by enlisting the support of several parents/coaches. Twelve players and four adults fit nicely into 4 stations with 3 players apiece. Change



activities every few minutes. Set up a variety of stations to emphasize hitting, fielding grounders and fly balls, throwing, and base running. Instructional league practices can take place on almost any patch of green grass. In the absence of a backstop, you might be able to hang a plastic tarp and hit into it.

90 Minute Practice Example:A 90-minute practice might look something like this:

Min. 0-15: slow group run; quicker runs through 1B; Warm up. Progressive throwing. Assign boys to coaches for “stations”; rotate through stations counter clock wise (just like we run the bases; establish a logic of rotating between stations and stick to it—after a few weeks, all boys know the routine and this means you spend less time moving boys fro spot to spot and more time giving them repetitions).

Min.15-30: Station 1, behind backstop, tee hitting (2-3 players and an adult). May use tennis balls.

Min. 30-45: Station 2, soft toss, inside backstop (2-3 players and an adult). May use tennis balls.

Min. 45-60: Station 3, (hit or hand toss) grounders (at any safe distance from the batting; 2-3 players and an adult).

Min. 60-75: Station 4, tennis ball pop flies (2-3 players and an adult)

Min. 75-90: Entire team (plus coaches and parents?): waffle ball game (or, for tee ball—even a kick ball game) teaches directional base running, throwing ahead of the runner, backing up bases, smart base running, and how outs are made and runs scored).

It is also a good idea to “book end” your practices with very, very short “team talks”: at the start of practice, tell them what their goals are (“have fun and work on keeping our fingers on top of the ball when we throw”); at the conclusion, remind them about those goals. Encouraging them to be attentive for just a few minutes before and after practice will help them in all of their team sports. But remember, after 15 seconds of your talking, most young boys have stopped listening.

Suggest that you browse any of the web resources such as http://www.baseballtips.com/ so that you develop an arsenal of “stations” and fun activities that keep your players entertained and help you meet your goals.

Explanation and Definitions of practice format:1) Warm up Warm up from the inside out: Run first, throw later. You can “warm up” and “instruct” at the same time. Divide your boys into 3 or 4 groups of 3 or 4 for base running stations; players should move from one station to the next.

a) from the batter’s box, using a whiffle ball bat: have the boys swing at an imaginary pitch or at the tee (no ball) and then “burst out of the batter’s box”-accelerating about 1/3 of the way up the line. Teach them to drop the bat, to run straight toward 1B

b) from half way down the 1B line, have another group of students run through the bag at 1B, “breaking the tape” as they go (not stopping on the bag). This group can also practice taking the turn at 1B and touching the inside corner of the bag.

c) From half way the 2B line, have players slide into 2b. Later, teach them to pick up the 3B coach as they head for 2B.

d) from 3B, have them “tag up” and head for 4B on coach’s verbal instruction


http://www.baseballtips.com/


You might precede this “individual running” with a “group run” where the object is for all the boys to stay together. Teaching boys that to understand differences in skills and speeds of their teammates is key to a team’s success.

2) Progressive throwingProgressive throwing, as described in the VBC Coach’s Guide. You’ll need to begin with the grip on the ball. Teach proper throwing form. Get a 5-gal bucket of balls. Hang a hula hoop (or plastic bag) on the backstop and have the boys aim for the target (this takes “receiving” out of the equation). You can do this drill from 20’-30’ to encourage accuracy; and you can do it from 40’-50’ to increase arm strength.

3) Hitting Stations. Hitting Stations are an effective solution to not have 11 of your 12 boys standing around watching 1 kid hit. If you are throwing live BP, realize that this is very time intensive, especially if kids don’t hit the ball often. For tips on how to grip a bat: http://www.littleleague.org/coachsbox/06jan/smith_grip.htm . Kids can get batting repetitions by in other ways:

a) tee hitting into the back stop b) soft toss into back stopc) using a “hit stick” (store bought, broom handle, or capped pvc pipe); have boys hit pitched

plastic golf balls or wiffle balls (or Ripken’s “quick balls” available at Dick’s), or even marshmallows.

4) Fielding grounders: Fielding grounders: have boys make a triangle using their feet and their glove; glove fingers should be on the ground; throwing hand should be hinged to the heel of the glove with fingers pointing to the sky (“the alligator”); back should be flat; ball should be fielded beneath glove-side eye; player should “field through” the ball toward the target. Teach this in increments. Step-by-step instructions at http://www.littleleague.org/coachsbox/06jan/groundball.htm.

5) Fielding fly balls / pop ups: Using a racquetball racket and tennis balls, hit pop ups. In order to teach proper body position, have boys “head” the tennis ball (soccer style) without using their gloves; once they’ve mastered this, have them catch the ball above their head, on their throwing side, with their gloves. Build on this skill by teaching kids how to track a fly ball to either side: drop the leg that’s ball-side; cross over with the opposite leg; and go! Lead them—like a quarterback leads a receiver—and they’ll learn to run under fly balls.

5. Manager/Coaching Development: Managing / Coaching – Clinics / Information Resources

(a) Attend one league-specific clinic early in the season. Director will contact you via email. This will be an on-field clinic and is designed to teach coaches how to properly teach the fundamentals.

(b) Suggest attending the Virginia Baseball Club’s “Positive Coaching Alliance” workshop. (free and announced via email)

(c) See Coaching Guides, Publications and related websites

League Specific Manager/Coaches Clinics: These are announced by your League Director. All instructional managers/coaches should plan to attend one pre-season clinic. Single A managers interested in coaching a AA Fall ball team should plan to attend an additional clinic toward the end of the spring season. Visit websites such as http://www.angelfire.com/oz/coaching/coach-index.htm or http://www.infosprts.com/baseball/camp/index.html if you’re new to coaching.


http://www.infosprts.com/baseball/camp/index.html

http://www.angelfire.com/oz/coaching/coach-index.htm

http://www.littleleague.org/coachsbox/06jan/groundball.htm

http://www.littleleague.org/coachsbox/06jan/smith_grip.htm


3rd Party Manager/Coaches Clinics and Workshops Virginia Baseball Club also sponsors a very worthwhile Positive Coaching Clinic prior to the start of the season. Vienna Little League usually picks up the tab for all coaches/ managers who would like to attend. For information, see. www.goVBC.com. Also consider attending clinics offered at Yeonas (free, announced via email) by Pudge Gjormand, varsity baseball coach at Madison High School and owner of MVP-- http://www.mvpbaseball.cc/mvpwebsite/staff.htm.

Managing / Coaching Information Resources:Coaching Guides, Publications and related websites. A search using combinations of “baseball” “practice” “drills” and “little league” will provide you with more information than you’ll have time to read in a season. Hotlinks to some of the more useful sites are provided throughout this document.

BooksYouth Coaching Guide: with Teaching points, common problems, skill level objectives. Virginia Baseball Club, Inc. This book can be purchased from VBC in Merrifield, VA It is usually available at VBC’s Positive Coaching Clinic during the preseason as well.

Coaching the Little League Pitcher. Randy Voorhees. Chicago: Contemporary Books, 2003.

Making Little League Baseball More fun for Kids: Featuring 30 Games and Drills Guaranteed to Improve Skills and Attitudes. Chicago: Contemporary Books, 2002.

Little League Drills and Strategies: Imaginative Practice Drills. Ned McIntosh and Rich Cropper. Chicago: Contemporary Books, 2002.

Web Sites:http://www.davislittleleague.org/http://www.baseballtips.com/http://www.littleleague.org/coachsbox/06jan/smith_grip.htmhttp://www.littleleague.org/coachsbox/06jan/groundball.htmhttp://www.angelfire.com/nb2/hitting/h-skills.htmhttp://www.angelfire.com/sports/brookside/careforglove.htm#buyglove


http://www.angelfire.com/sports/brookside/careforglove.htm#buyglove

http://www.angelfire.com/nb2/hitting/h-skills.htm

http://www.littleleague.org/coachsbox/06jan/groundball.htm

http://www.littleleague.org/coachsbox/06jan/smith_grip.htm

http://www.baseballtips.com/

http://www.davislittleleague.org/

http://www.goVBC.com/


6. Player Development: Recommended Skills for Instructional Leagues

Source: Virginia Baseball Club’s Youth Coaching Guide: with Teaching points, common problems, skill level objectives, with permission of Rob Hahne.

Single A - Skills:

Single A: Mental Aspects

1) Understand how the game is played—basicsa) Names of positions and role of eachb) What is an out and how it is made—strike out, force out, catch ball in the air, and tag

out.c) What is a run and how it is scoredd) How to get on base: hit, error, fielder’s choice, walk and hit by pitche) basic rules of play

Single A: Physical Aspects

1) Runninga) know to run through first baseb) aware of other runnersc) Ability to see and hear base coaches

2) Hittinga) proper stanceb) proper gripc) balance during swingd) always display an eagerness to hite) make consistent contact

3) Fieldinga) ability to play catch from at least 40’b) ability to field easy ground ballsc) consistently use proper glove position to catch ball at upper body (fingers up!).d) often turn glove to backhand on balls to throwing arm sidee) react to balls hit to right and left

4) Throwinga) consistently turn glove side to targetb) make accurate throws from at least 40’

5) Catchinga) Catch most balls thrown in strike zoneb) Ability to receive ball without turning head and body to sidec) Ability to throw ball back to pitcher

Note: All players should be given basic instruction in catching, and any player who desires to catch should be given an opportunity. There are not enough catcher being developed at the minor league levels.



Tee Ball and Rookie Ball - Skills (ages 5-7)

Mental Aspects:1) ability to sit on bench during team at-bat, pay attention to the game, and know when it is their turn

to bat2) Ability to pay attention in the field and consistently see ball off bat3) know each base,4) know each position by name and location.

Physical Aspects:

1. Hittinga) Consistent stance in relationship with home plateb) Ability to make consistent contactc) Hold on to bat with both hands throughout swingd) Ability to keep balance during swing

NOTE: Coaches make sure Tee is place toward the front of the plate and no higher than the thigh. Most tees are designed with the stem in the middle of the plate, which is the incorrect contact point. DO NOT allow tee to be set too high. If tee is placed to high and too deep it will promote flawed swing.

2. Base runninge) know to run all the way to the basef) learn not to run into outsg) react to fly balls even though few will be caught

3. Fieldingh) ability to play catch at a short distancei) ability to catch easy ground ball (roller)j) IMPORTANT: React to ball above the waist with glove fingers up, not the palm. Players

will not develop catching skills before this occurs.k) Begin to react to balls on throwing arm side by turning glove to backhand

4. Throwingl) Begin to turn glove side to target before throw.m) Step toward targetn) Make accurate throws from at least 20’.

5. Runningo) know to run to and through first basep) be aware of other runnersq) Ability to see and hear base coaches

7. Manager Administration

Preseason Team Letter A short letter provides an opportunity for you to establish the upcoming season’s guidelines and convey them to the parents. You might also attach a team roster to this letter so that parents can (a) update contact information (b) learn of carpool opportunities. There is a lengthy sample in Appendix B which may help you in designing your own (potentially much shorter) letter.



Preseason Team MeetingHold a parent or parent-and-player meeting at your earliest opportunity. This allows you to cover your coaching philosophy, establish some expectations, and answer any questions. Be firm about requiring parents to attend. Announce your policies (e.g. arrive at games 45 minutes before game time); your equipment requirements (have on hand the kind of socks/pants that you want your team to wear; some parents will need advice about where and what kind of equipment to purchase.

Explain how you intend to communicate with the team (e.g. practice days/times change weekly, so a Sunday afternoon email announcing the upcoming week’s practice and game times is very helpful for parents). If you are conscientious in passing along essential information in a timely way, then you are more likely to receive timely notice from parents whose players are going to miss a game or practice.

Roster & Team Contact ListIt is typically helpful to develop a team roster and provide all the players parents names and contact information and provide this to your team. This will help parents to better organize carpools, etc. It will also ensure you have the most accurate contact information as well as additional email addresses or phone numbers.

Recommending proper equipmentEncourage parents NOT to spend a great deal of money on equipment at these age levels. Gloves should be small and bats light. Any type of cleated shoe (soccer, baseball, etc.) is fine, but is not required.

Families are expected to provide: Player’s Glove Pants Socks (white socks are fine)

The league will provide: Hat Jersey / Shirt

The team equipment bag will include, catching equipment, batting helmets and a limited number of bats.

The links below explain how to purchase bats and gloves:Bats:http://www.angelfire.com/nb2/hitting/h-skills.htm

Gloves:http://www.angelfire.com/sports/brookside/careforglove.htm#buyglove

Note: Most major league infielders (3B, 2B, SS, P) use a 11” – 11 ¾” gloves.


http://www.angelfire.com/sports/brookside/careforglove.htm#buyglove

http://www.angelfire.com/nb2/hitting/h-skills.htm


8. Game Day Procedures - Summary PRE GAMEGeneral:On all fields, you're responsible for:

adhering to scheduled start times, cleaning up, and locking up whatever is unlocked (for gang boxes with combination locks, you will receive the

combination from your league director); the locks at Yeonas are keyed.

Note: Single A managers need to request an A1 key from the Quartermaster. Preparing the Field:You're required to rake your playing fields (never rake TOWARD the grass)—especially if you anticipate rain. Low spots before rain create mud holes, which are swept out, creating bigger holes. Fill in whenever possible. Dugouts: Home team: 1B dugout Visitors: 3B dugout.

Ground Rules:Discuss ground rules before game begins (i.e., scheduled start time) with the opposing Manager and Umpire crew. Decide what to do with unfenced fields; determine where the “out of play” line is and any other information needed to have the game run smoothly. Locks & Access: If something's unlocked and you can't lock it--or if you have any issues while at Yeonas, contact the Officer of the Day. His name should be listed on the outside of the door leading to the snack bar. DURING THE GAMEInning Transition:90 seconds is allowed from the completion of the 3rd out to the completion of warm up pitches.

Dugout Management:Little League International (LLI) rules limit to three the number of adults allowed in the dugout--something you should be aware of as you come up through the league; but common sense says that you need to keep your team safe. So if one coach is pitching and two others are coaching the bases, then you need to have at least one more parent keeping the peace in the dugout.

Only players and coaches are allowed in the dugout. Everyone else in the stands.

POST GAMEField Maintenance & Clean Up:All garbage and refuse should be removed from the dugout and placed in the trash cans. This includes sunflower seeds. Both teams are responsible to rake the field and prepare everything for the next game. If there are “Field” or “Playing Surface” issues please contact the Officer of the Day.



Locks & Access:If something's unlocked and you can't lock it--or if you have any issues while at Yeonas, contact the Officer of the Day. His name should be listed on the outside of the door leading to the snack bar.The home team manager has primary responsibility to secure everything.

SAFETY RULES THAT YOU MUST OBSERVE!There are many safety rules that must be observed during games and practice. Below are some rules that must be observed.

A Player may not swing a bat during a game either in the fenced in on-deck area or outside the dugout. The only time he can swing a bat is when he is actually at bat.

There should be no bats or balls in the dugout.

All players should remain either on the bench or in the dugout--not in the fenced in on deck area.

Catchers should wear a cup; consider keeping a cup and supporter with the catcher’s gear and having the boys wear it outside the pants.

Always have your players paying attention to the game

GAMES AT YEONAS – SINGLE ACoaches that are pitching from the mound in Single A games, please remember that if you pitch from any grassy area, you will eventually kill the grass and start an erosion process that will become a mud and dust bowl later in the season. All “coach pitch” pitcher MUST pitch from a dirt area.

BATTING CAGES REVISITED No Instructional teams use the batting cages.

YEONAS PARKYeonas Park does not belong to me, nor does it belong to the Yeonas Family, it belongs to us. We all have the responsibility to leave the park in better shape than we found it, so that our kid’s kids will have a safe and nice place to play ball.

We should take pride in the fact that we have a premier Little League facility that many volunteers have committed a great deal of time towards each year and for many years before us. We (the collective we) need should show our pride and thanks by taking care of the park and all within it so it will remain a great place for Little League and everyone associated with VLL………Thank You!



Appendix A: Officer of the Day ResponsibilitiesOPENING THE PARK AND DUTIES

A. Arrive at the Park circa 30 minutes before the published time the game is scheduled to start. The OOD key ring is in the snack bar. B. Open the Men and Lady's bathrooms. Ensure that there are sufficient paper towels and toilet tissues. All supplies are in the snack bar storeroom. C. Open the dugouts and press boxes on Nance, Rhodes, and Crabtree Fields. In addition, open the supply rooms at Rhodes and Nance. These are the rooms under the press boxes where the rakes, shovels, lime, and field-lining equipment is stored. D. Open the Mail Room. E. Inform the snack bar workers that you are the OOD. If you have a cell phone, give your cell phone number to the snack bar workers. F. Identify yourself as the OOD to at least one manager on each field. G. Identify yourself as the OOD to the umpire crews. H. If you have assumed duty and the weather is threatening, raining, or we are experiencing severe weather conditions such as heavy winds, you have the responsibility to determine if the game should be played or postponed. Please error on the side of caution. If you want or need advice, call one of the numbers provided or converse with the adult umpires assigned to the games. Please Note: Any time lightening is sighted; there is an automatic 20-minute waiting period before the game may start. DO NOT PERMIT PLAYERS AND COACHES TO REMAIN IN THE DUGOUT DURING THIS PERIOD. All must go their automobiles and await you decision as to whether the game should be continued or postponed. If you postpone the game, please notify the League Scheduler, Mr. Tony Anzilotti within 24 hours. Once the game starts, the umpires have the responsibility to determine whether games should be postponed, delayed, or continued. I. If there is a night game scheduled for Crabtree, it is your responsibility to turn on the field lights immediately after the 5:45 game on Crabtree. The field lights are located in the Control Panel Room (see diagram) on the wall to your right as you enter the room. The switch is marked 'Field Lights.'

RESPONSIBILITIES DURING THE GAME. A. Please remember that there are no pets, no smoking, and no riding of bicycles, skateboards, or inline skates allowed in the park. B. Stop any unsafe practices. C. Ensure that the batting cages are locked and that the tarps are placed over the pitching machines once the games start. D. Please do your best to calm and soothe parents and spectators acting in an unsportsmanlike manner towards the umpires, opposing team or other spectators. We do not expect you to be the cop on the beat but sometimes a carefully chosen word makes individuals realize that their behavior is unacceptable. E. If in your opinion you see a manager or coach acting in a manner detrimental to the league, please get the name of the offender, the team and level he is coaching, when and where the incident took place and email the report to the League Chairman, Bill Cervenak.



F. Do not hesitate to call the Vienna Police Department if you see a situation turn ugly. If a parent or coach has been ejected from the game and refuses to leave the park, or any other situation arises that appears to need assistance from the Police, DO NOT HESITATE TO CALL THE VPD. The VPD will arrive on the scene in a few minutes, be prepared to identify yourself and to describe the situation.

RESPONSIBILITIES FOR CLOSING THE PARK A Ensure that after each game, the field is properly raked. Both teams are responsible for raking the field. See instructions in book B. Ensure that the dugouts, press boxes, and tool sheds are locked C. Ensure that the scoreboards are turned off. The control panels for the scoreboards at Crabtree and Rhodes are located in the press box. The scoreboard for Nance is located in the circuit breaker box located underneath Nance in the tool room on the back wall. D. Ensure that the bathrooms are locked, the lights and fans turned off. E. Ensure that the batting cages are locked and that the pitching machines are covered with a tarp. F. If there is a night game at Crabtree, ensure that the field lights are turned off. G. After you have ensured that all is secure and locked, please wait for snack bar personnel to vacate the park before you leave. If the snack bar is already closed, leave the OOD key ring in the snack bar by dropping it between the shutters of the snack bar counter. Let the keys fall to the snack bar floor. Report any damage, problems, suggestions, or comments to Bill Cervenak General Information and Phone Numbers Remember that every lock in the park can be opened with a key on your key ring. Keep trying it will fit. In the event an emergency vehicle needs to enter either Crabtree or Rhodes, the metal bar that prohibits vehicles from passing can be unlocked with one of the keys on your key ring. The common rule is to use your common sense. Please remember that when you leave the park, field lights are out, everything is locked, the OOD key is in the snack bar, and the OOD handbook is in the mailroom. It is recommended that you have a cell phone with you. If you do not have a cell phone, the snack bar has a working phone, as does the Valliere Room.



Appendix B: Samples and Examples

Sample Introduction Letter to Parents:

Dear Parent:

Thank you for providing me the opportunity to help develop your child’s baseball skills, knowledge and sportsmanship. I want to convey to you my personal coaching and managing philosophy and my goals for both your child and the team.

I think we all have different expectations for the season and for each of our children. Personally, I aim to provide everyone the most positive experience possible. Please compare the following information to that of your expectations and let me know if there are gaps or issues.

My Coaching Philosophy I strive to provide nothing but positive feedback, nothing negative. I believe that the best development environment for children is through positive reinforcement from parents, coaches, and other players. Kids develop at varying rates, but the total experience can be equally rewarding. It is important for a coach to demonstrate equal interest in all the players. I try to work with and connect with each player individually during practice. It is my goal to let them know I care about their development and that it is through their effort they will grow. I believe that practices should be fun and able to hold the kid’s attention while providing sound skill development. My intentions are to hold crisp and organized practices that are efficient. Kids will not be standing around waiting for ‘their turn’ to bat or take infield. The intent is to keep the kids active and participating as much as possible during practices and games. As important as skill development is, so is knowledge of the game. I will ensure the kids are learning more than they knew when they entered the season. This includes rules, strategy, and team play. Sportsmanship is also an important aspect of the game. This starts with respecting teammates and extends into games. The kids will be reminded to maintain composure and be positive toward both their teammates and their opponents. The desire to win is present in nearly any athlete, and the goal of nearly any competition. A win can be the outcome of a game, but it is not mandatory. In other words, we will strive to be as competitive as possible through good, sound practices and skill development. I will not focus on how “we need to win.” Winning and losing is part of the game, and kids need to learn how to handle both results. The fundamentals and skills will be covered during practice. I will see that they are coached during this time. However, during the game it is the players on the field that will make a play. If strategic direction will improve a player’s performance, I will see that they receive it. However, I aim for them to enjoy the game and have fun. I will always find a silver lining in what they did and will not focus on what they did wrong. Effort is what I am looking for, not an errorless game. Your kids are still developing. They will make errors.

Season ObjectivesFollowing are the goals I have for the season and for each player:Develop the skills needed to advance to the next level of play.Teach the kids new knowledge about the game.Emphasize teamwork and sportsmanship.Provide positive reinforcement based on effort.Provide a safe and healthy environment for all the kids on the team.

Playing Time and PositionsMaturity and skills separate players. They are still developing, so I aim to play each player in multiple positions to expose them to different situations. I would like to see each player experience playing the infield, but will take into account their ability and try to minimize their potential for injury. I will not expose a player to the position of pitcher or catcher if they don’t demonstrate the ability. Again, this is a safety and injury issue. If kids have a strong desire to play a certain position, I will do my best to ensure they get that



opportunity.

Team RulesThe only team rules we will have are to abide by three things: Trust, Unity, Respect.

My Expectations of PlayersHave fun! Show respect for coaches and other players. Give your best effort. Our time is limited, so practice as often as possible outside of our practices.

My Expectations of ParentsPlease have your child arrive to practice on time. If you know your child will be late or won’t be able to make it to a practice or game, please let me know in advance if possible.Help out with team volunteer opportunities. This league is all-volunteer, and there are fundraising and events that I’ll need your help pulling off. On days we don’t practice, play baseball with your child (catch, wiffle ball, etc.)Encourage good sportsmanship by showing your child and others exactly what that means. Positive support for all players from both teams, coaches, and umpires at all game. Cheer for your child, but don’t shout instructions to them. This is their time to be ‘coached’ and their opportunity to play the game.Talk to me immediately if you are experiencing a problem with me or are having another issue. I need to know right away so that the issue may be corrected. Safety is paramount, so if you see a situation unfolding that you think is a safety concern, please step in and take action. I am enthusiastically looking forward to this baseball season! Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.Best Regards,

Manager’s Name



Sample Line-Up Card:

# Last First 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th1 8 Player 1 P C 3B 2B LC RC2 12 Player 2 1B P C 3B 2B LC3 3 Player 3 SS 1B P C 3B 2B4 7 Player 4 LF SS 1B P C 3B5 5 Player 5 RF LF SS 1B P CF6 1 Player 6 RC RF LF SS CF C7 10 Player 7 LC RC RF CF 1B P8 9 Player 8 2B LC CF LF SS 1B9 6 Player 9 3B CF RC RF LF SS10 4 Player 10 CF 2B LC RC RF LF11 2 Player 11 C 3B 2B LC RC RF



Appendix C: Adding Material to the HandbookIf anyone has additional materials, comments or suggestions to improve the handball please forward you feedback to your respective League Director……..Thanks!
