POLAND T-BALL
2012 Registration
Register between: February 1 - April 6, 2012
$35.00 per player Poland Residents ONLY
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T-Ball eligibility: Must be age 4-7 by April 30, 2012
**Note** 7 year olds typically play rookie baseball, however; if a player has not had at least one year of teeball it is recommended they play teeball for a year.
Tri-Town (Mechanic Falls, Minot/Hebron & Poland)
T-Ball General Guidelines (Established in April 2005)
Updated: 04-1-08
Underlined refers to changes made at preseason meeting on 4/1/08
Ages: 4-7 (must meet age eligibility by April 30 of the current year)
These guidelines were created to provide consistency for the teams during games and can be helpful in constructing practices. These guidelines do not necessarily follow the rules of any T-Ball Association, however they were developed with input from all three town programs in terms of safety first and instruction second. We should keep in mind at this level of baseball, some players are trying the sport for the first time and others are developing skills that will help them in the future.
Scoring: Score is not kept and we should not put any emphasis on scoring during games.
Positions
Pitcher: While an adult pitches, there is a player playing the pitcher position (standing next to the adult)
Batter: Typically a parent of the team that is up, pitches the ball to his/her players. If a player is struggling, after 3 pitches, player must use a tee. If a player needs/wants a tee before 3 pitches, that is up to the coach/player of the team that is up to bat. The adult pitcher typically should pitch underhand, however overhand pitching can be requested depending on the players need. Using a tee can provide necessary skill training. Players should be encouraged to use a tee for practice and games.
Catcher: Recommended that an adult play behind the catcher.
Defensive set-up: Typically 4 outfielders, first base, second base, third base, short stop, pitcher & catcher. (Minimum of 10 players, however if there are more than 10 kids ready to play at the game, the remaining players can be added to the infield or outfield)
Playing positions: This is a great level of play for kids to try different positions. If your game goes beyond one inning, players should be encouraged to play other positions.
Parent support during the game: Parents are encouraged to participate in the game by positioning themselves in the game where instruction can be given. Coaches should assist parents with (1) where they should position themselves and (2) types of instruction that promotes a positive learning and no pressure attitude.
General Game Information
# of innings: A game can play up to 2 innings (Game usually takes at least 1-1.5 hours)
Prior to the start of the game, coaches have the discretion of reducing the game to 1 inning if poor weather is approaching.
Batting: If a player is called out by the coaches in the game, that player should return to his/her bench. All players on offense are still allowed to bat regardless of how many outs are made. Last batter must run all the way to Home base.
Field Use: Games will be played in Hebron (Minot home games), Mechanic Falls Sports Complex, Poland Upper field and Poland Lower field.
Bases = 40’ apart
Equipment: Recommended Catcher-Helmet mask, chest protector, shin guards- 1 set per team, 1 set of bases at the field.
Player’s equipment: Players required to have a glove. Cleats are optional.
(No metal spikes allowed) Must wear at least sneakers (sandals or open shoes are not allowed during game for safety reasons)
Uniform: Each player will receive a t-shirt and hat.
Weather conditions: If there is thunder or lightning in the area, games must be stopped immediately. Prior to or during the game, if it begins rain, coaches can decide to wait it out or cancel the game all together. Coaches should use the 20 minute rule (Rule: Wait up to 20 minutes and if weather is not improving, cancel the remainder of the game or reschedule the game). If a game is cancelled, that game will attempt to be played at the home teams field during the week or if needed at the end of the season.
Coaches should attempt to give the visiting team at least a one hour notice if a game needs to be cancelled.
Coaches discretion: For the purpose of maintaining consistency, coaches from each team, prior to the start of the game, should communicate the expectations of the game. Most importantly, as these are only guidelines, coaches should use their best discretion in adapting the game.
Positive behavior: Coaches, players and parents should conduct themselves in a respective manner that allows for learning to take place and for participants to have a positive experience. Coaches are responsible for managing the flow of the game based on safety and a positive learning environment. Coaches also have the responsibility to manage situations that are unpleasant. How behavior and attitude is handled should be under the direction and leadership of each town.
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