Federal Way National Little League

Constitution and By-Laws

This organization shall be known as the Federal Way National Little League, hereinafter referred to as “ FWNLL” or Local Little League

2.1       The objective of the Local League shall be to implant firmly in the children of the community the ideals of good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage and respect for authority, so that they may be well adjusted, stronger and happier children and will grow to be good, decent, healthy and trustworthy citizens. To achieve this objective, the Local League will provide a supervised program under the Rules, Regulations and Policies of Little League Baseball, Incorporated. All Directors, Officers, and volunteer members shall bear in mind that the attainment of exceptional athletic skill or the winning of games is secondary, and the modeling of future citizens is of prime importance.

2.2       In accordance with Section 501 (c) (3) of the Federal Internal Revenue Code, FWNLL shall operate exclusively as a non-profit educational organization providing a supervised program of baseball and softball games. No part of the net earnings shall inure to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual.

3.1                 Eligibility.

Any child, regardless of race, creed, color, or sex, who meets the requirements as to age and residence set forth in the rules of Little League Baseball, Inc., shall be eligible to apply to be a player member.

Any person who is actively interested in furthering the objective of the Local League may become a member by submitting annually a qualifying volunteer application form.

3.2                 Player Members.

Children who participate in FWNLL are considered Player Members. Such members have no rights, duties, or obligations in the management or in the property of FWNLL. All players must meet the requirements of Little League Regulation IV and reside within the authorized boundaries of the Local League or attend a school within the FWNLL boundary.

“League age” is defined by Little League Baseball, Inc. as that age attained prior to September 1 for baseball and Dec. 31 for Softball in any given season. No player may move to a higher classification except as noted below and in FWNLL Policies and Procedures.

Designated league age classifications for FWNLL are as defined as follows: Revised 10/12/23

T-Ball: 4, 5 and 6 years old

Baseball

Minors:         5 to 9 years old     (See FWNLL Policies and Procedures) Majors:           9, 10, 11 and 12 years old

50-70   :          12 and 13 years old (See FWNLL Policies and Procedures) Juniors:  12, 13 and 14 years old

Seniors:        14, 15, and 16 years old

Notes –

·       Minors can have many divisions or as few as one. See FWNLL Policy and Procedures.

·       Majors is a tryout league for 9-12 year olds, 9-11 year old players that do not get selected will play in the Minor leagues.

·       The family of a Majors 12 year old candidate may request a waiver to the minor leagues if safety is a concern. This must be approved per LL rules.

·       The family of a Majors or 50-70 12 year old candidate must declare their intention by midnight of the final Majors tryout.

·       14 year olds may play up to Seniors, if there is room for the player.

Softball

Minors:         5 to 9 years old     (See FWNLL Policies and Procedures) Majors:           9, 10, 11 and 12 year olds

Juniors:        13 and 14 year olds

Seniors:        15 and 16 year olds

Notes –

·       Minors can have one or more divisions. See FWNLL Policies and Procedures.

·       Majors is a tryout league for 9-12 year olds, players that do not get selected will play in the Minor league.

·       5 year olds with 2 years of T-Ball can play Machine Pitch

·       8 year olds with 3 years of Machine Pitch can play AAA

·       12 year olds can play Juniors

·       14 year olds can play Seniors

·       Challenger   4 to 18 year olds

3.3                 Volunteer Members.

(a)                  Any adult with a child playing the League or any adult actively interested in FWNLL is considered to be a volunteer member.

(b)                  Volunteer members are awarded voting privileges and may vote on such issues as are brought by the Board to the membership. All officers, board members, committee members, managers, volunteer umpires, and other elected or appointed officials must be volunteer members in good standing. Volunteer members shall submit a completed Volunteer Form annually in accordance with the LL Child Protection Program.

All adult participants, by signing up shall agree to the most recent copy of the Little League Parent Code of Conduct.

Any volunteer member, in good standing, interested in working to further the objective of FWNLL is eligible to be nominated for a Board position. Only Board members are eligible to vote on business brought to the Board, including the election of managers and coaches. All board members are required to fill out a background check, complete the little league Abuse Awareness Training, and present the certificate. This is required per Little League International.

3.4                 Suspension or Termination.

Membership may be terminated by resignation or action of the Board of Directors.

(a)                  The Board of Directors, by a two-thirds vote of those present at any duly constituted meeting, shall have the authority to discipline, have a vote of no confidence to remove the member from their board position, including and up to, expulsion from the League, the conduct of any member if such conduct is considered detrimental to the best interests of FWNLL and/or Little League International.

The Member involved may be notified of such meeting, informed of the general nature of the charges and given an opportunity to appear at the meeting to answer such charges.

(b)                  The Board of Directors shall, in case of a Player Member, give notice of a hearing to the manager of the team of which the player is a member. The manager and the Players Agent shall appear, in the capacity of advisors, with the player before a duly appointed committee of the Board of Directors. The player’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) may also be present. The Board of Directors shall have full power to suspend or revoke such player’s right to future participation by two-thirds vote of those present at any duly constituted meeting (quorum is required).

Parents or guardians may appear at the hearing as moral support for their child or ward but may not participate in the proceedings.

(c)                   Those persons that in the opinion of the Board provide a risk as outlined by the Little League Background checks, and recommended by the Player Agent.

(d)                  Any parent or fan that displays behavior detrimental to the league is also subject to suspension and up to total banishment from any and all little league activities including but not limited to practices, games, and jamborees.

Player Participation Fees.

Reasonable participation fees may be assessed as a parents’ or guardians’ obligation to assure the operational continuity of FWNLL. The fee schedule by program will be established by the Board of FWNLL. A maximum fee of $300.00 per player per season may be assessed if deemed necessary. At no time should payment of any fee be a prerequisite for participation in any program offered by FWNLL [Little League Regulation XIII(c)].

However, parents or guardians whose children’s participation fees are waived or reduced (i.e. they receive a “scholarship” to play) will be expected to contribute significant volunteer time.

5.1                 Annual Meeting.

The annual meeting of the Members of FWNLL shall be held the first Thursday in September at 6pm in each year for the purpose of electing a Board of Directors, receiving reports, and for the transaction of such business as may properly come before the meeting. Any adult with an active interest in the affairs and operation of the League may be nominated as a candidate for the Board of Directors. At minimum, 20% of members must attend this meeting.

The membership shall receive at the annual meeting of the members of FWNLL a report, verified by the President and Treasurer or by a majority of the Directors, showing:

-                 the date of report

-                 the monies applied, appropriated or expended during the year immediately preceding such date

-                 the purposes, objects or persons to or for which such applications, appropriations or expenditures have been made

-                 where and how the monies are invested

-                 the whole amount of real and personal property owned by FWNLL

-                 where it is located

-                 the amount and nature of any property acquired during the year immediately preceding

-                 the manner of the acquisition

-                 the names and places of residence of the persons who have been admitted to membership in FWNLL during such year (Board Member roster)

This report shall be filed with the records of FWNLL and an abstract thereof entered in the minutes of the proceedings of the annual meeting. A copy of such report shall be forwarded to Little League Headquarters.

5.2                 Notice of Meeting.

Notice of the annual meeting of the Volunteer Members shall be posted on FWNLL website or e-mailed to the last recorded address, at least ten (10) days in advance thereof setting forth the place, time, and purpose of the meeting; or in lieu thereof, notice may be given in such form as may be authorized by the Volunteer Members, from time to time, at a regularly convened meeting.

5.3                 Special Meetings.

Special meetings of the Volunteer Members may be called by the Board of Directors or by the Secretary or President at their discretion. Upon the written request of ten (10) Members, the President shall call a special meeting to consider a specific subject. No business other than that specified in the notice of the meeting shall be transacted at any special meeting of the Volunteer Members.

5.4                 Voting.

Only Volunteer Members, in good standing, shall be entitled to vote at the annual meeting of FWNLL.

5.6                 Nominations and Vote Tabulation.

Before opening the polls, opportunity shall be given for nominations from the floor. Add names to the slate after verification of availability, eligibility and willingness to serve. Voting will be for one office at a time beginning with the first office listed in Article 9. The President will appoint tellers to act as inspectors of the election.

5.7                 Rules of Order.

Roberts Rules of Order shall govern the proceedings of all meetings, except where same conflicts with the Constitution of Bylaws of FWNLL. Note: Proxy voting will be allowed. A statement of proxy needs to be submitted to the Secretary prior to the beginning of the meeting. No more than 2 proxy votes per member is allowed.

6.1                 Board and Number.

The management of the property and affairs of FWNLL shall be vested in the Board of Directors. The number of Directors shall be not less than five (5).  The Directors shall continue in office until their successors shall have been duly elected and qualified. The newly elected officers shall be installed in October following the election.

6.2                 Required Members.

The Board members shall include the Officers, including the Player Agent, and a minimum of one manager and one umpire.

6.3                 Annual Election and Term of Office.

At each annual meeting, the Volunteer Members shall determine the number of directors to be elected for the ensuing term and shall elect such number of Directors. The number so fixed may, within the limits prescribed by the foregoing Section 6.1, be increased at any regular or special meeting of the Volunteer Members, and if the number is increased, the additional Directors may be elected at the meeting at which the increase is voted, or at any subsequent meeting. All elections of Directors shall be by majority vote of all Volunteer Members present. Voting can be by ballot.

6.4                 Vacancies.

If any vacancy occurs in the Board of Directors, by death, resignation, or otherwise, it may be filled by majority vote of the remaining Directors at any regular meeting or at any special meeting called for that purpose.

6.5                 Board Meetings, Notice and Quorum.

Regular meetings of the Board of Directors shall be held following the annual election and on such days thereafter as shall be determined by the Board. The President or the Secretary shall, at the request in writing of ten (10) Directors, issue a call for a special meeting of the Board. Notice of each meeting shall be given by the Secretary to each Director either by mail at least three (3) days before the time appointed for the meeting to the last recorded address of each Director, by telephone, by e-mail, or by personal notice twenty- four (24) hours preceding the meeting.

Only members of the Board of Directors may make motions and vote at meetings of the Board of Directors. However, the Board of Directors may invite, admit and recognize guests for presentations or comments during Board meetings.

In the case of special Board meetings, such notice shall include the purpose of the meeting and no matters not so stated may be acted upon at the meeting.

50% (including proxies) members of the Board of Directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

6.6                 Attendance of Board Meeting.

Members of the Board of Directors shall attend all meetings or shall send a report to the President in advance of the scheduled meeting. The Board of Directors shall meet at least once per month. Any board member that does not provide a report or update on their respective position to the president and vice president of the league, and/or misses 3 meetings in the current league year, September to August, is subject to being voted out of the Board.

6.7                 Duties and Powers.

The Board of Directors shall have the power to appoint such standing committees, as it shall determine appropriate and to delegate such power to them as the Board shall deem advisable and which it may properly delegate.

The Board may adopt such rules and regulations for the conduct of its meetings and the management of FWNLL, as it may deem proper.

The Board shall have the power by a two-thirds vote of those present at any regular or special meeting to discipline, suspend or remove any Director or Officer or Committee Member of FWNLL in accordance with the procedure set forth in Article 3, Section 5 (a).

7.1                 Officers, Board Members, and Other Agents.

Following the annual meeting the Board of Directors shall meet for the purpose of installing the newly elected Board members and Officers and appointing committees for the ensuing year.

The Board of Directors may appoint such other agents as it may deem necessary or desirable, and may prescribe the powers and duties of each and may fill any vacancy which may occur in any office. Appointed agents shall not vote on actions taken by the Board of Directors unless such individuals have been elected to the Board by the membership or have been elected to fill a vacancy on the Board.

The officers of FWNLL shall consist of a President, Vice-President(s), a Secretary, a Treasurer, and a Player Agent or Agents, all of whom shall hold office for the following two years or until their successors are duly elected. (Regulations 1b)

7.2                 Election

 The Board members shall be elected to two-year consecutive terms. Each potential candidate shall be interviewed/vetted by either a special committee or the executive committee prior to being presented to the board for consideration. Director positions shall continue for the fall ball season of the same calendar year

Appointed Positions (Member at Large) – The board is limited to no more than three (3) Members at Large positions on the board at any given time. Last voted in is the first out until a position opens. Member at Large is a one-year term, with the expectation of taking on a director position the following league year, September to August. If no director position is voted in the following year, they, the member at large, cannot return as a member at large for at least one year unless returning to take on a director position the following year after sitting out from the board for one year.

7.3                  Officers - Duties and Powers.

President: The President shall:

(a)                  Conduct the affairs of FWNLL and execute the policies established by the Board of Directors.

(b)                  Present a report of the condition of FWNLL at the annual meeting.

(c)                   Communicate to the Board of Directors, such matters as deemed appropriate and make such suggestions as may tend to promote the welfare of FWNLL.

(d)                  Be responsible for the conduct of FWNLL in strict conformity to the policies, principles, Rules and Regulations of Little League Baseball, Inc., as agreed to under the conditions of charter issued to FWNLL by that organization.

(e)                  Designate in writing, other officers, if necessary, to have power to make and execute for/and in the name of FWNLL such contracts and leases they may receive and which have had prior approval of the Board.

(f)                     Investigate complaints, irregularities and conditions detrimental to FWNLL and report thereon to the Board or Executive Committee as circumstances warrant.

(g)                  With the assistance of the Treasurer prepare and submit an annual budget to the Board of Directors and be responsible for the proper execution thereof.

(h)                  With the assistance of the Player Agent, examine the application and support proof-of-age documents of every player candidate and certify to residence and age eligibility before the player may be accepted for tryouts and selection.

(i)                      Submit all forms and certificates required by Little League, Inc., including applications for charter and insurance, accident forms, insurance claims, team rosters, etc.

Vice-President: The Vice-President shall:

In case of the absence or disability of the President, and provided he/she is authorized   by the President or Board to so act, the Vice-President shall perform the duties of the President and when so acting shall have all the powers of that office and shall have such other duties as from time to time may be assigned by the Board of Directors or by the President.

Secretary: The Secretary shall:

(a)                  Be responsible for recording the activities of FWNLL and maintain proper files, mailing lists, and necessary records.

(b)                  Perform such duties as are herein specifically set forth, in addition to such other duties as are customarily incident to the office of Secretary or as may be assigned by the Board of Directors.

(c)                   Maintain a list of all Volunteer Members, Directors, and committee members and give notice of all meetings of FWNLL, the Board of Directors and Committees.

(d)                  Keep the minutes of the meetings of the Members the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee and cause them to be recorded in a book kept for that purpose.

(e)                  Shall conduct all correspondence not otherwise specifically delegated in connection with said meeting and shall be responsible for carrying out all orders, votes and resolutions not otherwise committed.

(f)                     Notify Members, Directors, Officers and committee members of their election or appointment.

Treasurer: The Treasurer shall:

(a)                  Perform such duties as are herein specifically set forth and such other duties as are customarily incident to the Office of Treasurer or may be assigned by the Board of Directors.

(b)                  Receive all monies and securities, and deposit same in a depository approved by the Board of Directors.

(c)                   Keep records for the receipt and disbursement of all monies and securities of FWNLL, approve all payments from allotted funds and draw checks therefore in agreement with policies established in advance of such actions by the Board of Directors.

(d)                  Prepare an annual budget under the direction of the President for submission to the Board of Directors at the annual meeting.

(e)                  Prepare an annual financial report, under the direction of the President, for submissions to the Membership and Board of Directors at the annual meeting.

Player Agent: The Player Agent shall:

(a)                  Establish the dates of registration (online and in person).

(b)                  Under the direction of the President, receive and review applications for player candidates and check residence and age eligibility.

(c)                   Separate all players into the classifications of Article III, Section 3.2.

(d)                  Determine the player selection methodology per Little League Operating Manual.

(e)                  Work with President and Division Directors to arrange player try-outs or assessments.

(f)                     Conduct the player drafts (AAA, Majors, 50-70, Juniors, and Seniors) according to a fair and impartial process. Facilitate trades to be completed before Managers leave the draft room the time of draft.

(g)                  Form non-drafted teams attempting to balance teams within each Division as much as possible according to age and experience while maintaining school affiliation.

(h)                  Report to the President any suspected potential conflicts of interest or attempts by managers, coaches, or parents to manipulate teams.

(i)                      Oversee and record all player transactions and maintain an accurate and up-to- date record thereof.

(j)                      Prepare the Player Agent’s list. Once the initial team rosters have filled no additions may be made except by prioritized “Waiting List”. Each vacancy filled shall be coordinated with the appropriate Division Directors.

(k)                   Notify Little League Headquarters of any subsequent player replacements.

(l)                      Prepare for the President’s signature and submission player names under per LL Regulations and the tournament teams eligibility affidavits.

(m)                Administer the Child Protection Program in accordance with Little League Policy (including the volunteer application process).

Safety Director: The Safety Director shall:

(a)                   Be responsive to create general awareness in the League of the opportunities to provide a safe environment for all the participants of Little League Baseball.

(b)                  Develop and implement a Safety Plan for the League and submit completed plan to District 10 in compliance with the deadlines as set forth by District 10 to ensure that FWNLL is eligible for an accident insurance discount.

(c)                   Promote safe playing practices and awareness by meeting with Directors and their managers at least once per season.

(d)                  Establish first aid requirements and verify they are being complied with.

(e)                  Establish a reporting system to ensure that non-trivial incidents are recorded and reported to the President whether injury is sustained or not, and that follow- up information on medical and other data is forwarded as available.

(f)                     Attend District 10 safety seminars and advise FWNLL officials, managers and coaches of pertinent information.

(g)                  Obtain first aid supplies and make up first aid kits for each team. Make sure that there are replacement supplies.

7.4                 Directors – Duties and Powers

Sponsorship Director: The Sponsorship Director shall:

(a)                  Contact sponsors through letters, phone calls, and/or personal visits by January 1st.

(b)                  Organize Sponsor Appreciation by:

(ii)                    inviting sponsors to Jamboree

(iii)                  making sure each Sponsor gets a plaque

(c)                   Contact billboard advertisers as assigned by sponsorship coordinator.

(d)                  Collect and turn over to the Treasurer for deposit all sponsorship funds.

(e)                  Require all sponsors to sign and agree to the Little League Sponsorship Agreement.

Field & Facility Maintenance Director: The Field & Facility Maintenance Director shall:

(a)                  Carry out preparation of the assigned fields by:

(i)                      Organize Seniors, Juniors, Majors and AAA Division work parties as necessary to prepare and maintain the Complex fields and all FWNLL assigned fields.

(ii)                    Assist T Ball, A, and AA Directors in organizing the improvement and maintenance of school baseball fields.

(b)                  Prior to work parties beginning work at all fields:

(i)                      Prepare schedule that has the work distributed evenly among the teams in each division.

(ii)                    List all work to be accomplished on each field.

(iii)                  List the equipment required to accomplish the work.

(iv)                 Arrange for any rental equipment.

(e)                  At the November Board meeting, present a list of work to be accomplished during the next season and a budget for Board approval.

(f)                     Purchase all agricultural gypsum (lime) for all fields for the season.

(g)                  Provide enough field preparation equipment (rakes, chalkers, strings, shovels, drags, etc.) for each field at the complex.

(h)                  Adjust the frequency of garbage pickup as appropriate for the season.

(i)                      Maintain the Complex fields throughout the year by fertilizing, watering, and general cleanup.

(j)                      Turn the water off or on at the main as appropriate for the season.

(k)                   Maintain FWNLL building and all structures on site in working order.

(l)                      Maintain all FWNLL Field and Maintenance equipment in working order.

Equipment Director: The Equipment Director shall:

(a)                  Annually inventory all League equipment, listing repairs required and replacement or additional equipment.

(b)                  Present to the Board of Directors by the October meeting a proposed equipment budget for the coming season.

(c)                   Order on direction of the Board necessary repairs and new or replacement equipment

(d)                  Organize and direct all equipment issue with Division Directors.

(e)                  Select and present for Board approval a candidate for Assistant Equipment Manager.

(f)                     Shall ensure equipment meets current Little League standards for Approved Equipment.

Majors Director: The Majors Director shall:

(a)                  Contact all Majors managers to see if they plan to apply for the next season. Solicit sufficient qualified managerial candidates for Majors teams and submit names to the Board of Directors.

(b)                  Hold two (2) or more “Coaches Meetings” in a season depending on the need.

(c)                   Encourage team support for parent volunteerism in Concessions.

(d)                  Maintain a record of team standings.

(e)                  Handle all issues, situations, complaints, and compliments pertaining to the Majors Division.

(f)                     Assist managers in obtaining coaches for each team.

(g)                  Encourage “Parents Meetings” for each team in the Division.

(f)                     Assist Player Agent in organization and implementation of sign-ups, tryouts, and draft for the division.

(g)                   Distribute to and review with all Managers the Little League Rule Book.

(h)                   Coordinate with Field Scheduler and assign pre-season practice times for each team in the Division.

AAA Director: The AAA Director shall:

(a)                  Contact all AAA managers to see if they plan to apply for the next season. Solicit sufficient qualified managerial candidates for AAA teams and submit names to the Board of Directors.

(b)                  Hold two (2) or more “Coaches Meetings” in a season depending on need.

(c)                   Encourage team support of parent volunteerism in Concessions.

(d)                     Maintain a record of team standings.

(e)                  Handle all issues, situations, complaints, and compliments pertaining to the AAA Division.

(f)                     Assist managers in obtaining coaches for each team.

(g)                  Encourage “Parents Meetings” for each team in the Division.

(h)                 Assist Player Agent in organization and implementation of sign-ups, assessments and team make up for the division.

(i)                        Distribute to and review with all Managers the Little League Rule Book.

(j)                        Coordinate with Field Scheduler and assign pre-season practice times for each team in the Division.

AA, A, and T-Ball Directors: The AA, A and T-Ball Directors shall:

(a)                  Obtain managers for each team.

(b)                  Hold two (2) or more “Coaches Meetings” in a season depending on the need.

(c)                   Encourage team support of parent volunteerism in Concessions. (d)

(e)                  Handle all issues, situations, complaints and compliments pertaining to the Divisions.

(f)                     Schedule fields assigned to each Division, by the Field Scheduler, for practice and assist in scheduling make-up games.

(g)                  Assist Player Agent in organization and implementation of sign-ups.

(h)                  Be responsible for maintenance, with the assistance of the Fields Maintenance Director, of the school fields which their teams use. This includes conducting work parties and insuring that agricultural gypsum (lime) is available for games.

(i)                      Distribute to and review with all Managers the Little League Rule Book.

(j)                      Coordinate with Field Scheduler and assign pre-season practice times for each team in the Division.

Seniors/Juniors/50-70 Director: The Seniors/Juniors/50-70 Director shall:

(a)                  Contact all seniors, juniors and 50-70 managers to see if they plan to apply for the next season. Solicit sufficient qualified managerial candidates for 50-70, Junior and Senior teams and submit names to the Board of Directors.

(b)                  Hold two (2) or more “Coaches Meetings” in a season depending on the need.

(c)                   Encourage team support of parent volunteerism in Concessions.

(d)                  Handle all issues, situations, complaints and compliments pertaining to Junior and Seniors Divisions.

(e)                  Assist Player Agent in organization and implementation of sign-ups, tryouts, and draft for the division.

(f)                     Distribute to and review with all Managers the Little League Rule Book.

(g)                  Coordinate with Field Scheduler and assign pre-season practice times for each team in the Division.

Softball Director: The Softball Director shall:

(a)                  Contact all managers to see if they plan to apply for the next season. Solicit sufficient qualified managerial candidates for all teams and submit names to the Board of Directors.

(b)                  Hold two (2) or more “Coaches Meetings” in a season depending on the need.

(c)                   Encourage team support for parent volunteerism in Concessions.

(d)                  Maintain Majors and AAA standings.

(e)                  Handle all issues, situations, complaints, and compliments pertaining to the Softball Division.

(f)                     Assist managers in obtaining coaches for each team.

(h)                  Encourage “Parents Meetings” for each team in each Division.

(i)                      Assist Player Agent in organization and implementation of sign-ups, tryouts, and draft for the division.

(j)                      Distribute to and review with all Managers the Little League Rule Book.

(k)                   Coordinate with Field Scheduler and assign pre-season practice times for each team in the Division.

Challenger Director:  The Challenger Director shall:

(a)                  Form team with Player Agent.

(b)                  Work with Uniform Director to order hats and tees shirts to accommodate players.

(c)                   Work with Scheduler for games and practices.

Grants and Donations: The Grants and Donations officer shall:

(a)                  Be appointed by the President with the approval of the Board of Directors.

(b)                  Obtain from the President letters of introduction or other instruments necessary successful application for grants or donations.

(c)                   Solicit and obtain grant monies and monetary donations on behalf of the League.

(d)                  Collect and turn over to the treasurer all funds raised by this effort.

Umpire-in-Chief: The Umpire-in-Chief shall:

(a)                  Organize volunteer umpire sign-ups at player sign-ups.

(b)                  Assist in holding at least two (2) clinics for umpires.

(i)                      one clinic to cover all the rules for Little League.

(ii)                    one clinic on the mechanics of umpiring

(c)                   Report to the Board of Directors all problems relating to game situations involving coaches, spectators, or players within the given twenty-four (24) hour period.

(d)                  Be responsible for scheduling umpires for AAA, Majors, Junior and Senior divisions for Baseball and Softball. At least one umpire will be eighteen (18) years of age or older.

(e)                  With the assistance of the Equipment Director maintain and inventory all umpire equipment.

(f)                     Serve as member of all protest committees, unless involved as umpire in protested game.

League Information Director/Publicity/Social Media: The League Information Director shall:

Organize and direct publicity for all Little League activities, including announcing registration dates both online and in person.

Webmaster

(a)                  Maintain and administer the FWNLL Website.

(b)                  Encourage managers (coaches or representative) to maintain team web pages within the FWNLL League website.

(c)                   Assign online administrative rights as needed to volunteer members.

(d)                  Administer on-line registration with the support of the Player Agent and Treasurer.

(f)       Collect from all Division Directors and publish all game results and team standings on the web page.

(e)      As directed by the President or Board of Directors oversee the publishing of pertinent Board and League information for the membership either by newsletter, web page or local newspaper.

Uniform Director: The Uniform Director shall:

(a)                  Annually inventory all League uniforms, listing repairs and replacements required.

(b)                  Present to the Board of Directors a proposed Uniform budge for the coming season during preparation of the Annual Budget.

(c)                   Order, on the direction of the Board, necessary repairs needed

(d)                  Recruit and present for Board approval, a candidate for Assistant Uniform Director.

Training Director: The Training Director shall:

(a)                  Comply with the Washington State Concussion Law training requirements

(b)                  Plan and conduct Manager and Coach training sessions

(c)                   Plan and conduct player training sessions

Concessions Director: The Concessions Director shall:

(a)                  Purchase all inventory and equipment necessary for Concessions Operation.

(b)                  Train and Schedule Concessions Coordinators responsible for opening and closing Concessions and for overseeing the daily Concessions operations.

(c)                   Coordinate scheduling Teams for Concessions Volunteer Duty with the Fields & Facilities Scheduling Director.

(d)                  Keep records for the receipt and disbursement of all Concessions monies therefore in agreement with policies established in advance of such actions by the Board of Directors.

(e)                  Be responsible for all Concessions monies and deposits of same in Concessions depository approved by the Board of Directors.

(f)                     Obtain Health Permit

Field Scheduler: The Field Scheduling Director shall:

(a)   Attend the annual Field Meeting of the City of Federal Way and the Federal Way School District. At this meeting the City and School District assign the City Fields and the Elementary School Fields to youth sports users.

(b)   Obtain baseball/softball fields and/or facilities for conduction preseason tryouts and assessments.

(c)    Maintain contact with interlocking Little League Charters and FWNLL Division Directors for game scheduling. The Board of Directors will be notified of all inquiries for interlock play.

(d)   Coordinate with Division Directors and assign fields and times for pre-season practices. Each Director will assign practice times for their Division teams.

(e)   Prepare and maintain throughout the FWNLL season the master Field Schedule for FWNLL teams including practices and games on FWNLL Complex Fields, FW School District fields and City of FW fields assigned to FWNLL use.

Fields and Facilities Rental Scheduler: The Rental Scheduler shall:

(a)   Be the contact person for Field and Facility Rental, including the Parking Lot.

(b)   Prepare and maintain a Master Rental Schedule for the FWNLL fields and facilities. All rentals will be reported to the Board of Directors.

(c)    Coordinate with the FWNLL Fields Scheduler for appropriate field, date and time availability.

(d)   Prepare and execute the FWNLL Rental Agreement with the renting User Group, including obtaining a copy of current insurance coverage for their group.

(e)   Maintain a list of renting User Groups and contact groups each season for potential rental opportunities.

(f)      Report all Rental Fees due FWNLL to the Treasurer for proper classification.

(g)   Prepare the Rental Income budget and submit to Treasurer in September.

(h)   Field and Facility rentals are typically not available from March through June, except on Sundays (when available), during Spring Break and Memorial Day Weekend or when the Board determines a rental is beneficial to FWNLL.

(i)       Provide potential renters with updated rental fees that accurately reflect costs directly related to FWNLL expenses for using/utilizing fields and the complex as needed

           All Star Director: The All Star Director shall:

(a)                  Be point of contact for all All-Star coaches and parents

(b)                  Explain how to construct All-Star binders that are to be submitted to D10

(c)                   Explain playing rules and roster requirements to All Star coaches

(d)                  Oversee uniforms and spirit wear.

(e)                  Hold parent meeting to answer all questions, explain rules and expectations of All Star families.

(f)                     Coordinate scheduling of concessions coverage by families

(g)                  Create an All Star Committee to assist with voting and all duties associated with All Stars

Article 8.      Committees

8.1                                  Executive Committee. The Board of Directors may appoint an Executive Committee, which shall consist of not less than three (3) nor more than five (5) Directors, one of whom shall be the President of FWNLL. No policies or rules shall ever be written or exacted into rule by the executive committee.

8.2                                  The Executive Committee shall advise with the and assist the Officers of FWNLL in all matters concerning its interests and the management of its affairs and shall have other such powers as may be delegated to it by the Board.

8.3                                  At any meeting of the Executive Committee, a majority of the total number of members then in office shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and the act of a majority present at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be the act of the Committee.

Article 9       Other Committees

9.1                 Nominating Committee.

The Board of Directors may appoint a Nominating Committee consisting of three (3) Directors and other appointment Regular Members.

The Committee shall investigate and consider eligible candidates and submit at the annual meeting a slate of candidates for the Board of Directors. The Committee shall also submit for consideration by the Board of Directors a slate of officers and Committee Members.

9.2                 Finance Committee.

The Board of Directors may appoint a Finance Committee consisting of not less than three (3) nor more than five (5) Directors.

The Treasurer shall be an ex-officio member of the committee.

The committee shall investigate ways and means of financing FWNLL, including team sponsorships, grants, and donations. The committee shall submit recommendations to the Board of Directors.

The committee shall be responsible for taking up collections at games, if such collections are authorized by FWNLL and shall turn over said collections to the Treasurer immediately after each game.

9.3                 Building, Property, and Grounds Committee.

The Board of Directors may appoint a Building, Property, and Grounds Committee, consisting of three (3) Directors.

The committee shall investigate and recommend available suitable sites and plans for development, including ways and means, the latter in cooperation with the Finance Committee. It shall be responsible for repair and improvement recommendations, other than normal maintenance, and supervise the performance or approved projects. The Grounds Committee shall be responsible for the care and maintenance of the playing field(s), buildings, and grounds. It shall operate within the amount appropriated in the approved budget for the purpose.

9.4.    Umpire Committee.

The Board of Directors may appoint an Umpire Committee consisting of three (3) Directors. The FWNLL President shall chair any such committee.

The committee shall recruit, interview and recommend to the Board for appointment a staff of umpires, including a chief umpire and replacements. When appointed, the staff of umpires shall be under the personal direction and responsibility of the FWNLL President, assisted by the Chief Umpire who shall train, observe, and schedule the staff.

9.5     All Star Committee

          The board of directors may appoint an All Star Committee consisting of three (3) directors.

          The committee will oversee all aspects of All Stars and be the point of contact for managers, coaches, and parents.  The All Star Committee will oversee uniforms, binder information, spirit wear, parent meeting, concession, clean-up, and scheduling.

9.6       District Committee.

The Board of Directors may appoint a District Committee consisting of the FWNLL President as chair and two (2) other Directors. The committee shall assist the District Administrator in inter-league functions including the selection of members of the District Administrator’s Advisory Committee and the selection of tournament directors.

9.7 Auditing Committee.

The Board of Directors may appoint an Auditing Committee consisting of not less than three (3) Directors. The President. Treasurer, or signatories of checks are not eligible to serve on this committee.

The committee will annually review the books and records prior to the Annual Meeting and attach a statement of their findings to the annual financial statement of the President and Treasurer. The committee may, if directed by the Board of Directors or Membership, secure the services of a Certified Public Accountant to accomplish such review.

9.8 Disciplinary Committee

(a)   The Board of Directors may appoint a Disciplinary Committee consisting of not less than three (3) and not more than five (5) Directors. The President shall chair the Committee. As directed by the LL Rule book for Protest Committees, in addition to the president, an elected board member along with the president, shall be the two (2) constant on the discipline committee for the league calendar year, shall be board members of the appointed Disciplinary Committee, also, two, up to three other board members, may be appointed, as required. Managers may serve on the committee provided the infraction in question did not occur in the Division of play in which they manage.

(b)   The Disciplinary Committee will investigate and interview any reported charge of infraction of LL regulations such as field decorum or actions of League Personnel, spectators or players. On field/game rule infractions are resolved by the Protest Committee per LL Rule Book.

(c)    The final resolution of the Disciplinary Committee’s findings will be determined by the Board of Directors. Prior to the Disciplinary hearing, the Board of Directors may choose to defer resolution of the infraction to the Disciplinary Committee, thus only requiring a report of the action taken to the Board.

(d)   Disciplinary actions cannot be adjusted to accommodate for little league events and must be upheld. Examples are jamborees or end of the year tournaments.

Article 10.    Managers, Coaches, and Umpires

10.1            Team Managers and Coaches shall be appointed annually by the President, with the approval of the Board of Directors. Drafted teams’ managers alone shall be responsible for the selection of their players in accordance with the rules and regulations surrounding the draft and under the direction of the Player Agent. All managers shall be responsible for the actions of their team and coaches on the playing field, including all actions outlined in the Code of Conduct. Regulation 1(b).

AAA, Majors, 50-70, Juniors and Seniors team managers shall be appointed prior to player tryouts and draft. Team managers for AA, A, Machine Pitch and T-Ball and all team coaches shall be appointed at the first Board meeting following the respective team formations or draft, as the case may be. Once appointed, managers and coaches shall retain such title and status until the next annual reappointment of managers and coaches or until: (1) otherwise dismissed in accordance with LL Rules; or (2) submits written resignation as manager or coach to the President, such resignation containing an implied agreement that the resigning manager or coach will not manage or coach in the baseball/softball year subsequent to the baseball/softball year of resignation.

10.2            A sponsor will not be responsible for, nor take part in the selection of a team or the choosing of the manager and coaches. Deviations from this section shall require the specific approval of the Charter’s Board of Directors.

10.3            Nominees for Senior, Junior, 50-70, Majors, and lower Division managers and coaches shall be submitted annually by Division Directors for approval by the Board. Managers and coaches from previous years are eligible to return as candidates unless deemed unqualified. All managers’ nominees (new or previous) shall be voted on and must receive majority approval of the Board. When the number of managers is in excess of the number of positions to be filled, those nominees receiving a majority approval and the greatest number of votes shall be approved. In cases of a tie, the Board shall re-vote after no more than 30 minutes of discussion. If a successful nominee is a returning manager, he/she shall have first option to return to their respective team at the Major level and above. Appointment of Managers shall follow the Little League Policy for Appointment of Manager.

10.4            To qualify as a candidate for the position of Majors Division Manager, an applicant must have participated for no less than one (1) year and be currently active in the League. Deviations from this section shall require a majority vote of the Charter’s Board of Directors.

10.5            Managers or coaches in lower Divisions may move up no more than two (2) division levels from one season to the next (i.e. A to AAA or AA to Majors). This policy applies to candidates vying for a position as Manager of a Majors team. This policy is intended to protect the integrity of the Majors program.

10.6            Umpires shall be appointed annually by the President, with the approval of the Board of Directors, who shall be responsible for their assignments and for their actions on the field. Regulation 1(b), per the LL rulebook.

Article 11.    Financial and Accounting.

11.1            Responsibility Authority.

The Board of Directors shall decide all matters pertaining to the finances of FWNLL and it shall place all income in a common league treasury, directing the expenditure of same in such manner as will give no individual or team an advantage over those in competition with such individual or team.

11.2            Contributions of Funds or Property to Individual Teams.

The Board shall not permit the contribution of funds or property to individual teams but shall solicit same for the common treasury of FWNLL, thereby to discourage favoritism among teams and to endeavor to equalize the benefits of FWNLL.

11.3            Solicitation of Funds.

The Board shall not permit the solicitation of funds in the name of Little League Baseball unless all of the funds so raised are placed in FWNLL treasury.

11.4            Disbursement of Funds.

The Board shall not permit the disbursement of Local League funds for other than the conduct of Little League activities in accordance with the rules and policies of Little League Baseball, Incorporated.

11.5            Financial Compensation.

No Director, Officer, or Member of FWNLL shall receive, directly or indirectly, any salary, compensation, or emolument from FWNLL for services rendered as Director, Officer, or Member.

11.6            Deposits of League Funds.

All monies received, including auxiliary funds, shall be deposited to the credit of FWNLL in the Twin Lakes Bank of America and all disbursement shall be made by check or debit card. All checks shall be signed by FWNLL Treasurer and such other officer or officers or person or persons as the Board of Directors shall determine. Debit card purchases shall be made by person or persons authorized by the FWNLL Treasurer and Board to make such transactions.

11.7            Fiscal Year.

The fiscal year of FWNLL shall begin on the first day of October and shall end on the last day of September.

11.8            Distribution of Property upon Dissolution.

Upon dissolution of FWNLL, and after all outstanding debts and claims have been satisfied, the Members shall distribute the property of FWNLL to such other Federally incorporated entity maintaining an objective similar to that set forth herein, which are or may be entitled to exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or any future corresponding provision.

Article 12.    Affiliation.

SECTION 1

The Local League shall annually apply for a charter from Little League Baseball, Incorporated, and shall do all things necessary to obtain and maintain such charter. The Local League shall devote its entire energies to the activities authorized by such charter, and it shall not be affiliated with any other program or organization or operate any other program.

SECTION 2

The Official Playing Rules and Regulations as published by Little League Baseball, Incorporated shall be binding on the Local League.

SECTION 3

The local rules, ground rules and/or bylaws of the Local League shall be adopted by the Board of Directors at a meeting to be held not less than one month before the first scheduled game of the season, but shall in no way conflict with the Rules, Regulations and Policies of Little League Baseball, Incorporated, nor shall they conflict with this Constitution. The local rules, ground rules and/or bylaws of this Local League shall expire at the end of each playing season and are not considered part of this Constitution.

Article 13.    Amendments.

This Constitution and Bylaws may be amended, repeated, or altered in whole or part by a majority vote at any duly organized meeting of the Members, provided notice of the proposed change is included in the notice of such meeting. Drafts of all proposed amendments shall be submitted to Little League Baseball, Incorporated, for approval and placement in permanent file.

Article 14.    Boundaries.

Boundary statement of Federal Way National Little League, Charter 4-47-10-08:

FWNLL CHARTER BOUNDARY AS OF OCTOBER 1, 2023

As defined in the official little league finder at the following website

https://www.littleleague.org/play-little-league/league-finder/

I HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is the Constitution and By-Laws adopted by the Board of Directors on the 12th day of October 2024.

Federal Way National Little League

Charter 4-47-08-10

Policies and Procedures

Section 1

Baseball 50-70 Division:

All rules for the 50-70 Division follow the Official Regulations and Playing Rules as published by Little League Baseball, except as stated below.

·       Only League age 12 and 13 year old players are eligible for the 50-70 division.

·       The family of a Majors or 50-70 12 year old candidate must declare which division they will participate in by midnight of the last Majors tryout.

·      FWNLL player may participate in more than one division per season as long as being pulled up.

·      Section 2

Procedure for the “Expansion “of Majors Teams (Baseball and Softball)

·       Based on Option #3 from the 2023 LL Operating Manual. This Option has been chosen by FWNLL as it the best of all available options made available by LL.

·       This rule consists of the following procedure:

1.     Create a pool of eligible existing players from which the expansion team will draft

a.     A “baseline” number of players for each team to retain is calculated by taking the team with the fewest returning player s (e.g. 4) and having them contribute one player to the pool – (so in our example, 3 players are retained).

b.     Each other returning team will likewise retain the number of baseline players and the rest of their players are put into the pool

c.     No extra players are protected for any reason

2.     Expansion team drafts the “baseline” number (e.g. 3) players from the pool

a.     If the number of players to be drafted is less than or equal to the number of returning teams, the expansion team will be limited to selecting no more than one player from each returning team

b.     If the number of players to be drafted is greater than the number of returning teams, the expansion team will be limited to selecting no more than two players from any returning team

3.     Any players in the pool that are not drafted by the expansion team return to their original team

4.     The players now on the expansion team are considered existing players on

a.     that team for league purposes (e.g. cannot be traded in the draft)

5.     The regular draft of new players is conducted, with the expansion team drafting first and the rest of the league drafting in reverse finish order as usual.

6.     Any returning player who declines to accept placement on the expansion team via the expansion draft forfeits their participation for that league year (i.e. cannot go back to their original team, another team, or a lower level of play).

Section 3

Baseball Majors Season and Postseason Format:

·       Regular Season standings (reverse order) determine draft order in the following year. (Head to head is tiebreaker, when teams play 3 times)

·       Post-season tournament can allow for single or double elimination play (or both in the event of the need for a “play in” game) depending on the number of teams. The tournament format will be determined before the beginning of the regular season and voted on by the league managers.

·       Majors Director / Rules Committee / Board oversees any potential actions that could jeopardize tournament integrity.

Section 4

Baseball and Softball Minor Divisions and Age Eligibility

The Board of Directors can from year to year change the configuration of the minor baseball or softball divisions as the number of player registrations may necessitate such a change. Player safety and appropriately challenging player skills shall be considered along with registration numbers in the determination of whether to make any changes.

League age is determined by the player age as of August 31 of the league year (current cutoff date as of 2023 LL rules) or as LL National determines. Softball Dec 31

Baseball Minor Divisions:

T-Ball 4-6 years old

A: 5, 6 and 7 years old

AA: 6, 7, 8 and 9 years old

AAA: 8,9, 10 and 11 years old

Notes –

9 year olds that are deemed unsafe to play AAA will play AA. 9-12 year-olds may try out for Majors but do not have to be drafted. If a 12 year old is sent to AAA being determined to be a safety risk, per regulation V (a) they are not allowed to pitch.

Softball Minor Divisions:

T-Softball 4-6 year olds

A Softball (Coach Pitch): 5,6, 7, 8, and 9 year olds

AAA: 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12-year olds

AAA. 9-12 year olds may try out for Majors but do not have to be drafted.

Note – 5 year olds with 1 years of T-Ball can play Coach Pitch,. 6-year-olds can play AA softball/baseball with at least 1 year of league experience.

12 year olds can play Juniors, 14 year olds can play Seniors.

Section 5

All-Star Selection Process for Managers, Players and Coaches

All Star Teams – Baseball and Softball

a)     One Baseball and one Softball from all eligible 12, 13, 14, 15 & 16 year olds players (Senior Division)

b)     One Baseball and one Softball from all eligible 12, 13 & 14 year old players (Junior Division)

c)     One Baseball and one Softball from all eligible 10,11 & 12 year old players (Majors Division)

d)     One Baseball and one Softball from all eligible 9, 10 & 11 year old players

e)     One Baseball 50/70

f)      One Baseball and one Softball from all eligible 8, 9 & 10 year old players (Majors/ AAA Division)

g)     A player may only be selected to one (1) All Star tournament team in a season. (LL rule)

h)     It is strongly recommended that each team drafts a minimum of 11 players per team

All Star Equipment and Uniforms:

a)     FWNLL Board of Directors will determine complete uniform to be used during All Star Tournament games for all divisions Complete uniform includes the following: hat/visor, game jersey to be purchased through FWNLL. Additional items may be purchased at the discretion and expense of the parents.

b)     All Star uniforms provided by the League are the property of FWNLL and must be returned to the Uniforms Director with exception of the hat/visor and socks.

c)     Manager and Coaches shall be provided the following: hat/visor. FWNLL polo shirts may be provided for the Managers and Coaches on the affidavit.

d)     FWNLL Equipment Director will determine all essential tournament game equipment required for LL sanctioned games under tournament rules.

e)     After completion of All Star Tournament games, all FWNLL baseball and softball equipment supplied shall be returned to the Equipment Director.

f)      The All Star Fee will be set by the Board of Directors each year.

All Star Manager Selection Process for Baseball and Softball:

·       All Star Manager Selection Committee shall consist of 3 people without eligible players of that age group.

·       One of the primary responsibilities of Managers and Coaches should be to model, encourage and reward good sportsmanship. Any of the following may eliminate a person from consideration as a Manager or Coach:

                           i.          Any suspension for personal behavior.

                          ii.          More than 1 suspension due to a Manager or Coach’s behavior.

                        iii.          Conduct that the Board determines to be detrimental to the League.

a)     All-Star Team Manager Eligibility Requirements

The selection of the coaching staff is a very important step in the process. In order to be selected to manage or coach a team, the candidate must meet the eligibility requirements as specified in the Official Regulations and Playing Handbook. In addition to the handbook the candidate will adhere to the FWNLL policies and procedures listed below.

Candidates for Manager nominate themselves in writing for the desired age group (Sr., Jr., 50-70, Majors / 9-10-11 yr. old / 8-9-10 yr. old) they want to manage. All candidates should provide their qualifications (years of experience, coaching/managing levels, including All-Star experience, approach to managing/coaching).

Note: To participate on the Little League (Majors Division) All-Star staff, you must be an approved manager or coach of record for 60% of the Majors regular spring season.

                                     i.          The All-Star Selection Committee will review any and all information gathered about the candidates and discuss their qualifications with the League President. Information gathered may come from the candidate, season record, interviews, parent coaching evaluation form, compliance with the FWNLL manager requirements policy and divisional director input.

                                    ii.          Similar to the regular season selection process for managers, the League President nominates the managers to the Board. The Board of Directors votes on the managers. Managers are approved or denied by majority vote of the Board of Directors.

b)    All-Star Team Assistant Coach(es) Eligibility Requirements

The All-Star team Manager and Selection Committee jointly nominate assistant coach(es) for the All-Star team.

                                     i.          The 8-10 year old All-Star Coaching staff SHOULD include a qualified AAA Manager or Coach.

                                    ii.          Assistant coach candidates will provide their qualifications (years of experience, coaching/managing levels, approach to managing/coaching) to the All-Star Selection Committee for review.

                                  iii.          The All-Star Selection Committee will review any and all information gathered about the candidates and discuss their qualifications with the League President. Information gathered may come from the candidate, interviews, parent coaching evaluation form and divisional director input.

                                  iv.          iv. Similar to the regular season selection process for assistant coaches, the League President nominates the assisting coaches to the Board. The Board of Directors votes on the coaches. The coaches are approved or denied by majority vote of the Board of Directors.

Note: If the nominee is not approved, the Manager and/or Coaching Staff selection process begins again, and more candidates are reviewed.

Note: Selected All-Star team managers are required to provide parent volunteers during any tournament held at the National Complex. Field Preparation, Concessions and Complex Maintenance are needed to hold a successful tournament.

Player Selection Process:

Per the Little League International Rules Book:

Reference Little League International Book Tournament Rules and Guidelines

·       Baseball & Softball

o   Under Recommended Selection Process Page 166 - 167

§  Player Votes

§  Players vote for 1 player for each position for All Star Team eligible for– 9 total

§  Votes are tabulated and given to All Star Committee and presented to the manger

·       Then, the manager selects to fill in remaining positions

·       Players supply declarations for which team they want to play for/are eligible for prior to voting

The All Star selection process for each team will be posted on the FWNLL website no later than June

       i.          Senior, Junior and 50-70 Divisions

All Star Manager will select the minimum of 12 and maximum of 14 players per team. The Manager may elect to have a tryout. Players will be selected/voted on from the Player Agent’s list of qualifying players.

      ii.          Regular season play may also be considered. 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 year olds are eligible to be voted/selected to an All Star team

All Majors/AAA/AA players who meet eligibility requirements may be eligible for an All Star team. The Player Agent will provide a list of qualifying players to the All Star committee to create the All Star ballots

The All Star Manager with the Player Agent present for verification will select players using the player recommended votes.

The results of the All Star selections will be posted within forty eight (48) hours after selections on the League Website and at the Complex.

c)     All Star Coach Selection Process:

To be completed after each team’s roster is chosen, unless the candidate does not have a child in that team’s eligible player pool.

                           i.          All Star Coaches shall be selected by the Manager for the respective All Star Teams and must have been a manager or a coach per Little League rules.

                          ii.          A maximum of two (2) Official Coaches will be selected for each All Star Team.

Section 6

FWNLL Local Rules for Minor and Major Divisions:

Baseball Majors Division:

All rules for the Majors Division follow the Official Regulations and Playing Rules as published by Little League Baseball, except as stated below.

a)     Playing Time

                           i.          All players must play 3 complete games in the Regular Season. Games must be ‘official games’

                          ii.          If a player does not play in 3 complete official games by the end of the Regular Season they will play the entire first two End of Season Tournament games.

Baseball AAA Division:

All rules for the AAA Division follow the Official Regulations and Playing Rules as published by Little League Baseball, except as stated below.

a)     Time Limits

i.                 Run Limits – There is a 5 run limit per inning.

ii.                The final inning of the game is an “open inning” where there is no maximum of runs that can be cored. If an inning other than the 6th inning is going to be the “open inning”, it must be discussed between the 2 Managers and Umpire prior to the start of that inning.

iii.              In games that go to extra innings, the 6th and all extra innings are open innings.

Softball AAA Division:

All rules for the AAA Division follow the Official Regulations and Playing Rules as published by Little League Baseball.   Additional rules may be determined by District 10

Softball MP Division:

All rules for the AA Division follow the Official Regulations and Playing Rules as published Additional rules may be determined by District 10

Baseball AA Division:

All rules for the AA Division follow the Official Regulations and Playing Rules as published by Little League Baseball, except as stated below.

a)     Time Limits

i.                 A 1:45 time limit applies before any new inning can begin. All games will finish after 2 hours.

ii.                A 5 run per team per inning rule will apply to all innings played.

iii.              No game shall exceed 6 innings in length.

iv.              No new inning will begin after the time limit.

v.               Weekend games will start per league issued game schedule.

b)     Coach Pitch:

i.                 Each game will consist of 3 innings Coach pitch and 3 innings kid pitch

ii.                Each batter will receive 6 pitches with 3 swinging strikes constituting an out. No balls will be recorded. As long as a player continues to hit foul balls he/she will continue to bat.

iii.              If a batted ball hits the coach pitching, the ball is live and playable. If the ball hits the coach pitching and goes across the baseline the ball is dead and the runner/runners get the base they were running too.

iv.              During coach pitch innings of the team up to bat, coaches of the team pitch to their own team.

c)      Player Pitch:

i.                 After a player pitcher has hit 3 batters, he /she must be removed from any further pitching in that game.

ii.                Managers are required to record all pitchers, innings pitched and number of pitches at every game in the scorebooks. Any FWNLL Board Member can and will periodically check or collect scorebooks for pitcher violations.

iii.              All batters will start with a 0 & 0 count (no balls and no strikes) each turn at bat.

iv.              During kid pitch a batter can earn a walk with four balls.

d)     Fielding:

i.                 There will be (10) defensive players on the field. (Four in the outfield).

ii.                On an overthrow to first or third, the base runner will only receive the base they are advancing to. If the ball overthrown travels out of the field of play, the base runner will receive one additional base.

iii.              Outfielders must be at least 15 feet behind the baselines.

iv.              The infield fly rule does not apply.

e)     Base running: Steal of home will only be allowed when a wild pitch occurs. Only the runner at third base may advance.

f)      Playing Positions: No player can play the same position for more than 3 innings and every player must play at least one inning in the infield and the outfield.

g)    Playing Time: In a 6 inning game, no player shall sit for more than 3 innings

Baseball A Division:

All rules for the A Division follow the Official Regulations and Playing Rules as published by Little League Baseball, except as stated below.

a)     Time Limits:

i.                 Each game has a 1 hour 45 minute (1:45) "new inning" time limit:

ii.                No new inning can begin after 1:45. All games will finish within a 2 hour game time limit.

iii.              No game shall exceed 6 innings in length

b)     Scoring Limits:

i.       A "5-run rule" applies: A team can score no more than 5 runs in each inning played

ii.      No actual score will be kept, reported, or talked about

c)     Pitching:

i.       A-Division is a "coach-pitch" division: any FWNLL manager, coach, or adult parent volunteer may pitch for their team during the game.

ii.      During the adult pitch, the player in the pitcher position will stand near pre-determined area of the pitching mound

iii.    If a batted ball hits an adult pitcher, the play will continue as the adult pitcher is part of the playing field

d)     Batting:

i.                 No batter will “walk” during adult pitch.

ii.                Each batter will receive 6 pitches.

iii.              Only “swung at and missed” strikes will be counted.

iv.              If the batter has received 6 pitches but has not struck out, the batter is retired and no out is recorded.

v.               If the batter fouls the 6th pitch, one additional pitch will be provided. If that pitch is fouled, the batter is retired and no out is recorded.

vi.              No Bunting.

e)     Fielding:

i.                 There will be 10 defensive players on the field (4 outfielders). Up to 3 Coaches are allowed on the field for the defense, 1st base, 2nd base and 3rd base

ii.                On an overthrow, each base runner is allowed to attempt to reach one base beyond the base they are advancing to at the time of the overthrow, regardless of whether the ball stays inside or outside the foul lines.

iii.              If an overthrown ball goes beyond the fence line, it is considered a “dead ball” and time out will be called, and each base runner will proceed to the next base they are advancing to at the time that the ball passes the fence line.

iv.              Outfielders must at least have their feet in the grass of the outfield, cannot be on the infield dirt.

v.               A play is completed when the infield has control of the ball and no further defensive play is attempted. From this point, base runners shall not attempt to advance further.

vi.              The infield fly rule does not apply. The fielders must catch the ball

f)       Base Running: No base stealing is allowed.

g)     Playing Positions: No player can play the same position for more than 3 innings and every player must play at least one inning in the infield and the outfield.

h)     Playing Time: In a 6-inning game, no player shall sit for more than 3 innings

i)       Substitutions: Substitutions can be made at any time during the game when a pitch is not being thrown to the batter.

j)       Language: No foul language shall be used by the coaches, parents or players at any time

k)     Protest or Challenge: No game will be protested or challenged at the Single A level

This is an instructional level of baseball, and it is our duty as coaches to foster the love of the game through encouragement and instruction. We will not criticize the players or punish them through physical repercussions or verbal abuse for any error during the games or practices. Every “play” is considered an opportunity for learning, and it is our responsibility as coaches to help these children learn and grow as players and people every step of the way.

Tee-Ball Division:

All rules for the Tee-Ball Division follow the Official Regulations and Playing Rules as published by Little League Baseball as well as what is stated below:

a)    Time Limits:

i.                 Each game has a 1-hour time limit.

ii.                No game shall exceed 3 innings in length.

b)    Scoring:

i.                 No score will be kept, reported, or talked about.

ii.                No outs are made.

c)     Batting:

i.                 Players will hit off a tee and may swing until they put the ball in play.

ii.                Teams will use a continuous batting order, bat the entire team.

iii.              Players may only advance one base at a time until the last batter of the inning.

iv.              The last batter each inning will be the “Home Run Hitter” and clear the bases. Players will touch every remaining base in front of them. This should be a different player every inning if possible.

v.               The inning will be over after every player has had an at-bat.

vi.              Batting order can be shifted every inning.

vii.            The batting team should have helmets on at all times, even in the dugout.

d)    Fielding:

i.                 Teams will position all players on the field on defense.

ii.                Traditional infield positions should be filled, and then remaining players placed in the outfield.

iii.              Players are encouraged to make the proper play on defense, but runners are allowed to remain on base, even if an out is made.

iv.              Teams can use a catcher, but they must be in catcher’s gear.

v.               Players must rotate positions every inning. Each player must play a minimum of 1 inning of infield and 1 inning of outfield each game.

vi.              When the final batter of the inning is up, no plays should be made at home plate on runners who have no choice but to advance. No tagging of the runner at home.

This is an introductory level of baseball, and the primary focus should be on providing a safe, fun atmosphere where kids can learn the fundamental aspects of the game. Sportsmanship should be taught and exemplified by coaches. We will not criticize the players or punish them through physical repercussions or verbal abuse for any error during games or practices. Every “play” is considered an opportunity for learning. It is our responsibility as coaches to help these children learn and grow as players and people every step of the way.

Section 7

Procedure for the “Reduction or Contraction” of Majors Teams:

(Baseball and Softball)

·       If the number of teams is to be reduced at the Major League level, the Board of Directors decides which team is to be deleted from the division. FWNLL has chosen the following LL approved method to reassign all current Major League players affected by the reduction of team(s).

o   Through a preliminary draft (reverse order of finish) prior to the regular player draft involving new candidates.

o   Once the preliminary draft is complete, the regular player draft starts over in the reverse order of finish, without regard to the last team to pick in the preliminary draft.

Section 8

Rules of Order

·       In addition to Roberts Rules of Order used to govern the proceedings of all meetings, Board Members, not in attendance at a meeting, may proxy their vote to another Board Member for that meeting. No board member can have more than 2 proxy votes. The acting president cannot accept any proxy votes. The written proxy must be submitted to the Secretary prior to the beginning of said meeting.

AAA Softball – If only 2 teams, straight draft, 3 or more teams, random draw for order of snake draft

SOFTBALL MAJORS DRAFT ORDER softball would have a 3 team tournament from which there would be a team crowned champion. The third-place team would have first pick in the next draft. Their games would be played on the same Saturday as the baseball championship games. The same scenario applies if there are only 2 teams. Draft is a straight draft.

AAA Baseball – If only 2 teams, straight draft, 3 or more teams, random draw for order of snake draft

Majors Baseball – Draft order based on previous season ending standings.  Last place team drafts first, followed by a straight draft

Any player that does not attend a tryout, their name is drawn out of a hat to be drafted to a team.

AAA Baseball and Softball Managers may declare up to 1 assistant coach prior to the draft. If this declared coach has children that will be playing in the division that the manager and assistant coach will be coaching in, those players become protected picks during the draft. These protected picks (players), subject to approval by the respected player agent,  must be drafted in rounds 3, 4, and 5 for the team that has declared said players as protected picks for the declared assistant coach(es)

Section 9

Fall Ball

Fall ball will follow the above spring rules as follows unless noted below:

Fall Ball is intended for 2 reasons:

1.     Getting players ready for moving up to the next level of competition

1.     i.e. Players moving up from AA baseball to AAA baseball, AAA softball players moving up to Majors softball and so on

2.     Introductory to the game of baseball and softball

                ii.          Majors coaches who are participating in the fall, to get their team ready for spring

               iii.          Any player that is currently on a major’s team can return to their current team for fall as long as their current coach is coaching in fall

Minors’ divisions, AAA and below, if the player’s coach from spring is coaching fall during the same league year, they can return to their coach for fall if the player requests their coach for fall.

Coach requests and player requests will be honored during fall ball as team needs allow within reason

Minors’ divisions, T-ball, A Ball, and AA ball need to have separate divisions to ensure competitiveness

·        Example, A ball and AA ball will have separate divisions, both softball and baseball

There will not be tryouts for minors’ divisions, T-Ball, A ball or AA ball

·        A hit-around can happen to help assist determining player skill, finding coaches, and forming teams

Only divisions AAA and above will have assessments to determine player’s abilities and placement