SOUTH AUSTIN OPTIMIST LITTLE LEAGUE

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PARENTS GUIDE

MISSION STATEMENT

To serve as an extension of the class room by providing physical and recreational activities to develop healthier children that will enable them to develop into fully productive members of society.

Help develop people skills and develop the child’s character that will enable them to be sensitive of others feelings.

Most importantly if our program is to be successful, every child must have fun every day.

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Table of ContentsWELCOME.........................................................................................................4PARENT’S GUIDE..............................................................................................4OBJECTIVE........................................................................................................4PURPOSE...........................................................................................................4SAFETY..............................................................................................................5BIRTH CERTIFICATES......................................................................................5LEAGUE BOUNDARIES.....................................................................................6RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS..........................................................................7PARENT’S ROLE................................................................................................7BEING A MODEL YOUTH PARENT...................................................................8PARENTS DON’T RUIN IT FOR THE LITTLE LEAGUER..................................9CODE OF CONDUCT.........................................................................................10BACKGROUND CHECK.....................................................................................11TEAM STRUCTURE...........................................................................................11MANAGER’S CONDUCT....................................................................................11PUNITIVE LIABILITY.........................................................................................12MANDATORY PLAY...........................................................................................12ZERO TOLERANCE...........................................................................................12PLAYING RECORD............................................................................................12PREGAME RESPONSILITIES............................................................................13POSTGAME RESPONSIBILITES........................................................................13BATTING CAGES...............................................................................................14PARENT’S AUXILARY........................................................................................14UMPIRES...........................................................................................................15TOURNAMENT AVAILABILITY.........................................................................15CONCESSION STAND.......................................................................................16SPONSORS........................................................................................................17EQUIPMENT......................................................................................................18RAIN OUT..........................................................................................................18INSURANCE......................................................................................................18CHALLENGER LITTLE LEAGUE BASEBALL....................................................19PARKING...........................................................................................................19INTER-LEAGUE PLAY.......................................................................................20KITTY................................................................................................................. 20ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES.................................................................................20NO SMOKING POLICY......................................................................................20RESOURCES SHARING.....................................................................................20TRAVEL/LEGACY FUND....................................................................................212017 BOARD OF DIRECTORS...........................................................................22BOARD ELECTIONS .........................................................................................22AFFIDAVIT.........................................................................................................23

Welcome5/15/2023 11:35 PM

Welcome to the South Austin Optimist Little League, SAO, as we are known throughout the district. This year marks the 61st year of service to the youth. The partnership between the South Austin Optimist Club and Little League Baseball has been successful through the years. As the parent organization at the ‘Ric and Carmen Castaneda’ Sports Complex, the South Austin Optimist Club is responsible for the effective management of the facility. We are proud of our facility and especially of the quality of our youth programs. Our objective is to provide an environment that enhances the opportunity for the young people to develop into fully productive citizens and having fun at the same time. We do not, however, intend to accomplish this alone. We rely heavily on parental involvement and tireless commitment.

As you are well aware, Little League is much more than bats and balls. It is a leadership- training program that instills in youth, during their most impressionable years, the virtues of character, courage and loyalty. The Little League program teaches children the rewards of teamwork, a respect for authority and the self-discipline that will enable the youth of today to become the leaders of tomorrow. (Stephen D. Keener, President and CEO Little League)

Parent’s GuideThis manual is designed to serve as the primary communication link between league parents and the League. One of the major difficulties with any volunteer organization is the lack of communication. This guide addresses the issue. If questions should arise, please contact any Board member. If they do not have the answer, you will be put in touch with someone who does. In any event, they will help you. Get to know your Board members; they are volunteers that are here to provide assistance to you. Your cooperation and understanding in working with them will be appreciated.

Objective

The objective of the South Optimist Little League shall be to firmly implant the concepts of good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage, industry and reverence in the minds of the youth. Implementing the aforementioned characteristics will aid the youth being finer, stronger, happier, productive citizens of the community.

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The objectives will be achieved by providing supervised competitive games and associated activities. The supervisors shall bear in mind that the attainment of exceptional athletic skill and the winning of games is secondary to the general objectives of this organization.Purpose

This guide is provided to inform managers, coaches and any individual working directly with the children on how to conduct themselves. It also supplements local league rules. Remember, as adults, children see you as role models. It is imperative that you project a positive image at all times. Conduct to the contrary will not be tolerated.

The manager is the league’s representative to the team. The manager is also the team’s spokesperson to the league. As you are responsible for the conduct of your team at all team activities, it benefits you to get as many of your parents involved. This will make your job much easier.

SafetySafety is everyone’s responsibility. This is an area in which all of us need to be tuned in and vigilant. We cannot be involved enough when it comes to safety. If all of us are looking for safety hazards, the safer that we can make our facilities. If you notice an unsafe condition, please report to the Safety Officer (Joe Walton) or any Board Member.

There are three major areas of concerns where we ask for your help on ceasing:

1. Playing under bleachers, running up and down sidewalks 2. Playing on railroad tracks. 3. Playing in parking lot away from parents.

We need to be aware of our surroundings at the Castaneda Sports Complex. For the safety of your child, it is necessary that they be under your supervision at all times.

Birth CertificatesIn addition to proof of residency, each candidate must also present a valid proof of birth document. You must provide the original copy of the birth certificate from which we will verify the date of birth. A copy of the birth certificate will not be accepted and is not required.

If your child makes a post-season tournament team you will be required to present the original birth certificate and a copy to the District Administrator for certification on the tournament team. The copy of the birth certificate will be carried by the manager of the

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Tournament Team throughout the tournament. Failure to supply this document will disqualify your child from tournament team participation.League Boundaries

Our boundaries are outlined below. Players must live within our boundaries to be eligible to participate in the Little League. Exceptions are rarely granted and must be approved by the competition committee in Williamsport. Beginning in 2014, in an effort to accommodate Little Leaguers playing with their classmates and ease the burden on parents and guardians, Little League recently amended its residency requirement to allow children to play in the local league whose boundaries where they attend school is located.

Due to the increasing number of people that insist on registering outside of their local leagues, you will be required to show three proofs of residency. This is strictly enforced to ensure an undue burden isn’t placed on anyone. Proof of residency is a normal requirement.

NORTHBen White Blvd to Congress Avenue Right on Congress Avenue to Sheraton DriveLeft on Sheraton Drive to IH35IH 35 North to St. ElmoSt. Elmo to Nucklos Crossing Road

EASTNucklos Crossing to 5200 Viewpoint, cut through to 6100 Stassney Lane,6100 Stassney Lane, West to Nucklos Crossing *,Nucklos Crossing to Pleasant ValleyLeft on Pleasant Valley, East to William CannonEast on William Cannon take Right on Salt Spring DriveSalt Spring Road to FM 1327 Left on FM 1327 to Turnerville Road NorthTurnerville Road North to Travis County line

*Includes Villas of Corbora and Fairway Ridge sub-divisions

SOUTHTravis County Line to Fitzhugh RoadRight on Fitzhugh Road to Barton Creek

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WESTBarton Creek East to West Texas 71 (includes Travis Country)West Texas 71 to Southwest ParkwaySouthwest Parkway to Ben White Blvd.

Residency Requirements

Residence shall be established and supported by documents, dated or in force between February 1, 2016 (previous year) and February 1, 2017 (current year).

Parent’s RoleYour role in our program is very important. It is imperative that you execute your role in a positive and creative manner. Parents should accept the responsibility and take the initiative to insure the success of the local program. Little League is not a club in which membership implies babysitting benefits and entertainment privileges.(Little League Official Regulations and Playing Rules, page 13)

Practically speaking, Little League is an adult, volunteer work project organized, supervised and assisted by parents who wish to extend league benefits to their children. Volunteer programs depend on equal input and contribution by all involved. Each parent should join in the total effort. By registering your child in our league, you have indicated your commitment to support our program whenever and wherever called upon.

The manager is responsible for all the activities concerning his team. If he can depend on Parents to help him, we can build a better program. All parents are obligated help when called upon. There are many ways in which you can help. Do your part and ease the burden on everyone. The parent who shirks this responsibility cannot in turn, expect others to assume the burden.

Being a Model Youth ParentThe chief objective of this youth sports organization is to provide a fun, positive and safe learning experience for everyone. To accomplish this goal we will need the assistance and cooperation from every parent.

Tips on becoming a model Youth Sports Parento Where we practice and play games is like your child’s classroom. Respect

the classroom.

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o Make only positive, encouraging comments to players on both teams.o Making mistakes is part of the learning process. Do not criticize.o Discuss your concerns away from the players. All players, including your

own child.o Focus on fun and involvement rather than winning or losingo Ask your child if they had fun. Follow up with: Why? Why not?o Control your emotions.o Get interested in your child’s sport.o Learn the rules of your child’s sport.o Make every effort to have your child at practice on time.o Reinforce the coach’s instructions when practicing with your child.o Positive reinforcement is the key to improvement.o Do not undermine team moraleo Notify coach if your child will miss a practice or game.o Pick your child up promptly after practices and games.o Refrain from tobacco or alcohol use at all youth sports events. This is your

child’s classroom.o Practice in team activities.

Other things you may do as a ‘Super’ youth sport parento Provide transportation (carpooling).o Assist in fundraising efforts.o Provide treats for practices and games.o Help prepare and inspect facilities before use.o Assist with scorekeeping and announcing.o Make phone calls when asked.o Work in the concession stand.

Parents: Don’t ruin it for Little Leaguers

Children do learn valuable lessons from team sports. They learn to make mistakes and keep trying. They learn to take criticism and improve without falling apart. They learn that the word “team” means something: When we work together, we’re better. They learn to lose and come back for another game. They learn that winning is more fun and worth the effort.

The biggest problem with Little League is a few parents. The game would improve if parents could be thrown out of games for unsportsmanlike behavior. Since such a rule does not seem likely, here are my suggestions for Little League parents:

1. If your child does not want to play baseball, don’t make the child play. If you think baseball is such a great idea, join a softball team and get your own uniform. Little League is for kids who love baseball, not their parents.

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2. Don’t gripe about the coach. These people are volunteers and they put in long hours working with your child’s team. Besides, the coach’s spouse is sitting next to you in the stands. Next year, sign up to coach if you can do better.

3. Don’t complain about the umpire or a call. These people are doing the best they can do with very unpredictable situations. They make mistakes, but in Little League, the mistakes tend to even out. If you yell at the umpire, you embarrass your child and make the team look bad.

4. Encourage your child. It is fun and exciting to cheer for your child. Everyone hopes that every child plays well, but they all make mistakes. Yelling at your kid for making a mistake is demeaning for the child and the team. And it makes you look like an idiot.

5. Applaud every child who does something well, regardless of which team he or she is on. They are all trying and they deserve recognition from the crowd.

6. Don’t complain about how little your child gets to play. There may be lots of reasons. A child, who never attends practice, argues with the coach, and fights with the other players may spend time on the bench. The child may wise up and figure out how to get in the game.

7. If your child doesn’t play much because everyone else is better, practice with your child. Let your child know that one has to work to be part of the team.

8. When the game is over, congratulate all the players. Find one thing for which to praise your child. The kids know what they did wrong. Tell them what they did right; when you walk out griping at your child for “stupid mistakes,” you’re the one that looks stupid.

9. Thank the coach and the assistants. Ask if there is anything you can do to help, and do it.

In the early years, some kids play because they like to wear the uniform, they enjoy picking daisies in the outfield, or they like the free snow cone after the game. As they get older, the kids who love baseball stick with the sport. Parents need to let the kids enjoy baseball for whatever reason. Remember, it’s just a game.

Youth Sports Parent Code of Conduct

PreambleThe essential elements of character building and ethics in sports are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship and six core principles: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship. The highest potential of sports is achieved when competition reflects these “six pillars of character.”I therefore agree:

1. I will not force my child to participate in sports.2. I will remember that children participate to have fun and that the game is for

youth, not adults.3. I will inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the

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safety of my child or the safety of others.4. I will learn the rules of the game and the policies of the league.5. I (and my guests) will be a positive role model for my child and encourage

sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice or sporting event.

6. I (and my guest) will not encourage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player or parent such as booing and taunting, refusing to shake hands, or using profane language or gestures.

7. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well being of the athletes.

8. I will teach my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.

9. I will demand that my child treat other players, coaches, officials and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, color, sex or ability.

10. I will teach my child that doing one’s best is more important than winning, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of a game or his/her performance.

11. I will praise my child for competing fairly and trying hard, and make my child feel like a winner every time.

12. I will never ridicule or yell at my child or other participants for making a mistake or losing a competition.

13. I will emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit my child over winning. I will also de-emphasize games and competition in the lower age groups.

14. I will promote the emotional and physical well being of the athletes ahead of any personal desire I may have for my child to win.

15. I will respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss, or confront coaches at the game field, and will take time to speak with coaches at an agreed upon time and place.

16. I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and I will refrain from their use at all sports events.

17. I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices, unless I am one of the official coaches of the team.

Background Check

Little League Baseball, Inc., as part of its Child Protection Act has mandated that all of its volunteers have a Background check. Anyone volunteering to be a manager, coach, team mom or team representative must have the background check and be identified as such. Only these personnel screened and cleared will be permitted to work with the children at practice or Games.

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Team Structure

Team managers are appointed by the League President. The manager is responsible for selecting the team’s support staff consisting of:Two coaches –the coaches report directly to the manager.Team representative – represents the team in the Parents Auxiliary

Beginning in 2015 we began taking some of the work load from the coaching staff by placing additional responsibility on the team parents. Each team will now be required to have an umpire and a field maintenance representative.Umpire – each team is required to have an umpire. These volunteers will be provided instructions on the rules and regulations of Little League Baseball and Softball as well as the mechanics of umpiring.

Field maintenance representative – this volunteer is responsible for setting up the field and accomplishing all pre-game team responsibilities. Additionally, the team representative is responsible for performing the post-game responsibilities as well as raking the field. He should solicit help from other team parents. (Children will not perform this task). The field maintenance representative will allow the manager to talk to his team and pick up the team’s equipment and get the kids home sooner.The field maintenance duties may be opted out by paying a $10.00 fee per game. The manager could collect a dollar per game from each parent and the work would be accomplished by the league.

Manager’s Conduct1. Reported incidents of misconduct, regardless of severity will be dealt with

immediately. Any umpire reported incident of misconduct by a manager/coach will result in an immediate one game suspension for the next scheduled game. This also means the manager/coach cannot practice or attend games in which their teams are involved for the duration of the suspension, beginning upon ejection or when the umpire notifies the manager of his/her intent to file a report.

2. Additionally, the League vice-president may refer any report to a hearing by three members of the Board if, in his judgment, the misconduct is so severe it warrants consideration of additional actions, such as a longer period of suspension or ejection from the league.

3. Any penalty imposed by this section will be carried over into the next year for any manager/coach who is disqualified (ejected) in the last two games, on whom a misconduct report is filed for the last game, or for whom the penalty is served. Umpire reported misconduct during the last year’s final week will result in the appropriate suspension (under last year’s rules)

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before a manager/coach may begin this season, including all pre-season practice.

Punitive Liability

If you knowingly and willingly violate any rule; Little League International rules and regulations, local rules and any rule that may result in injury to a member of the South Austin Optimist Little League; you and you alone are liable for punitive damages.

Mandatory Play

Managers will ensure that each member on his roster plays at least three defensive innings of each game and bats at least once. If while playing the three defensive innings, the player has an opportunity to bat more than once, he will not be removed from the line up until he bats his allotted times. Substitutes will be inserted in an infield position. Managers are reminded to give each participant an opportunity to be in the starting line-up fifty percent of the games scheduled.

Zero ToleranceVerbal abuse of any manager, coach, player, umpire, game official or spectator will not be tolerated.

Violators will be required to leave the complex. All activities will cease until the violator leaves. If the violator refuses to leave, criminal trespassing charges may be filed.

The violator will be required to meet with the South Austin Optimist Club Board at the next scheduled meeting to reinstate league privileges. Until the investigation of the incident is completed the individual involved is not permitted on the complex.

Playing Record

Managers are required to maintain a playing record for each game played. It will list the batting order, position played, number of inning played and the number of times batted. The manager will delegate this task to the team representative so that it can be kept as the game is being played and not waiting for the game to be completed. The purpose of this record is to insure that each player has the opportunity to play

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every position throughout the year and bats an equal number of times as his team mates. This will develop every player’s skill level. It is the manager’s responsibility to know his players well enough to safely place his substitutes in the infield. The playing record will be turned in immediately after the game to Wesley Graham, league administrator. This document becomes very important when selecting tournament team members, If not properly completed, it could disqualify eligible candidates.

Pre-game responsibilitiesThere are several responsibilities that need to be carried out prior to a game. Both teams shall cooperate to accomplish these before a game may begin according to the local rules. Both managers will turn-in League affidavits and pitching eligibility log to the umpire. An umpire may not start the game unless these responsibilities are carried out. The League vice-president shall deal with complaints as appropriate and may discipline teams which habitually fail to fulfill their responsibilities. 1. First game: install the bases and line the field 30 minutes prior to the game time. Fields will only be lined once per day. 2. The umpire will have the appropriate number of game balls available. Little League get two game balls; Junior League gets three balls. Game balls are retained by the umpire and turned in at the concession after the game. Managers must insure that foul balls are retrieved. 3.Obtain the official scorebook, scoreboard console and have scorekeepers and scoreboard operators available ten minutes prior to game time. Home team will keep score. The score must be kept in the designated area (no children permitted). Visiting team will be responsible for pitch count and operating scoreboard console. Umpire will certify score at conclusion of game. There are only two people allowed in the scorekeeping area. 4.Ten minutes before the game, submit an official line-up card to the scorekeeper and opposing manager. List all eligible players. The umpire will request the official line-up before the start of the game. The copy given to the umpire is the official line-up according to the Little League rules. 5. Each team will provide a concession worker. The worker must be at least 18 years of age. If a parent does not show up to work the concession stand during the team’s game, the manager will be required to cover the shift. Repeat offenses will result in disciplinary action by the Division vice-president.

Post-Game Responsibilities

These responsibilities need to be carried out after a game. Both teams shall cooperate to accomplish the following tasks. The League vice-president shall deal with complaints as appropriate and may discipline teams which habitually fail to fulfill their responsibilities.

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1. Return bases, scoreboard console, batting helmets, official scorebook and any other equipment to its proper place. 2. Verify and sign the opposing team’s score sheets in the official scorebook. Fill in the pitching eligibility logs and make sure both managers sign them. Turn in pitch count and playing records to the concession stand. 3.Pick up trash, clean dug outs, bleacher areas and rake and water fields. Fields will be raked by field maintenance representatives.

Scorekeeper1. Pregame

a. Be sure both teams submit line ups ten minutes before gameb. Verify scoreboard in working condition

2. End of Gamea. Verify pitching records and final scoresb. Date and sign scorebookc. Managers and umpires must sign scorebook

Batting Cages1. Three adults must be present whenever teams are using the batting cages.

One adult to feed the pitching machine, one to instruct the batter and the third adult will be responsible for monitoring team members waiting to bat. All players will sit on the bench provided. Only the adult feeding the pitching machine will be inside the building. There will be no activity permitted in front of the batting cages (area between Yant and Oates field). Repeated violations of any rules regarding the use of batting cages could result in a team losing the privilege of using the batting cages.

i. Soft toss batting drills are not permitted on the complexii. Siblings should be closely supervised and not permitted to

run around the batting cages. They are at high risk for injury because of the balls being thrown around by the team members using the cages and conducting their practice drills.

2. Batting cages are available for your use. It is a privilege to use the batting cages and you are expected to follow published guidelines. Because of the limited numbers of practice fields available, the batting cages become more important to our league. Time slots will be assigned on an equal basis. Contact Leo Leyendecker at (575)302-9346 to reserve the batting cages.

Parent’s Auxiliary

The Parent’s Auxiliary (Auxiliary) is the support arm of the league. It is comprised of team representatives from each team within the league. Individuals chosen to be team 5/15/2023 11:35 PM

representative must understand that this organization operates on a year around calendar. This commitment by the team representatives is vital if the league is received the best possible support. The initial meeting for the year will be held immediately after the teams are drafted. This is to invite new members onto the board. The President of the Auxiliary reports directly to the league President.

The president of the Auxiliary (Pamela Chesser) is responsible for organizing the team representative to support the league. The president will be elected annually, in May, by the team representative and will be a member-at-large on the league board.

The volunteer members of the Auxiliary are the main communication link between the league and the team parents. They are vital to maintaining and improving the quality of our program. Each team must be represented on the Auxiliary.

The primary responsibility of the Auxiliary is to support the league’s fundraising effort. As such, the Auxiliary is the only entity within the League authorized to conduct fundraising activities. Activities that are used for fundraising are the league carnival, bowling tournament, and raffles. Other activities may be undertaken to help with the fundraising effort, provided that the Parks and Recreation Department approves the request.

The Auxiliary is also responsible for planning and coordinating the opening day and closing day ceremonies. The Auxiliary will also schedule pictures days (league pictures and tournament team pictures) and provide support personnel for tournament games (concession workers, scorekeepers, and announcers. A copy of the minutes of all meetings (including the list of those teams represented at the meeting) conducted will be given to the League secretary three days after the conclusion of such meetings.

UmpiresUmpires are a luxury in a league that depends on volunteers. The league does it’s best to schedule at least two umpires for each game. Beginning in 2015 each team will be required to have a volunteer umpire trained by the league. Prior to the game, the volunteer umpires from both teams will meet at home plate and flip a coin to determine who will be the plate umpire. If there are no umpires available, the managers from both teams will umpire the game. They will flip a coin to determine who will call the plate.

Managers, coaches and spectators can by their actions, make it difficult for the league to recruit and retain umpires. It is a highly undesirable situation to have two teams on a field ready to play with no umpires in sight. The league has assigned responsibility to the managers and coaches for them to umpire when volunteers are unavailable.

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Umpires are an essential part of our organization. Each year these volunteers become more difficult to find. If you are interested in helping, let us know. Umpires must be at least 18 years old. Scheduling is very flexible. We are particularly in need of volunteers willing to umpire in the upper divisions (Junior, Senior and Big League). Umpire clinics are held early in the season, with additional clinics as requested or required. Emphasis is placed on rules and regulations of Little League Baseball as well as the field mechanics of the umpires.

Umpires are in control of games and therefore deserve your respect. As spectators you must display good sportsmanship at all times as an example to the children. Keep your comments to yourself. Unsportsmanlike behavior is not tolerated. If you are unable to comply with a positive attitude, stay away from the complex. We are here to have fun!

Is this the year your make commitment? It’s a good feeling to know that you are making a difference. Ladies are also welcome, so come on, sign up!

Tournament Availability

At the conclusion of the league schedule, tournaments teams are select by Division (age groups).Each player must complete an affidavit stating that he will or will not be available for selection for tournament play. If available for tournament play, the player’s name will then be placed on the tournament ballot. The tournament team is selected by the players in the division in which they participated during the season. If selected to a tournament team, the player must be available for all team activities. It is the parent’s responsiblity to insure that the player can make the commitment to participate on the tournament team. There is a tournament team registration fee to help defray the expense of registering the team in the tournament. The registration fee, ($10.00 Minor tournament; $20.00 upper division tournament), must be submitted prior to certifying the team for tournament play.

Concession StandThe concession stand plays a key role in our league. First of all, it is the focal point for information. Second and most importantly, it is the ongoing fundraiser for the South Austin Optimist club. At some point during the season every parent is required to work a shift in the concession stand. Concession stand workers are to report for a briefing 5-10 minutes prior to their scheduled shift. The concession stand director does not have time to track down workers. It is your obligation to report on time. If you anticipate that you will have problems arriving on time, contact your team manager or 5/15/2023 11:35 PM

representative. Otherwise, the team manager will be required to work your shift. For continuity purposes, splitting shifts is not permitted. Plan to work your entire shift when scheduled.

For the concession schedule to work properly, each parent must work at least one full shift. If the same person from one team works more than twice, there is something wrong and the manager will be contacted to find out what the problem is with his team. It’s only fair that everyone does their part. For safety reasons and insurance restrictions, children under the age of 18 are not permitted to work in the concession stand.

PROCEDURES:I. Introduction

a. Report to concession stand 10 minutes before your shifti. Pre-game briefing

ii. Be prepared to work the entire gameb. A shift consists of a parent from each team playing.c. Only concession workers and Board members are permitted in the

concession while it is operational. i. Concession workers must be at least 18 years of age

ii. As a minimum, two people are customarily in concession stand1. Children are not permitted in the concession stand2. Concession workers must make arrangements for child care

before scheduled shiftd. All products consumed must be purchasede. Including Board members, managers, coaches and concession workersf. Primary purpose of the concession worker is serving customers

i. Promptii. Friendly

II. Shift responsibilitiesa. Wash your hands

i. Beginning of shiftii. After eating (eating by concession workers is not permitted while

working you shift.)iii. Using the restroom

b. Keep ice bins in the back roomi. Ice machines located in back room

ii. Keep ice scoop handle out of icec. Ice usage

i. Use pellets for ice beverages and injuriesii. Use crushed ice for sno cones

d. Know prices of concessions items – menu is on top of the windowi. Keep money and change in directed order

ii. Notify concession director if change needede. Make popcorns as needed

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i. Follow directions on amount of popcorn1. Butter2. Salt

f. Restock concession stand products as neededg. Monitor steam table heat

i. Do not burn or overheat producth. Keep ample amount of chili, cheese and hot dogs available

i. Concession stand director will advise on amount of product to prepareii. One person will be dedicated to steam table

i. Wash and dry all pans and dishes as they emptyi. ALL dishes much be washed at end of each shift

j. Restock the concession stand at the end of shiftIII. End of day shift responsibilities

a. Transfer all prepared food into clean pansi. Place perishable food in refrigerator and mark with date placed in

refrigerator.ii. Ensure all food is safely covered

b. Wash and dry all dishesc. Sweep the concession standd. Remove trash from concession stande. Cash control

i. During your shift a Board member 1. Ric Castaneda or Leo Leyendecker will empty cash box

ii. Amount collected will be registered

Note: It is manager’s responsibility to have a parent(s) working the concession stand. If a parental volunteer is not available, the manager or coach must work the shift. The manager will need additional assistance, dedication and attention during this shift.

SponsorsSponsors are a very important part of our funding. Each year we need 20 sponsors. If you are interested in sponsoring a team or know someone that is interested, contact Elena Cerda. We need to identify sponsors as soon as possible (before March 1st) to allow time for uniform printing and signage. Because sponsors provide much needed support for our league, it is only fitting that we patronize their businesses. When you visit their establishment, inform them you are with the SAO league and appreciate their effort. Please support the sponsors whenever possible.

Sponsors agree to provide financial support to the league. All monies donated by them go into the league treasury to be used where needed. Additional donations by sponsors above and beyond the agreed amount also go directly into the league treasury.

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Because equality of support is very important, sponsors are not allowed to make additional monetary donations or purchase uniforms or equipment to any specific team. They may, however, make additional donations to the league, and the league will determine where the money is needed. No one may solicit additional funds from sponsors for the direct benefit of any one team.

EquipmentEach year parents purchase all sorts of equipment for their children. In many cases, bats and gloves purchased are not authorized for Little League play. As a precaution, check with your coach or league official prior to making such purchases to insure the equipment is appropriate and accepted. Approved equipment is labeled ‘Little League Approved’.

Each year the league replaces lost and damaged equipment. It is important that we take care of equipment loaned to us. Because batting helmets and catcher’s equipment cannot be repaired, replacement costs escalate annually. To reduce the cost of replacing equipment, it is incumbent upon everyone to take care of the equipment issued. We could therefore purchase equipment when needed.

Rain OutIn the event of rain contact your team manager or check the website for the status of scheduled game.

InsuranceThe following exert is from Little League Baseball. Each year we have some difficulties with insurance claims within our league. Remember that our league policy is supplemental only. Player accident insurance policies have established a $50.00 per claim deductible.

Little League insurance is designed to afford the best possible protection to all participants at the most economical cost to the local league. It supplements other insurance carried under family policy or provided by the parent’s employer. If there is no other coverage, Little League insurance-which is purchased by the league, not the parent-takes over and pays all injury treatment costs up to the maximum benefit.

This unique plan makes it possible for Little League to offer unmatched low cost protection with assurance to parents that adequate coverage is in force at all times during the season.

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If your child sustains an injury while taking part in Little League Baseball or Softball, here is how the insurance works:

1. File claim initially under insurance carried by the family.2. Should your family insurance plan not fully cover the injury treatment, the Little

League policy will pay the difference up to the maximum benefits. This includes deductible or exclusions in your own insurance.

3. If your child is not covered by any family insurance, the Little League policy becomes primary and covers all injury treatment up to the maximum benefits.

4. Treatment of dental injuries can extend beyond the normal 52-week period if dental work must be delayed until the child is older. Benefits will be paid at the time treatment is given, even though it may be six or seven years later. This is dependent upon the claims form being submitted properly and thoroughly at the time of injury.

Challenger Little League BaseballThe Challenger Division of Little League Baseball continues to grow in popularity. The number of participants has remained constant for several years. This year we are focusing on making the program available to more children. Each child in the program has fun while sharing a warm learning experience with its peers. The importance of the Challenger Division lies in its therapeutic value of building disabled youngsters’ self-esteem while instilling in them the qualities of teamwork, sportsmanship and fair play that are the hallmarks of the Little League program. Although the rules for the Challenger Division differ significantly from those of conventional play, the fundamental philosophies of both programs are identical: to offer a structured, athletic activity for every child in the community.

Since the inception of the Challenger Division in 1989, the South Austin Optimist Little League has hosted the District 11 Challenger Program. This year we have been offered the program again. We are proud to host the worthwhile program again. Our Challenger Buddies actually make the program work and builds character with our youth.

The Buddies are the Little Leaguers that assist the Challengers and guide them with the rules of the game. By season’s end, there is strong bonding between the Buddies and Challengers. Without the help from our Little Leaguers, it would be impossible to manage the Challenger Division. Thank you Buddies!

We always need more volunteers to serve as Buddies. If you are interested in helping, let us know during registration. This is a classic example of kids helping kids.

Parking

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Each year we ask for everyone’s cooperation concerning parking. This year is no difference. The area in front of the Minor and Senior field near the flagpole is clearly marked as ‘Emergency Parking’. Do not park in this designated area. If you violate this regulation, you will be asked to move immediately. No parking in the Emergency zone.

Parking is permitted along the left side of the road entering the complex. You may, however, park on both sides of the road exiting the complex beyond the FIRE ZONE restrictions. You will be asked to move your illegally parked vehicle and you may be ticketed. The League is not responsible for such tickets.

Although we realize that parking is a problem, we ask for your cooperation and illegal parking will not be tolerated. The complex is small enough that allows one to park safely and legally and walk a short distance to the field. The parking at Crocket High School is more than adequate and well lit at night. Lights are on until the entire complex is vacated. Crockett parking is safe and convenient. Lastly, the league is not responsible for broken windshields or damage to vehicles. Whenever you park your vehicles near the fields, game or practice, you assume risk.

Inter-League PlayOnce again this year we will be playing an interlocking schedule in all divisions except T-ball. This is necessary because of the small number of participants in these groups. This requires traveling to the adjoining leagues or hosting teams from other leagues at our complex. Everyone associated with the league is expected to conduct themselves properly at these games. Sportsmanship is very important when we are hosting others. Make them feel comfortable and most importantly let the kids play and have fun. Because children see adults as role models, we should put forth a positive and mature example for them to follow.

Kitty

We will continue to circulate the ‘kitty’ during each game. We pass the kitty instead of charging admission. These funds go to support the league. Only here at Castaneda Sports Complex can you get an evening of entertainment and the only admission is what you gladly and generously contribute to the kitty. It’s a joy to watch the kids play! It is not asking too much for your support. This year whenever the kitty is circulated, be as openhanded as you can afford. It is a worthy cause. This is definitely better alternative to having volunteers charging a fee for each game.

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Each year I discuss this subject and each year we have people that willingly disregard the topic. Simply put, alcoholic beverages are not permitted on the complex. Alcoholic beverage has no place in youth oriented activities. If you are observed bringing alcoholic beverages on to the complex you will be asked to dispose of them. People within the league are responsible for informing their guest about this policy. Save everyone embarrassment and do NOT bring alcoholic beverage onto the premises. One incident can jeopardize our Little League charter or the use of the facility.

No Smoking PolicyCity ordinance prohibits smoking in Garrison Park (the entire park.)

Resources SharingEach year the South Austin Optimist Club signs an agreement with the Parks and Recreation Department for the use of city property. The agreement gives the Optimist Club, Inc. exclusive use of the facility located in Garrison Park (Ric and Carmen Castaneda Sports Complex). A major topic within the arrangement deals with resource sharing.

To optimize the use of Parks and Recreation Departmental facilities and those under the supervision of the Austin Independence School District, a plan was devised to share facilities whenever possible.

As a result of the annual agreement which we sign and the resources sharing plan you will see local area high schools using the fields located at the Castaneda Sports Complex. Also, programs supervised by the Optimist Club can be seen utilizing city and school district facilities.

TRAVEL/LEGACY FUNDPURPOSE:The travel fund was established in 1989 to provide funding for teams advancing beyond district tournament play. On occasions, with proper justification, these funds may be used to support the purchase of real property equipment. At the first tournament team meeting, the manager should appoint two parents to fill two key positions. First, the manager will appoint a person with some administrative skills to conduct the “paper chase” to certify the eligibility of tournament team members. He/she will be the team administrator that will assist the team manager with problems within the team. Second, this person will be the point man to organize fundraising to support the tournament team as they advance in tournament play. Money raised will be deposited in the league central account and will be disbursed as needed. Money raised will be 5/15/2023 11:35 PM

used for lodging and meals only for members listed on the tournament team affidavit. These funds will not be used to purchase special gifts or equipment for team members. Funds not used will be transferred from the League Central Account and placed in the league Travel/Legacy fund for future use. The residual funds will be used on a matching basis. If future tournament teams required travel funds, they may draw from the fund on a matching basis. Teams will conduct their annual tournament team fundraising efforts as usual and may apply for assistance. If it is determined that assistance is needed, they will be disbursed on a matching basis. Teams should use funds raised wisely. Based on past history, tournament teams should consider returning home after games that are 2 hours or less away from home. Remember, as teams advance in tournament play, more travel is generally required to locations further away from home. This will increase lodging expenses. Team members listed on the affidavit will receive a $5.00 per day per diem.

2017 Board of DirectorsPositions in Italics are Executive Board Members. The Board meets the 1st Monday of every month at 6:30 pm.

Ric Castaneda PresidentLeo Leyendecker Vice-President Little League Baseball and Softball, Equipment ManagerPamela Chesser Vice-President T-BallGerard Jimenez Vice-President ChallengerBrandon Chesser Coaching CoordinatorJoe Walton Safety OfficerJon White Player AgentShawn Smith Umpire-in-chief5/15/2023 11:35 PM

Jesse Garcia League AdministratorJim Harper Umpire-in-chiefElena Cerda Fund Raising ManagerPamela Chesser Parents AuxiliaryVeronica Castro Secretary

These people have graciously volunteered to serve on the board for 2016. They are the contact people for the activities that will take place during the course of the season. As the League President, I do not expect them to accomplish the Task at hand independently. They will be soliciting volunteers. By registering your child in our program you have agreed to help wherever needed. Board ElectionsElections for the League Board are held annually in May. Nominations are accepted from member-at-large (parents that have children enrolled in the league). The League Board is vital to the existence of our league. You are encouraged to consider serving on the board. Yes, it takes time, but the league is worth it. Your time and effort are worth it!!! Remember, one of the benefactors will be your child.

The ideal situation for our Board is to have one manager on the board as the voice for the league managers. The remainder should consist of parents interested in operating the league. Many of you serve on other boards (PTA, Cub Scouts, Church committees, etc.) and we want you to add Little League. Knowledge of the game of baseball is not necessary, the rules are in place and all that is required is interpretation and enforcement.

If you would like more information on board member duties, contact Ric Castaneda.

Affidavit

I have read and understand the above rules and regulations. I realize that by registering my child in the South Austin Optimist Little League I agree to abide by these rules and support the South Austin Optimist Little League. I fully understand that misconduct by me or my guests is grounds for removal from the complex and subseqentially from the league.

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I understand that if I want to be directly involved with team members I must agree to a background check. If I desire to manage or coach a team I must be certified through the Kids Sport Network as a prerequisite.

I understand that the South Austin Optimist Little League is a volunteer driven organization. I will do my part to insure its success by offering my support whenever called upon.

_____________________________________________________________ Please Print Name

_____________________________________________________________ Signature

___________________Date

_____________________________________________________________ Please Print Name

_____________________________________________________________ Signature

___________________Date

Please print this page, sign it and give to you manager. Without this signed affidavit team members will not receive uniforms and the medical release for participation.

Parent’s Guide 2017

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