P.O. Box 313
Pittsford, NY 14534
Dear Pittsford Little League Managers and Coaches:
Pittsford Little League is part of the largest youth sports organization in the world. This organization, and PLL, would not exist without the dedication of countless volunteers, like you. On behalf of Little League International, Pittsford Little League and, most importantly, the kids – thank you for volunteering!
Pittsford Little League has been teaching boys and girls more than just baseball and softball for more than 50 years. Managers and coaches have the biggest influence on what players learn. Will they learn good sportsmanship, teamwork, respect and baseball and softball skills? Or will they learn a win at all cost attitude, poor sportsmanship and that the ‘best’ players get more playing time and coaching? Your actions this season will have a great influence on your players’ experience with Little League. Young athletes look up to their managers and coaches. As players get older they WILL remember you. Ask yourselfwhat kind of coach you want to be remembered as?
Please don’t hesitate to contact us, your league general manager or other board members for assistance during the year. We are here to help you make Little League a healthy, positive experience for all your players.
Resources
- (see training tab at top, coach development is in this area)
- (PLL’s access code is 123772)
- Your league GM and Managers!
Use these resources! They will help you make and keep the game fun for everyone!
LEAGUE INFORMATION
Goals, Ethics, and Conduct at Games
The goals of Pittsford Little League are simple and straightforward:
To teachbaseball/softball to our youth.
To demonstrategoodsportsmanship at all times.
To instill discipline by developing respect for rules and authority.
To provide a pleasurable and wholesome experience for all.
Managers and coaches play the single most important role in the achievement of these goals. Not only do they share skills and techniques in playing baseball and softball, but they have a unique opportunity to influence the children in a broader way. The example set by managers and coaches in promoting good sportsmanship, teamwork, interpersonal relationships, etc., are plainly visible to children on and off the field. They should provide appropriate respect for children as individuals, for the authority of the umpires, and for open communication with parents. As managers and coaches, you accept these responsibilities when you volunteer for the job.
Pittsford Little League supports managers and coaches through our certification process with the Youth Sports New York, which is run by the SUNY Youth Sports Institute. We do require all managers pass the certification by Opening Day. Key elementssportsmanship are: Respect for Opponents, Officials, Teammates, and Self. Each year, we expect to show even more improvement.
It is important to remember that the objective of the game is primarily for the growth and enjoyment of the children. By channeling the resources of everyone in the Pittsford Little League program, we are confident this objective will be achieved.
The most visible portion of a manager’s job occurs at the games. Both the players, and to some extent the parents, will be led by the conduct of the manager and the coaches. Key points to remember are:
-Be on time for the games & practices
-Keep activities moving…have a WRITTEN PRACTICE PLAN.
-Show respect for the facilities, equipment, officials, other managers and players.
-Follow ALL THE RULES
-Accept events as they occur. If a dispute arises, remain calm and cool. Do not involve players in any dispute.
-If you feel a rule has been violated, ask the umpire for time out, and discuss it privately and calmly with the umpire before it becomes a major issue or confrontation.
-Avoid protests.
-Let the players on the field win or lose the game.
-Do not use psychological ploys (calling time outs to rattle pitchers, etc.).
-Maintain discipline in the dugout.
-Cheer for your team when appropriate, not to distract your opponents.
-Keep encouraging your players, especially if they are in a slump or have made a poor play.
As manager, you are also responsible for the conduct of your team’s parents and fans.
All Managers are required to complete a Volunteer Application, and a background check is performed on coaches and other volunteers who have significant contact with the players.
Parent Relations
The relationship between managers and the parents of the players is critical to the success of the program. We need not only their voluntary help, but also their understanding of what the program is trying to accomplish. More participation by parents means less of a burden on you.
To obtain the optimum manager / parent relationship, the Board of Directors requires ALLMANAGERS TO CONDUCT PARENT MEETINGS BEFORE THE SEASON BEGINS. We suggest you begin the meeting by reviewing the following statement:
An Understanding
“Pittsford Little League has an obligation to provide your child with a worthwhile learning experience. It is difficult for us, if not impossible, to do this without an agreement or partnership with you the parent (s). In this regard we ask for your cooperation and understanding. It is important for us to keep in proper perspective that the game is primarily for the growth and enjoyment of the children, and then to a much lesser degree, the coaches and the parents. Certainly we encourage parents to express their concerns, but in an appropriate manner and at an appropriate time.
Voicing opinions after an umpire's call, or disagreeing with the manager on the field is ALWAYS UNACCEPTABLE.
If your child has a special physical or psychological need (ADD, Asthma, etc.), by all means share this information with the manager if you feel he/she should know about the situation or can help. We appreciate your help and cooperation."
The following topics should be covered at the parent meeting:
-Goals and Ethics of Pittsford Little League (Refer to Page 1)
-Pittsford Local Rules and appropriate Williamsport Little League Rules
-Conduct at games by parents, coaches, managers and players
-Tournament play, selection, games and season schedule
Volunteers
Help! Help! Help! GO GET PARENTS INVOLVED! The Managers job should focus on BASEBALL/SOFTBALL, not babysitting or social event planning. The job is time consuming enough without having to handle all the other aspects. Getting help will make your job easier and the kids will learn more about baseball/softball.
The second part of the meeting is to request volunteer support for the administrative activities for the season. Request, if you think it is feasible, a parent volunteer to be team coordinator to handle functions for you, off line, with all team parent support. For example for such events as:
-Umpiring (per league rules)
-Schedules: Game and Practice
-Creating a schedule for supplying post-game refreshments. .
-Pictures
-Phone/Text Tree
-Postseason parties (be sure to discuss possibilities, details, etc.)
The meeting is a good opportunity to obtain your coaches or assistants if you feel you need more help. If you can't answer all parent questions please contact your General Manager to obtain the correct answer.
You should have rosters, phone numbers, and the schedule of games and practices available as handouts. This is the appropriate time for parents to meet each other and to organize car pools, etc.
Sponsor Relations
Sponsors play a vital role in supporting Pittsford Little League. It is important to recognize and acknowledge the sponsor of your team, where appropriate. Contact with sponsors may be made to personally thank them for their sponsorship and inform them of specific team-related activities. However, requests for additional support from team sponsors during the season should NOT be done. Donations (such as coupons, merchandise, etc.) may be accepted if a sponsor makes the offer. Any such items should be made available to every team member.
If a question or problem arises with a sponsor, contact .
PITTSFORD LITTLE LEAGUE (All Ages)
PICTURE DAY
Photographs MUST BEPAID FOR on Picture Day. The photography company will provide more specific information. Managers are expected to provide all team members with this information. Pictures will be taken at the Sutherland HS Gym.
Photo Schedule
You will receive a time schedule for your team from your G.M. Each and every team will be scheduled at a specific time and at a specific camera location. Please make sure that your team is ready for picture taking at the time specified.
Bad Weather Schedule
Picture taking is indoors will take place under any weather conditions.
PARADE DAY
PARADE BEGINS AT 10:00 AM SHARP
In the event of inclement weather (rain, snow, cold, etc.), you will be advised if the parade is to be canceled. Throughout the day (Staging, the parade, ceremonies at Ford Field), we expect managers and coaches to stay with their teams and keep them in reasonable control. The Sutherland parking lot will be closed at 9:30 AM. Please begin queuing no later than 9:45AM
The parade will begin at 10:00 AM from the Sutherland High School parking lot. It will proceed along Sutherland Street to Lincoln; down Lincoln to Main Street; along Main to the four corners of the Village; down Route 31 to South; along South to Bob Ford Field for brief ceremonies. Games will begin at approximately 1:30 PM. Be sure to check your game schedule for times/fields for games.
NOTE: All managers, coaches and players on EVERY TEAM in every league are expected to fully participate in the parade and the ceremonies –even if your team does not have a scheduled game on opening day. This year, we will gather in the middle of the outfield. Please keep the players away from the infield dirt. This will help prevent damage to our newly renovated field.
During and immediately following the ceremonies only managers, coaches and players may be on the “A” Field playing field. Please remind parents to stay outside the fences.
Evaluations(For players age 9-16)
The purpose of player evaluations is to determine the potential of players in anticipation of their selection or placement on anA,AA, AAA, Major, Junior or Senior league team.
Detailed instructions for evaluations are communicated to parents and players at registrations, and prior to the actual evaluations.
Dialogue between managers, coaches, players, and their parents at evaluations should be kept to a minimum. It is permissible to discuss information that will aid in the selection process such as: player age, experience (all star selections, position played, batting average, etc.), time commitments necessary (practices, conflicts with other activities), etc.
It is mandatory that discussions avoid any indication of player’s performance or any other player’s performance, potential to be drafted, number of players drafted, or their respective position in the draft.
Drafting Process
In the event a league or division is fully redrafted due to a change in the number of teams, numbers will be drawn to determine the draft order. Alternate draft processes may be used as determined by the league General Manager and approved by the board. GAMES/PRACTICES
Expectations of Managers
Major League
- Managers will not be a manager or head coach of any other team during the baseball season including: lacrosse, golf, soccer, football, basketball, and tennis.
- Managers will conduct a minimum of 3 full practices per week prior to the first game.
- Managers will have a minimum of 2 full team practices per week once the league schedule begins.
AAA/AA League
- Managers will conduct a minimum of 3 full practices per week prior to the first game.
- Managers will have a minimum of 2 full team practices per week once the league schedule begins.
A, Instructional Leagues
- Managers will conduct a minimum of 2 full practices per week prior to the first game.
- Managers will have a minimum of 1 full team practice per week once the league schedule begins.
Manager/Coaches Teaching Goals
The following goals/tips should be used by Managers and Coaches to insure the proper areas of baseball/softball instruction are covered during the season. If you are unsure of how to teach any particular area, please don’t hesitate to ask a Manager/Coach from another team or league. Also, you can contact Kevin Wexler, Development Director for help at .
It is important that ALL aspects of the game are taught. Players should receive complete and consistent instruction throughout their Little League experience. Manager and Coaches should take the time to learn more about the game and how to properly provide instruction.
There are many very good baseball and softball videos available. Take the time to watch a few. Pick out a favorite and have the whole team watch as a group. Most importantly, be organized, know what you’re doing, and have fun with the kids.
Baseball – All Leagues
Pittsford Little League – Manager’s Handbook
- Throwing
-The Grip
-The Starter Step
-Throwing Arm Back
-Step and Throw
-The Follow Through
- Catching
-Glove Fit
-Body Position When Catching
-Position of Throwing Hand
-Moving Ball To Throwing Hand
-Throwing After Catching
-Catching At A Base and Stance
-Catching A High Pop
-Catching A Grounder
- Fielding Ground Balls
-Relaxed Position
-Ready Position
-Palms Up
-Fielding The Ball
-Starter Step
-Throwing Arm Back
-Step and Throw
-The Follow Through
-Taking A Knee
- Fielding High Pops
-Relaxed Position
-Ready Position
-Cross Over Step
-Forward Catch
-Backhand Catch
- Catcher
-Position Behind The Plate
-Crouch Position/The Stance
-Good Target
-Ready Position
-The Catch
-Step And Throw
-The Follow Through
-Blocking The Ball
-Play At The Plate
-The Tag
-The Run-down
-The High Pop
- Pitcher
-The Grip
-The Starter Step
-The Rocker Step
-The Windup
-The Follow Through
-Fielding The Ball
-Balk Rule
- Hitting
-Position In The Box
-The Grip
-The Stance
-Watching The Ball
-The Swing
-“Squish The Bug”
-The Follow Through
- Bunting
-Position In The Box
-The Grip
-The Stance
-Watching The Ball
-The Bunt
-Placement Of The Ball
- Running The Bases
-Running To 1st Base
-Rounding 1st
-Running to 2nd, 3rd and Home
-Stance
-Running With Men On
-Running With Outs
-Running If A Grounder
-Running If A High Pop
-The Infield Fly Rule
-Running If A Pop Fly Foul
-Tagging Up
-Watching The Coach For Signals
- Stealing Bases
-When Allowed
-When To Go
-Stealing On Offense
-Throwing Out The Runner On Defense
-The Tag Out At 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Home and
-In-between Bases
-The Run Down
Pittsford Little League – Manager’s Handbook
- Sliding
-When Required
-One Leg Up And Other Leg Crossed Under
-Hands Up
-Slide On Butt With Back Low
- Base Coaching and Signals
-Coaching 1st/3rd
-Steal Signal
-Bunt Signal
-Indicator
-Signal On Defense If Runners On 1st and 3rd
- Position Responsibilities
-Responsibilities of EACH player respectively
-to cover bases,
-back-up other players,
-charge the bunt,
-be the “cut off” man, etc.
Pittsford Little League – Manager’s Handbook
Softball – All Leagues
Pittsford Little League – Manager’s Handbook
- Throwing
-The Grip
-The Starter Step
-Throwing Arm Back
-Step and Throw
-The Follow Through
- Catching
-Glove Fit
-Wearing The Glove
-Body Position When Catching
-Position of Throwing Hand When Catching
-Moving Ball To Throwing Hand
-Throwing After Catching
-Catching At A Base and Stance
-Catching A High Pop
-Catching A Grounder
- Fielding Ground Balls
-Relaxed Position
-Ready Position
-Palms Up
-Fielding The Ball
-Starter Step
-Throwing Arm Back
-Step and Throw
-The Follow Through
-Taking A Knee
- Fielding High Pops
-Relaxed Position
-Ready Position
-Cross Over Step
-Forward Catch
-Backhand Catch
- Catcher
-Position Behind The Plate
-Crouch Position/The Stance
-Good Target
-Ready Position
-The Catch
-Step And Throw
-The Follow Through
-Blocking The Ball
-Play At The Plate
-The Tag
-The Run-down
-The High Pop
- Pitcher
-The Grip
-Foot Position
-Slingshot Delivery
-Windmill Delivery
-Pitch Trajectory
-“It’s Not Slo-Pitch”
-The Follow Through
-Fielding The Ball
-Balk Rule
- Hitting
-Position In The Box
-The Grip
-The Stance
-Watching The Ball
-The Swing
-“Squish The Bug”
-The Follow Through
- Bunting
-Position In The Box
-The Grip
-The Stance
-Watching The Ball
-The Bunt
-Placement Of The Ball
-Catcher Interference
- Running The Bases
-Running To 1st Base
-Rounding 1st
-Running to 2nd, 3rd and Home
-Stance
-Running With Men On
-Running With Outs
-Running If A Grounder
-Running If A High Pop
-The Infield Fly Rule
-Running If A Pop Fly Foul
-Tagging Up
-Watching The Coach For Signals
- Stealing Bases
-When Allowed
-When To Go
-Stealing On Offense
-Throwing Out The Runner On Defense
-The Tag Out At 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Home and In-between Bases
-The Run Down
- Sliding
-When Required
-One Leg Up And Other Leg Crossed Under
-Hands Up
-Slide On Butt With Back Low
- Base Coaching and Signals
-Coaching 1st