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Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

To its founders and officials: The proper operation and administration of the HDYL is a very serious task; therefore, league officials, parents, and players must rigidly adhere to the procedures stated in these by-laws. Every rule that is in place in these by-laws is done so only after close analysis and always with the best interest of the league and children in mind.

ARTICLE I: Purpose and Powers

Sec. 1 Definition: The Holtville Dixie Youth League (HDYL) is a nonprofit organization organized exclusively for charitable, religious, and educational purposes, including, for such purposes, the making of distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under Section 501(c), (3), of the Internal Revenue Code or corresponding section of any future federal tax code.

No part of the net earnings of the HDYL shall inure to the benefit of, or be distributable to its members, trustees, officers or other private persons, except that the HDYL shall be authorized and empowered to pay reasonable compensations for services rendered and it make payments and distributions in furtherance of the purposes set forth in the purpose clause hereof. No substantial part of the activities of the HDYL shall be the carrying on of propaganda, or otherwise attempting to influence legislations, and the HDYL shall not participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distribution of statements) any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office. Notwithstanding any other provision of this document, the HDYL shall not carry on any other activities not permitted to be carried on (a) by an organization exempt from federal income tax under Section 501 (c), (3), of the organization, contributions to which are deductible under Section 170 (c), (2) of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code.

Upon the dissolution of the HDYL, assets shall be distributed for one or more exempt purposes within the meaning of Section 501 (c), (3), of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future tax code, or shall be distributed to the federal government, or to a state of local government, for a public purpose. Any such assets not disposed of shall be disposed of by a court of competent jurisdiction of the county in which the principal office of the HDYL is then located, exclusively for such purposes or to suck organization or organizations, as said Court shall determine which organized and operated exclusively for such purposes.

Sec. 2 Purpose: The HDYL is a franchise member of Dixie Youth Baseball & Softball incorporated, also a nonprofit organization founded in 1955, with softball founded in 1978 and dedicated to the service of the communities in which its franchise are located. The HDYL is likewise devoted to the principal task of providing mature supervision in human relations and athletic competition through baseball to youth through sixteen years of age and through softball to youth through eighteen years of age, who reside with the boundaries of the league as stated in Article 2, Sec. 1 of these by-laws, or who otherwise qualify for league eligibility in accordance with Article 2, Sec. 1. The primary purpose and at all times the foremost intent of the officers, managers, coaches, members and all other adult participants in the operation and/or welfare of the HDYL is to instill in the heart and mind of each youth a sense of morality, competition and fair play in order that this influence may better prepare him or her fir his or her role as a future citizen of his or her community. HDYL has been organized exclusively as a non-profit organization. (May 2001)

Holtville Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE I: Purpose and Powers

Sec. 3 Concept of Organization: (cont.) The Holtville Dixie Youth Baseball-NSA Softball League (HDYL) of Holtville, Alabama is a Non-profit organization providing organized Baseball & Softball competition for eligible youth to district, state, and Dixie Youth World Series.

Resolution was passed to give the Commissioner (Lisa Wilson) the authority to sign land-lease on the new Dixie Youth parcel of land. This resolution was to assure the Commissioner would not personally be responsible for the $1800.00 a year rent/lease. (January 1999)

Sec. 4 Scope: The provisions set forth in these by-laws shall apply to each person, adult and/or child who participates in the HDYL in any capacity, whether official or unofficial unless the Board of Directors specifically authorizes variation. The official rules of Dixie Youth Baseball and/or NSA Softball shall also apply to the operation of the HDYL. If these by-laws and the official rules of Dixie Youth Baseball and/or NSA Softball conflict the official rules of Dixie Youth Baseball and/or NSA Softball will apply unless the President of such league directs such deviation with the approval of the Board of Directors.

ARTICLE II: Organization

Then HDYL is an integral part of the overall Dixie Youth Baseball & NSA Softball program. It

shall be organized as stated herein.

Sec. 1 Internal Alignment: The HDYL shall be organized into twelve bodies. The Board of Directors, the Dixie Majors, Dixie Boys Majors, Minors (AAA), Pre-Minors (AA), and Instructional League (A) and the Softball NSA league of 6 teams ages 4-19.

a. The Board of Directors: This committee is intended to be the ruling body. It shall consist of the Commissioner, Associate Commissioner, Player Agent Baseball, Player Agent Softball, Secretary, Treasure and League Presidents. The Board of Directors shall appoint a Concession Stand Buyer, Safety Officer, Fundraiser Chairperson and Purchasing Agent.

b. Baseball: Dixie Majors, Dixie Boys, Major League, Minor League & Pre-Minor League. The league shall be under the direction of each President of each league. Additionally the league shall be composed of Managers, Coaches, Scorekeepers, and Announcers.

c. NSA Softball: The Softball League shall be under the direction of the President of each Age Group. Additionally the league shall be composes of Managers, Coaches, Scorekeepers and Announcers.

d. Instructional League (Ages 4- 6): The league shall be organized in the same manner as the other Leagues and shall be under the direction of the President. The league shall be composed of Managers, Coaches and Announcers.

Sec. 2 External Affiliations: The HDYL is a civic project founded and operated by serious minded business people of the local area solely in the interest of the youth who play in the league. Its name was derived from its geographical location within the Elmore County area.

a. District: The league lies within the Fifth District of Alabama in which the HDYL competes annually for the District Championship. A District Director who is responsible for the overall operation and administration of the District governs this District, as well as all districts in the state.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE II: Organization

Sec. 2 External Affiliations: (cont.)

b. State: The Fifth District is part of the Alabama State organization which is made up of seven districts and which conducts a state tournament each year to determine the state champion and the state representative in the Dixie Youth World Series. The State Director directs the organization.

c. National: Dixie Youth Baseball & NSA Softball Incorporated is the parent organization and is comprised of leagues in ten states throughout the Southeastern United Stated, one of which is Alabama. A commissioner directs the national organization. Each year the Dixie Youth World Series is conducted to determine the champion of the Dixie Youth Program.

ARTICLE III: Duties and Responsibilities

Each position associated with the league is a very important one: likewise the duties and

responsibilities assigned to them are of great importance.

Sec. 1 Executive Board of Directors: The Executive Board of Directors shall consist of the Commissioner, Associate Commissioner, Secretary, Treasurer, and Player Agents. This board will be responsible for enforcing the by-laws and make league decisions concerning immanent decisions concerning actions deemed detrimental to the overall functionality of the league.

Sec. 2 Board of Directors: Collectively the Board of Directors is charged with the paramount responsibilities inherent in executive management. The members consist of the Commissioner, Associate Commissioners (2), Secretary, Treasure, Player Agents (2) and Leagues Presidents. These members must be capable, conscientious and willing to accept their assigned duties. A Board member is not allowed to miss more than 2 consecutive league meetings without cause and must have the vice-president at the meeting to stand in for him/her.

If the Board member misses two consecutive meetings without proper cause (to be reviewed and determined by the Executive Board of Directors), the Board member is subject to removal from his or her position on the Board of Directors and consequent replacement.

a. Commissioner: The Commissioner is the ranking member of the league staff and is granted Veto Authority over presidential decisions.

This authority is limited to: Presidential decisions that are obviously detrimental to the best interest of the league. Facts are the only basis for exercising Veto Authority and a report of this action shall be aired before a meeting of the Board of Directors. Decisions made by the League President when not in complete control of him/her self, if such decisions are not considered appropriate.

Censure of the League President for misconduct: To aid in carrying out this awesome responsibility, the commissioner may select standing or ad hoc committee members to examine the situation and obtain facts to aid in issuing decisions. Decisions entered by the Commissioner are final when approved by the Board of Directors.

b. Associate Commissioner: The Associate Commissioner is the second ranking member of the league staff and will assume all the duties and responsibilities outlined in Sec. 2a in the absence of the Commissioner.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE III: Duties and Responsibilities

b. Associate Commissioner (cont.): The league will have one Associate Commissioner for baseball and one for softball. These positions will be equal to one another. In the event the Commissioner is absent and cannot fulfill his or her duties, the Commissioner will select which Associate Commissioner will handle specific matters in his or her place. Namely, the Associate Commissioner for softball will handle all matter pertaining to softball and the Associate Commissioner of baseball will handle all matters specific to baseball. If the Commissioner cannot attend and preside over a monthly league meeting or other general matter, the Commissioner will select the person whom he or she will have stand in for the Commissioner. (July 2010)

c. Secretary: The Secretary shall be responsible to the Board of Directors for the proper performance and administration of assigning duties. The secretary shall record and report minutes at all meeting. Also she/he shall maintain the league insurance policy and the associated claim forms and process to conclusion. Secretary shall assist the Player Agent in the registration process. She/He is responsible for notification of league officers for unscheduled league meetings. She/He shall also be responsible for compiling a list of attendees from monthly meeting for eligibility to vote in annual elections.

d. Treasurer: The Treasure shall be responsible to the Board of Directors for proper performance and administration of assigned duties. The Treasure shall be responsible to the Commissioner for the proper performance and administration of assigned duties. The treasurer shall have custody of all money and securities, and shall sign checks, keep records and other papers to the Commissioner or Associate Commissioner for their examination and approval. The Commissioner or Associate Commissioner may also assign additional duties. The Board of Directors will audit records at the end of each season. Last a budget will need to be prepared for the next season.

The Treasurer responsible for compiling all financial information at the end of the fiscal year (August 31) to use in preparing and filing state and federal income tax forms for the organization according to the guidelines set forth in the attached Internal Revenue Service Tax ID Letter, dated June 28, 2001.

e. Player Agents: HDYL voted to have two (2) Player Agents –one (1) for Baseball and one (1) for Softball. (July 2003) HDThe Player Agents shall be responsible to the Board of Directors for the proper performance of his/her duties.

His/Her prime responsibility shall be the welfare of each player. He/She shall insure that each player is given a fair tryout for placement on a team and that he or she is treated properly by all league officials at all time. He/She shall establish and supervise the registration and tryouts. He/She shall maintain the file of Player Registration transaction forms and team rosters. He/She shall prepare the Player Draft Roster, which is required for player draft. He/She will assist in preparation of the All-Star teams. He/She does not have a vote on any All-Star.

The Commissioner may assign him/her additional duties. He/She shall be responsible for the scheduling of games for baseball/softball league. The Player Agent shall work with league presidents to reschedule cancelled or rainout games.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE III: Duties and Responsibilities

f. League Presidents: The league President shall be the chief executive officer of their league and responsible for the operation and overall welfare of the league. He/She shall supervise and direct the league in which he/she is in charge. He/She has many specific duties as stated in various sections of the by-laws, but most of his/her duties will be unwritten and will require mature and logical judgment. His/Her decision in all matters shall be final unless over-ruled by the Board of Directors.

The President will be responsible for activities outside the league. He/She alone shall have

the authority to cancel, postpone or reschedule rainout games in conjunction with the player

agent and to be approved by the Board of Directors.

g. League Vice-Presidents: The Vice-President will assume the role of the President in making the proper disposition of the mater.

The league Vice-President is not a member of the Board of Directors but shall be first in succession to the Presidency. He/She should attend all Board of Directors meeting and will vote in the absence of the league President. The Vice-President’s responsibilities will usually be assigned by the President; however, when a matter may arise requiring executive attention and the President is not available, the Vice-President shall be required to act on the situation. Like the President most of his/her duties will be unwritten and will require the same degree of judgment as required of the President. His/Her decision shall be final unless overruled by the President or Commissioner and must have the approval of the Board of Directors.

Sec 3 Appointed Positions

The Board of Directors shall appoint a Concession Stand Manager/Buyer, Fundraising Chairperson, Purchasing Agent and Safety Officer. Team Managers shall be appointed by League Presidents.

a. League Managers: League Managers are responsible for the wellbeing and conduct of their teams. They are not members of the Board.

HDYL prohibits any one person from being the head coach or manager of more than one

team per season—be it more than one baseball team, more than one softball team or a

combination of both. He or she may be an assistant coach for more than one team per

season or be involved in helping with more than one team in any other capacity other than

head coach/manager. (July 2010)

b. Concession Stand Manager: The Concession Stand Manager/Buyer is not a member of the Board of Directors and shall be responsible to the Board of Directors for the proper performance of his/her duties.

The Concession Stand Manager/Buyer shall be completely in charge of the concession stand performance and purchasing. Purchasing authority is delegated to the Concession Stand manager/Buyer and he/she will be responsible for buying and storing the items to be sold. The method of handling funds will be in accordance with a mutual agreement arranged with the Treasurer. For any post season tournaments the Concession Stand Manager/Buyer will secure people to work in the concession stand.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

c. Purchasing Agent: The Purchasing Agent in not a member of the Board of Directors and shall be responsible to the Board of Directors for the proper performance of his/her duties.

The Purchasing Agent will request bids for uniforms prior to tryout times and request bids for equipment prior to the start of the season. All bids submitted are subject to approval by the Board of Directors.

Additional duties include: Organizing a day for players to try on uniforms; working with the treasurer to collect and record the receipt of money for uniforms; working with each manager and sponsor concerning the colors and logo for each team; placing uniform orders and ensuring all uniforms are received from the vendor in the specific lead-time required.

The Purchasing Agent will select and purchase team sponsors plagues and individual player trophies. Purchase price must be approved by the Executive Board of Directors prior to the allocation of any league funds.

d. Fundraising Chairperson: The appointed Chairperson shall elect a committee with the approval of the Board of Directors. Neither the Chairperson nor the said committee is part of the Board of Directors. The Chairperson is responsible to the Board of Directors for the proper performance of his/her duties.

The Chairperson shall be completely in charge of the fund-raising activities. The method of handling funds will be in accordance with mutual agreement arranged with the Treasurer. No league funds will be allocated without prior approval from Executive Board of Directors.

e. Safety Officer: The Safety Officer is not a member of the Board of Directors and shall be responsible to the Board of Directors for the proper performance of his/her duties. His/Her main responsibility will be the safety and welfare of each player.

The Safety Officer will be responsible for checking playing equipment prior to the season and making sure that no child is playing with blood on his/her uniform or bleeding while on the field. He/She shall inspect the ball fields for rocks, holes and loose bases prior to game time to avoid injury. He/She will provide each Manager with a first aid kit (kit should contain such items as gloves, bandages, pads, alcohol pads, etc.) made up in individual zip lock bags. He/She should supply each manager with a letter detailing the league safety procedures. Should an injury occur to a player, manager or coach during practice and/or a game, the Safety Officer will notify the secretary so that proper insurance claims forms can be completed and mailed.

ARTICLE IV: Member Responsibilities

Sec 1 League President/Vice President: The League President and Vice President will direct league affairs. He/She shall be responsible for insuring that the field is ready for play and that all games start on time. He/She shall be responsible for obtaining umpires and have them at the field prior to game time. This shall be in effect until at such time our umpire association is disbanded.

Sec 2 Managers: Managers will assist the President and Vice President in his or her job. HDYL requires each Manager from both teams (excluding visiting teams from another area) to groom the fields after each game and practice. If fields are not groomed the Manager will sit out the following game. (July 21, 2002).

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE IV: Member Responsibilities

Sec 2 Managers: (cont.)

Each team will have a manager. The league President and Vice President will select this person subject to the approval of the Board of Directors. He/She shall be in complete charge of his/her team at all times when on the field. He/She shall select a team in accordance with the player draft rules. The player agent shall confirm the team list. He/She will be responsible for the safety and the conduct of his/her players while at practice and/or during games time. He/She shall present the lineup to the scorekeeper at least 10 minutes prior to game time. He/She shall appoint at least one coach to assist him and as many more as he wished: however the manager must abide according to the official rulebook in regarding the number of coaches. Managers must be persons of high moral character, who are appreciative of a youth’s talent and willing to help each youth on his/her team. He must always keep the welfare of the players foremost in his mind. Managers shall instruct only their players while on the playing field in game situations. Any manager who is relieved of his/her duties by the Board of Directors will not manage for Dixie Youth League thereafter.

Sec 3 Team Coaches: Coaches may be appointed by the manager and will assist him/her as directed. Coaches must be persons of high moral character, who are appreciative of a youth’s talent and willing to help each youth in the team. Coaches must be active and assist in team practices and regular season games. Coaches shall instruct their players only while on the playing field in game situations. Any coach who is relieved of his/her duties by the Board of Directors will not manage or coach for Dixie Youth League thereafter.

Sec 4 Official Scorekeeper: The scorekeeper shall be responsible to the league President for the performance of his/her duties. He/She shall be present at the field at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time of the first game. He/She will accept the team line ups from the two opposing managers and will enter the in the scorebook. He/She will keep the official score of the game in accordance with current baseball scoring rules. He/She will also keep the official time of the game and will notify the umpire when the time is expired. The official scorekeeper must not inform any manager/coach of rule violation during any game. They shall be responsible for compiling league statistics.

Sec 5 Game Announcer: The announcer will be responsible to the league President for the performance of his/her duties. He/She shall be present at the field at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the first game. He/She shall announce the starting line-ups of the teams, adding as much color and background to the game as he/she can. He /She will be required to make special announcements. The visiting team is responsible for providing an announcer.

ARTICLE V: Rules of Conduct

Sec 1 Sportsmanship: Any ball player will be ejected from a ball game if he/she makes derogatory remarks, such as screaming out any type of obscene, racial or abusive language, directed towards any umpire or other players on the field. Any remarks made by the players while they are on the field will be of encouragement directed towards their own team. A spirit of good SPORTSMANSHIP should prevail during and after all games.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE V: Rules of Conduct (cont.)

Sec 2 Misconduct by Coaches: Managers and coaches will be ejected same as above. Each manager or coach must be in the prescribed area during the games. Any flagrant misconduct will not be tolerated and is subject to dismissal from the league by the Board of Directors.

Any manager, coach, parent, ballplayer with a violation causing an ejection from the game or park will have one game suspension for the next ballgame. (January 2008)

Sec 3 Misconduct by Fans: If a fan uses obscene language or directs derogatory remarks toward umpires, managers, coaches or players during or after a ball game, the fan will be removed from the ballpark. Umpires should use prudent judgment in exercising this authority.

Sec 4 Violation of Game Rules: All violations of these rules will be reported to the President/Vice-President of the league or other officials and President/Vice-President or the other officials will be allowed to make a decision at once. If all league officials are absent the Umpire-in-Chief has the authority to carryout all rules. It is the participating manager’s responsibility to report violations pertaining to a game in progress. No other manager or parent may report a violation during a game.

Sec 5 Violation of Ball Park Rules: Managers, coaches, umpires and fans are prohibited from using tobacco products at all times on the Alice Allen Sports Complex property.

ARTICLE VI: Functions of the HDYL

Several necessary functions of the league not pertaining directly to league operations are

included in this section.

Sec 1 League Boundaries: League Boundaries are the same as the Holtville School District boundaries. (See the Elmore Board of Education website.)

Sec 2 Player Eligibility: To be eligible to play in the HDYL, each player must meet the following rules of eligibility.

1. The baseball player is not more than league age (sixteen, eighteen at which needed for growth of league). The cut off date for the baseball league is on or before May 1^st the softball player is not more that league age eighteen. The cut- off date for softball is on or before January 1^st. The minimum age will be determined prior to each season based on the need and guidance from Dixie Youth Baseball/Softball League.

2) Reside within the league boundaries (see section 4:01) when he or she initially registers with the league. If he or she moves out of the league area after registration, he or she may elect to continue in the HDYL or play in the league in whose area he or she resides in.

3) Provide a copy of an original birth certificate that proves his/her birth date and provide a copy of social security number.

1. Be in good health or play with the consent of his/her doctor or parents.

2. Move into the league area from out of town after registration and tryouts have ended.

3. Register with the player agent.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE VI: Functions of the HDYL

Sec 2 Player Eligibility:

1. Request release from another league for extenuating circumstances. The Commissioner and the league president must sign all such requests.

Sec 3 Voting: The Board of Directors shall vote upon all proposed changes to the league operations. A quorum (2/3) for voting purposes will be considered sufficient by those attending the By-Laws meeting advertised in the Wetumpka Herald one week in advance of the meeting date. Additional means may be utilized which the Board of Directors believes adequate to notify other league members. The Commissioner shall be entitles to vote only when a tie results from the authorized votes cast. In order to have a vote in the annual elections, adult participants in the league must have attended a minimum of 3 regular monthly meetings in the current year. The secretary will compile a list from monthly meeting sign in sheets. (August 2000)

ARTICLE VII: HDYL Finances

Sec. 1 Team Sponsors: Donations, required fees, sponsorship fees, concession stand profits and other projects sponsor the league. Each league sponsor shall pay a fee as determined by the Board of Directors prior to season play. No other charges shall be made to the sponsor without his/her consent. Sponsor fees will be assessed prior to the beginning of each season and acted upon by the voting body. The sponsorship money will be used to purchase team hats and shirts.

Sec. 2 Admission Fee: No admission fee will be charged to see the games: however a free will offering may be collected during each league game. Dixie Youth Baseball/Softball recommends to All-Star tournament sponsor that an admission fee be charged to assist in financing the event.

Sec. 3 Registration Fee: Registration fees will be assessed to all players. The Board of Directors prior to registration will establish the amount.

Sec. 4 Purchases: To avoid over obligation of league funds the Board of Directors shall approve all capital outlays.

ARTICLE VIII: Umpires

Sec. 1 Eligibility: Umpires shall be man or women and shall be members of an organized official’s association.

Sec. 2 Hiring: The hiring of umpires shall be the Commissioners or Associate Commissioner’s responsibility. Baseball will utilize the HDYL umpire association until such time it is disbanded. The Umpire Association for baseball was created. The umpires will follow rules and regulations of the Official Dixie Youth Rulebooks. (March 2001) Softball umpires will be scheduled through the Softball association.

ARTICLE IX: Uniforms

Sec 1 Team Uniforms: Each player shall be required to wear his/her team uniform while participating in a league game. The uniform will be in good repair and the shirt will be tucked into the trousers.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE IX: Uniforms

Sec 2 Safety Equipment: When helmets are not required, caps will be worn. All batters and base runners will be required to wear batting helmets with Dixie Youth approved facemasks. Any deviations must be in agreement opposing manager.

Players are required to wear batting helmets while in batting cages.

ARTICLE X: Insurance

Sec. 1 Insurance Coverage: The HDYL carries player insurance, which covers injuries to players, managers and coaches received while playing or practicing or while traveling as a group to or from a game or practice as provided by the insurance policy. The secretary and safety officer must be notified of all practice times in order for the insurance to be in effect.

Sec. 2 Claims: If an injury occurs, the league secretary or safety officer should be notified immediately to insure that the proper claim forms are completed and mailed.

ARTICLE XI: League Meetings

Sec. 1 Frequency: The Commissioner, on an as needed basis (except for the mandatory meetings) should call official league meetings. Official HDYL meetings will be held on the 3^rd Sunday of each month at 3:00pm except in December.

Sec. 2 Notification: The secretary shall issue notices to Officers and Presidents who are required to attend league meetings. The organization chart must be adhered to when calling all others. Meetings should be announced in the local newspapers when voting will take place to ensure the greatest amount of participation.

Sec. 3 Rules of Order: The commissioner shall be in complete control of the meetings and he will insist on the adherence by all participants to proper parliamentary procedures, such as Robert’s Rules of Order. The commissioner shall conduct the meeting in a business like manner.

ARTICLE XII: Election of Officers

Elections will be held annually at the August meeting. Officers will be elected and shall take

office on September 1^st. The following officers will be elected and shall serve for one-year unless reelected. Officer’s position will be based on the number of players in each age group.

1. Commissioner

1. Associate Commissioner

2. Player Agent (boys)

3. Player Agent (girls)

4. Secretary

5. Treasurer

6. President Dixie Majors

7. Vice President Dixie Majors

8. President Dixie Boys

9. Vice President Dixie Boys

10. President Majors

11. Vice President Majors

12. President Minors

13. Vice President Minors

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XII: Election of Officers

1. President Pre-Minors

2. Vice President Pre-Minors

3. President Girls 18 & under

4. Vice President Girls 18 & under

5. President Girls 14 & under

6. Vice President Girls 14 & under

7. President Girls 12 & under

8. Vice President Girls 12 & under

9. President Girls 10 & under

10. Vice President Girls 10 & under

11. President Girls 8 & under

12. Vice President Girls 8 & under

13. President Girls 4-6 (Sweeties)

14. Vice President Girls 4-6 (Sweeties)

15. President Instructional League

16. Vice President Instructional League

Sec. 1 Eligibility/Qualification of Officers: All officials must be men and women of high moral character with a great deal of integrity and the willingness to work with youth. It is of paramount importance that the managers and coaches place the welfare of their youth ahead of all other considerations.

Sec. 2 Nomination of Officers: Any parent/legal guardian with a child/children playing in the previous year in the league shall be allowed to make nominations.

Sec. 3 Election by HDYL Members: Any adult participant must have attended at least 3 regular monthly league meetings to have the right to vote in annual election. Candidates receiving a majority of the votes cast shall be winners. Ties shall be broken with a run-off ballot.

Sec. 4 Appointment by Commissioner: The Commissioner, if required, shall appoint the remaining officials subject to approval by the Board of Directors.

1. Concession Stand Manager

1. Scorekeepers

2. Announcers

3. Managers

4. Safety Officer

5. Purchasing Agent

6. Fundraiser Chairperson

7. The manager of the team will appoint coaches. Their selection will be subject to the approval of the Board of Directors.

Sec. 5 Term of Officers: Officials shall take office on September 1^st and serve through the following August 31^st. It is important that newly elected and appointed officials assume their duties at this time in order for them to participate in the planning and organization for the following season. All officers shall serve without monetary compensation on a strictly voluntary basis.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XII: Election of Officers

Sec. 6 Resignation/Removal of Officer or Board Member: If an elected official resigns/quits his/her position during the current year he/she shall not hold a position for remainder of that year and one additional year (March 2000). A special election will be called to fill the vacancy.

ARTICLE XIII: Preseason Preparation

In order to assure a timely and relatively trouble free opening season the following minimum pre-season preparation must be accomplished.

a) Announcements of Tryouts for player draft

Proper announcement of tryouts will be made by the Player Agents in conjunction with the discretion of the Commissioner. This notice will consist of the dates and times of tryouts, the registration requirements and the equipment required by each player.

b) Player Registration and Tryouts for Player Draft

Each youth who aspires to play in HDYL shall be registered and tryout in accordance to the following rules.

Sec 1. Registration

Each youth will report to the HDYL field at Holtville for registration or any announced location. They must bring with them the following minimum information:

a) Official evidence of birth date

b) Full name

c) Street address

d) Telephone number

e) School attending

f) Whether he or she played Dixie Youth Baseball/Softball the previous year and if so in what league and with what team.

Note: Social Security Number will only be required if child is selected for All Star team.

Sec 2. Conditions of Registration

The youth will be registered and accepted for tryouts subject to their parent(s)/guardian approval with requirements as set forth in the Parent/Guardian Agreement (registration) Form. If parents do not agree to all terms specified in the Parent/Guardian Agreement their youth will be ineligible to play in the HDYL.

Only the commissioner has the authority to waive this requirement and it is recommended that he exercise prudent judgment.

Sec. 3. Tryouts

The player agents, with approval by the Commissioner, will determine the date for tryouts and for the Player Draft. The Commissioner and Players Agent are responsible for cancellation and rescheduling as necessary.

(Baseball)Youths, league age 5-6, are eligible for the Instructional League. Youths 7-8 are eligible for Pre-Minors League. Youths 9-10 are eligible for the Minor League. Youths 11-12 are eligible for the Major League. Youths 13-14 are eligible for the Dixie Boys. Youths 15-16 are eligible for the Dixie Pre-Majors.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XIII: Preseason Preparation

Sec. 3. Tryouts (cont.)

(Softball) Youths who are 4-6 are eligible for the Sweeties. Youths who are 7-8 are eligible for the NSA 8 and under League. Youths who are 9-10 are eligible for the NSA 10 and under League. Youths who are 11-12 are eligible for the NSA 12 and under League. Youths who are 13-14 are eligible for the NSA14 and under League. Youths who are 15-18 are eligible for the NSA 18 and under League.

Every effort will be made to give each player a thorough evaluation; therefore, each youth shall be allowed to swing at a minimum of 5 pitches and field a minimum of 5 balls.

The player agent shall be present to insure compliance with this requirement. Additionally he/she is responsible for enforcing all rules associated with registration, tryouts, player selection and determine or filling authorized vacancies during the playing season.

The President of each division is responsible for assigning duties and determining the mechanics of executing the tryouts. The most important points are to insure that each youth has an equal opportunity and that tryouts are conducted rapidly and efficiently.

The Commissioner and Player Agent will determine registration and tryout dates.

Sec 4. Player Draft

The player draft will be held within one-week. The date, time, and location will be

announced. The Player draft shall be conducted in accordance with the following rules

(same as the NFL draft).

HDYL will redraft each year. (Voted in 2003) This will not apply to the Dixie Boys. (Voted in July 2003)

The Manager of team is responsible for notification of his team players within three days after the player draft.

Draft Procedure: The following sequence of events shall be used to provide an orderly progression of the player selection.

The order of free agent selection is determined by the preceding year’s order of standing. If for some reason all the teams have to re-draft their entire team, then the order of selection is to be determined by the Commissioner with approval of the Board of Directors.

In the event of an expansion team, the new team manager chooses two (2) players the first three rounds and then chooses one (1) player per draft choice as described below:

EXAMPLE: With six teams the team in sixth (6^th) place will select first, followed by the fifth (5^th) place team, etc. If two (2) teams finish with identical records the league President or his designee will flip a coin to determine order of selection. This method of selection shall continue until all youths are selected or until all rosters are filled as determined by the player agent.

Manager with sons and daughters league age or with brother already on a league team automatically is assigned to that team prior to the draft. At the completion of these proceedings, the player draft shall be over and the player agent, in conjunction with each manager, shall prepare a complete list of his players. The player agent shall note the team to which the youth was assigned on each Player Registration Transaction Form and retain the form in the master record book.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XIII: Preseason Preparation

Sec 4. Player Draft

The major league managers will then select by the same process, 2 players each from the minor league players to be earmarked to that team in the event a player must be called up to fill a vacancy during the season, as per the rules to follow.

Sec 5. Player Transactions

Player transactions must be conducted in such a manner as to cause the players a minimal degree of disappointment. The player agent shall record these transactions on the Player Registration and Transaction Form.

Types of transaction and proper procedures for conducting them are described below.

a) All league teams will carry the numbers of players specified in accordance with the official Dixie Youth rules or NSA rules based on division placement. The league president and the player agent must prove any deviation from these rules.

1. The player agent in accordance with the player draft rotation shall assign any

youth moving to town after completion of league roster to the appropriate team.

Sec 6. Replacement of Players

Major League Local league option: Any league teams experiences legitimate vacancies on a roster is entitled to call up any qualified player from the lower age league.

Minor League Major league teams experiencing legitimate vacancies on their roster are entitled to call up qualifies player from the minor league. If this occurs prior to June 1^st the player is registered on major league rosters. (Provided to Dixie Youth Officials) and terminated from regular season play with the Minor League. If the call up occurs June 1^st or later the player becomes a member of the Major League roster, but continues to play games with his respective minor league team for the remainder of the season. If the major league team experiences a situation where less than ten (10) players are available for a given game then the call up player may participate in that major league game.

The above is not intended to restrict the call up player from participating with his major league team, nor from being suited up and seated with his minor league teammates during their scheduled games. This would be left to the discretion of the respective major league manager and player agent. Naturally the major league team would have complete rights to call up player for the subsequent seasons.

Before any major league vacancy can be filled a player drop slip must be completed with parent’s signature, a manager’s signature and the player agent’s signature, including the reason for the player’s inability to play.

Softball league teams experiencing legitimate vacancies on rosters are entitled to call up qualified players from the lower age league.

Sec. 7 Team Rosters

The League shall consist of no more than six (6) teams. All league teams will carry the numbers of payers specified in accordance with the Dixie Youth rules/NSA rules.

All major league and minor league managers and the player agent must agree upon this. When each league team has pared its team roster down to its maximum limit, the player agent will prepare an official team roster. This shall be coordinated with the respective manager after it becomes the official team roster.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XIII: Preseason Preparation

Sec. 8 Schedules

All league teams shall play a schedule of not fewer than fifteen (15) games nor more than twenty-five (25) games exclusive of championship games.

Official schedules will be prepared by the player agent and submitted to the managers and the league president for approval. Major league games will be scheduled for play as determined by the player agent as not to interfere with pitching rules. Make-up games may be scheduled as determined by the player agent. Minor league schedules will not interfere with major league scheduled games or delays the start of any major league game. Softball

league games will be scheduled by the softball player agent. The softball league may interlock with Millbrook and/or Prattville. In the future, the Softball League also has the right to interlock with other league. Each player agent of the league will accomplish scheduling of away games.

Rain Outs: All games rained out will be rescheduled and played as soon as possible.

ARTICLE IX: The Major League Season

Dixie Major league was established for 15-16 year old boys. This league will begin when High

School Baseball has ended. This league will interlock and play with Wetumpka. (October

2000).

The following regulations apply to the operation of the Major League Only.

Sec. 1. The Opening Ceremony:

The Commissioner or his delegated representative shall arrange to have a colorful and entertaining ceremony at the beginning of the major league season. The president prior to opening day shall announce the particular time and date.

Sec. 2. Authority of the Umpires:

The league President or his designated representative shall have full jurisdiction of the ballpark and its facilities until such time as the game officially starts. From that time, the Umpire-in-Chief shall be in charge. He shall have the authority to insure that the games start on time and that the activity on the field is conducted in the best interest and welfare of the players. He shall have authority to suspend play when in his judgment to continue would be detrimental to the welfare of the league.

Likewise, he shall have authority to eject from the ballpark all persons associated with the game, that in his opinion are conducting activity contrary to the proper progression of the game. Umpires should use prudent judgment in exercising this authority. Any member of the league will not dispute his authority. Any creditable disagreements against him must be logged with the league president.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE IX: The Major League Season

Sec. 3. Time Limit of Games:

Six (6) innings shall constitute a complete game unless the game is tied at the end of the regulation time. No inning shall start if the game has been already in progress for one (1) hour and twenty (20) minutes, unless the score is tied. (NOTE: An inning starts with the third out of the preceding inning.) Local league option: game time can be lengthened to one (1) hour and thirty (30) minutes with approval by the Board of Directors.

Sec. 4. Coaching:

Applicable coaching regulations are contained in the Official Dixie Youth Baseball Rule Guide. Base coaches must stay within the coaching boxes and player coaches must wear the prescribed protective headgear.

Sec. 5. Line-Ups:

Managers shall deliver a written copy of line-ups to the scorekeeper at least ten (10) minutes prior to the scheduled start time of the game. The minimum number of players on either team shall be required to play a minimum of 1 complete inning by the end of the 4^th inning. All players will bat in a rotating batting order.

Sec. 6. Protests:

Official protests must be submitted in writing to the league president with 24 hours after the occurrence. If the protest is lodge by the league president the official protest must be submitted in writing to the Commissioner/Associate Commissioner within 24 hours after the occurrence.

A matriculation fee of $5.00 shall be charged and it will accompany the formal written protest. Protest of umpire judgment or disagreement with previously agreeable ground rules will not be considered. The league president will review protests that are received and if he can not or selects not to, dispose of it he will refer it to the protest committee. The committee will then review the protest and render a ruling, which shall be returned in writing within 3 days to the party registering the protest.

The protest committee shall be appointed by the league president and consist of at least three (3) members but these members are not to be members of the HDYL.

Sec. 7. Tie Games:

Tied games will continue until the tie is broken unless the game in called by the Umpire-in-Chief after consulting with the league president. Games that do end in a tie must be completed at a later date.

Sec. 8. Suspended Games:

Refer to Section 5:03 (d)

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE IX: The Major League Season

Sec. 9. League Ties:

If at the end of the season two (2) or more teams are tied, the league championship shall be determined by means of elimination play-off as follows:

1. Two Teams: The tie will be determined by a one game championship. The games must be a full six innings game. All pitchers shall be eligible to pitch (will have rest as required by Dixie Youth rules). The winner shall be the champion.

2. Three Teams: Teams shall draw for positions. A single game will be played between two (2) of the teams with the loser being eliminated and the winner playing the third team. The winner of two (2) games will be the league champion.

3. Four Teams: Teams shall draw for positions. A single game elimination will be played as follows:

Team A and Team B will play

Team C and Team D will play

The loser of these two (2) games will be eliminated and the two (2) winners will play a single game, with the winner becoming the champion.

All games will be played in the same week, weather permitting, and tournament-

pitching rules will apply.

ARTICLE X: The Major League Season and Pre-Minor League Season

The following group of regulations applies to the operation of the minor league only. The

major league regulations are contained in Article IX.

Sec. 1. The Opening Ceremony:

The minor league ceremony may be accomplished in conjunction with the major league opening ceremony. A separate opening ceremony for the minor league is optional: however, if such a ceremony is conducted, it shall be given the full attention of the Commissioner to insure that such a program is as colorful and entertaining as possible.

Sec. 2. Authority of the Umpires:

Same as Article IX Sec. 2.

Sec. 3. Time Limit of the Game:

Six (6) innings shall constitute a complete game unless the game is tied at the end of the regulation time. No inning will begin after the time of one (1) hour and twenty (20) minutes has expired unless a tie exits. (NOTE: An inning starts with the third (3^rd) out of the previous inning.) No game in the minor league will start after 9:30pm. Should a tie exit in the first game after additional innings, the game will be suspended at 9:00pm and completes at a later date.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE IX: The Major League Season

Sec. 4. Suspended Games:

For the purpose of this rule, 4 innings is considered a regulation game. If a game is shortened due to weather, darkness, etc., and the time has not expired, the game will be suspended and continued at a later date from the point of suspension to completion.

Sec. 5. Coaching:

Applicable regulations for coaching are contained in the Official Dixie Youth Baseball Rulebook. Base coaches must stay inside the coaching box and player coaches must wear the prescribed protective headgear.

Sec. 6. Line-Up:

Managers shall deliver a written copy of their line-up to the scorekeeper at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the game. The minimum number of players on either team shall be played a minimum of 1 inning by the end of the 4^th inning.

Sec. 7. Protests:

Official protests will be lodged with the umpire at the time o the incident being protested. The umpire shall refer such protest to the league president or his representative. Protest shall be handled in the appropriate manner following the Dixie Youth Baseball Rulebook.

Sec. 8. League Ties:

If the season should end with two (2) or more teams tied for 1^st place the minor league will follow the same steps as the major league to determine the 1^st place position. See Article IX, Sec. 9.

ARTICLE XI: The Dixie Boys & Dixie Majors League Season

The following regulations apply to the operation of the Dixie Boys & Dixie Majors.

Sec. 1. The Opening Ceremony:

The Dixie Boys & Dixie Majors league opening ceremonies may be accomplished in conjunction with other league opening ceremonies. A separate opening ceremony for the Dixie Boys & Dixie Majors league is optional: however if such a ceremony is conducted it shall be given the full attention of the Commissioner to insure that such a program is as colorful and entertaining as possible.

Sec. 2. Authority of the Umpire:

Same as Article IX Sec. 2.

Sec. 3. Time Limit of the Game:

Each Dixie Boys & Dixie Majors league will adhere to the appropriate rulebook for time limit of game.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XI: The Dixie Boys & Dixie Majors League Season

Sec. 4. Suspended Games:

For the purpose if this rule, 4 innings is considered a regulation game. If a game is shortened due to weather, darkness, etc., and the time has not expired, the game will be suspended and continues at a later date from the point of suspension to completion. Each Dixie Boys & Dixie Majors league will adhere to the Dixie Baseball rules for suspended games.

Sec. 5. Coaching:

Applicable regulations for coaching are contained in the appropriate Baseball Rulebook. Base coaches must stay inside the coaching boxes and player coaches must wear prescribed protective headgear.

Sec. 6. Line-Up:

Managers shall deliver a written copy of their line-ups to the scorekeeper at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the game. The minimum number of players on either team shall be played in accordance with Official Rulebook.

Sec. 7. Protests:

Official protests will be lodged with the umpire at the time o the incident being protested. The umpire shall refer such protest to the league president or his representative. Protest shall be handled in the appropriate manner following the Dixie Boys/Dixie Majors Rulebook.

Sec. 8. League Ties:

Should the season end with two (2) or more teams tied for 1^st place, the league will follow the same steps as stated in Article IX, Sec. 9.

ARTICLE XII: The Softball League Season

The following group of regulations applies to the operation of the softball league only. Refer to NSA Rule book for specific Rules

Sec. 1. The Opening Ceremony:

The softball league opening ceremonies may be accomplished in conjunction with other league opening ceremonies. A separate opening ceremony for the softball league is optional; however, if such a ceremony is conducted it shall be given the full attention of the Commissioner to ensure that such a program is as colorful and entertaining as possible.

Sec. 2. Authority of the Umpire:

Same as Article IX Sec. 2.

Sec. 3. Time Limit of the Game:

Each softball league will adhere to the appropriate rulebook for time limit of game.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XII: The Softball League Season

Sec. 4. Suspended Games:

For the purpose if this rule, 4 innings is considered a regulation game. If a game is shortened due to weather, darkness, etc., and the time has not expired, the game will be suspended and continues at a later date from the point of suspension to completion. Each softball league will adhere to the NSA rules for suspended games.

Sec. 5. Coaching:

Applicable regulations for coaching are contained in the appropriate NSA Rulebook. Base coaches must stay inside the coaching boxes and player coaches must wear prescribed protective headgear.

Sec. 6. Line-Up:

Managers shall deliver a written copy of their line-ups to the scorekeeper at least 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start of the game. The minimum number of players on either team shall be played in accordance with Official Rulebook.

Sec. 7. Protests:

Official protests will be lodged with the umpire at the time of the incident being protested. The umpire shall refer such protest to the league president or his representative. Protest shall be handled in the appropriate manner following the official Rulebook.

Sec. 8. League Ties:

Should the season end with two (2) or more teams tied for 1^st place, the league will follow the same steps as stated in Article IX, Sec. 9. (Note: see NSA Rulebook for specific tied breakers).

Softball League for 16-18 year old girls was established (October 2000)

ARTICLE XIII: Instructional League

The following group of regulations applies to the operation of the instructional league only.

Sec. 1. The Opening Ceremony:

The instructional league opening ceremonies may be accomplished in conjunction with other league opening ceremonies. A separate opening ceremony for the other league is optional: however if such a ceremony is conducted it shall be given the full attention of the Commissioner to insure that such a program is as colorful and entertaining as possible.

Sec. 2. Rules & Regulations:

The rules & regulations are already set fourth for this league. See official rules. (NOTE: See Instructional League President.)

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XIII: Instructional League

Sec. 3. Coaching:

Applicable regulations for coaching are contained in the printed Instructional League rules.

ARTICLE XIV: Post Season Activity

All leagues with the exception of the Instructional League shall be eligible to play in the post-season tournament. The purpose of an all-star team is to win and no longer is the manager expected to play all players just because they were selected for the team. The manager is expected to play in his judgment the best athletes he has available and the manager’s decision is final.

Post-Season events are described below:

Sec. 1. All Star Team:

An All-Star Team from the league shall be selected by the managers in the league, a minimum of one (1) week prior to the end of the season. All-Stars for all ages and leagues, with the exception of the instructional league, shall be determined in the same manner as Article IX, Sec. 1.

The All-Star Team selected shall be the Holtville Dixie Youth League’s representative to the Sub-District and District Tournaments. Each league manager or designated person must pick all-stars from his/her league.

The manner of the 1^st place league team during the regular season will be the all-star manager of his/her league. He/She may select coaches to assist with the all-star competition. Only active coaches in accordance to official baseball and softball rules are allowed on the field during all-star competition.

An All-Star Team shall be selected to represent the HDYL. This team will be selected in the following manner:

1. Each manager shall receive a list of all eligible players.

2. Each manager shall vote for 15 players (Baseball), 14 (Softball) who, in his opinion, are the best players in the league. (July 21, 2001).

3. The Player Agents (boys and girls) will assist one another to collect the managers’ list and count them (January 2008). Each player will receive all managers’ votes (5 for example) will be on the All Star Team.

4. Each All Star Team in major and minor league will consist of 13 players with no alternates. Each Softball All Star Team will consist of 12 players with no alternates.

5. The winning manager of the league may select coaches to assist with All Star competition. Only active coaches in accordance to official baseball/softball rules are allowed on the field during All Star competition.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XIV: Post Season Activity

Sec. 2. Post-Season Tournaments:

The below listed tournaments comprise the complete slate of play-offs leading the Dixie Youth World Series Championship. This slate of playoffs applies to both Baseball and Softball post-season tournament.

1. Sub-District: A play-off of all leagues in Sub-District V.

1. District: The winner of the Sub-District tournaments play a double elimination tournament with the winner being named District Champions and advancing to the State Tournament.

1. State: The Alabama State Tournament is held annually. Participants are the winners of seven (7) districts in the state and a host team from the city hosting the tournament. The winner of this tournament advances to the World Series as the Alabama State Representative.

1. Dixie Youth World Series: This is the ultimate aim of each league, which participates in the Dixie Youth Baseball/Softball program. This is a play-off of all State Champions. The winner of this tournament is the proclaimed champions of Dixie Youth Baseball/Softball.

ARTICLE XV: Amendments of By-Laws

These by-laws must be reviewed and amended periodically to properly serve their intended purpose. In order to fulfill this requirement the following procedures are established:

Sec. 1 By-Laws Committee: A By-Law Committee shall be responsible for reviewing the adequacy of these by-laws at least once a year and recommending changes to the Board of Directors. Any active adult participant in the league may submit proposed changes to the by-laws by writing the proposal in legible copy and submitting it to the Commissioner/Associate Commissioner.

Sec. 2 Timeline for Changes: The Commissioner/Associate Commissioner will cause the proposal to be acted upon by the duly appointed By-Laws Committee either immediately or at the next scheduled review. If an immediate review is directed, the By-Laws committee shall convene and act upon the proposal change within two (2) weeks.

Sec. 3 Voting on Changes: After the By-Laws committee has reviewed the by-laws and/or any proposed changes, their recommendations will be submitted to the Board of Directors in writing. The Commissioner then shall call together the appropriate voting body to vote on the recommendations with one (1) week notification printed in the local newspaper announcing a vote.

Sec. 4 Effective Date of Changes: All the proposals that are approved shall become effective upon the date of approval. All recommendations approved/disapproved will be returned to the By-Laws Committee, who will file it with the secretary and notify the person who originated it.

Sec. 5. Interpretation: For a period of one (1) year, any questions as to the intent or interpretation of the by-laws should be directed to the Board of Directors and the By-Laws Committee members.

In accordance to the annual by-laws reviews these by-laws have been modified and changed with approval of all who attended the meeting on November 15, 2009.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

ARTICLE XVI: Accompanying Documents

The minimum age of the player will be determined prior to each season, which is based on the Dixie Youth Rules.

A player must reside in the league boundaries when they initially register.

If a player moves out of the league area, he/she may elect to continue to play in the league.

A copy of each player’s birth certificate must be provided at registration. Social Security Numbers are only required for those selected for All Stars.

A player registration form must be completed and signed the day of registration.

If a player has previously played for another league, a release form must be received before playing with the HDYL.

Anyone using obscene language or directs derogatory remarks towards umpires, managers, coaches or players during a game will be removed for the ballpark.

Parents should receive all information concerning the team, practice and game times from the team mom.

It is the responsibility of the Visitors baseball team to have an announcer/scorekeeper for the game. For softball, the Home team is responsible for the official book and scoreboard. (Parents will be asked to help run the scoreboard, **NO CHILDREN ARE ALLOWED IN THE PRESSBOX.)

The team mom is responsible for collecting any unpaid registration fees, parent shirts and/or fund-raising projects.

It is the responsibility of each individual to keep the park clean. Please dispose of your trash. Please do not leave trash lying on the ground.

Please help keep the Alice C. Allen Sport Complex, Home of the Holtville Dixie Youth Baseball/Softball League, clean.

Dixie Youth Baseball and NSA Softball League By-Laws

(Revised Nov. 2009)

Scorekeeper/Official Bookkeeper

Be present 15 minutes prior to game time.

Responsible for receiving line-ups from managers.

Responsible for keeping the official score in accordance with the current game scoring rules.

Responsible for keeping the official game time.

Responsible for notifying the umpire when game time has expired.

Responsible for keeping the league standings and other league statistic.

NO CHILDREN ALLOWED IN THE PRESSBOX

Announcer

Be present 15 minutes prior to game time.

Responsible for receiving line-ups from managers.

Responsible for announcing starting line-ups of teams.

Responsible for adding as much color and background to the game

Responsible for making special announcements as needed.

Responsible for making an announcement to parents/fans to pick up trash and place it in the garbage cans.

Responsible for picking up trash and empting the trashcans in the press box.

A Coach’s Letter to Parents

Dear Parents,

Here are some hints on how to make this a fun season, with lots of positive memories for your kids and your family.

1. Make sure that win or lose you love them, as the person in their life that they can always look to for support.

2. Try to be completely honest with yourself about kid’s athletic capability, their competitive attitude, their sportsmanship and their level of skills.

3. Be helpful, but don’t coach your kids on the way to the game or at the breakfast table. Think about how tough it must be on them to be constantly inundated with advice, pep talks and criticism.

4. Teach your kids to enjoy the thrill of competition, to be out there trying, to be constantly working to improve their skills, o take physical bumps and come back for more. Don’t tell them that winning doesn’t count because it does and they know it. Instead help them develop a healthy competitive attitude, a “fee” for competing, for trying hard, for having a good time.

5. Try not to live your life through your kids. You’ve lost as well as won. You’ve been frightened and backed off at times. Sure they are an extension of you but they may not feel the same way, as you did, want the same things, or have the same attitude.

6. Don’t push them in the direction that gives you the most satisfaction. Don’t compete with your kid’s coaches. A coach may become a hero to your kids for a while, someone that can do no wrong, and you may find that hard to take. Conversely, don’t automatically side with your kids against their coaches. Try to help them understand the necessity for discipline, rules and regulations.

7. Don’t compare your kids with other players on their team – at least not within their hearing – don’t lie to them about their capabilities as a player. It you are overly protective you will perpetuate the problem.

8. Get to know your kids coaches. Make sure that you approve of each coach’s attitude and ethics. Coaches can be influential and you should know the values of each coach so that you can decide whether or not you want them passed on to your kids.

9. Remember that children tent to exaggerate. Temper your reaction to stories that they bring home from practice or the game about how they were praised or criticized. Don’t criticize them for exaggerating, but don’t overact to the stories that they tell you.

10. Teach your kids the meaning of courage. Some of us can climb mountains, but are frightened about getting into a fight. Some of us can fight without fear, but turn to jelly at the sight of a bee. Everyone is frightened about something. Courage isn’t the absence of fear. Courage is learning to perform is spite of fear. It’s overcoming it.

11. Winning is an important goal. Winning at all costs is stupidity.

12. Remember that the officials are necessary. Don’t overreact to their calls. They have rules and guidelines to follow representing authority on the field. Teach your kids to respect authority and to play by the rules.

13. Finally, remember that if the kids aren’t having fun, we’re missing the whole point of youth sports.

Darrell Burnett, Ph.D.

Team Mom Responsibilities

1. Responsible for the safety, conduct and welfare of the player while at practice and

during a game.

1. Be appreciative of all youth’s talent and be willing to help each youth on the team.

1. Coordinate all team activities as assigned by the manager/coach.

1. Make sure parents receive all information concerning the team, practices and game times.

1. Responsible for collection of unpaid team registration fees and then turning them in to the Secretary or Treasurer. Any unpaid fund-raising projects must be turned into the Fund-Raising Chairperson or Treasurer. (Please put all money in an envelope with the name/names on the outside, along with the team name and what it is for. Turn it into the designated official.)

1. All team money collected will be turned in and receipt will be received from the Treasurer.

1. Help with Picture Day and distribute team pictures when they arrive.

1. You will be responsible for purchasing your team pants and socks. DO NOT TURN ANY OF THIS MONEY INTO THE LEAGUE.

1. Before the end of your game you are responsible for preparing team drinks. (Teams drink cups are 9oz and located in the concession stand)

1. For Baseball, It is the Visitor team’s responsibility to make sure your manager has a responsible announcer/scorekeeper and an official bookkeeper present at least 15 minutes prior to game time to the game will be forfeited. Please be sure the press box is clean and no trash left in their area. (NO CHILDREN ARE ALLOWED IN THE PRESSBOX.) For Softball, it is the Home team’s responsibility to keep the official book and run the scoreboard.

1. It is the responsibility of each team to help clean the fields, stands and to empty trash after the game.

1. At the end of the season, please work with you manager/coach in planning a team party.

1. Please be willing to help the league and children as needed.

Message to Managers and Coaches

This article is directed to the people who serve as managers and coaches of the Holtville Dixie Youth and Softball teams. Of all the adults involved in the functioning of the team you are the most important because you are closely associated with the players. Attend meeting regularly to know what is going on at least January thru June (during season).

You have a tremendous responsibility of leadership and a great capacity for doing well. In some ways you are more than a model to those young ball players while you have them and the example you set for them will go with them into the future.

In order to ensure the proper leadership and example, certain reminders for the manager and coaches are felt advisable. These are offered in the hopes that all will accept them in the spirit they are given --merely to ensure that our youngsters-the best our country produces-will not be lead astray by our failure in leadership. They look to us for the example. If we do it, that makes it okay. Be sure that what we say and do will be in good taste. Bear in mind that, regardless of our own opinions or feelings, we must set our principles at the level that will suit the most exacting parent.

As a manager/coach you are responsible for grooming the field after your practice time and after your games. If failure to groom the field is repeatedly reported the manager/coach could have to sit out of a ballgame. Field grooming is required to maintain our fields. If you are not going to groom it after your practices, then don’t use it.

With these thoughts in mind, kindly note the following:

1. Your prime consideration is the children.

2. You are dealing with immaturity. Expect this from your players, not your coaches.

3. Treat each child as an individual.

4. Don’t ignore anyone on your team. Make each one feel important.

5. Remember this is amateur ball, strictly for enjoyment, not as a life or death matter – victory or else.

6. It is your responsibility to instill in your players true sportsmanship and sound fundamental knowledge.

7. Remember the physical limitations of your players. They are undergoing rapid physical growth.

8. Always use moderation in practice sessions, scheduling of games and amount of play for each participant.

9. Never condemn a child for an error. Point out mental errors constructively.

10. DESIRE should become the main ingredient you speak. HUSTLE should become a byword for the players. Insist on an all-out effort, as the only way ball players should conduct themselves.

11. Set an example by being modest in victory, gracious in defeat

12. Know the rules – always have a rulebook handy.