LOCAL RULES 2018 Edition Approved: February 11, 2018
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LOCAL RULES
2018 Edition
Approved: February 11, 2018
Lake Norman Little League | Local Rules 2
Table of Contents
1 General League Policy .......................................................................................................................... 3
2 Divisions of Play.................................................................................................................................... 6
3 Selection of Managers & Coaches........................................................................................................ 7
4 Player Assessments .............................................................................................................................. 9
5 Rostering of Players............................................................................................................................ 11
6 Game Preliminaries ............................................................................................................................ 14
7 All-Stars .............................................................................................................................................. 20
8 Appendix ............................................................................................................................................ 25
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Lake Norman Little League | Local Rules 3
1 General League Policy
The purpose of these Local Rules is to establish regulations by which all participants can have a
structured, enjoyable experience within Lake Norman Little League (“The League”). These rules are
not meant to replace any rules in the Official Regulations, Playing Rules, and Policies of Little
League, including updates to Regulations and Playing Rules adopted at the 2018 Little League
International Congress (see Appendix 8.12). These Local Rules, voted upon and adopted by the
Board of Directors, shall be considered the general league policy of The League, per constitution
section 10.03.
1.1 Seasons
The League offers recreational play during two seasons each year (spring and fall) in addition to
fielding All-Star teams to compete in the summer Little League tournaments. Spring registration
opens January 1st of each year, practices begin in early March, and the season concludes by the
first weekend in June. All-Star play runs through the month of June with opportunities to advance
to the state tournament and beyond in July and August. Fall registration opens July 1st of each
year, practices begin in late August, and the season concludes by the first weekend in November.
Each season consists of a game schedule approved by the Board of Directors.
1.2 Registration Fees
The League requires a registration fee for each player participating in a recreational program. The
fee may differ by program depending upon specific costs associated with those programs. The
fee is collected each season during the registration process. The registration fee will be set at the
time of the annual budget by the Finance Committee and approved by the Board of Directors.
1.3 Sponsorships
The League is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization supported by the dedicated efforts of our league
volunteers and the generosity of our corporate sponsors. Sponsors recognize that The League is a
mainstay for our community’s youth, teaching the merits and benefits of teamwork, competition,
and the love of the game. As such, corporate sponsors join The League each year to make a
positive impact on the youth of our community. The League offers various sponsorship
opportunities for any level of donation. The sponsorship levels and associated fees are proposed
by the Sponsorship Manager, established at the time of the annual budget by the Finance
Committee, and approved by the Board of Directors.
1.4 Financial Hardship Scholarships
Thanks to generous league sponsors, The League offers partial and full scholarships utilizing the
local school system free lunch program (or other similar proof of need) as a guide. Under no
circumstances will a player be denied the opportunity to participate due to financial hardship.
1.5 Team Equipment
The Equipment Manager issues each manager a team equipment bag containing catchers gear,
batting helmets, practice balls, game balls, score book, and a Little League rule book. Machine-
pitch teams are issued a mechanical pitching machine. Tee Ball teams are issued a batting tee.
Managers are responsible for the general upkeep and safekeeping of this equipment throughout
the season. Equipment must be cleaned and returned per instructions provided by the
Equipment Manager at the conclusion of each season. The League reserves the right to charge an
equipment bag deposit fee to be refunded upon return of cleaned equipment in good working
order with normal expected wear and tear.
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1.6 Team Names
Tee Ball teams will be named after college teams. Baseball teams will be named after
professional Minor League or Major League Baseball teams. Softball teams will be named after
professional fastpitch softball teams. If a division has only one team (i.e., teenage divisions of
play), the team will be named “Lake Norman”.
1.7 Uniforms
Recreational team uniforms are included with each player’s registration fee and will consist of the
following.
Jersey: includes last name, number, sponsor name or logo, and Little League patch
Hat: professional team replica or “LKN” branded hat, visor, or headband
Socks
Belt: provided for all divisions except Tee Ball
Baseball / softball pants are to be provided by parents. The league standard is for teams to wear
white game pants, however, each team has the option to select a color choice that coordinates
with the team uniform.
1.8 Pictures
Team pictures will be scheduled with a professional photography company each season and will
consist of all players, the manager, and all coaches. Team pictures are incorporated into sponsor
plaques presented to each team’s corporate sponsor to thank them for support of The League’s
activities. Additionally, parents will have the option of purchasing a variety of picture products
provided by the photography company. Pictures are a league fundraising activity and it is
expected that managers, coaches, and players fully support and attend their scheduled picture
shoot.
1.9 Awards
In the spirit of creating lasting memories of the Little League experience, The League presents
awards at the conclusion of each season.
Recipient Award
Tee Ball participants Little League medals
Regular season divisional champions LKNLL medals
Tournament champions and runner-ups LKNLL trophies
Over-the-fence homers Ball holder trophies
All-Star state champions Plaques and rings
1.10 Volunteer Application & Background Checks
All potential managers, coaches, and volunteers who have repetitive contact with players are
required to complete a volunteer application annually which grants permission for a criminal
background check. Information gathered for background checks and results are considered
confidential, protected from public disclosure, and not used for any purpose beyond determining
volunteer eligibility. The volunteer application process opens January 1st each year. Volunteers
must be approved prior to representing The League in any capacity. Any flagged background
check will be investigated by the Safety Officer and President to determine if the applicant meets
Little League requirements to participate as a league volunteer. Approved volunteers whose
background check is subsequently flagged during the calendar year will be suspended to allow
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time for The League to investigate and make a final determination on continued volunteer
privileges.
1.11 Unsportsmanlike Conduct
Per Little League Regulation XIV (a), the actions, on or off the field, of players, managers, coaches,
umpires, and league officials must be above reproach. Any player, manager, coach, umpire, or
league representative who is involved in a verbal or physical altercation, or an incident of
unsportsmanlike conduct, at the game site or any other Little League activity including through
online or social media, is subject to the Three Strikes Policy. Additionally, any parent or guardian
who willfully violates the Parents Code of Conduct shall also be subject to the Three Strikes
Policy.
1.12 Three Strikes Policy
The Three Strikes Policy shall be administered by a Protest Committee established by the League’s
Board of Directors. Suspensions resulting from this policy cannot be appealed. Any failure of an
individual to serve a suspension ordered by the League will be deemed a new offense.
(1) First Offense
Automatic 1 or 2 game suspension based on severity to be determined through a review by
the Protest Committee. The individual will be brought in front of the Protest Committee to
review the incident. The incident will be added to the individuals’ record. If a coach gets
ejected from a game, the acting team manager WILL ALSO be suspended. Suspensions will
be determined by the Protest Committee but will not be for the same games.
(2) Second Offense
Automatic 1 or 2 game suspension based on severity to be determined by a review by the
Protest Committee and/or possible suspension for remainder of the calendar year. Individual
must submit a letter of apology and appear before the Board of Directors for reinstatement as
a league approved volunteer.
(3) Third Offense
Lifelong ban in The League. The District Administrator and Little League’s Regional Office will
be notified of this action.
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2 Divisions of Play
The League offers recreational baseball and softball programs for players league ages 4-16. All
players are required to register for the division as determined by their league age. League age
ranges are typical for these programs to keep participants playing age appropriate ball. Age ranges
often overlap, allowing players who need a little more time to develop to play down in a division, or
play up in a division if they are ready to advance and if approved by the League Board.
Baseball Divisions Baseball Softball Divisions Softball
League (girls only) League
Ages Ages
Tee Ball 4-6 Tee Ball 4-6
Minor League: Minor League:
A “Cactus” 6-7 “Rookies” 6-8
AA “Grapefruit” 7-8
AAA 8-9 “Minors” 8-10
AAAA 9-11
Little League 10-12 Little League 10-12
“Majors” “Majors”
Intermediate 50/70 11-13
Junior League 12-14 Junior League 12-14
Senior League 13-16 Senior League 13-16
2.1 Petition to Play Up or Play Down
Parents may petition for their child to play up or down a division of play based on the following
general guidelines. All petitions are heard by the Player Agent for review and approval. The
general policy is to not allow a player to skip a division.
Petition to Play Up: Parents may petition for their child to play up an age level division if the
player has previously completed a season in the registered division. At league age 5, parents may
petition for their child to play up in the Minor League if the player previously completed a season
in Tee Ball. At league age 7 and up, parents may petition for their child to play up a division if the
player has previously completed a season at the lower division.
Petition to Play Down: Parents may petition for their child to play down an age level division if
the player has not previously participated in an organized baseball/softball program or the
parents are concerned about the child’s safety at the age-appropriate division. League age 12-
year-olds, not eligible to pitch in the Minor League divisions, are required to be drafted in the
Majors division or higher unless special circumstances warrant a Little League District evaluation
and waiver. League age 11-year-olds are also not eligible to pitch in the Minor League divisions
with the exception of AAAA Baseball.
Process: For players petitioning to play up, the player’s skills assessment score will be compared
to the player pool for the higher division and must be in the top 25% of those scores for the
petition to be considered. If the petitioning player is in the top quartile, the player can be added
to the higher division’s draft pool. Players petitioning to play up and not drafted in the higher
division will return to the lower division’s draft pool. For player petitioning to play down, the
player’s skills assessment score and the parent’s concern regarding safety will both be considered
to make a final determination.
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Lake Norman Little League | Local Rules 7
3 Selection of Managers & Coaches
Volunteers do not have tenure regardless of their years of service. In order to serve, a manager or
coach must be appointed by the President and approved by the Board of Directors annually. Prior
service does not guarantee re-appointment.
3.1 Appointment
Appointment of managers and coaches shall be based on an evaluation by the Coaches
Committee and the President with the following as guidelines.
Demonstrated commitment to The League and to the mission of Little League.
Attendance at regular and special coaches meetings.
Support of and participation in The League’s activities, including but not limited to:
Past conduct with their team both on and off the field
Cooperation with The League’s Board representatives
Assistance with fundraising (i.e., team pictures; league nights)
Maintenance and upkeep of facilities and league property
Active participation on Board committees
Cooperation and conduct with umpires
Timely and complete pick-up and return of league equipment
3.2 Goals and Expectations
The League supports managers and coaches throughout the year with clinics and mentoring from
Division Commissioners and experienced coaches. These clinics and mentoring opportunities are
intended to reinforce the goals and expectations of managers and coaches as established by the
Board.
(1) Communicate Clearly with Parents
Expectations of coaches, players, and parents
Practice and games schedules
Proper equipment needed (i.e., glove; cup; softball face mask; bat; etc.)
(2) Reinforce Fundamentals
Throwing, catching, fielding, hitting and base running
Position play – infield, outfield, backing up and cutoffs
Proper pitching mechanics
Competitive play and SPORTSMANSHIP
(3) Pursuit of Two Goals
In alignment with the key principles of the Positive Coaching Alliance, managers and coaches
are expected to pursue two goals: (1) Teaching Life Lessons through baseball and softball,
and (2) Winning. The following points provide a framework for building a positive, character-
developing culture on each team and throughout The League.
EFFORT
Emphasize the importance of effort. Explain why effort matters so much, not just in
sports, but in other aspects of life. Reward players for their effort. Encourage players to
sustain or increase their effort throughout the season.
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LEARNING
Motivate players to acquire new baseball/softball skills, as well as communication and
teamwork skills that will serve them elsewhere in their lives. Teach players how to
speak and behave as people of principle and character.
MISTAKES ARE OK
Be patient with mistakes, keeping verbal and non-verbal reactions to mistakes in check.
Implement a mistake ritual, such as the physical gesture of “brushing it off” when
mistakes are made.
FILLING THE EMOTIONAL TANK
Deliver five (or more) specific, truthful pieces of praise for each specific, constructive
criticism or correction. Provide a positive, upbeat, optimistic, fun environment. Give a
lot of high-fives and fist-bumps, and encourage players to do that for each other.
HONOR THE GAME
Show respect for ROOTS (Rules, Opponents, Officials, Teammates and Self). Explain the
importance of each element to players, well enough and often enough that they
exhibited that behavior on and off the field. Treat umpires respectfully. Model and
explain self-control techniques to players.
GO ABOVE AND BEYOND
Get to know your players as people. Help your players deal with obstacles in their lives,
such as family strife or academic challenges. Really sit and listen with full eye contact
and provide the best advice you can. Honestly do your best to make as substantial a
difference as possible in these young lives.
There are no absolutes in how we assess our success in teaching life lessons. But we should be
able to accomplish a majority of these goals. If you cannot, consider spending some time taking
the Little League Double-Goal Coach Online Course and having conversations with other
coaches, counselors, and community leaders whom you respect.
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4 Player Assessments
The purpose of player assessments is to provide managers skill-based information on the player
pool to support an objective draft with the goal of achieving divisional parity.
4.1 Players Evaluated
All players participating in the Minor League divisions and above are required to be evaluated
unless otherwise notified by The League. Tee Ball players are not required to participate in player
assessments.
4.2 Location & Timing
Player assessments will be held at a local park 2-3 weeks prior to the start of each season. The
League will publish “Skills Day” date(s) on The League’s website and notify parents by email with
the schedule.
4.3 Assessment Team
The Player Agent is responsible for the proper evaluation of all players. The Player Agent will
schedule volunteers to support the assessments. At a minimum, the following individuals are
required for a successful Skills Day:
Division Commissioners
Board Directors
Managers & Coaches
Registration Volunteers
Players
4.4 Volunteer Responsibilities
Prior to the beginning of each assessment time slot, the Player Agent will meet with volunteers to
explain the evaluation process and assign responsibilities. An evaluation rating sheet will be
provided to each evaluator. Registration volunteers will check players in and distribute
assessment numbers from the evaluation sheet to be placed on the front of each player’s shirt.
4.5 Warm-ups
Once checked in, players will assemble on the warm-up field. After warm-ups, players will be
grouped and remain with their group throughout the evaluation station rotations. The Player
Agent will explain the evaluation process and guide players to their assigned station to begin.
4.6 Evaluation Stations
Evaluation stations will be setup for each skill being assessed.
(1) Fielding and Throwing
Players will be positioned between third base and shortstop.
A coach will hit up to five grounders to each player who will field the ball, then throw the
ball to a coach at first base.
Players will be evaluated on their infield fielding and throwing skills.
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(2) Outfield
Players will be positioned in the outfield.
A coach will hit up to five fly balls and line drives to each player who will field the ball,
then throw the ball to a coach.
Players will be evaluated on their outfield fielding and throwing skills.
(3) Hitting
A coach will pitch 5-10 pitches to each player.
Players will be evaluated on their hitting skills.
If a player is not planning to try out for pitching or catching, they are excused from Skills Day
after completing the above skills assessment rotations.
(4) Pitching and Catching
Players will throw 8-10 pitches from the mound to a catcher.
Players will be evaluated on their pitching and catching skills.
The Master of Ceremonies will make routine announcements regarding times and rotations.
Evaluators will record ratings based on each player’s individual skill level as compared to other
players within the same grouping. Upon completion, evaluators will submit their rating sheets to
the registration volunteers for tabulation.
4.7 Rating Scale
Players will be evaluated at each evaluation station on a rating scale of 0 to 5 using the following
as a guideline.
0 1 2 3 4 5
Beginner Intermediate Advanced
Lowest skill level Average skill level Exceptional skill level
Does not make Makes consistent contact Consistently hits line
consistent contact hitting hitting drives to outfield
Poor throwing & Good throwing & catching Very good throwing &
catching mechanics mechanics catching mechanics
Rarely pitches strikes Often pitches strikes Routinely pitches strikes
with above average
control
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5 Rostering of Players
5.1 Rosters
Team rosters are established in accordance with Regulation III(a) of the Official Regulations,
Playing Rules, and Policies of Little League. Tee Ball players are assigned to a team. All other
players are drafted to a team roster. At the conclusion of each season, all teams are dissolved
and players are returned to a player pool.
5.2 Evaluation Rankings
Following player assessments, the Player Agent will provide each Division Commissioner with the
results, ranking players based on an overall calculated evaluation score. This information will be
reviewed by each Division Commissioner, then provided to each manager. The player ranking
sheet will be utilized as a tool for coaches during each divisional draft and to evaluate parity
across teams upon draft completion.
5.3 Conducting Drafts
The Player Agent or a delegated Board representative will conduct and monitor each divisional
draft in an effort to achieve overall team parity for each division of play. The Division
Commissioner will assist the Player Agent in conducting the draft. Drafts shall be completed
within one week following Skills Day.
5.4 Draft Participants
In addition to the Player Agent, Division Commissioner, and other Board representatives, each
manager and up to one coach per team are allowed to attend and participate in the draft process.
5.5 Secrecy Requirement
Evaluation rankings developed from skills assessments are confidential, and neither players nor
parents shall ever be informed of their evaluation ranking or position in which they were drafted.
Also, managers and coaches must not communicate with any players, parents, or others outside
of the league representatives involved directly in the draft prior to receiving their final roster. If
there is a question regarding a player’s registration data, the Player Agent or designated Board
representative will contact the parents for verification. Willful violation of this secrecy
requirement, at the discretion of the Board, will be considered an act detrimental to the league
and will be addressed per the Three Strikes Policy.
5.6 Player Selection Process
The League’s player selection process for all divisions except Tee Ball will follow the Alternative
Method for Plan B (Redraft) each season, with the following exceptions:
The draft order will be determined by random draw.
The draft will follow a serpentine pattern.
Managers may nominate one coach prior to the draft for approval by the President.
All eligible players for a division will be included in the draft pool. When the number of available
roster spots remaining is equal to the number of undrafted returning divisional players, only
returning players may be selected.
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5.7 Options on Children & Siblings
The following options are available to managers during the player selection process.
(1) Siblings in the Draft Pool
When a player with sibling in the draft pool is drafted, the manager automatically has the
option to draft the sibling on the next turn.
(2) Manager’s Children
If a manager has children eligible for the draft and wishes to draft them, the manager must
submit the option in writing to the Player Agent at least 48 hours prior to the draft. The
manager is required to exercise the option at or before the close of the specific draft round,
depending on the League Age of the children.
(3) Coach’s Children
If a manager’s approved coach nominee has children eligible for the draft and the manager
wishes to draft them, the manager must submit the option in writing to the Player Agent at
least 48 hours prior to the draft. The manager is required to exercise the option at or before
the close of the specific draft round, depending on the League Age of the children.
(4) Draft Rounds
If an option is submitted in writing for the child of a manager or coach, such candidate must
be drafted in or before the draft round indicated by the division and player league age.
Draft A AA AAA AAAA Majors Int. Jrs. Srs.
Round
5 5 6 8, 9 9, 10 9, 10 11 12 13, 14
4 6 7 10 11 11 12 13 15
3 7 8 11 12 12 13 14 16
5.8 Slotting of Manager Options
Once the draft order is determined, approved manager options will be slotted on the draft sheet
in the appropriate draft round as defined for the division of play and league age of the player.
The draft sheet will be made available to all in attendance for review.
5.9 Player Selection Recommendation
As a general rule in drafting players, it would serve managers well to follow the guideline of
selecting solid pitchers, then catchers, then hitters.
5.10 Player Conflicts
Managers are asked to review the player ranking sheet for practice night conflicts prior to drafting
a player. All practice night conflicts must be resolved prior to the release of final rosters.
5.11 Draft Process
The draft will follow a serpentine order. Once the draft commences, each manager has one
minute (60 seconds) to announce their draft pick. If no pick has been announced when time
expires, the next highest ranked player will automatically be picked for that manager and placed
on the draft sheet.
2018 EditionLake Norman Little League | Local Rules 13
5.12 Trades
Following the draft, managers may trade players up until the final rosters are due to the Player
Agent. All trades must be for justifiable reasons, player for player only, by mutual agreement of
the managers, through the Player Agent, and approved by the Board. All trades must be
completed within 48 hours following the draft.
5.13 Players Requesting Release
Players selected for a team who then refuse to play on that team are not eligible that season to
play for another team within the division and shall be reassigned to a lower division team.
5.14 Final Rosters
Final rosters will be provided to managers by the Player Agent within 48 hours following the
trading deadline.
5.15 Welcome Communication
Upon receipt of their final rosters, managers must immediately (within 24 hours) contact their
team with specific team information, including practice plans. Reference the example team
welcome letter located in the Appendix.
5.16 Players Dropping from Roster
Managers must notify the Player Agent and Division Commissioner immediately when a player
drops from a roster due to a family move or otherwise.
2018 EditionLake Norman Little League | Local Rules 14
6 Game Preliminaries
6.1 Field Reservations / Permits
Field reservations / permits provide The League with priority use of town facilities over other
groups within the prescribed dates and times. League sanctioned activities generally include:
Skills evaluations
Coach and player clinics
Team practices and scrimmages
Regular and post-season tournament games
All-Star tournament team practices and games
Any other activity approved in advance by the Board.
6.2 Number of Games
The schedule of games for the regular season will be prepared by the Board and will provide for at
least 12 games (10 games for Senior League) per team against other teams within their respective
division, exclusive of end-of-season divisional tournament games. The Tee Ball schedule will
provide for 8 games per team per season.
6.3 Number of Players
In Tee Ball, all players in attendance may participate each inning on defense and may bat once
each inning.
All Baseball teams must field a minimum of nine (9) defensively players each inning. In the A
(Cactus), AA (Grapefruit), and AAA Minor League Baseball Divisions, teams may field four (4)
outfielders for a maximum of ten (10) defensive players each inning. In the Majors Baseball
Division and below, any team that has only eight players available may borrow one defensive
player from the opponent each inning to field nine defensive players. The borrowed defender
must be the opponent’s last batter in the order for that given inning and must occupy an outfield
position. No out shall be recorded for the missing ninth batter when the team of eight players is
batting. Little League rule 4.16 governs play for the Intermediate, Junior League and Senior
League Baseball Divisions.
All Softball teams must field a minimum of nine (9) defensively players each inning. In the Minor
League Softball Divisions, teams may field four (4) outfielders for a maximum of ten (10) defensive
players each inning. Any team that has only eight players available may borrow one defensive
player from another Lake Norman age-eligible team or the opponent each inning to field nine
defensive players. If the borrowed defender is from the opposing team, she must be the
opponent’s last batter in the order for that given inning and must occupy an outfield position. No
out shall be recorded for the missing ninth batter when the team of eight players is batting.
If any Baseball (Majors and below) or Softball team has less than eight players available for a
scheduled regular season game, the manager must notify the division commissioner and the
opposing manager at least 24 hours in advance to reschedule the game for another date. If a
manager fails to make this notification 24 hours in advance or arrives at the game with less than
eight players, the game shall be forfeited. End of season tournament games are not eligible to be
rescheduled.
2018 EditionLake Norman Little League | Local Rules 15
6.4 Umpires
In Tee Ball, coaches shall act as umpires and maintain control of the game at all times. All
machine-pitch baseball games and all softball games will be assigned one umpire. All player-pitch
baseball games will be assigned two umpires.
6.5 Dugout Assignments
Unless otherwise marked on the dugout fence, the third base dugout shall be the home team
dugout.
6.6 Pregame Warm-ups
Teams are not allowed to take batting practice on the field prior to any game, with the exception
of soft toss into portable nets. Teams may utilize batting cages for up to 15 minutes each. Infield
practice must be completed 5 minutes before game time with each team allowed 10 minutes of
infield practice (visitors are to practice first).
6.7 Game Start Times
Weeknight games typically start at 6:30 pm or 8:15 pm. Divisions participating in a district regular
season schedule may deviate from this due to traffic concerns. The starting time for weekend
games shall be decided by the Board when the schedule is adopted each season.
The umpire will announce the game start time prior to the first at bat and will be the official
timekeeper. The official scorekeeper shall note the game start time in the scorebook. In the case
of game stoppage for any reason, the game clock is not stopped.
6.8 Start of a New Inning
A new inning shall be considered underway immediately upon the last out or last batter of the
previous inning. Once an inning is started it will be played to completion. A new inning shall not
be started after the time limit has expired, except in the event of a tie. If a regulation game is tied
and the time limit has not been reached, extra innings will be played. If a game in extra innings is
still tied after the time limit expires, one additional inning shall be played. If no winner is
determined, then the game will be final and recorded as a tie.
6.9 Weather Cancellations
The Division Commissioner will notify managers at least 30 minutes prior to game time of a
cancellation due to weather. Cancellations due to weather within 30 minutes of game time shall
be called at the field of play. Cancelled games will be rescheduled for the earliest available date.
During all league sanctioned activities, managers shall abide by the Lightning Policy and
Procedures found in the appendix.
6.10 Home Team Responsibilities
The home team manager must provide field equipment (i.e., batting Tee, pitching machine, game
balls) for use by both teams during the game. In addition, the manager in all divisions above Tee
Ball must provide an official scorekeeper to maintain the official game record, and a scoreboard
operator if field is equipped with a scoreboard. After the conclusion of the game, the home team
manager must submit the final game score and pitching records to the Division Commissioner
within 12 hours.
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6.11 Trash Pickup
All participants are responsible for cleaning up trash from the field, dugouts and bleacher areas
after each game.
6.12 Approved Volunteers Allowed on the Field
A maximum of four (4) approved league volunteers (manager, coaches, team parent) shall be
allowed to participate with each team during games. An approved league volunteer must be in
the dugout at all times. Two base coaches are allowed on the field during the game to coach first
and third base. The fielding team is allowed one coach on the field directly in front of the dugout.
The fielding team for Tee Ball and machine-pitch baseball divisions is allowed two coaches behind
the outfielders during play to direct the defensive players. Otherwise, coaches are not allowed in
fair territory, nor allowed to engage umpires until the play is dead and time is called by the
umpire.
Parents and spectators are not allowed in the dugouts or on the field at any time unless invited to
help prepare the field for play or to help an injured player. All parents and spectators are asked
to remain outside the ball field fences and not sit or stand behind the back stop or behind the
dugout fences.
6.13 Coach Pitching
In Tee Ball, a coach-pitcher is allowed to deliver up to five (5) pitches per batter. Another coach is
advised to assist the batter, retrieve pitched balls not put into play, and to set the batting tee in
place as needed.
In the “Rookies” softball division, a player-pitcher will pitch during the first two innings of play,
then a coach-pitcher will pitch the remainder of the game. During the first two innings of play,
the batting team is allowed a coach-pitcher to deliver up to three (3) pitches to a batter each time
the player-pitcher reaches four (4) balls on the batter. Balls and strikes do not carry forward from
the player-pitcher to the coach-pitcher. The batter will be ruled out if the ball is not put into play
after three pitches. The batter is entitled to subsequent pitches if the last pitch is fouled off and
not caught for an out. Once the batter puts the ball into play, the pitching coach must stop
coaching and allow the base coaches to communicate with the base runners. The player-pitcher
shall return for subsequent batters. During the coach-pitch innings (3rd inning and beyond), the
pitching coach may deliver up to five (5) pitches to each batter. The batter will be ruled out after
three strikes or if the ball is not put into play after five pitches.
In the “Minors” softball division, the batting team is allowed a coach-pitcher to deliver up to three
(3) pitches to the batter following four balls to the batter and after there have been three (3)
previously walked batters in the inning. The batter assumes the strike count when the coach-
pitcher enters to pitch. The coach may continue to deliver pitches if the batter fouls off the last
pitch and it is not caught for an out. The player-pitcher returns to pitch with the next batter. The
coach-pitcher returns each time four balls are delivered to subsequent batters during that inning.
6.14 Machine Pitching
The Louisville Slugger Ultimate Pitching Machine is utilized by all machine-pitch divisions of play.
A coach must operate the pitching machine. The pitching machine operator may only coach the
batter while the batter is in the batter’s box. The pitching coach may deliver up to five (5) pitches
to each batter. The batter will be ruled out after three strikes or if the ball is not put into play
after five pitches. The batter is entitled to subsequent pitches if the last pitch is fouled off and
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not caught for an out. Once the batter puts the ball into play, the pitching coach must stop
coaching and allow the base coaches to communicate with the base runners.
6.14.1 Pitching Machine Settings
Pitching machine settings differ slightly depending upon the machine model being utilized (blue
or black machine). The table below provides the proper spring, release lever, and micro
adjustment settings as well as the pitching distance for each machine-pitch divisions of play.
Pitching distance is measured from the back tip of the plate to the front bar of the machine.
MICRO PITCHING
DIVISION SPRING RELEASE LEVER
ADJUSTMENT DISTANCE
A “Cactus” 3 4 (blue) / 3 (black) 3 30 feet
AA “Grapefruit” 8 4 (blue) / 3 (black) 3 46 feet
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6.15 Mandatory Play Rule
This mandatory play rule applies to all divisions of Baseball and Softball, Majors Division and
below. This rule exceeds the requirements outlined in Little League Regulation IV section (i) for
Mandatory Play and applies to every rostered player present at the start of a game except for
disciplinary reasons, injury, or sickness. Players will participate in each game batting in a
continuous batting order, must play two innings defensively by the fourth inning, and must play a
minimum of four innings defensively in a six inning game. No player may sit out defensively
consecutive innings, nor may any player sit defensively twice before another player sits.
PENALTY: The player(s) involved shall start the next scheduled game, play any previous
requirement not completed for Mandatory Play, and the requirement for this game before being
removed.
The manager shall for the:
(a) First Offense – receive a written warning.
(b) Second Offense – be suspended for the next scheduled game.
(c) Third Offense – be suspended for the remainder of the season.
If the violation is determined to have been intentional, this unsportsmanlike conduct by the
manager may be addressed per the Three Strikes Policy.
6.16 Defensive Positioning
Tee Ball: No infielder may start the play any closer than 10 feet in front of first and third base.
The player positioned at pitcher must start with both feet on the pitching rubber. The pitcher
cannot leave the pitching rubber before the ball is hit. Outfielders must be positioned in the
outfield grass prior to the start of play. Infielders shall be encouraged to throw the ball to the first
baseman to make plays at first base rather than rolling the ball or running with the ball to make a
play. Outfielders may not make a play on the infield, but rather, must throw or hand the ball to
an infielder. Defensive players shall not chase after a runner in order to record an out. Except in
a normal rundown, defensive players are expected to throw the ball to make a play on the runner.
Minor League Machine-Pitch Divisions: The defensive pitcher position player must play to the
right or left side of the pitching machine within one foot of the pitching machine. The pitcher
should only move forward once the ball has been hit. The pitcher should attempt a throw to a
base or home plate to record an out.
6.17 Defensive Rotations
Tee Ball: Managers shall rotate Tee Ball players defensively so that they do not play the same
position more than once per game. Managers are also encouraged to rotate players during
innings if opportunities present themselves to align players at positions where batted balls are
often fielded (pitcher, first base, second base).
Softball (Minor League) and Baseball (AAA division and below): No player may play more than
three (3) innings at the same position in one game, including pitchers and catchers.
6.18 Player Disciplinary Rule
A manager may refuse to play a player for disciplinary reasons. The manager must notify the
Player Agent and Division Commissioner within twenty-four (24) hours of the occurrence of
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disciplinary action. In addition, the manager must notify the player and parents of the disciplinary
action as well as the opposing team manager.
6.19 Base Runner Advancement Restrictions
Base runner advancement on batted balls and overthrows differs by division of play. These rules
are instituted to encourage teaching players to make the proper play without concern early in
their development about runners advancing at-will.
Tee Ball Advancement Rule:
Tee Ball base runners advance only one base at a time with the exception of the last
batter of the inning who is allowed to round the bases. There are no base runner
advancements on overthrows of any base.
Advancement Rule A:
This rule applies to the A “Cactus” Minor League Baseball Division.
Base runners may not advance once an infielder has possession of the ball in the infield
unless the base runners are more than halfway to the next base. There are no base
runner advancements on overthrows of any base.
Advancement Rule B:
This rule applies to the AA “Grapefruit” Minor League Baseball Division and Rookies
Minor League Softball Division.
The fielding team must stop the lead runner or get the third out. Once forward progress
of the lead runner is stopped, time is called. Any trailing runner more than halfway to the
next base may advance if the next base is open. Base runners may attempt to advance
only ONE BASE TOTAL at their own risk on overthrows of any base, even if a subsequent
throw is also an overthrow.
Advancement Rule C:
This rule applies to the AAA Minor League Baseball Division and Minors Minor League
Softball Division.
Base runners may not advance unless they are more than halfway to the next base once a
fielder has possession of the ball on the pitching mound (baseball) or within the pitching
circle (softball). On a batted ball put into play, base runners may attempt to advance only
ONE BASE TOTAL at their own risk on overthrows of any base, even if a subsequent throw
is also an overthrow. No advancement to home base is allowed on an overthrow from
the catcher in an attempted pick off.
Advancement Rule D:
This rule applies to the AAAA Minor League Baseball Division and Majors Baseball
Division.
Base runners may not advance unless they are more than halfway to the next base once a
fielder has possession of the ball on the pitching mound. Base runners may attempt to
advance at their own risk on overthrows of any base.
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7 All-Stars
The League participates in Little League International’s All-Stars tournaments at the completion of
each spring season. Players from each team are nominated for the opportunity to represent The
League as All-Stars and compete against other leagues within North Carolina District 3 during the
month of June with the potential to advance to the State Tournament in July. At the Little League
“Majors” Division and above, teams that win the State Tournament advance to the Southeast
Regional Tournament where the winner advances to the World Series.
Tournament Location
Baseball Little League Baseball World Series Williamsport, PA
Intermediate 50/70 Baseball World Series Livermore, CA
Junior League Baseball World Series Taylor, MI
Senior League Baseball World Series Easley, SC
Softball Little League Softball World Series Portland, OR
Junior League Softball World Series Kirkland, WA
Senior League Softball World Series Lower Sussex, DE
7.1 Tournament of Champions (TOC)
The District TOC is considered a “special games” tournament for our local district only with no
advancement. The tournament typically begins the second Saturday of June and concludes by the
following Friday with no advancement. The tournament consists of 3-4 pool-play games followed
by a single elimination championship bracket for the top four teams. Teams play one game per
day unless weather delays result in the necessity to schedule multiple games on a given day.
Game schedules and locations are set by Little League officials. Weekday games are in the
evening (6:00 pm and 8:00 pm start times). Weekend games are held all day and into the
evening.
7.2 TOC Player Eligibility
All players who have participated in at least 60% of the regular season games in the divisions
outlined during the Spring Season are eligible for the tournament provided:
(1) The player meets the Little League age specific criteria outlined below;
– AND –
(2) The player resides or attends a school located within the league boundary, OR the player
has a Little League Waiver providing regular season privileges on file with The League.
TOC Division League Age Participation Divisions
6’s 6 Minor League Division
7’s 7 Minor League Division
8’s 8 Minor League Division
9’s 9 Minor League Player-Pitch Division
10’s 10 Majors or Minor League Player-Pitch Division
11’s 11 Majors or Minor League Player-Pitch Division
Majors Division, Intermediate Baseball Division,
12’s 12
or Junior League Softball Division
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7.3 District Tournament
The District Tournament is the first stage of Little League’s International Tournament.
Tournament games typically begin the fourth Saturday of June and conclude by the following
Friday. District champions (and typically runner-ups in machine-pitch) are invited to advance to
the State Tournament in July. At the Majors Division and above, teams that win the State
Tournament advance to the Southeast Regional Tournament where the winner advances to the
World Series. District Tournaments consist of a double elimination format. Teams play one game
per day unless weather delays result in the necessity to schedule multiple games on a given day.
Game schedules and locations are set by Little League officials. Weekday games are in the
evening (6:00 pm and 8:00 pm start times). Weekend games are held all day and into the
evening.
7.4 District Tournament Player Eligibility
All players who have participated in at least 60% of the regular season games in the divisions
outlined during the Spring Season are eligible for the tournament provided:
(1) The player meets the Little League age specific criteria outlined below;
– AND –
(2) The player resides or attends a school located within the league boundary.
(Note: players that do not meet the residency or school attendance requirement and
have a waiver granting regular season privileges only are not eligible for the District
Tournament and beyond.)
LL Division League Ages Participation Divisions
6-7 6-7 Minor League Division
7-8 7-8 Minor League Division
8-9 8-9 Minor League Player-Pitch Division
8-10 8-10 Majors or Minor League Player-Pitch Division
9-11 9-11 Majors or Minor League Player-Pitch Division
Majors Division, Intermediate Baseball
Majors 10-12
Division, or Junior League Softball Division
Intermediate 11-13 Intermediate Division
Junior League 12-14 Junior League or Senior League
Senior League 13-16 Junior League or Senior League
*Note: For Junior Tournament eligibility, Senior League players must have played in a minimum of
8 games.
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7.5 Documentation Requirements
All players selected to participate in All-Stars must provide the following documentation. The
League encourages parents to complete the School Enrollment Form as the simplest method of
providing residency proof, assuming the player attends a school within the league boundary.
(1) An ORIGINAL Birth Certificate (copies are not acceptable) to be returned to the parents
at the completion of summer All-Stars tournament play
(2) Tournament Player Verification Form, completed and signed by a parent/legal guardian
(3) Medical Release Form, completed and signed by a parent/legal guardian
(4) Residency Proof:
a. School Enrollment Form, completed and signed by a parent/legal guardian and
the player’s school administrator,
– OR –
b. One or more documents from EACH of these three groups:
7.6 Commitment Requirement
It is considered an honor to be selected to participate as an All-Star representing The League.
Because only a select few are chosen for this opportunity each year, The League requires parents
to fully understand the commitment required and to submit the Postseason Commitment Form
prior to their child being considered for All-Star participation. All-Star practices begin immediately
following The League’s regular season championships and often occur daily leading up to
tournament play. Missing a few practices and even a game does not necessarily prevent selection
to an All-Star team; however missing an entire week takes an opportunity away from another
player who could commit to preparing with the team.
7.7 Uniforms
All-Star Uniforms must be purchased by parents of players participating on an All-Star team and
will consist of the following.
Jersey: Navy/Columbia Blue color scheme; jersey number on the front and back; “Lake
Norman” across front; player’s last name displayed on the back of the jersey; Little
League patch on the sleeve.
Practice Shirts / Alternate Jersey (2): Lake Norman branded dri-fit practice shirts with
jersey number on the back; Little League patch on the sleeve. These may be worn by
teams as an alternate to the jersey if necessary.
Hat: “LKN” fitted hat/visor/headband.
Socks: color to match team colors.
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Belt: color to match team colors.
Pants: white pants with navy piping (baseball) or black pants (softball) to be provided by
parents.
7.8 Selection of Players
Managers, coaches, and players may nominate up to five players from their team for All-Stars.
All-Star nominees are then voted on by managers, coaches, division commissioners and board
directors. The board will then decide if teams can be formed from these results or if tryouts for
any specific All-Star teams is necessary.
7.9 Selection of Managers & Coaches
The Coaches Committee will nominate managers and coaches from the eligible divisions of play
outlined below. Managers and coaches are not required to have a child selected to a team to be
on an All-Star staff. Final approval of each manager and coach will be made by the President.
TOC’s District All-Stars Eligible Managers & Coaches
6’s - Minor League Division
7’s 6-7-Year-Old Division Minor League Division
8’s 7-8-Year-Old Division Minor League Division
9’s 8-9-Year-Old Division Majors or Minor League Player-Pitch Divisions
10’s 8- to 10-Year-Old Division Majors or Minor League Player-Pitch Divisions
11’s 9- to 11-Year-Old Division Majors or Minor League Player-Pitch Divisions
12’s Majors Division Majors Division
- Intermediate Division Intermediate Baseball Division
- Junior League Junior or Senior League
- Senior League Junior or Senior League
7.10 Tryouts
If All-Star Tryouts are required to finalize a team roster, The League will establish and
communicate dates for this to occur by the end of May each year. Multiple age-specific tryouts
may be scheduled to finalize the rosters. Although Little League provides flexibility with split age
ranges for each of the divisions, it is The League’s intent that the Majors team be made up
primarily of 12-year-olds, the 9- to 11-year-old team be made up primarily of 11-year-olds, and so
forth. Final team assignments will be determined by The League.
(1) Tryouts Session #1:
Players will be evaluated on the following skills:
SPEED: home plate to first base timed and recorded
ARM STRENGTH: players throw from right field to third base. Throws will be graded on
distance & accuracy.
ARM ACCURACY: three balls are thrown to the outfielder at different angles/depths.
Players must track down fly ball, then find and hit the cut-off man or throw accurately to
third base.
FIELDING/THROWING: five balls are thrown to the fielder:
o INFIELD: balls are thrown directly at the player, to the player’s glove side, and to
the player’s backhand. Additionally, the player will field a hop and a slow roller.
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o
OUTFIELD: balls are thrown directly at the player, to the player’s glove side, and
to the player’s backhand. Additionally, the player will field a shallow fly and a
deep ball.
HITTING: Players will get approximately 10 swings.
(2) Tryouts Session #2 (Specialty Positions) – if required:
This session only applies for the 8-9-year-old Division and above. If the league determines
that this session is required, specialty players (pitchers, catchers, & first basemen) will be
asked to attend this tryout session.
PITCHERS: throw bullpen, banana routes, etc.
CATCHERS: block pitches, recover, throw down to bases, throw vs. runners
FIRST BASEMEN: work bananas and picks from left side of the infield
(3) Tryouts Session #3 (Scrimmage) – if required:
If the league determines that this session is required, up to 20 players will be notified and
invited to participate in a scrimmage game. The scrimmage will be conducted and coached
like a real All-Star game. Players are expected to demonstrate game situational knowledge
and compete at the highest level possible. Pitchers will throw a maximum of three outs or to
five batters total (whichever occurs first). Game situations may be created by the coaching
staff each inning.
7.11 Player Notifications
Per Little League guidelines, the release of names of players selected to The League’s All-Star
Teams shall not be made before June 1st and not until the availability and eligibility of all
prospective team members has been established. All parents of players nominated for All-Stars
will be notified via email. Tournament teams shall consist of a maximum of fourteen players, one
manager, and two coaches. Senior League teams may have up to sixteen players.
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8 Appendix
8.1 Player Agent Responsibilities
The Player Agent is an officer on the Board. The Player Agent shall:
Receive and review player registrations and assist the President in verifying residence and
age eligibility.
Conduct player skill evaluations, the selection of players (drafts), and all other player
transaction or selection meetings.
Record all player transactions and maintain an accurate and up-to-date record thereof.
Prepare team rosters and the tournament team eligibility affidavit for the President’s
approval and submission to Little League.
Notify Little League of any subsequent player replacements or trades.
Assign all players in the Tee Ball divisions with the assistance of the Division
Commissioner.
8.2 Division Commissioner Responsibilities
Each division has a volunteer Division Commissioner (DC) approved by the Board who is a
member of the Coaches Committee. The DC is a liaison between the Board and managers. The
DC shall operate in accordance with Little League rules and these policies. Responsibilities that
the DC may carry out include:
Assist with determining the appropriate number of divisional teams.
Recruit and nominate managers and coaches for the division.
Assist the Safety Officer to assure volunteers are approved following a comprehensive
background check.
Send welcome communication to managers and obtain practice night requests to be
provided to the Master Scheduler.
Review Local Rules with managers and coaches.
Distribute Board communications to managers and consolidate responses.
Assist the Player Agent with skill evaluations, the selection of players (draft), and
coordinating trades.
Assist the Equipment Manager in getting equipment picked up and returned by managers.
Communicate practice schedules, game schedules, and in-season schedule changes to
managers.
Participate in coaching clinics.
Distribute uniforms to managers.
Attend and observe games when possible. Be the go-to person for families in the division
with questions, concerns, or problems. In the event of serious problems, escalate the
issue to the Coaching Coordinator, Vice President, and President.
Set up and put away scoreboard controllers, if available.
Monitor pitching rules and adherence of managers and coaches to these Local Rules.
Collect and input game scores on the league website.
Coordinate post season tournament games.
Assist in monitoring and coordinating pictures.
Assist with opening day and championship night activities.
Collect end of season player evaluations from managers.
Support the needs of the Safety Officer for completion of the annual ASAP submittal.
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8.3 Baseball League Age
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8.4 Softball League Age
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