Nordonia Hills Athletic Association
NHAA
Managers Handbook
http://NHAA.LeagueToolbox.com
NHAAManagersHandbook
TableofContents
Nordonia Hills Athletic Association Objectives & Philosophy ......................................................... 4 General Information ........................................................................................................................ 5 NHAA Leagues ............................................................................................................................. 5 Communications .......................................................................................................................... 5 Post Practice/Game Clean‐Up ..................................................................................................... 6 Equipment ....................................................................................................................................... 7 NHAA Provided Equipment ......................................................................................................... 7 Managers Responsibility ............................................................................................................. 7 Equipment Condition for Play ..................................................................................................... 8 Bat Types and Dimensions .......................................................................................................... 8 Responsibilities of Managers and Coaches ..................................................................................... 9 Responsibilities of Managers ....................................................................................................... 9 Assistant Coaches ........................................................................................................................ 9 Parent Liaison .............................................................................................................................. 9 Required Manager Training ......................................................................................................... 9 Sportsmanship ............................................................................................................................... 10 Code of Conduct ............................................................................................................................ 11 Code of Conduct – Managers & Coaches .................................................................................. 11 Conduct of Managers, Coaches, Players and Spectators .......................................................... 11 Disciplinary Policy .......................................................................................................................... 13 Unsportsmanlike Conduct Policy ............................................................................................... 13 Physical Contact Policy .............................................................................................................. 13 Harassment Policy ..................................................................................................................... 14 Sexual Harassment Policy .......................................................................................................... 15 Scorekeeping ................................................................................................................................. 16 Scheduling & Field Playability ........................................................................................................ 17 Rain outs .................................................................................................................................... 17 Scheduling ................................................................................................................................. 17 Protests .......................................................................................................................................... 19 2012Season
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Umpire Information ....................................................................................................................... 20 Uniforms, Attire, Jewelry ............................................................................................................... 21 NHAA All‐Star Games .................................................................................................................... 22 NHAA Playoff Tournaments ........................................................................................................... 24 Player Ratings ................................................................................................................................ 25 NHAA Player RATINGS SHEET: BASEBALL & SOFTBALL ............................................................. 26 NHAA Blood Rule ........................................................................................................................... 27 TIE ‐ BREAKER RULE ....................................................................................................................... 28 NHAA Permanent Playing Rules .................................................................................................... 29 A: General Rules ........................................................................................................................ 29 B: Field Layout ........................................................................................................................... 32 C: Double Bases ......................................................................................................................... 32 D: Fielding Team Size ................................................................................................................. 32 TEE BALL LEAGUES ......................................................................................................................... 33 BABE RUTH 1st GRADE BOYS ......................................................................................................... 34 ROBERTO CLEMENTE ..................................................................................................................... 35 WILLIE MAYS .................................................................................................................................. 36 PEE‐WEE REESE .............................................................................................................................. 37 SANDY KOUFAX ............................................................................................................................. 38 GIRLS MANAGER PITCH SOFTBALL ................................................................................................ 39 GIRLS SOFTBALL (A, AA, AAA) ........................................................................................................ 40 2012Season
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Nordonia Hills Athletic Association
Objectives & Philosophy
It is the vision of the Nordonia Hills Athletic Association (NHAA) to be recognized by
its membership, players, managers, coaches and neighboring communities as being the
premier youth athletic program in Northeast Ohio.
The NHAA Baseball/Softball Program is, first and foremost, an instructionally based
sports program to be enjoyed by all players - regardless of skill, race, sex, creed or
circumstance. Through involvement in NHAA Baseball/Softball, players will have the
opportunity to:
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Develop fundamental baseball/softball skills
Learn and experience the ideals of sportsmanship, honesty, integrity, loyalty and
respect
Socialize with their peers
Develop leadership qualities
Actively participate as a team member
The NHAA will also endeavor to meet the needs of more advanced players through
volunteer-driven participation in sanctioned competitive-level programs and tournaments.
These activities, while secondary to the programs with instructional/recreational focus,
will be encouraged and nurtured by the NHAA, but will never be allowed to be
exclusionary in nature or the primary focus of this organization. At all times, the NHAA,
its members, managers, coaches and umpires will:
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Place the emotional well-being and physical development of our players before all
other needs.
Recruit, educate, support and retain the best managers/coaches and umpires
possible.
Assure that rules and processes maintain the philosophy and focus of the program.
Ensure that all managers, coaches, commissioners, board members and support
personnel be held accountable for delivering the level of program expected and
desired.
Explore and create new opportunities that will extend the impact of the program,
and enhance the experience of our players.
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General Information
NHAA Leagues
The NHAA is comprised of the following baseball/softball programs for young men and
women:
Girls
T-Ball
Manager Pitch
A League
AA League
AAA League
10U Travel
12U Travel
14U Travel
K & 1st Grade
2nd & 3rd Grades
4th & 5th Grades
6th, 7th, & 8th Grades
9th – 12th Grades
Girls minimum 10 years old
Girls minimum 12 years old
Girls minimum 14 years old
Boys
T-Ball
Babe Ruth
Roberto Clemente
Willie Mays
Pee Wee Reese
Sandy Koufax
Colt
Connie Mack
10U Travel
12U Travel
14U Travel
Kindergarten
1st Grade
2nd Grade
3rd & 4th Grades
5th & 6th Grade
7th & 8th Grades
9th & 10th Grades
11th & 12th Grades
Boys minimum 10 years old
Boys minimum 12 years old
Boys minimum 14 years old
Communications
Do not call the trustees before 9am or after 10 pm.
If you have a problem or question contact your league trustee. Problems/issues related to
league play should be documented as best as possible in an email to the league
commissioner allowing at least 24 hour “cooling off” period to lapse. A list of current
NHAA officers and trustees is listed on the NHAA website.
Please check for updates on upcoming events on the website.
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Post Practice/Game Clean-Up
NHAA is a community organization and thus a sense of pride and responsibility should
be taken for the facilities used.
It is the responsibility of both teams to pick up the trash and garbage around the field at
the end of a practice or game. Teams with the final game of the evening have ultimate
responsibility for the condition of their side of the playing field, including trash and
garbage around the field, in the dugouts, and the bleachers.
Each Manager is responsible for their bench area and ensuring their players clean up after
themselves. Managers are encouraged to bring a trash bag and together with the players
and parents, leave the field and surrounding areas cleaner than it was found.
Managers are asked to report any violations of this policy to their League Commissioner
as soon as possible, including the date, time and location of the problem.
This policy will be strongly enforced by the NHAA. Failure to adhere to this policy can
result in action by the Board of Trustees.
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Equipment
NHAA Provided Equipment
Each Manager will be assigned sufficient and safe playing equipment for his/her team.
Managers will be solely responsible for all equipment signed out to them.
Managers or their designee must pick up equipment on the date designated. At the time of
pick-up, check all equipment against the sign-out sheet, sign your name and give your
home phone number.
Call the Equipment Manager for any additional equipment or to replace any equipment
that becomes broken or is otherwise rendered unsafe. Return any broken NHAA
equipment to the Equipment Manager.
The NHAA will select the type and quality of baseball and softball to be used for
practices and in league play. In no case may any baseball or softball other than that
established for that age league be used in regular season or playoff games. Each Manager
will be issued a sufficient supply of both practice and game balls for the coming season.
Managers must return all equipment at the completion of the season. If equipment is not
returned by Sept. 1, the Manager may lose his/her seniority as a returning manager.
Managers are responsible for any missing equipment. The Manager may request an
extension if the equipment is required for tournament play.
Failure to return equipment by Oct. 1 will result in the Manager being billed $300 by the
NHAA. Failure to pay that bill by Dec. 1 will result in the Manager being summoned to
Small Claims Court, paying all NHAA court costs, and being barred from managing in
the NHAA in the future.
Managers Responsibility
Managers must supply their own equipment to properly lay out a ball field, including
measuring tape and hammer, and any shovels or rakes needed to prepare the field. The
NHAA assumes no responsibility for the use of or condition of Manager or Assistant
Coach-supplied equipment.
Each team must provide at least one (1) new game ball prior to the start of each game.
Practice baseballs or softballs may not to be used for game play.
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Equipment Condition for Play
Any equipment; whether supplied by the NHAA or by a player that exhibits any damage
to the extent that it could be dangerous to use must be removed from play immediately.
Bat Types and Dimensions
Only NHAA-approved bats may be used in all baseball and softball leagues. Players may
not use any bat that does not conform to NHAA rules or any bat that has been
mechanically altered, changed or modified from its original structure. This does not
including handle taping, providing such tape does not extend beyond a distance equal to
one-third the measured length of the bat.
For all leagues, metal or composite bats are permitted for game play. No wood bats are
allowed for any league play. Specific league requirements are as follows:
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T-Ball Leagues, Roberto Clemente and Willie Mays: Bats are to have a diameter
no greater than 2¼ inches.
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Pee Wee Reese and Sandy Koufax: Bats are to have a diameter no greater than 2¾
inches.
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Colt and Connie Mack: Bat dimensions will be dictated by the rules of those
leagues.
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All Softball Leagues: Bats designed and stamped for softball use, may be used.
Bats are to have a diameter no greater than 2¼ inches.
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Responsibilities of Managers and Coaches
Responsibilities of Managers
The responsibility of the Manager is to run his/her team in a manner that is consistent
with the ideals of the NHAA, and that ensures all the players on the teams assigned to
them, together with their parents, know and observe the rules and policies of the NHAA.
The Manager is responsible for the conduct of all Assistant Coaches, players, parents,
fans and any other individuals under his charge.
Assistant Coaches
Each Manager may select one uniformed Assistant Coach for his/her team. Other
assistants may be selected to help with games, practices, warming up players or
scorekeeping. It is the responsibility of the Assistant Coach to assist the Manager to
facilitate the smooth execution of the NHAA season. The Assistant Coach should also
fill in for the Manager when not available for NHAA play or meetings.
Parent Liaison
Managers may also appoint a parent liaison to assist the Manager with communications
between the Manager and the team parents. This person(s) can coordinate parent
involvement in maintaining our facilities, cleaning up after games, and staffing the
concession stand (as needed). This also includes other activities such as the team's
participation in special events, Team Picture Day, fundraisers, and any post-season team
parties and/or trophies. All such person(s) appointed by the Manager are his/her
responsibility.
Required Manager Training
All Managers must receive training and certification from the NYSCA prior to the start of
pre-season practices. Managers must also participate in any special training programs
established by the NHAA.
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Sportsmanship
Unsportsmanlike conduct of any kind by Managers, Assistant Coaches, players or
spectators will not be tolerated.
Managers and Coaches will conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner at all times
and should always be an example of good sportsmanship for his/her players and the
spectators.
An umpire may, but is not required to, warn the offending team regarding any offensive
or unsportsmanlike conduct (including, but not limited to, using foul or abusive language,
throwing equipment or objects, threatening others, or excessive arguing, etc.) by any
Manager, Assistant Coach, player or spectator. If after such warning is given, the
offensive behavior continues, play will be suspended temporarily to provide the Manager
an opportunity to correct the situation. If the offensive behavior is not immediately
corrected, the umpire shall have complete authority to eject any party from the game,
bench or spectator stands.
Any warning given by an umpire regarding unsportsmanlike conduct will be considered a
team warning; that is, any subsequent unsportsmanlike conduct by any other person
connected with that team shall bring an immediate ejection of the offending party.
If any Manager, Assistant Coach, player or spectator is ejected, the umpire must submit a
complete report of the action taken, including all facts and factors involved, to the League
Commissioner and the NHAA's Head Umpire within 24 hours of the incident. The
League Commissioner will report this information directly to the Board of Trustees
immediately.
Any delay in the game caused by any offensive or unsportsmanlike conduct of any
Manager, Assistant Coach, player or spectator shall not affect the running time of the
game. The game clock will continue as if no delay occurred.
There will be no choral chanting or other form of verbal harassment of one team by
another, of one player by another and, of one parent to another. Cheering for your team
may be done. No personal name calling of the opponent is permitted.
In any case, whether or not ejected, a party interfering with any umpire's control of the
game is subject to probation or suspension by the NHAA Board of Trustees in
accordance to the Disciplinary Policy herein.
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Code of Conduct
Code of Conduct – Managers & Coaches
Managers and Assistant Coaches are required to represent and follow league rules and
policies at all times. All Managers and Assistant Coaches must sign a "Code of Conduct"
form as presented by the NHAA, and deliver a signed copy to their League
Commissioner. Any complaints about the actions of a Manager or Assistant Coach will
be reviewed by the Board of Trustees and may result in a suspension.
Conduct of Managers, Coaches, Players and Spectators
Managers and Assistant Coaches are absolutely not permitted to smoke or chew tobacco
products on the playing field, in the coach's boxes or in the team bench area.
No Manager or any member of his staff will appear at any game or practice under the
influence of alcohol or illegal drugs.
Managers are solely and totally responsible for the conduct of their team, including all
players, parents, siblings and spectators. The Manager shall discourage, and make every
effort to prevent, harassment of opposing players and umpires by his/her players and
spectators in accordance to the Sportsmanship policy herein.
Managers and Assistant Coaches or parents may not coach from behind the backstop or
from the stands. Managers and Assistant Coaches must remain in the bench area or the
coach's boxes.
Spectators must stay off the playing field and must not interfere with the progress of the
game.
The use of profanity by players, Managers or Assistant Coaches will not be tolerated, and
can result in immediate ejection from a game.
A Manager has the right to discipline his/her players for unsportsmanlike conduct or use
of profanity at any time. The Manager must notify both the League Commissioner and
the Trustee in charge of the league of any disciplinary suspensions. In no case may a
disciplinary suspension last more than one game. All such suspensions shall be reviewed
by the Board of Trustees.
An umpire may immediately eject any player, Manager, Assistant Coach or spectator for
violating any of the rules in this section, except for the smoking provision. In this case,
the umpire is to give a bench warning for the first occurrence of smoking by a Manager
or Assistant Coach. On a second occurrence by the Manager or any Assistant Coach in
that game, the offender AND the Manager will be ejected from the game.
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Any adult (Manager, Assistant Coach or spectator) who is ejected from a game must
leave the playing area and move to the parking lot before play resumes. Any player or
child who is ejected may remain in the playing area as long as he/she is silent.
Any Manager, Assistant Coach or player who is ejected from a game is automatically
suspended for the following game, including any make-ups or playoff games.
All ejections must be reported to the League Commissioner and to the Head Umpire that
day by both Managers and by the game umpire. The League Commissioner then is to
notify both the Trustee in charge of the league, and the Manager of the next team the
offending team will play. If the reason for an ejection is of such a nature as to discredit or
cause harm to the NHAA, the Board of Trustees may permanently suspend the individual
from the Association.
Any Manager, Assistant Coach or player ejected from two games during a season must
meet with the Board of Trustees, who may suspend the individual for the remainder of
the season or otherwise as it so chooses.
If a Manager is ejected, he/she may designate a member of the coaching staff to act as
manager for the balance of the game. If no other Assistant Coach is present, the umpire
may designate a parent to act as manager.
Any actual physical attack or threat of physical attack on any official of the game (which
includes umpires, Trustees, Managers or Assistant Coaches) by anyone will result in
automatic expulsion from the Association. A written report of such action must be
submitted to the Board of Trustees within 24 hours of the incident by all parties involved
and will be ruled on by the Board and the Head Umpire.
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Disciplinary Policy
The NHAA Board of Trustees reserves the right to ensure the safety and reputation of the
organization and the General Membership.
All reports of unsportsmanlike conduct, physical contact, or verbal harassment by
umpires, Managers, Coaches, or from the General Membership will evaluated and dealt
with by the Board of Trustees.
Unsportsmanlike Conduct Policy
Any Manager, Assistant Coach, player, or spectator ejected from a game for
unsportsmanlike conduct will receive at least a one game suspension, which must be
served for the next scheduled game. Any suspended player is required to serve their
suspension on the bench during his/her team's next game. Any Manager or Assistant
Coach suspended for any reason may not coach or attend any game held during the
period he/she is suspended. Any suspended spectator may not attend any game during
the period he/she is suspended.
Any Manager or Assistant Coach who fails to properly serve his/her suspension shall be
suspended for the remainder of the current season and may be permanently suspended by
the NHAA Board of Trustees.
The NHAA Board of Trustees reserves the right to suspend any player, Manager or
Assistant Coach for more than one game. A second suspension (of any length) during a
season will result in expulsion from the NHAA.
Any spectator suspended more than one time may be subject to criminal charges with the
NHAA serving as complainant.
Physical Contact Policy
Any Manager, Assistant Coach or player who makes any offensive or threatening
physical contact with the umpires, or another Manager, Assistant Coach, player or
spectator shall be automatically ejected from the game and suspended for at least one
game.
Any spectator or outside party not directly affiliated with the NHAA who make offensive
or threatening physical contact or threatens such contact against any umpire, Manager,
Assistant Coach, player or other spectator shall be ejected from the game, and is subject
to criminal charges with the NHAA serving as complainant.
Pending a review by the NHAA Board of Trustees, an individual ejected for physical
contact or threatened physical contact may be suspended or banned from any further
participation in NHAA programs for any period deemed appropriate.
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Harassment Policy
All reports of verbal or physical harassment towards Umpires, Managers, Coaches,
players or spectators will be evaluated by the Board of Trustees. Harassment can
generally be defined as comment or conduct, directed toward an individual or group of
individuals, which is insulting, intimidating, humiliating, malicious, degrading or
offensive.
Types of behavior which constitute harassment include, but are not limited to:
 Written or verbal abuse or threats
 Display of visual material which is offensive or which one ought to know is
offensive
 Unwelcome remarks, jokes, comments, innuendo or taunting about a person’s
looks, body, attire, age, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation
 Leering or other suggestive or obscene gestures
 Condescending, paternalistic or patronizing behavior which is intended to
undermine self-esteem, diminish performance or adversely affect the environment
 Practical jokes which cause awkwardness or embarrassment endanger a person’s
safety or negatively affect performance
Any reported violations of the Harassment Policy will be subject to the following:
First Offense: After a meeting of the Board of Trustees, a written warning letter to the
person(s) with details of the incident and possible repercussions and disciplinary actions.
The person(s) may request a meeting with the Board of Trustees; however the
involvement of the person(s) who raised the complaint is not required to attend.
Second Offense: After a meeting of the Board of Trustees, a second written warning
letter to the person(s) with details of the incident will be issued. A meeting with the
Board of Trustees will be required by those receiving the complaint letter. The person(s)
who raised the complaint are also required. In the case of a minor, the parent is also
required to attend. As a result of this meeting, the Board of Trustees may issue a 1 game
suspension or implement other contact limiting requirements.
Third Offense: The person(s) are subject to immediate permanent suspension for the
remaining season and must petition the Board of Trustees for reinstatement back into the
NHAA.
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Sexual Harassment Policy
NHAA is committed to maintaining a safe environment that is free from sexual
harassment and sexual abuse, where all members can enjoy playing, coaching, and
watching baseball/softball together comfortably. NHAA prohibits any form of sexual
harassment or sexual abuse. For the purposes of this policy:
Sexual harassment consists of:
 Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated
physical conduct or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a
sexual nature.
 Written contact that contains sexually suggestive or obscene notes, drawings or
letters.
 Verbal contact that includes sexually suggestive or obscene comments, jokes or
comments about a member’s body or sexual characteristics.
 Sexual blackmail constitutes sexual behavior to control another member’s
placement on a team or to a coaching position.
Sexual abuse consists of:
 Any sexual physical contact with a minor. Physical contact could include any
intentional pats, squeezes, touches, and pinches, repeatedly brushing up against.
It shall be a violation of this policy for any player, coach, or other NHAA member to
sexually harass, through conduct or communication of sexual nature, any player, coach,
or other NHAA member. It shall be a violation of this policy for any player, coach, or
other NHAA member to sexually abuse any player, coach, or other NHAA member.
In situations involving adults, any sexual advances or sexual conduct constitutes a
violation of this policy and will be at the discretion of the person filing the complaint to
pursue involvement of local law enforcement. The Board of Trustees reserves the right
to immediately suspend or expel the person(s) from the NHAA.
In situations involving minors, ANY sexual advances or sexual conduct constitutes a
violation of this policy. Any complaints of this nature will be immediately directed to
local law enforcement.
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Scorekeeping
The Home Team in all games is the official scorekeeper.
It is the responsibility of each team's Manager to have a scorekeeper that can successfully
and completely keep score.
All Managers are responsible for keeping complete scorebooks, including all pitching
innings.
At all times, the player's last name and numbers must be shown in the scorebook for each
game.
Winning team must report the score of the game within 48 hours to their appropriate
league trustee by phone or by email. Failure to do so will result in a double forfeit.
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Scheduling & Field Playability
Rain outs
NHAA games are scheduled at a variety of fields within our community.
Unplayable field conditions for games scheduled for play at Sagamore Hills Park or
Longwood Park in Macedonia are provided by the respective communities. This
information will be communicated out via the NHAA website.
Unplayable field conditions for all other NHAA game locations are the responsibility of
the playing team managers. Managers together should evaluate the field conditions and
determine the playability.
If the field is determined to be unplayable, please contact the scheduler ASAP in the
event a game is cancelled so that the umpires can be cancelled.
Rainout games must be rescheduled with your trustee within 48 hrs. Your individual
league trustee will contact the scheduler with makeup dates for umpires.
Please contact the umpire scheduler ASAP in the event a game is cancelled so that
the umpires can be cancelled.
Scheduling
The NHAA Scheduling Director will schedule all practices and games for each league.
Any games that are rescheduled must be done through the League Commissioner and
Umpire Scheduler.
Unless otherwise changed by the NHAA or the Scheduling Director, all games are to be
played per the issued schedule. Except for school related activities or other NHAAapproved functions, there will be no rescheduling of games due to personal commitments,
unavailability of players, holidays, etc.
Because of the length of the season and field availability, all effort should be made to
play every game. If it has rained earlier in the day; Managers are asked to bring shovels
and rakes, get to the field early and attempt to get the field into safe, playable condition.
Player safety must be the primary concern. Fields should not be used for practices or
games if there is a chance someone could get hurt. Both Managers should confer and
decide if the game can be played. In the case of all-day rain, if both Managers agree
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ahead of time that the field is not playable, they should notify the Umpire Scheduler and
League Commissioner immediately.
Managers should advise their players and parents that unless the Manager contacts them,
they should show up for games and practices regardless of the weather.
Once a game starts, the head umpire for the game is responsible for deciding field
playability, he/she, at their option, may call for a 15- minute rain delay. Managers should
remind parents and players to stay during a delay as the team could forfeit if it does not
have enough players to resume the game.
In the event that lightning is spotted in the vicinity of the field, the head umpire will
either call for a 15-minute weather delay or suspend the game.
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Protests
Protests are allowed in all leagues (except T-Ball Leagues).
Protests must be filed with the League Commissioner, and must meet all of the following
criteria. Failure to meet these criteria and follow this process will result in an invalid
protest:
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The situation or play in question must be protestable. Judgment calls made by the
umpire are not subject to protest. Protests can be filed for playing rule
interpretations only. Every effort must be made to resolve conflicts during the
game.
Protests must be declared to the home plate umpire and opposing Manager at the
time of the play in question. No protests will be allowed once play has resumed.
Failure to declare the protest will invalidate the protest.
The home plate umpire and both Managers must sign both teams' scorebooks at
the time of the protest is declared, indicating the point in the game when the
protest was declared, including the number of outs, positions of any base runners,
the player at bat, the pitcher being used, all pitching innings, and the game time
remaining.
A formal written protest must be filed by the protesting Manager with the
NHAA's Head Umpire within 24 hours of the completion of the game.
A twenty-five dollar ($25) fee must accompany the written protest. This fee will
be returned only if the protest is upheld. Otherwise, the fee will be deposited in
the NHAA treasury.
All protests will be reviewed by a Committee comprised of the Board of Trustees, the
League Commissioner and the Head Umpire. If either of the Managers involved in a
protested game is also serving on the Board of Trustees, is the League Commissioner or
is the Head Umpire, they cannot participate in any hearing or decision on that protest.
The Committee will meet within 48 hours after the protest was received. The
Committee's decision will be reported verbally to the League Commissioner and the
Managers involved in the protest, and a written copy of the decision will be sent via mail
to both Managers.
The League Commissioner will immediately schedule completion of the game in
question as required.
The decision of the Committee on any protest is final and not appealable.
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Umpire Information
Managers and Coaches have a responsibility to treat all umpires in a manner that shows
the respect and patience that you would use with your own son or daughter. The NHAA
makes every effort to use umpires that are playing or have played in the NHAA and are
from our community. Most of the umpires are young, but have attended required classes
and have passed an exam to be able to umpire. Your conduct with the umpires sets an
example for your players, parents, spectators, and the NHAA as a whole. Every year we
lose a number of umpires, mostly as a result of managers or coaches’ verbal abuse. We
need to keep the umpires in our system, and every year that they return, you reap the
benefits of their experience.
After each game, Managers are required to sign the umpire's pay cards. Any comments,
positive or negative, you would like to make should be written on the back of the card.
Young umpires, in particular, need positive support from you and your team. The cards
are reviewed for your important feedback. The umpires also are able to give feedback on
you and your team. Remember, you are responsible for your coaches, players, and
parents. If the need arises, that you would prefer to discuss an individual umpire in a
confidential manner, please feel free to call the scheduler. Please sign the cards before
you have your post game discussion with your team!
Any technical questions should be sent in writing addressed to:
Head Umpire
C/O The NHAA
P.O. Box 111
Northfield, OH 44067
Head Umpire: Dan Mackerty
Scheduler: Arun Gupal
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Uniforms, Attire, Jewelry
The following information is considered the official uniform for all play within the
NHAA unless otherwise noted herein.
Managers & Coaches
Managers and Assistant Coaches should wear their NHAA-supplied shirts for all games.
Shirts
Each Manager will receive an assortment of jersey sizes, with the smallest jersey having
the number 1, and the largest having the highest number. Pass out the jerseys in
numerical order from the smallest player to the largest. Do not let players pick their
favorite numbers or someone will get a jersey that doesn't fit. After all jerseys have been
distributed, players of the same size may trade numbers at their discretion. Be sure to
record all jersey numbers for the players, as you will need these for the season.
Hats/Visors
The ball caps Managers will receive may also be of more than one size so be sure to
check them before passing them out. Players in all leagues that receive ball caps are
required to wear the caps during games.
Pants
White, black, or gray baseball pants are a required part of the uniform for Babe Ruth,
Roberto Clemente, Willie Mays, Pee Wee Reese and Sandy Koufax baseball leagues as
well as the A, AA, and AAA softball leagues.
Shoes
Players in all baseball leagues through Sandy Koufax and in all softball leagues may wear
either sneakers or rubber-spiked baseball shoes. No football shoes of any type are
permitted. Players in Colt and Connie Mack baseball leagues may wear metal-spiked
baseball shoes.
Jewelry
For safety reasons, no player (regardless of sex or age) may wear jewelry of any kind
while participating on NHAA-sponsored games and practices. This includes watches,
bracelets, necklaces, earrings (or any other type of pierced jewelry), non-athletic
wristbands, rings or non-athletic headbands.
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NHAA All-Star Games
NHAA All Star Games are played for all leagues except T-Ball Leagues.
NHAA’s League All-Star Games are exhibition games. Managers are strongly urged to
treat these games as such, and remember that the All-Star Games are intended to
recognize and showcase the play of our program's outstanding players. The games are
NOT intended to showcase any one player, team or Manager. No player is any better than
any other player and no team is any better than another team — all should be treated
equally and fairly.
The Board of Trustees, unless otherwise stated, will utilize the table below to establish
the number of players from each team that will play in the league's All-Star Game and
make-up the two (2), 12 player rosters. Alternates will be selected by the League
Commissioner only in the event that player absences will leave a team with less than 12
total players.
As of the Saturday prior to the scheduled date of the NHAA All-Star Games, the
Managers of the first and second place teams (regardless of division) will manage the
All-Star teams with the remaining league Managers will serve as Assistant Coaches for
the game. Likewise, the overall standings for the league on the same date will determine
the number of players selected to the All-Star Game. Ties will be determined by head-tohead play followed by total runs scored.
All-Star Teams will be put together based on standings will all ODD standings teams (1st,
,3rd ,5th , etc) being the HOME team and all EVEN standing teams (2nd, 4th, 6th, etc) being
the VISITOR team.
All game dates and schedules will be established by the Board of Trustees. Every effort
will be made to play the games as scheduled, so all Managers are asked to come early and
help prepare the fields as needed for their league's All-Star Game. If games must be
rescheduled due to weather or field conditions, they will be rescheduled to the nearest
date and time possible.
It is strongly recommended that Managers let your players vote to determine who
represents your team in the All-Star Game. Do not influence their votes, and please keep
the final votes as secret as possible.
All-Star players must be selected and their names given to the League Commissioner at
least one week prior to the scheduled league All-Star Game. Please make sure to include
the player's jersey number and all regular positions he plays for the team. This
information will be invaluable to the All-Star team Manager as he/she creates a line-up.
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NHAA All-Star Player Selection Guideline
Number of
Teams
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
Players Per Team
6 Players from Each Team
5 Players from team in 1st – 4th place, 4 players from 5th place team
4 Players from Each Team
4 Players from teams in 1st – 3rd place, 3 players from teams in 4th – 7th
place
3 Players from Each Team
3 Players from teams in 1st – 6th place, 2 players from teams in 7th – 9th
place
3 Players from teams in 1st – 4th place, 2 players from teams in 5th –
10th place
3 Players from teams in 1st – 2nd place, 2 players from teams in 3rd –
11th place
2 Players from Each Team
Note: The NHAA Board may increase the number of All-Star games played for
divisions with a high number of teams in order to increase the player participation.
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NHAA Playoff Tournaments
NHAA playoff tournament are played in all leagues except T-Ball, Babe Ruth, Roberto
Clemente or Manager-Pitch Softball Leagues.
Seedings & Games
1. All teams, in leagues with playoffs, will be seeded in the Playoff Tournament.
2. The playoff format will be a seeded, single elimination tournament. Sample playoff
brackets can be found on the NHAA website.
3. All prevailing General League-Specific rules will apply in all games, without
exception.
4. The highest seeded team in any game is the HOME team.
5. Tiebreakers to determine Playoff Tournament seeding:
a) Head-to-head record
b) Coin flip
NOTE 1:
This tiebreaker system is to be used for Playoff Tournament seedings only, and is
not intended to distinguish standings. Any teams involved in such a tiebreaker
will remain tied for their respective positions, and will be awarded as such.
NOTE 2:
A coin flip will be used only if:
 Head-to-head record does not resolve a tie, and
 If the tie is not for the last seeding position (see 3 above). If a coin flip is used,
the Managers (or designee) of both teams, will meet with the League
Commissioner, who will conduct the flip.
The NHAA Board of Trustees may modify the playoff formats, schedules and leagues,
which will have Playoff Tournaments, pending unforeseen conditions.
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Player Ratings
A Player Rating form is included in this book. You must fill it out and return it to your
League Commissioner or the Trustee in charge of your league on All-Star Weekend.
A player rated 1 player is one of the best on the team, while a player rated 5 is the
weakest.
Players should only be compared to others in their age group on all the teams in the
league and not to the whole league (i.e. 12 year old compared with other 12 year olds and
an 11 year old compared to other 11 year olds).
Any Manager who has not turned in their ratings by the last week of the season can be
prevented from playing their games until the ratings are turned in.
Remember, the integrity of the league depends on these ratings being fair and consistent.
Important! The ratings are private, please do not tell your players, your own children or
other adults. We do not want anyone's feelings to be hurt.
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NHAA Player RATINGS SHEET: BASEBALL & SOFTBALL
Name
Grade
Bat
Field
Throw
Pitch
Rating
Rate players in comparison to other players in the league of the same age, with 1 being
the highest and 5 being the lowest
League ______________________ Name of Team _________________
Manager’s Name _____________________________________________
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NHAA Blood Rule
If for any reason a player is bleeding in any fashion or for any reason the following
policy shall apply:
 The player's parent/guardian must be brought from the stands to tend to their
child, and administer first aid as appropriate to stop or control the bleeding.
 Managers, Assistant Coaches and umpires should take precautions by wearing
medical grade latex gloves if they are needed to administer treatment. In no case
shall any other player be permitted to administer to a bleeding player.
 The player cannot return to the game until all bleeding is stopped, appropriate first
aid has been administered, any dressing is secured, and any bloody clothing is
removed and replaced. If the above cannot be accomplished in reasonable time so
as not to unnecessarily delay the game, the player must be removed from the
game (see General Rule 7).
Reporting Injuries & NHAA Insurance
It is the responsibility of the Manager to obtain the proper insurance forms from the
League Commissioner or other designated official and see that the forms are properly
prepared and forwarded to the appropriate offices for payment under the NHAA
insurance policy.
NHAA carries only a supplemental medical insurance policy. If a Player on your team is
injured, please do the following:
 Have the parents fill out an NHAA insurance form and sign it.
 Complete the Manager's portion of the form.
 Parents must file a claim immediately with their primary insurance carrier.
 Return the form to Jeff Sindelar, Farmer's Insurance, 157 W. Aurora Rd.,
Northfield, OH 44067.
 File the NHAA insurance form with your league's designated NHAA Trustee
promptly. Do not wait until the player's insurance carrier has paid or been
notified.
 If you have any questions, contact Jeff Sindelar at 330-467-6068.
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TIE - BREAKER RULE
If a game has gone the full number of innings or the two-hour time limit has been
reached, and the game is tied, the following tiebreaker procedure shall be followed.
1. The visiting team will place their last three batters in the rotation from the previous
inning on third, second, and first base. Example: Batters 6, 7, & 8 were the last three
batters. Batter 8 will take third, batter 7 will take second, and batter 6 will take first
base.
2. There will be two outs. The next batter due up in the lineup will bat with no count.
3. Play shall resume until the third out is recorded and the runs scored recorded.
4. The teams will switch and the same procedure will be followed by the home team.
5. Teams shall alternate until a winner is determined.
All NHAA pitching guidelines shall be in effect.
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NHAA Permanent Playing Rules
A: General Rules
1. American League Official Rules for baseball and ASA Official rules for softball
will govern all play except as amended by the NHAA Permanent Playing Rules or
Temporary Playing Rules that have been approved by the Board of Trustees.
2. A 10-Minute grace period will apply to the scheduled starting time in all leagues.
Any team failing to take the field at the end of the 10 minutes shall lose by forfeit.
This rule applies to all games and continuation of games.
3. Home team begins its field practice 30 minutes before game time and the other
practice 15 minutes before game time.
4. The umpire may call a game because of darkness, curfew, or weather. In case of
bad weather the game must be first suspended. If after 15 minutes, the game has
not been resumed, the umpire may call the game at any time.
a. In games called because of darkness, curfew, or weather, 5 innings shall
constitute an official game (4.5 if the home team is leading) in leagues
where scheduled game length is 7 innings and 4 innings (3.5 when home
team is leading) in leagues where scheduled game length is 6 innings.
b. There will be no artificial lighting except on high school field 1.
c. If a game is called in the middle of an inning after enough innings have
been played to call it a complete game, the score reverts back to the last
full inning. There is no continuation of called game after enough innings
have been played to make it a complete game except in the case of a tie.
d. Anytime a game is suspended while the score is tied, the home team must
verify with the opposing team the score and status of the game.
e. All games called for weather before they are a regulation game (baseball
and softball) is started over from the beginning.
f. Games will have a 2 hour time limit. No new inning can start after the 2
hour time limit has expired, regardless of the score. The starting time
should be as close to the scheduled time as possible with the home plate
umpire keeping official time. This rule shall not apply to playoff games.
In the event of a rain or other delay of game, time suspended until the
game is resumed. Starting times should be noted in the scorebooks.
5. All batters wear protective headgear while at bat and while on the bases in all
leagues.
6. No metal spikes will be worn in any Nordonia Hills Athletic Assoc. League. The
only exception is Colt and Connie-Mac leagues.
7. A player removed from the batting lineup, because of an injury may not re-enter
that game.
8. Any playing field injury must be reported to the team manager within 24 hours of
the occurrence. The team manager must report the injury immediately to his
respective league commissioner and a Trustee. It will be the responsibility of the
manager to obtain the proper insurance forms from the league commissioner or
other designated official and see that the forms are properly prepared and
forwarded to the proper offices for payment under the Association Insurance
Policy.
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9. All players shall bat in a pre-determined order even though not in the fielding
lineup at that time. Any late arrivals to the game will be placed at the bottom of
the batting lineup. All players must play in the field for a minimum of 4 innings
in a 7 innings game and 3 innings to a 6 inning game. This will apply where the
game goes to scheduled length. Free substitution shall prevail except where it
applies to pitchers. This rule applies to all leagues except Colt where affiliate
rules apply. No player shall sit on the bench for more than 2 consecutive innings.
Any infraction of this rule must be immediately brought to the attention of the
umpire and the opposing manager. Any attempt to bypass these rules will result in
the forfeiture of that game. The only exceptions to this rule would be in a
disciplinary situation which must be so stipulated to the opposing manager and
umpire and when a player either arrives after the start of a game or leaves before
its end.
10. Only the manager or acting manager may approach to question the umpire on any
manner whatsoever.
11. All players and staff, when not playing in the field, warming up, base coaching, or
waiting in the batter’s circle will remain seated on the bench or standing behind
the bench or fence. All equipment will be placed behind the team bench or fence.
12. No inning will begin on a Nordonia Hills School field after 11:30 pm. This is an
agreement between the NHAA and the Board of Ed. and cannot be changed
without the approval of the latter.
13. Pitching week for all leagues where it applies equals one calendar week starting
on Sunday and ending on Saturday. Colt is Monday through Sunday.
14. Home team will have the 1st baseline bench and visiting team will have the 3rd
baseline bench.
15. When a runner is obstructed while advancing or returning to a base, or a fielder
without the ball fakes a tag, the umpire shall award the runner affected by the
obstruction the bases they would have reached, in his/her judgment, had there
been no obstruction.
NOTE: in the event of a fake tag, a warning should be given to both teams. The
next fake tag should result in ejection of said player.
16. When a defensive player has the ball and is waiting for the runner who remains on
his/her feet and deliberately, with great force crashes into the defensive player, the
runner is to be declared out.
17. A limit of seven (7) warm up pitches will be allowed between innings for
returning pitchers in Willie Mays, Pee Wee Reese, Sandy Koufax, and Colt
Leagues.
18. There will be no choral chanting or other form of verbal harassment of one team
by another or one player by another and of one parent by another. The catcher
may speak to the opposing batter only while in playing position. Cheering for
your team may be done. No personal name calling of the opponent is permitted.
19. Any pitcher in the Willie Mays division hitting three (3) batters in the same inning
or three (3) batters in a game will be removed from the pitcher’s position. For all
other divisions, any pitcher hitting two (2) batters in the same inning or three (3)
batters in a game will be removed from the pitcher's position. This rule does not
apply to coach pitch baseball or any of the softball divisions.
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20. Sliding is allowed in all leagues. The purpose of this rule is to prohibit the runner
from deliberately crashing into the defender who has the ball or about to get the
ball, for the sole purpose of knocking the ball loose, because the runner knows he
is going to be out otherwise.
The base runner will be called out under the following conditions if
- The runner head first slides
- The runner does not slide or attempt to get around the fielder who has the
ball and is waiting to make the tag.
The base runner may also be called out if the defender does not have the ball, but
the umpire judges the collision to be deliberate and malicious.
21. The batter shall not throw the bat. The umpires warn the entire team the first time
any batter on that team throws a bat. After the first warning, any other batter on
that team who throws the bat shall be called out.
22. Games can only be rescheduled for school or other Trustee approved functions
one week in advance and only if a team cannot field all positions (maximum
number allowed on the field). All games must be rescheduled through the
commissioner and scheduler.
23. In a seven-inning game if the difference in the score is equal or greater than 15
runs the end of 5 innings or later (4.5 if home team is ahead) the game is over. In
a 6 inning game. This rule applies at the end of 4 innings (3.5 if home team is
leading). This rule does not apply in Tee Leagues. In Sandy Koufax league, the 10
run rule applies.
24. No one, including players, parents, coaches, managers, spectators, or vehicles will
be allowed behind the backstop (that section between the two poles immediately
behind the umpire.) This rule is to be enforced by the umpires. The umpires are to
be notified immediately and he/she will suspend play until all personnel or
vehicles are removed.
25. No individual league shall make any temporary rule change without first
submitting in writing the request to the Board of Trustees as per the NHAA
Constitution and Bylaws.
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B: Field Layout
1. The following field layout dimensions are to be utilized:
Leagues
Baseline
Distance
Pitching
Distance
TBall
RC/BR
WM
PWR
SK
GMP
A
AA
AAA
60’
65’
65’
75’
90’
60’
60’
65’
65’
46’
46’
46’
50’
54’
30’
40’
46’
50’
2. Sandy Koufax is the only league where the bases are tied down. "Hollywood"
style bases to be used whenever possible.
3. All managers must have equipment to properly lay out the field: measuring tape,
hammer, shovels, rakes and brooms.
C: Double Bases
Double bases will be used in Tee League, Babe Ruth, Roberto Clemente, and all softball
leagues and the following rules apply.
1. A batted ball hitting the white portion is declared fair, and a batted ball hitting the
orange portion is declared foul.
2. The batter shall use the orange portion of the base; the fielder shall use the white
portion of the base to retire the runner. When the batter becomes a runner, he
must use the white portion.
3. The batter/runner may use the orange portion on the first attempt at first base;
however, should he/she reach and go beyond first base, he must return to the
white portion.
4. Should the batter/runner round the base on a hit to the infield or to the outfield,
he/she must return to the white portion.
5. When tagging up on a fly ball, the white portion must be used.
D: Fielding Team Size
Leagues
Max on
Field
Min to
Start
TBall
RC/BR
WM
PWR
SK
GMP
A
AA
AAA
12
10
10
10
9
10
10
10
10
9
9
9
8
8
8
8
8
8
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TEE BALL LEAGUES
1. Games will consist of 4 innings or 1 hour whichever comes first. After school is
out 2 games will be played on the same field first game will start promptly at
6:15pm second game will start at 7:30pm.
2. Innings will consist of 8 batters or 3 outs.
3. No score or standings will be kept.
4. There will be a total of 12 players on the field 6 infielders, 5 outfielders and a
catcher. The infield will be defined as the dirt part of the field from home plate
around and behind first, second and third base to the edge of the grass that forms
the outfield.
5. The catcher must wear a batting helmet at all times.
6. All players must play at least 1 inning in an infield position.
7. The tee will be placed three (3) feet behind home plate.
8. A fair ball arc will be drawn with a 15' radius from the point of home plate
between the baselines.
9. A circle with a four foot radius will be drawn with its center 46' from home plate
to designate the pitchers position.
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BABE RUTH 1st GRADE BOYS
MODIFIED MANAGER-PITCH BASEBALL
This league is the next step after the Tee League for boys in 1st grade. A hardball is used
and the manager or his designate does the pitching. This league is umpired by the
beginning umpires trained by the NHAA who are learning along with the players.
Regular baseball rules are followed with the exception of the following NHAA special
rules.
1. Team manager or other adult selected by the managers will pitch overhand to his
own team. Manager-pitcher cannot coach his team after the ball is hit.
2. No walks allowed.
3. No lead offs or base stealing of any kind.
4. Only one manager-pitcher allowed per inning, unless an injury necessitates a
change.
5. There are no strikeouts. Each batter will have a limit of 4 pitches. If unsuccessful
after the 4th pitch, batter will hit off the tee until the ball is put into play.
6. The ball is dead when an infielder in the infield has control of the ball and raises
his hand and calls "time." Runners who have passed the halfway point get the
base they are approaching while all other runners return to the last base.
7. No infield fly rule applies.
8. Game length will be 6 innings. An offensive inning will consist of 3 outs or 10
batters, whichever comes first.
9. Catcher must wear full equipment.
10. Runners and batters must wear helmets.
11. No bunting allowed.
12. Base runners cannot advance on appeals plays.
13. No inning shall start later than 1½ hours after the start of the game. In the event of
a rain delay, or any delay of game, time will be suspended until the game is
resumed.
14. Any batted ball that touches the manager-pitcher prior to being played by a
defensive player will be a dead ball. There is no penalty, base runners return to
their original base, and the pitch will not count.
15. Manager-pitcher hit by a thrown ball:
a. If 1st throw is by infielder trying to retire a runner, the runner being
played on is called out unless the umpire feels the throw would not have
retired the runner, then the play stands
b. For any throw other than (a), the ball is dead and runners return to last
base touched at time of throw
16. The player pitcher must be behind the pitching rubber and parallel with the
manager-pitcher within 5’ right or left. The player-pitcher cannot leave his
position until the ball passes the plate.
17. Each player must play 2 innings in the infield and no player may play the same
position more than two innings. Catcher is considered an infield position.
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ROBERTO CLEMENTE
2nd GRADE BOYS
MANGER-PITCH BASEBALL
This league is the next step after the Babe Ruth League for boys in second grade. A hard
ball is used and the manager or his designate does the pitching. This league is umpired by
beginning umpires trained by the NHAA who are learning along with the players.
Regular baseball rules are followed with the exception of the following NHAA special
rules.
1. Team manager or other adult selected by the manager will pitch overhand to his
own team. Manager-pitcher cannot coach team after the ball is hit.
2. No walks allowed.
3. No leadoffs or base stealing of any kind.
4. Only one manager-pitcher allowed per inning, unless an injury necessitates a
change.
5. Four (4) strikes constitute a strike out Each batter will have a limit of 6 pitches
unless the sixth pitch is a foul ball then he may continue.
6. The ball is dead when an infielder in the infield has control of the ball and raises
his hand and calls "time”. Runners who have passed the halfway point get the
base they are approaching while all other runners return to the last base.
7. No infield fly rule applies.
8. Game length will be 6 innings. An offensive inning will consist of 3 outs or 10
batters, whichever comes first.
9. Catcher must wear full equipment.
10. Runners and batters must wear helmets.
11. No bunting allowed.
12. Base runners cannot advance on appeals plays.
13. No inning shall start later than 1½ hours after the start of the game. In the event of
a rain delay, or any delay of game, time will suspended until the game is resumed.
14. Any batted ball that touches the manager pitcher prior to being played by a
defensive player will be a dead ball. There is no penalty, base runners return to
their original base, and the pitch will not count.
15. Manager-pitch hit by thrown ball:
a. If 1st throw is by infielder trying to retire a runner, the runner being played
on is called out unless the umpire feels the throw would not have retired
the runner, then the play stands
b. For any throw other than (a), the ball is dead and runners return to last
base touched at time of throw
16. The player-pitcher must be behind the pitching rubber and parallel with
manager-pitcher within 5' right or left. The player-pitcher cannot leave his
position until the ball passes the plate.
17. There are no playoffs in Roberto Clemente league.
18. Each player must play 2 innings in the infield and no player may play the same
position more than 2 innings. Catcher is considered an infield position.
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WILLIE MAYS
3rd AND 4th GRADE BOYS
1. Game length will be six (6) innings.
2. There will be a five (5) run limit per inning. This does not apply when a team is
batting in the last inning. This does not apply during playoffs. A five (5) run
inning is equivalent to a 3 out inning for a third grade pitcher as defined in rule
#3.
3. A third grade pitcher must pitch 6 outs in the first four innings. A pitcher must
pitch to at least three (3) batters. A pitcher may pitch a maximum of three (3)
innings or nine (9) outs per game and a total of six (6) innings or 18 outs per
week. Once removed as a pitcher a player may not re-enter as a pitcher. Any
player in his second year in the league will be considered a fourth grade pitcher
for pitching purposes.
4. The pitching limitations will be waived during playoffs if there are more than two
(2) games scheduled in that week. The nine (9) outs limit per game cannot be
waived even in the playoffs.
5. No lead offs are allowed but bases may be stolen after the pitched ball passes the
batter and is not fouled and the runner leaves the base before the ball becomes
dead. Any runner leaving the base before the pitched ball passes the plate will
be declared out. If a pitched ball goes out of play after the runner leaves the base
the runner may advance to the base he is approaching only. The batter runner
may steal second base if the ball has not been returned to the mound after he has
reached first base.
6. No batter will be able to advance to first base on a dropped third strike after three
strikes the batter is out.
7. There will be no infield fly in Willie Mays.
8. There will be no stealing of home on any attempt to throw out a runner advancing
on a stealing attempt. A runner on third may only advance (score) on a forced
walk or a hit ball in play.
9. Each player must play two innings in the infield. Catcher will be considered an
infield position.
10. No player except for a pitcher shall play the same position for more than two
consecutive innings.
11. Time rule after one hour and forty minutes have passed from the start of the
game teams will finish the inning they are in to completion and play one more full
inning which will be considered the last inning. Example: game starts at 6:30 and
at 8:10 it’s the top of the fourth with two outs you will finish the top and bottom
of the fourth and fifth inning will be the last. As noted in the general playing
rules run limit does not apply in the last inning.
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PEE-WEE REESE
5th AND 6th GRADE BOYS
1. A pitcher may pitch a maximum of 12 outs or 4 consecutive innings and must
pitch to at least 3 batters.
2. Players are limited to pitching 7 innings in a calendar week and 7 innings in 2
consecutive days.
3. A fifth grade pitcher must pitch 3 innings or 9 outs in the first six innings. A
player in his second year in PWR will be considered a sixth grader for pitching
purposes. A five (5) run inning is equivalent to a 3 out inning for a fifth grade
pitcher as defined in rule #5.
4. Game length will be 7 innings.
5. There will be a five (5) run limit per inning. This does not apply when a team is
batting in the last inning. This does not apply during playoffs.
6. Once a pitcher is removed from the game as a pitcher he may not return as a
pitcher.
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SANDY KOUFAX
7th AND 8th GRADE BOYS
1. A pitcher may pitch a maximum of 15 outs or 5 consecutive innings and must
pitch to at least 3 batters.
2. Players are limited to pitching 10 innings in a calendar week and 10 innings in 2
consecutive days.
3. A seventh grade pitcher must pitch 3 innings or 9 outs in the first six innings. A
player in his second year in PWR will be considered an eighth grader for pitching
purposes.
4. Game length will be 7 innings.
5. Once a pitcher is removed from the game as a pitcher he may not return as a
pitcher.
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GIRLS MANAGER PITCH SOFTBALL
2nd AND 3rd GRADE GIRLS
This league is the next step for girls after t-ball. An 11" ball is used and is pitched by the
manager or designate. Softball rules shall apply with the following NHAA additions. This
league is umpired by beginning umpires who are learning along with the players. This
league will be a developmental league designed to give the girls a chance to develop their
skills and help them decide to stay in slow pitch or move on to 10U travel fast pitch while
promoting fun and team play.
1. Team manager or other adult will pitch underhand from 30ft away. They are
encouraged to throw a pitch with little or no arc. Manager pitcher cannot coach
their team after the ball is pitched.
2. No walks will be allowed.
3. Innings shall be three outs or ten batters whichever comes first.
4. Four (4) strikes constitute an out. Each batter will have a limit of six (6) pitches
unless the sixth pitch is a foul ball, then she may continue.
5. The ball is declared dead when an infielder in the infield has control of the ball
and raises her hand and calls “time”. Runners who have passes the halfway point
gets the base they are approaching, while all other runners return to the last base.
6. There will be no infield fly rule.
7. Game length will be 6 innings.
8. When the sixth (6th) inning is played, there will be three (3) outs only and
unlimited batters.
9. No new inning can start after 1½ hours. In the event of a rain delay or any other
delay time will be suspended until the game resumes.
10. Any batted ball striking the manager pitcher will be an immediate dead ball and
be declared no play.
11. Manager hit by thrown ball.
a. If the throw is by an infielder trying to retire a runner the runner being
played on shall be declared out unless the umpire feels to throw would not
have retired the runner then the play stands.
b. For any throw other than A above, the ball is dead and the runners return
to the last base touched at the time of throw.
12. The player pitcher must be behind the pitching rubber and parallel with the
manager-pitcher within five (5) feet right or left. The player-pitcher may not
leave her position until the ball reaches the plate.
13. Each player must play 2 innings in the infield and no player may play the same
position for more than 2 innings. Catcher is considered an infield position.
2012Season
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NHAAManagersHandbook
GIRLS SOFTBALL (A, AA, AAA)
A league special rules
1. There will be a five (5) run limit per inning. This does not apply when a team is
batting in the last inning. This does not apply during playoffs.
2. All players must play 2 innings in the infield. Catcher shall be considered an
infield position.
3. If 1 hour and 30 minutes has elapsed since the scheduled start of the game. The
next inning shall be considered the last inning and shall not be subject to a run
limit.
4. The ball is declared dead when an infielder in the infield has control of the ball
and raises her hand and calls “time”. Runners who have passes the halfway point
gets the base they are approaching, while all other runners return to the last base.
ASA Slow-Pitch rules will apply except where NHAA rules differ.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Tennis shoes or rubber soled spikes may be worn only.
All bats must be marked 'official softball'.
7 innings will be played in AA and AAA.
An 11" softball will be used in all games.
A foul on a third strike will not be called an out, but rather the batter will remain
batting until either she hits, strikes out or is awarded a base on balls.
In A or AA the arc on the pitched ball must be higher than the batter's height.
A double base will be used in all softball leagues according to the general rules.
For AA and AAA, there will be a ten (10) run limit per inning. This does not
apply when a team is batting in the last inning. This does not apply during
playoffs.
There will be no infield fly rule in A, AA, or AAA.
2012Season
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