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Miss Tampa Bay Softball at Fishhawk

Girls Softball League

By-Laws

September 2009

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Table of Contents

1. NAME ................................................................................................................ 4 2. OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................... 4 3. AFFILIATION .................................................................................................. 4 4. SITES OF OPERATION .................................................................................. 4 5. POWERS ........................................................................................................... 4 6. MEMBERSHIP ................................................................................................ 5

6.1 VOTING MEMBERSHIP ........................................................................... 5 7. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE............................................................................ 5 8. BOARD OF DIRECTORS ............................................................................... 5 9. BY-LAWS .......................................................................................................... 7

9.1 BY-LAW CHANGES ................................................................................... 7 10. LEAGUE POSITIONS ................................................................................... 7

10.1 GENERAL DUTIES .................................................................................. 7 10.2 PRESIDENT .............................................................................................. 8 10.3 VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS................................................... 8 10.4 VICE PRESIDENT OF FACILITIES ...................................................... 9 10.5 VICE PRESIDENT OF REGISTRATION .............................................. 9 10. 6 TREASURER............................................................................................ 9 10. 7 SECRETARY........................................................................................... 10 10.8 PAST PRESIDENT ................................................................................. 11 10. 9 TEAM PARENT COORDINATOR ...................................................... 11 10.10 T-BALL, COACH PITCH, MINI-MINOR, MINOR & MAJOR DIVISION DIRECTORS .................................................................................................... 11 10.11 CONCESSIONS CHAIRPERSON ....................................................... 12 10.12 FUND RAISING CHAIRPERSON ...................................................... 12 10.13 UMPIRE-IN-CHIEF ............................................................................. 12

11. TEAM COACHING STAFF.......................................................................... 13 11.1 GENERAL................................................................................................. 13 11.2 TEAM MANAGER................................................................................... 13 11.3 TEAM COACHES .................................................................................... 14 11.4 MANAGER’S DISCRETION .................................................................. 15 11.5 PLAYER DISCIPLINARY ACTION....................................................... 15 11.6 SUSPENSION / DISMISSAL OF TEAM MANAGER OR COACH ... 15

12. ELECTION OF LEAGUE POSITIONS ...................................................... 16 12.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................ 16 12.2 FILLING VACANT POSITIONS ........................................................... 16

13. BOARD MEETINGS AND QUORUM ....................................................... 16 14. COMMITTEES ............................................................................................. 16

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14.1 ELECTION NOMINATION COMMITTEE.......................................... 16 14.2 BY-LAW COMMITTEE.......................................................................... 17 14.3 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE ......................................... 17 14.4 PROTEST COMMITTEE ....................................................................... 17 14.5 BACKGROUND CHECK COMMITTEE .............................................. 18

15. REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES......................................................... 19 16. UMPIRE EXPENSES .................................................................................. 19 17. REGISTRATION .......................................................................................... 19 18. PLAYER ELIGIBILITY ............................................................................... 19

18.1 PLAYER PROMOTION .......................................................................... 20 19. AWARDS....................................................................................................... 20 20. PLAYING RULES........................................................................................ 20 21. MISS TAMPA BAY SOFTBALL REVISED PLAYING RULES OF SPECIAL NOTE ................................................................................................................. 20

21.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................ 20 21.2 T-BALL DIVISION (6U) ........................................................................ 21 21.3 COACH PITCH DIVISION (8U)........................................................... 21 21.4 MINI-MINOR DIVISION (10U)........................................................... 21 21.5 MINOR DIVISION (12U) ...................................................................... 21 21.6 MAJOR DIVISION (16U) ...................................................................... 22

22. ALL-STARS .................................................................................................. 22 22.1 ALL-STAR TEAM SELECTION PROCESS ......................................... 22

Table1 LEAGUE POSITIONS........................................................................ 24

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1. NAME

The official name shall be "Miss Tampa Bay Softball at Fishhawk, Inc.”, referred to herein as either "MTBS" or "the league".

2. OBJECTIVES

A. The objective of the Local League shall be to provide a supervised and competitive softball program for the benefit of young girls within the community.

B. This league shall be to implant in the youth of the community the ideals of good sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, courage, respect for authority, teamwork, and commitment so that they may be well adjusted, stronger and happier children and will grow to be good decent, healthy and trustworthy citizens.

C. The members of the league shall bear in mind that the winning of games, although important, is secondary to the teaching of good sportsmanship.

D. To achieve this objective, the Local League will provide a supervised program under the rules and regulations of Miss Florida Softball. All Directors, Officers and Members shall bear in mind that the attainment of exceptional athletic skill or the winning of games is secondary, and the molding of future citizens is of prime importance.

E. In accordance with the Section 501 (3) (c) of the Federal Internal Revenue Code, the Local League shall operate exclusively as a non-profit educational organization providing a supervised program of competitive softball games. No part of the net earnings shall inure to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual. No substantial part of the activities of which is carrying on propaganda, or otherwise attempting to influence legislation, and which does not participate in or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of any candidate for public office.

3. AFFILIATION

MTBS, Inc. shall be affiliated with the ASA, NSA, ISA, USSSA, and Miss Florida Softball, Inc., a Florida corporation. It shall be governed by, and comply with the principles, rules and regulations decreed by Miss Florida Softball, Inc.

4. SITES OF OPERATION

The principle operation of this league is in Hillsborough County, at 16120 Fishhawk Blvd., Lithia, Florida 33547, but may extend into such areas as provided by the Miss Florida Softball, Inc. rules and regulations.

A. Territory / Boundaries: MTBS has no boundaries.

5. POWERS

The league shall have the following powers in addition to powers expressly or implicitly conferred on by law:

A. To make and enforce rules and regulations with which to govern itself on a local basis.

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B. To solicit funds for the proper operation of the league.

6. MEMBERSHIP

The membership of this league shall be composed of the Executive Committee members, Board of Directors, Team Managers and Coaches, all Team Players and their Parents or legal guardians.

6.1 VOTING MEMBERSHIP

The voting membership of this league for elections shall be composed of the Executive Committee members, Board of Directors, Team Managers and Coaches, and parents or legal guardians of the players in good standing who have attended three monthly board meetings in the last 6 months and have met the requirements of membership.

7. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

A. The embodied members of the Executive Committee shall consist of the following officers:

President

Vice-President of Operations

Vice-President of Facilities

Vice-President of Registrations

Treasurer

Secretary

B. No positions on the Executive Committee (EC) may be held by individuals not associated with the League. Association with the league for Executive Committee purposes is defined as being a member of the Board.

C. A quorum to conduct business at any Executive Committee meeting shall require attendance by five or more of the Executive Committee members. A tie vote means the issue DOES NOT carry.

D. The Executive Committee shall have responsibility for:

1. Filling any vacancies on the Executive Committee between scheduled election meetings

2. Approval of league insurance

3. Review and approval of a preliminary yearly budget

4. Approval of team entries in tournament play

5. Approval of appointed positions on the Board of Directors

6. Review and approve submitted changes to By-Laws for presentation to the Board.

8. BOARD OF DIRECTORS

A. The embodied members of the Board of Directors (Board) shall consist of the following:

President

Vice President of Operations

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Vice President of Facilities

Vice President of Registrations

Treasurer

Secretary

Past President

Team Parent Coordinator

Fundraising Chair

Umpire-In-Chief

Concessions Chair

Division Rep – Majors (16U)

Division Rep – Minors (12U)

Division Rep – Mini-Minors (10U)

Division Rep – Coach Pitch (8U)

Division Rep – Tee Ball (6U)

Note: Members of the Board of Directors may hold only one position.

B. Individuals not associated with the league may hold no more than three (3) positions on the entire Board of Directors. Association with the league, for Board purposes, is defined as being either a member of a team's coaching staff, or a parent of an active player.

C. Individuals not associated with the League may hold no EC positions.

D. A quorum to conduct business (vote) at any Board of Directors meeting shall require attendance by more than 50% or more of the active / filled Board positions.

E. The Board of Directors shall have responsibility for:

1) Approval and authorization of unbudgeted expenses over $500.00 (excluding concession supplies).

2) Approval of fund raising events.

3) Selection of league awards to be given.

4) Planning and carrying out of all special activities.

5) Determining safety of equipment (bats, shoes, gloves, etc.) used by any player in the league regardless of whether purchased by the league or a player.

6) The administrative function of the league, including all business decisions affecting its operation and welfare.

7) Review and approval of a yearly budget.

8) Approval of team entries in recreation tournament play.

9) Voting on the dismissal of an officer, manager, coach or any other league positions.

10) Voting on amendments to the BY-LAWS.

11.) The Board of Directors must pre-approve all Managers.

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9. BY-LAWS

The By-Law Committee shall review the MISS TAMPA BAY SOFTBALL BY-LAWS for adequacy and correctness every year. All Board Members should become familiar with The By-Laws, which are on the website.

9.1 BY-LAW CHANGES

A. Any voting member may submit written requests to add, modify, or delete By-Laws to any Board Member.

B. The Executive Committee for applicability would review all proposed written requests and content to assure the request is in the best interest of the league, and forward to the By-Law Committee for consideration.

C. The By-Law Committee shall review the request and recommend further actions to the Executive Board including incorporation in full, part, or no action on the request.

D. The By-Law Committee will have the authority to make clerical changes, or changes for consistency with approved changes, without the need to have the Board vote on such changes.

E. Once the Executive Committee approves recommended revisions, the League Secretary for final vote and approval will send changes to all Board Members prior to the Board meeting.

10. LEAGUE POSITIONS

League positions, term of office, Board membership, Protest Committee membership and reporting structure are defined in Table 1, "LEAGUE POSITIONS".

10.1 GENERAL DUTIES

The following duties are applicable to all Board of Directors and committee members, in addition to those specific duties identified for each position:

A. Adhere to the objectives and general requirements of the MTBS By-Laws.

B. Agree to submit to a league approved criminal background check every 2 years.

C. Attend all scheduled league board meetings. Failure to attend three consecutive meetings, without prior notification may lead to dismissal.

D. Submit to the Treasurer, all receipts and records of expenditures within 10 days.

E. Obtain approval from the Board of Directors on all expenses greater than $500.00.

F. Any dispute involving a Board Member must recluse himself or herself from the vote.

G. Obtain approval from the President on all expenses less than $500.00.

H. Work rotating scheduled shifts of Park Administrator Duty at the FYSA fields.

I. Sign to acknowledge the Code of Conduct forms yearly

J. Maintain coaches certification

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

10.2 PRESIDENT

The President will be a one (1) year elected position and preside over the Executive Committee, Board of Directors and the Protest Committee. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the President are to:

A. Schedule all league meetings, including Executive Committee meetings, Board meetings and the Protest Committee.

B. Assumes full responsibility for the operation of the league.

C. Present to the Executive Board for final approval all selections for appointed positions.

D. Approve expenditures of $500.00 or less for normal league requirements.

E. Coordinate all operating procedures of the Board of Directors.

F. Appoint all committees and supervise the activities thereof.

G. Review finances with the Treasurer and be one of the “three signatures” allowed to sign checks.

H. Attend all scheduled FYSA and Miss Florida Softball meetings that pertain to running the league.

I. Chair Protest Committee

J. Must have a background check every 2 years

K. Sign the Code of Conduct each year.

10.3 VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS

The Vice President of Operations will be a one (1) year elected position, member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the Vice President of Operations are to:

A. Act as the President if the President were unavailable.

B. Help schedule all league games and inter-league play with the V.P. of Registration and the Vice President of Facilities.

C. Complete an Incident Accident Report on all reported injuries received from players, parents, or coaches.

D. Fax report to the county when injury occurs within 24 hrs and file.

E. Present injury report at each board meeting.

F. Coordination, issue resolution and payment of State and Local registrations, fees and taxes including (but not limited too) the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations, Florida Department of Revenue, Hillsborough County Occupational Licenses, etc.

G. Responsible for Background Checks.

H. Must have a background check every 2 years

I. Sign the Code of Conduct each year.

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10.4 VICE PRESIDENT OF FACILITIES

The Vice President of Facilities will be a one (1) year elected position, member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the Vice President of Facilities are to:

A. Act as the President if the President and Vice President of Operations are unavailable.

B. Oversee maintenance of fields, buildings, common grounds, and equipment.

C. Inventory, maintain, distribute, and collect all softball equipment, including tracking, maintaining, and distribution of all league softball equipment.

D. Chair Capital Improvement Committee.

E. Oversee the scheduling of PA duty.

F. Must have a background check every 2 years

G. Sign the Code of Conduct each year.

10.5 VICE PRESIDENT OF REGISTRATION The Vice President of Registration will be a one (1) year elected position and member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. In addition to the general duties of all League officers, the duties of the Vice President of Registration are:

A. Responsible for website maintenance and online registrations. B. Coordinates on-site registrations C. League advertising and recruitment prior to registration D. Responsible for Receiving and processing all registrations. E. Coordinate league tryouts F. Provide the Board with the number of teams needed in all divisions based on registrations. G. Oversee the drafts in all divisions as required. H. Along with the division reps, will perform evaluations in the event a player needs to transfer

to another division. I. Create and maintain schedule including practice times and coordinate with EC and FYSA J. Coordinate with Team Parent Coordinator to ensure uniforms are ordered on a timely basis. K. Must have a background check every 2 years L. Sign the Code of Conduct each year.

10. 6 TREASURER

The Treasurer will be a one (1) year elected position and member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the Treasurer are to:

A. Provide a report documenting the current status of the league’s financial affairs at each Board meeting

B. Maintain a legible and accurate set of records covering all financial transactions of the league.

C. Disburse amounts greater than $500.00 when properly approved and authorized by the Executive Committee or Board of Directors.

D. Review finances with the President and is authorized as one of three signatures for checks.

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(President, Treasurer, and another EC member required for checks greater than $500.Responsible for preparing and sending any league financial obligations (i.e.: Tax Returns, Letters of Incorporation)

E. Coordinate with UIC for disbursement of funds for umpires prior to games.



10. 7 SECRETARY

The Secretary will be a one (1) year elected position and member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the Secretary are:

A. Attend scheduled meetings of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors.

B. Record and transcribe the minutes of all Executive Committee and Board of Directors meetings within 2 weeks.

C. Provide notices of all Board of Director meetings to all Board members one week prior to the meeting date

D. Keep a current register of mailing addresses for each member of the league

E. Maintain a list of all regular, sustaining, and honorary members, directors, and committee members and give notice of all meetings of the Local League, the Board of Directors and Committees.

F. Assist with voting and nominations

G. Assist the Treasurer with processing all forms pertaining to preparing and sending any League financial obligations (i.e.: Tax Returns, letters of Incorporation.)

H. Notify members, director’s officers and committee members of their election or appointment.

I. Help coordinate team uniforms and team photos with the Team Mom Coordinator.

J. Keep record of coaches and managers for each season

K. Prepare agenda for all BOD and EC meetings

L. Coordinate meeting room for all BOD and EC meetings

M. Keep track of tournament and All Stars Schedule, and coordinate with Miss Florida Reps.

N. Assist with Web Site.

O. Maintain the continuity of historical records (Bank Records)

P. By-Law Custodian; Responsible for maintaining, updating, and distributing the By-Laws.

Q. Store and archive all Registration information.

R. Post minutes to website after approval.

S. Must have a background check every 2 years

T. Sign the Code of Conduct each year.

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10.8 PAST PRESIDENT

The Past President will be a one (1) year appointed position and member of the Executive Committee and Board of Directors. The most recent President (not returning as President) will fill the Past President position. If said person cannot hold the position of Past President, then the newly elected President can appoint any previous President as Past President. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the Past President are:

A. Serve as a consultant for the President and Board of Directors.

B. Must have a background check ever 2 years

C. Sign the Code of Conduct each year.

10. 9 TEAM PARENT COORDINATOR

The Team Parent Coordinator will be a one (1) year appointed position and member of the Board of Directors. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the Team Parent Coordinator are:

A. Assist the Board of Directors in the coordination and communication of league activities, i.e. fundraising events, scheduling of volunteers, and other operational processes of the league to the members.

B. Coordinate team uniforms distribution and team photo scheduling with the help of the Secretary.

C. Coordinate with Team Parents for Concessions scheduling (Schedule to be provided by Concession Chair Person.)

D. Coordinate with VP of Registrations to ensure uniforms are ordered on a timely basis.

E. Order Plaques and Banners for Sponsors. Coordinate with Fundraising Chair on new sponsor information.

F. Coordinate the training of scorekeepers.

G. Must have a background check every 2 years

H. Sign the Code of Conduct each year.

10.10 T-BALL, COACH PITCH, MINI-MINOR, MINOR & MAJOR DIVISION DIRECTORS

The Division Directors will be a one- (1) year appointed position and member of the Board of Directors and the Protest Committee. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the Division Directors are:

A. Attend all Board of Directors meetings.

B. Represent their respective Team Manager’s decisions in matters brought before the Board of Directors.

C. Assist managers in player/parent disciplinary matters.

D. Communicate results of all Board of Directors meetings and/or Protest Committee meetings to their respective Team Managers.

E. Solicit the Team Managers, on an annual basis for any proposed changes to the BY-LAWS.

F. Conduct surveys and collect.

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G. Coordinate All Stars selections, and attend any Miss Florida Tournament meetings.

H. Must have a Background Check every 2 years

I. Sign the Code of Conduct each year.

10.11 CONCESSIONS CHAIRPERSON

The Concessions Chairperson will be a one (1) year appointed position and member of the Board of Directors. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the Concessions Chairperson are:

A. Secure enough personnel for operation of the concession stand.

B. Secure necessary supplies for the operation of the concession stand.

C. Maintain records of all purchases, expenses, and prepare a report for each monthly Board meeting

D. Make deposits within 24 hours after each event and relay income and expenditure information to the Treasurer weekly.

E. Coordinate and set softball concession schedule with Baseball.



10.12 FUND RAISING CHAIRPERSON

The Fund Raising Chairperson will be a one (1) year appointed position. In addition to the general duties of all league officers, the duties of the Fund Raising Chairperson are:

A. Raise funds for the benefit of the league.

B. Assure any money raised by the Fund-Raising Committee is given to the Treasurer within 72 hours of the completion of an event.

I. Research, and provide recommendations for fundraising events to Board for consideration. Upon approval, organize and coordinate fundraising efforts. Coordinate plaques and Banner with Team Parent Coordinator.

J. Must have a background check every 2 years

K. Sign the Code of Conduct each year.

10.13 UMPIRE-IN-CHIEF The Umpire in Chief will be a one (1) year appointed position and a member of the Protest Committee. Adhere to the objectives and general requirements of the league by-laws.

A. Arrange to obtain umpires for the Coach Pitch, Mini Minor, Minor, and Major Division games. B. Schedule the necessary umpires for all regular, make up, play-off and post-season games and

give a copy of schedule to Concessions Chair. C. Attend the Managers’ Briefing Session prior to the beginning of each new season. D. Track games worked by each Umpire, submitting information to the Treasurer. Coordinate with

the Treasurer on a bi-weekly basis a umpire fee report.

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E. During a regular season, or playoff game, determine whether regular season games or playoff games should be canceled due to weather or safety conditions

F. Conduct oneself in a manner to set a proper example for the players as well as when working with the coaching staff.

G. Be a part of Protest Committee. H. Enforce League Rules. I. Provide Division Reps with Umpire Schedule J. Coordinate with BOD for Umpires for the Season. K. Must have a Background Check every 2 years L. Sign Code of Conduct each year.

11. TEAM COACHING STAFF

11.1 GENERAL

A. The Team Manager will have complete authority and responsibility over the team.

B. Other than the two official Team Coaches, additional help may be obtained when deemed necessary by the team manager. Example: Score Keeper, Team-Mom, alternate coaches, (if County or NYSCA certified), due to illness, business travel, or other personal reasons.

C. Under no circumstances shall a Team Manager allow his/her team to meet without a coach that has not undergone a criminal background check, or practice/play game without a coach that has not been certified by Hillsbourgh County or NYSCA .

D. Assure that team players adhere to the rules, policies and regulations of the league.

E. Supervise and assume responsibility for the proper and personal conduct of all team players and parents.

F. Work with the players to instill good sportsmanship with the emphasis not just on winning.

G. Conduct oneself in a manner to set a proper example for the players as well as when working with the coaching staff and when dealing with officials during a game. If an umpire ejects a Manager/Coach from a game, the Manager or Coach will automatically be suspended for the next game.

H. All BOD Members, Managers, Coaches, and Volunteers that will be on the field and/or have contact with players must sign the code of conduct every season, must subject themselves to a background check and starting Spring 2010 wear the FYSA approved coaches badge.

11.2 TEAM MANAGER

Once approved by the Board, Team Managers retain their position within their Divisions until they either resign or move to another Division. All Team Managers must submit to a league approved criminal background check and be certified by the County or NYSCA in softball.

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When a Team Manager chooses to move up or down to another level and there is another person(s) wanting the same position, seniority within the league as a Team Manager/Coach shall apply. In case of a tie in seniority, the President shall make the final decision.

Team Managers must adhere to the objectives and general requirements of the MISS TAMPA BAY SOFTBALL By-laws. The duties of Team Managers are:

A. Assure that team players adhere to the rules, policies and regulations of the league.

B. Supervise and assume responsibility for the proper and personal conduct of all team players and parents.

C. Participate in the yearly spring skills assessment/draft. (Coach Pitch, Mini-Minor, Minor, & Major)

D. Participate in league fund raising programs.

E. Assure proper safeguards are taken to protect the league's equipment and uniforms.

F. Attend all Team Manager Meetings as required by the league. If a Manager is unable to attend a scheduled meeting, the Manager is responsible for sending a representative.

G. Recruit a Team Parent to participate in league fund raising programs including coordinating team parents and others in supporting concession stands during league activities.

H. Conduct oneself in a manner to set a proper example for the players as well as when working with the coaching staff and when dealing with officials during a game. If a Coach gets ejected from a game by an umpire, that Coach would automatically be suspended for the next game. *Pending appeal to Division Rep or full Board within the first 24 hours of infraction.

I. Select team coaches: No more than two (2) official coaches per team.

J. Work with the players to instill good sportsmanship with the emphasis not just on winning.

K. Establish a program to instruct and demonstrate proper techniques of playing fast-pitch softball, making it both a safe and enjoyable experience.

L. Communicate with the appropriate Division Director on matters for the Executive Board and/or Protest Committee. In case the Manager/Coach is the Division Director then he/she must communicate with the Executive Board and/or Protest Committee directly.

M. Home team lines and preps the field before each game.

N. Visitor Team rakes out baseline, pitching mound and home plate after game.

11.3 TEAM COACHES

Team coaches are selected by the Team Manager, and must be approved the Executive Board. All Team coaches must submit to a league approved criminal background check and be certified by Hillsborough County or NYSCA in softball. Team Coaches must sign the code of conduct and starting Spring 2010 wear the FYSA approved badge while on the field.

Team Coaches must adhere to the objectives and general requirements of the MISS TAMPA BAY SOFTBALL By-laws. The duties of the Team Coaches are:

A. See that the team players adhere to the rules, policies and regulations of the league.

B. Supervise and assume responsibility for the proper and personal conduct of the team players

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and parents.

C. Assist the Team Manager in carrying out his/her duties.

D. Participate in league fund raising programs.

E. Conduct oneself in a manner to set a proper example for the players as well as when working with the coaching staff and when dealing with officials during a game. If a Coach gets ejected from a game by an umpire, that Coach would automatically be suspended for the next game.

F. Work with the players to instill good sportsmanship with the emphasis not just on winning.

G. Assume the duties and responsibilities of the Team Manager when the manager is absent.

11.4 MANAGER’S DISCRETION

Once a player has been placed on a team roster, that player must stay on the team except in cases of:

1. Disciplinary action of the player.

2. Disciplinary action of the Team Manager or Team Coach.

3. Unresolved conflict between Team Manager/Coach and the player.

4. Trades agreed upon by parents and Division Representative.

11.5 PLAYER DISCIPLINARY ACTION

When a persistent or significant problem with a player exists, the following steps should be taken to resolve the issue.

A. The Team Manager should first speak directly to the parent(s) of the player.

B. If the player continues to disrupt the team, the Manager should then consult with their Division Director.

C. If the Division Director and Manager cannot resolve the situation, the problem should then be brought before the full Board.

11.6 SUSPENSION / DISMISSAL OF TEAM MANAGER/ COACH/PARENTS/SPECTATORS

Where TEAM MANAGER/COACH/PARENTS/SPECTATORS are not adhering to league rules, and/or complaints have been registered with the league, the Division Director will meet with the individual(s) involved to resolve all such situations.

If compliance of the rules is not met by the individual(s), or additional complaints come to the attention of the Division Director, the matter will be brought before the Executive Committee to review and to make its recommendation to the Board for appropriate corrective action.

Should a team not be represented at more than two consecutive mandatory Team Manager meetings, the Board of Directors may vote to dismiss the Team Manager and/or Coaches upon notification by the league secretary of non attendance.

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12. ELECTION OF LEAGUE POSITIONS

League members holding "elected" positions as defined in Table 1 shall be elected as follows:

12.1 GENERAL

A. General Elections will be held in June and new positions will be effective July 1.

B. Newly elected officers will not take office until the first meeting in July.

C. Elections will be conducted by secret ballot.

D. Three (3) people will count ballots. (Active Secretary and President plus one independent third person who is a NON-Board member.)

12.2 FILLING VACANT POSITIONS

The President with Executive Committee approval has the power to fill, by appointment, any vacancy in any office between scheduled elections. Any vacancy shall be filled within thirty (30) days and the appointment will be valid until the next scheduled election.

A. All individuals that have been elected to a position in the league must submit in writing their resignation to the President.

13. BOARD MEETINGS AND QUORUM

A. A special Board meeting may be called by the President, and/or the Executive Committee.

B. There will be an Annual Board meeting held every July. The purpose of this meeting will include:

1. Transfer of league responsibilities to newly elected and appointed officers

2. Assign as many one-year board position appointments as possible

C. A quorum to conduct business (vote) at any board meeting of the league shall be greater than fifty percent (50%) of the active Board of Directors.

D. The following circumstances require a 2/3 majority vote of an official Board meeting (quorum):

1. Amending the By-Laws.

2. All matters presented to the membership as deemed necessary by the Executive Committee.

14. COMMITTEES

The following committees may be formed by the league on an as needed basis. Once a committee member has been appointed, but for reasons unknown prior to their appointment are unable to continue on the committee, the President shall have the option to appoint a new member.

14.1 ELECTION NOMINATION COMMITTEE

A. An Election Committee, consisting of three (3) members, shall be appointed by the President to solicit nominees for all elected positions. Committee shall be established at the May meeting. Elections for all positions shall be held in June.

B. Members that are nominated shall be contacted by the committee to verify acceptance of nomination prior to placing his or her name on the official ballot.

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C. The Election Committee will prepare ballots for the election.

D. Publicize date of elections, location, and nominations a minimum of 2 weeks before Election Day. Publication will be done via email, posted on website, and a local print medium.

E. The Election Nomination Committee shall consist of three (3) people (Non-EC not running for EC office).

Ballots will be made available the last week of regular season play for all parents or legal guardians of players.

14.2 BY-LAW COMMITTEE

The President will select the By-law Committee Chairperson from the Board of Directors. The Chairperson will then select at least two (2) other members to fill out the committee. Responsibilities of the committee will include the following:

A. Review the BY-LAWS for accuracy, correctness and adequacy.

B. Accept from Division Directors, members or anyone else, requests for additions, changes or deletions to the BY-LAWS.

C. Review all requests for accuracy and wording.

D. Submit recommendations to the Executive Committee for their review and approval.

E. Upon approval of the Executive Committee, prepare the final recommendations for review and voting by the Board of Directors.

F. Update the By-Laws document to reflect all approved changes.

G. By-Law committee should be selected by September and present changes to the EC as warranted throughout the year.

14.3 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT COMMITTEE

A Capital Improvement committee shall be appointed by the President and chaired by the Vice President of Facilities, in order to make recommendations to the Board of Directors concerning potential improvements to facilities or equipment that would significantly improve the quality of play for the league members.

A. Establish this committee at the June meeting and begin preparing for necessary improvements for Fall/Spring.

B. Budgets to be presented to the EC by July meeting.

14.4 PROTEST COMMITTEE

A protest committee shall be formed and maintained to include members as identified in Table 1 to decide on matters as follows:

A. The President will chair the protest committee; the UIC and the Division Director that the protest occurred will be the other members. In the event the President is not available, normal protocol will prevail.

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B. Decisions of the Protest Committee will require a majority vote of all the Protest Committee members present.

C. Protest form to be filled out at time of incident by acting PA. A written explanation letter will need to be sent within 24 hrs by acting manager and submitted, explaining in detail the incident to the Division Rep.

D. The Protest Committee shall meet on all protests and rule interpretations.

E. In all cases where a Division Director is directly or indirectly involved in a protest, the President shall appoint another Division Director. However, the Division Director directly or indirectly involved with the protest may speak on the protest.

F. A protest fee of $20 will be collected within 24 hrs and reimbursed if protest is found in your favor.

G. The Committee Chairperson will document for the record all appropriate, facts, actions and conclusions of the protest meeting. All documentation will then be handed over to the league Secretary.

14.5 BACKGROUND CHECK COMMITTEE

In order to preserve the safety and well-being of youth participating in the league, the Board of Directors will use the following guidelines requiring background checks for league volunteers. Background checks are mandatory for all new volunteers. All approved volunteers will be required to undergo additional background checks every third years, provided that their service has been consecutive. If service is non-consecutive, the check will be required after an absence of at least one year. In addition, the League can conduct random checks on of all volunteers each season at any time the Board feels necessary.

The Vice President of Operations and two other Board members appointed by the President will comprise the committee to administer the process of background checks. The committee will be responsible for obtaining all volunteer applications, providing volunteer applications to the selected vendor for the background check process, and reviewing all information received. The committee is required to keep all information received because of the screening confidential. The results are not to be disclosed to anyone outside of the committee.

The league must receive written consent from each volunteer to send in a background screening. If a volunteer does not give their consent, they will not be able to participate in any of the following positions:

A. All persons holding positions on the Executive Committee.

B. All persons holding positions on the Board of Directors.

C. All Team Managers and Coaches.

D. All volunteers who will be acting in the capacity of a team coach who may be alone with players, or responsible for a team during games or practice, or in the dugout or on the fields.

The complete Criminal Background Check Policy currently in effect was adopted by resolution of the Board of Directors on May 21, 2009, and is available to all members.

14.6 AUDIT COMMITTEE

A. Members appointed each year by the President to audit the league’s financial records to insure

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complete records are being maintained of all income and expenses. (Chairman: VP Operations, and two (2) other non-elected board members.

14.7 BUDGET AND FINANCE COMMITTEE

A. Responsible for creating the annual league budget and submitting it to the board at the October meeting for approval (chairman, treasurer, members, VP of Facilities, Equipment Manager, Concession Manager plus 2 Board members)

14.8 REGISTRATION COMMITTEE

B. Responsible for the planning and executing of all aspects of spring and fall registration. (Chairman: VP Registration plus two (2) Board Members.)

15. REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES

A. The President, other elected members and persons in appointed positions, shall be reimbursed for actual expenses incurred while performing league-approved business.

B. All League-Business travel related expenses must be pre-approved by the Board.

C. Reimbursement of personal expenses other than that stated above will be entirely at the discretion of the Executive Committee.

D. Pre-Approval must be given by EC prior to member’s spending league money at his or her own discretion. If an individual purchases items without pre-approval, the league will consider it a gift from that individual.

16. UMPIRE EXPENSES

Umpires will be paid a fee (negotiated on a yearly basis and approved by the board) for umpiring a league game or league sponsored game when approved by the President

17. REGISTRATION

A. All girls must register in order to play in the league.

B. Cut-off date for registration will be announced by the VP of Registration. Under unusual circumstances, the VP of Registration, with EC approval, may allow late registrations depending on the age group and numbers of available positions on teams.

C. A parent or legal guardian must sign all registration forms. The parent or guardian must indicate any medical conditions on the registration form.

D. By majority vote, the Executive Committee may revise Registration Fees.

E. Coach Pitch, Mini-Minor, Minor, and Major age divisions will undergo a skills assessment prior to the player draft. Each Manager will be able to protect up to two (2) players that will not have to participate in the skills assessment.

18. PLAYER ELIGIBILITY

League age is defined by a player’s age on December 31 of the year prior to league play. If a player is 10

years old on December 31sty

, then she is league age 10 the entire current year. Inexperienced players may play down an age group with approval from the President.

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All 4-6 year olds should play in the T-Ball Division.

All 7-8 year olds should play in the Coach Pitch Division. 8U

All 9-10 year olds should play in the Mini-Minor Division. 10U

All 11-12 year olds should play in the Minor Division. 12U

All 13-16 year olds should play in the Major Division. 16U

A player wishing to participate after the draft (Late Entry) must have approval from the President. The procedure for late entries is included in the Skills Assessment Procedures.

During tournament play, a player may not play down an age group.

18.1 PLAYER PROMOTION

A player may move up into the next division of play, providing that the player has played at least one season in the lower division and attends the upper division skill assessment. In the event of a new player moves into town during the off-season, if she was eligible to play in the lower division the previous season (at a previous league), then the player is eligible to move up.

19. AWARDS

The Executive Board will use the following guidelines when issuing trophies, plaques, medals or other awards deemed appropriate. Any awards bestowed upon a team and/or team member by a private donor (or donors) must be presented at a Non-Miss Tampa Bay Softball Girls’ Softball League function.

A. All award types will be recommended by selected vendor.

B. President will present recommended award types to Board for selection and approval.

20. PLAYING RULES

The Official A.S.A. Fast Pitch Rules shall apply, including all local amendments (MISS TAMPA BAY SOFTBALL Special Rules) to the same.

21. MISS TAMPA BAY SOFTBALL REVISED PLAYING RULES OF SPECIAL NOTE

21.1 GENERAL

A. One (1) Team Manager and two (2) Team Coaches per team will be allowed on the playing field during games. All games start according to league schedule

B. All players in every Division must wear face guards on their batting helmets.

C. If during a game a team becomes unable to field nine players, but can still field eight (8), the game may continue and will be considered an official game. Less than eight players will be considered a forfeit.

D. Up until game time, the decision on whether or not the playing conditions are bad enough to prevent playing of the game shall be made by the Umpire-In-Chief, or Park Administrator.

E. There is a six (6)-run maximum per inning rule (aka. Modified six run rule), regardless of outs. No batter will come to bat once six (6) runs have been scored in that team's half inning. More than six (6) runs can be scored in a team's half of the inning. Ex.: Five (5) runs have scored and the bases are loaded, when the next batter comes up to bat and hits the ball into play, provided play is not stopped when the sixth (6th) run crosses home plate, all base runners plus the batter may score.

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Total nine (9) runs per inning.

F. Coaches are allowed to substitute players freely. Each player is required to play at least two (2) innings on defense per game.

G. The entire available roster for each team bats whether playing defense or not.

H. MTBS reserves the right to add or amend the “PARK RULES” before ever season

21.2 T-BALL DIVISION (6U)

A. T-Ball will be classified as an instructional league. Having fun while learning the basic rules and positions of softball are of key importance.

B. When on offense, each player will take a turn at bat. Score should not be kept. Mid-way through the season the Division Director will poll each coach and decide if the players on each team are ready to keep track of score. (Three outs/modified 5-run rule per inning).

C. A valid attempt should be made to rotate players to an infield position at least once per game. All players take the field when on defense.

D. Score will be kept at all tournaments.

21.3 COACH PITCH DIVISION (8U)

A. An 11” leather-soft ball will be used for games.

B. There is a maximum of ten (10) defensive players allowed.

C. Pitching distance from the front of the pitcher’s rubber to the point of home plate is 35 feet.

D. Batters will receive 5 pitches from their coach to hit the ball into play. If the batter swings at all three pitches without hitting the ball into fair territory the batter will be out. (Unless the third swing is hit foul)

E. Outfielders will be required to stand in the grass or ten (10) feet beyond the baseline, whichever is closer.

21.4 MINI-MINOR DIVISION (10U)

A. Only nine (9) players are allowed to play defense per inning, but the entire roster bats.

B. There shall be no intentional walks.

C. The base runner may only leave a base when the ball leaves the pitchers hand. If the base runner leaves before the ball leaves the pitchers hand, the base runner is out.

D. Infield positions shall consist of a maximum four players plus the pitcher and catcher. Outfield positions will start each play "on the grass".

E. An 11” leather ball will be used for all games.

F. Upon the third walk of the ½ inning, the coach will be allowed to finish off the count for that batter.

G. No stealing is allowed during coach pitch

H. Drop third strike is in effect except during coach pitch

21.5 MINOR DIVISION (12U)



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C. The base runner may only leave a base when the ball leaves the pitchers hand. If the base runner leaves before the ball leaves the pitchers hand, the base runner is out.


E. A 12” leather ball will be used for games

21.6 MAJOR DIVISION (16U)



C. The base runner may only leave a base when the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand. If the base runner leaves before the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand, the base runner is out.


E. A 12” leather ball will be used for games

22. ALL-STARS

22.1 ALL-STAR TEAM SELECTION PROCESS

A. Division Directors shall supervise their respective age groups all-star selection. In case the Division Director is also a Manager/Coach in their same age group, then a member of the Board of Directors not affiliated with a team in that age group will supervise.

B. Managers may nominate as many players as they wish from their team for all-stars. Each team in a division must have at least one representative on an all-star team.

C. If four or less teams are in a division, then there will be only one all-star team, (12 player’s total). The 12 players shall be made up or the best players from that division as decided upon by the team managers.

D. If five or more teams are in a single division, and the managers collectively believe there is enough talent in that division, they may choose to have a second all-star team, (24 player’s total). They must also ask for Board approval for the second team. The 24 players shall be made up of the best players from that division as decided upon by the team managers.

E. Selection of Manager(s)

1) The Manager of the team with the best win/lose record during regular season in league play has the initial option to manage the all-star team. If he/she chooses not to manage a team, then the option goes to the manager with the second best win/loss record, and so on until a manager is chosen.

2) If it is decided in a division to have two teams, then after the first manager has been chosen, the second all-star manager will be determined in the same manner as above beginning with the manager with the next best win/loss record.

3) If it has been decided there will be two managers, then they will draft their respective teams from the pool of 24 players selected for all-stars. The all-star managers shall choose whomever they want as their two assistant coaches. The coaches must be a current manager or coach in their same age group.

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F. Player Rating System

1) The Manager and Coaches for each team should rate the player(s) they feel are skilled enough to play on the all-star team(s). Each team will be provided with a rating sheet with guidelines.

2) Managers from each division will then meet to exchange rating sheets with each other. The Managers will then rate each player nominated by the other team Managers.

3) Ratings will be based on a scale from one to five. Players should be rated on fielding, hitting and attitude. Guideline and rating sheets will be distributed to each manager at the Mid-season Managers meeting.

4) The supervisor of the draft will then total and average the rating sheets. If there are five or more teams in the division, one high and one low score will be dropped before the average is calculated for each player. The 12/24 players with the highest averages will make the team(s). If a team does not have a player with a high, enough average to make the team(s), then the all-star team may carry an extra player with the extra player being from the team(s) without a representative. The extra player should be the player with the highest rating on that team.

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Table1 LEAGUE POSITIONS

POSITION TERM of OFFICE (Years)

ELECTED or

APPOINTED

BOARD MEMBER

PROTEST COMMITTEE

MEMBER

REPORTS DIRECTLY

TO

President 1 ELECTED Yes Yes

Vice President of Operations

1 ELECTED Yes Yes President

Vice President of Facilities

1 ELECTED Yes Yes President

Treasurer 1 ELECTED Yes Yes President

Secretary 1 ELECTED Yes No President

Past President 1 APPOINTED Yes No E-Board

T-Ball Director(s) 1 APPOINTED Yes Yes E-Board

Coach Pitch Director(s) 1 APPOINTED Yes Yes E-Board

Mini-Minor Director(s) 1 APPOINTED Yes Yes E-Board

Minor Director(s) 1 APPOINTED Yes Yes E-Board

Major Director(s) 1 APPOINTED Yes Yes E-Board

Concessions Chairperson

1 APPOINTED Yes No E-Board

Team Parent Coordinator

1 APPOINTED Yes No E-Board

Fundraising Chairperson

1 APPOINTED Yes No President

Team Manager 1 APPOINTED No No Division Director

Team Coach 1 APPOINTED No No Team

Manager

Umpire-In-Chief 1 APPOINTED No Yes President

Election Nomination Committee

1 APPOINTED No No President

By-Law Committee 1 APPOINTED No No President

Capital Improvement Committee


Protest Committee 1 APPOINTED No No President

Background Check Committee


Audit Committee 1 APPOINTED No No President

Budget & Finance Committee


Registration Committee 1 APPOINTED No No President

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