BASEBALL
NORTHERN TERRITORY
JUNIOR BASEBALL RULES
QUESTIONS ON THESE OR OTHER RULES Please direct any enquiries to: Baseball NT PO Box 40248, Casuarina NT 0811 Phone: 8927 4788 Fax: (08) 8927 7988 Email [email protected] TABLE OF CONTENTS
Topic Page Number Introduction 3 Section 1 – Compliance and requirements 3 Application of the rules 3 Reporting 4 Forms and paperwork 4 Sponsor signage 4 Age Eligibility 4 Age requirements 5 Section 2- General playing rules 7 Playing field 7 Playing equipment 7 Protective Equipment 8 Playing rules 9 Pitching and catching 10 Pitch count limitations 11 Section 3- General coaching 12 Section 4 – General umpiring 13 Ejection reports and reporting 14 Six/seven/nine rule 14 Section 5- Modified Games 15 Tee Ball rules 15 Rookie Ball rules 19 Little league and U14,U16,U18 22 Section 6 - finals 22 Section 7- How to change the BNTI junior rules 23
Appendices Appendix A – Junior age eligibility 24 Appendix B – Infectious diseases policy ( ABF) 25
Baseball Northern Territory Incorporated (BNTI), Junior Baseball Rules, Issued November 2010
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NT JUNIOR BASEBALL RULES INTRODUCTION
These rules in addition to the Official Rules of Baseball as supplied by the Australian Baseball Federation (ABF), apply to all levels of junior play. These rules have been designed to foster player development and provide a fun, fair and safe environment for our junior members.
OUR PHILOSOPHY To encourage a healthy level of competition while stressing safety and participation for all, regardless of skill or ability. We are committed to these four priorities for all players; 1) Safety 2) Development 3) Fair participation 4) Fun
SECTION 1 THE RULES- COMPLIANCE AND REQUIREMENTS
1) APPLICATION OF THE RULES a. These rules may not and cannot be adjusted or manipulated in any way by any club, region or League affiliated with Baseball Northern Territory Incorporated (BNTI), without the expressed written permission of the BNTI Board of Management. All requests for variations are to be submitted in writing, any Region or Association not abiding by these rules will forfeit their right to nominate teams for any BNTI sanctioned Tournament, Competition or Games; including Tournaments, Competitions or Games sanctioned by the ABF. Further sanctions may be bought against a non compliant region, Club or individual at the discretion of the BNTI Board of management.
b. These rules are to be adhered to. The baseball governing body/regional committee charged with ensuring compliance is as follows:
c. The League or Regional committee conducting the competition. For an infringement by (i) An individual or (ii) A Club under the jurisdiction of a regional association The follow steps shall be undertaken by the regional league/association:
d. The League or region shall convene a judiciary panel (as per the BNTI Tribunal and Judiciary formation and function policy). The appointed panel shall make a finding and impose the appropriate penalty (see BNTI Tribunal and Judiciary Penalties) if a finding of guilty is returned.
e. A copy of all tribunal/judiciary documentation shall be forwarded to BNTI regardless of the outcome. BNTI reserve the right to act/ convene a state judiciary for gross or recidivist misconduct/contravention of these rules and may impose penalty or mandatory re- education/mentoring.
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f. All members are afforded the right to appeal. Any Appeal must be lodged within 24 hours of the Tribunal findings being advised (in the prescribed manner) to the defendant and must be in written form, accompanied by a letter of explanation and a cheque for $250 made payable to Baseball NT. The cheque will be returned if the appeal is upheld.
g. For an infringement by an association or league (including failure to enforce compliance), that matter shall be dealt with By Baseball Northern Territory Inc (BNTI) under the BNTI constitution section 21. For any action taken under section 21 all appeals and dispute resolutions shall be dealt with as defined under the BNTI constitution.
2) REPORTING a. All infringements must be dealt with in a formal manner. A written report must be submitted and the appropriate process followed. Unless there is an imminent safety concern to a player (in which case the umpire in chief must be informed) no official shall raise an issue of infringement or non compliance outside the committee, tribunal, or judiciary. It is inappropriate to raise such matters on the field or after a game or in any other setting other than a formal meeting or hearing.
b. Reports of infringements or contraventions of the BNTI Junior Rules will be accepted from any game official, appointed official or committee or board member. Any other member or parents/guardian of a member who wish express a concern must do so through a committee or board member. Reports must be submitted in writing and contain the full particulars and specify the rule(s) that have been contravened. All report must be submitted on the prescribed form.
3) FORMS AND PAPERWORK a. All regions are to ensure forms are readily available to their members and officials, incident report forms, pitch count sheets, game report cards etc should be available from the scorers’ table during all scheduled games.
b. Game report cards from previous games are to be filed and kept on the scorers’ table during all scheduled games.
4) SPONSOR SIGNAGE a. Sponsorship signage on uniforms is permitted. Nothing resembling a baseball is permitted. Sponsors names, size and placement of the signage must be endorsed by BNTI through the Region, League or Competition administration.
5) AGE ELIGIBILITY a. The cut-off date for all age groups with the exception of Little League is December 31st. Example: to play at the U14 age level a player cannot turn 14 before December 31st of the year in which the season commences.
Note: As per Little League National and International rules, the cut off date for Little League players is the 1st of May i.e. a player cannot have turned 13 before the following 1st of May after the commencement of the season. Please refer to the Little League Age Matrix in Appendices A
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b. Any variations to the age eligibility of a player must be approved by BNTI via an application for junior assessment. The application must be submitted on the correct form to the BNTI office or to the designated BNTI regional assessor. The form must be signed by the players’ parents/guardians and the head coach of the players’ current team or a committee member for new or unregistered players.
c. All assessments will be conducted by the State Head Coach or an appropriately accredited coach or development officer appoint by BNTI to conduct junior assessments on behalf of BNTI. The assessment must be completed before the player commences playing in the new age group or competition. The assessor at his or her discretion may grant the request with conditions.
d. Upon completion of the assessment the assessor will forward a copy of the completed request form to the regional association, a copy to the teams head coach (to which the player is assigned) and the original to BNTI. A copy will be kept on file by the regional association. BNTI will maintain a data base of all assessments completed.
e. Assessments are to be carried out prior to the season commencement. A request for reassessment may be made at the halfway point of the season schedule.
6) AGE REQUIREMENTS a. All players must complete the prescribed form upon registration. Regions or clubs may use their own registration forms upon approval from BNTI.
b. All registered junior players are required to show proof of age upon initial registration with a club. BNTI and Its affiliate reserve the right to request proof of age documentation (original copies) after acceptance of registration if required. All requests for proof of age shall be made through the regions designated registrar. If the required documents are not produced within 10 days the player is suspended from participating in all games until the documents are produced. BNTI may at its discretion make allowances in extenuating circumstances.
Note: Confirmation that proof of age has been sighted is to be noted on the registration forms by the associations registrar or designated registration officer or committee member (confirmation will not be accepted from any team official).
c. To play Baseball, a player must turn 5 years of age in the year of initial registration (assessment request required for all participation requests below specified minimum age requirement).
d. Players may only play up one age group in junior competition.(for senior competition participation eligibility see point vi)
e. Players of lesser ability may be encouraged to play down one level only. Athletes with disabilities, upon submission of a junior assessment request form, shall be assessed by the appointed State Head Coach or an appropriately accredited coach or development officer appoint by BNTI and placed in the appropriate age/skill level at the assessors’ discretion.) The assessment must be completed prior to the commencement of the players’ first game in lower age group.
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f. To play senior baseball a junior the player must have turned 14 years of age by the 1st JAN of the year the season starts. A BNTI consent form (or relevant section on the player registration form) signed by the parents or guardians must be in the hands of the registrar(s) no later than the commencement of the player’s first game in the senior competition. All junior players are to adhere to the playing, Pitching and Catching rules for their natural age group. Junior players are not permitted to catch or pitch in a senior competition until an assessment has been completed. (Junior assessment request to be completed as per 5) b & c). g. Players, when playing up an age level, must be accessed before being allowed to pitch or catch. Pitching restrictions (congruent to the players’ natural age group) apply and MUST be strictly adhered to. (Assessments are to be carried out prior to the season commencement. A request for reassessment may be made at the halfway point of the season schedule). h. Any player playing up must also play his/her natural age group. Only players that have been granted a dispensation by the BNTI or their appointed representative are allowed to play only the older competition. A written request for dispensation signed by the parents/guardians and the players team head coach must be forwarded to BNTI for consideration. All requests must detail the legitimate reasons for the dispensation request.
Note: No player shall be allowed to play in more than two grades on the same day. i. Where there is no competition for particular age level; a league may determine the age levels that best fulfil their requirements. For example: U17, U15, U11 etc. Baseball NT approval must be sought before implementation.
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SECTION 2 GENERAL PLAYING RULES
1) PLAYING FIELD a. Field Dimensions (in feet)
Pitching Base Distan Age Division Path ce Centerfield Base Type U8 T-Ball 60' 46' 150' Removable U10 Rookie 60' 46' 200' Removable Little League 60' 46' 200' Removable U14 80' 54' 300' Permanent U16 90' 60' 6" Open Permanent U18 90' 60' 6" Open Permanent
b. In all games that have dimension limits, temporary fencing, cones or markers that can be seen from home plate, must be in place prior to the commencement of the game.
c. Under these circumstances, home runs and ground rule doubles will be judgement calls from the Umpire.
d. The plate umpire of the first game of the day is to complete a Game Day Checklist to ensure the field is safe to commence play.
Note: Game day check list can be found at: http://www.nt.baseball.com.au/site/baseball/nt/downloads/Game%20Day%20Inspection%20Checklist.pdf
e. If the field is unfit for play (in the opinion of the umpire), the game must not commence until the problem is rectified. If the problem(s) cannot be rectified the game must be postponed.
f. All game day check lists are to be lodged with the regional associations who (if required) must take remedial action.
g. The regional committee shall ensure that the Bi Annual/pre tournament Ground Maintenance Audit is completed and that a copy is retained in the association records.
Note: Ground Maintenance Audit can be found at: http://www.nt.baseball.com.au/site/baseball/nt/downloads/BNTI%20Ground%20Maintenance%20Audit.pdf
2) PLAYING EQUIPMENT a. All equipment should be in good repair and used in a manner specified by the manufacturer.
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b. All equipment must be checked by the team coaches or designated equipment manager before use. c. Equipment in NT Junior Baseball must adhere to the following restrictions:
Bats (Max) Age Division Balls Shoes Weight Length Diameter U8 T-Ball Safety Any 26" Rubber U10 Rookie Safety Any 28" Rubber Minor Little League Safety LL Approved LL Approved LL Approved Rubber
Major Little League Standard LL Approved LL Approved LL Approved Rubber U14 Standard -8 or Heavier 32" 2 5/8" Non-metal U16 Standard -3 or Heavier Any 2 5/8" Metal -5 or Heavier 33" 2 5/8" U18 Standard -3 or Heavier 34" 2 5/8" Metal
d. All bats for Little League play must be marked by the manufacturer as “Approved for Play in Little League Baseball”
e. Females playing U16 to senior baseball are permitted to use baseball bats -5 ounces or heavier.
f. No softball bats are permitted.
g. All bases that are not permanent should be of the padded variety or be the breakaway variety and be placed on level ground. Bases are not to be placed over holes or depressions in the ground.
Note: Should a base be pegged to the ground, it is to be done so with safety as the PRIMARY CONCERN. Drive pegs completely into the ground and keep buckles under the centre of the bases.
3) PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT a. Players must wear full protective equipment at all times when catching or warming up a pitcher. For example: mask, helmet, chest protector, throat protector (when not using an all-in- one mask), leg guards and protective cup.
Note: At Rookie Ball age level or below, soccer style leg protectors are permitted.
b. Properly fitted, undamaged two eared helmets must be worn by all batters, base runners and juniors performing the duties of base coach.
c. It is the responsibility of the Head Coach to ensure that any batboy or girl sitting in the dugout wears a 2-eared helmet at ALL times.
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d. Protective cups are mandatory for all male players and optional for female players.
e. Junior Players must remove all jewellery prior to the start of the game. Note: This includes all neck and wrist performance aids.
HEALTH AND SAFETY NOTES: (i) All Clubs must have, as part of their equipment, a generous supply of SPF 30+ Sunscreen.
(ii) If, in the opinion of the Chief Umpire, in consultation with both Coaches, in any junior game, the heat becomes detrimental to a player’s health, the game will be abandoned.
4) PLAYING RULES a. If a play is imminent; runners must slide at 2nd and 3rd bases and home plate. The runner must slide feet first unless returning to a base. i.e. pick offs
Note: An imminent play is defined as: A fielder or catcher, while receiving or retrieving the baseball is physically able to touch the base or home with normal effort.
Penalty for not sliding in the correct manner on an imminent play: The runner shall be called out for interference, the ball is dead. All other runners return to the base they were previously occupying. The penalty for deliberately blocking the path of a base runner: Obstruction will be called, the ball is dead and the runner shall be awarded an additional base.
b. There is no designated hitter in Junior Baseball.
c. All games in Junior Baseball are to be played to an innings limit unless specified below:
Max Mercy Max Age Division Innin Complete Rul Duration gs e 1 Hour + U8 T-Ball Training N/A N/A N/A 1 Hour 15 U10 Rookie mins N/A N/A N/A Minor Little League 2 Hours As per LL Tournament Rules Major Little League NTL ( 6 innings Major LL only) U14 2 Hours 7 Inns 4 Inns 5 Inns U16 2 Hours 7 Inns 4 Inns 5 Inns U18 2 Hours 7 Inns 4 Inns 5 Inns
d. Any inning commenced will be completed unless the home team is in front after the time limit.
e. Tournament rules may vary(the applicable tournament rules apply for tournament games)
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f. In U14, U16, U18, if a team is ahead by 10 runs after five equal innings, then the “mercy” rule will be invoked.
g. In Little League, if a team is a head by 10 runs after 4 innings, then the “mercy” rule will be invoked.
h.Each junior player in their natural age group or “primary competition” must play at least 50% of the time allowed for that game .Fair game time is not to be eroded through the use of other players playing up. A fair rotation system is to be used by all coaches. Players must play a minimum of 25% of full games for the season.
Note: Remember – each player has paid the same fees.
i. Any player who does not play in their Primary competition due to injury or team disciplinary action must be noted in the ‘coaches’ report” section of the Game report card. A disciplinary action form is also to be completed by the team head coach and kept on file with the days’ Game report card.
j. Teams shall not be restrictive to gender, nor preclude players because of race, creed or disability.
Note: Any coach who contravenes the spirit, intent or rules pertaining to fair game time shall be subject to disciplinary action.
k. A team must have a minimum of 8 players to start a game. If a team does not have 8 players from their team roster the game will be declared a forfeit and a scratch match should be played.
l. In the event of an injury or an ejection from the game a team may play with 7 players. However, teams are not permitted to play or continue with less than 7 players.
m. Substituted players, having 50% of the game (see rule ix above), may re-enter the game in the event of an injury or ejected player.
n. Re-entered players are not permitted to pitch.
o. No inning will start with less than 10 minutes to go in the game.
p. No automatic out when a team has less than 9 players.
5) PITCHING & CATCHING a. A player may catch then pitch but may not pitch then catch in the same day.
b.No player may catch in more than two games in any given day.
c. A courtesy runner for the catcher is mandatory after two outs.
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d.Fast ball and change ups (NO knuckle balls, curveballs, sliders, splitfingers etc) are the only pitches permitted at the U14 and below age levels. e. Pitchers may not exceed the game maximums, with the exception that should they reach their maximum number of pitches while there is still a batter in the box, they are allowed to complete that batter and then be immediately replaced.
f. The official pitch counts shall be kept by the official game scorers (a pitch count sheet is to be used during the game) who shall enter each players final pitch count on to the game card. A copy of the Game Report Card and the pitch count sheets shall be filed. The file is to be kept on the scorers’ table during all scheduled games. Coaches are to also record/keep pitch counts for their players.
Note: Scorers are to inform the coach when the pitcher is within 10 pitches of reaching the maximum limit.
Note: All coaches should make changes between innings when possible – speed up rule It is recommended that pitchers should not start the next inning if 10 or fewer pitches remain before reaching this maximum – Speed up rule. This also allows for the incoming pitcher to be prepared adequately.
6) PITCH COUNT LIMITATIONS a. Pitching limitations for the normal season are as follows. AGE Game Max
U10 35 pitches * 2nd year players second half of the season only. Little League 60 pitches or participate as a pitcher for nine defence outs, whichever comes first.
U/14 70 pitches
U/16 80 pitches
U/18 90 pitches
Note: It is strongly recommended that junior pitchers throw at least 75% fast balls in all games throughout the season. This is considered an arm safety and player development requirement.
b.All junior players that pitch in a game must have at least one complete day’s rest from pitching if he pitches more than 10 pitches in a game (example Pitches on Sunday, cannot pitch again until Tuesday)and once relieved, may not pitch again during that game ).
c. Pitchers removed from the mound in accordance with rules of baseball (rule 8.06) are still eligible to play in the field. However, they are not permitted to catch.
d.Each pitcher, as they continue through the game, is limited to 1 minute or 8 warm-up pitches, whichever is greater, at the start of each innings. Umpires are to err on the side of too many, not too few, when undecided.
e. For multiple games over more than a one-day period, please consult the BNTI or applicable Tournament Rules.
f. Leagues are to ensure that strong penalties are levied on Coaches breaching these pitching rules. Coaches who continue to breach the rules should be reported to BNTI for further action. Baseball Northern Territory Incorporated (BNTI), Junior Baseball Rules, Issued November 2010
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SECTION 3 1) GENERAL COACHING a. Any person performing the duties of a coach or assistant coach in NT must have a coaching accreditation in Baseball. All coaches are required to observe the BNTI Coaches Code of Conduct and must have a current Ochre Card or a current Police check is acceptable until the 1/3/2011. (Note: for the purposes of coaching the Ochre Card replaces the police criminal history check)
Note: Please see the BNTI Working with Children Policy.
b. All coaches, who will be coaching any junior player at any level MUST: (i) Sign and submit the BNTI Coaches Code of Conduct (ii) Complete and submit the Ochre Card application (iii) Not commence coaching duties until they have received their Ochre card clearance and have advised their regional association of their Ochre card reference number.
c. Each region shall check and record the Ochre Card Reference number and submit a current data base to baseball NT within 3 weeks of the seasons’ commencement. Appointment made mid season shall be advised to BNTI in writing immediately ( and the relevant data base up dated)
RECOMMENDATION: Because of the Length of time required to process the Ochre Card applications all regions MUST allow a minimum of 6 to 7 weeks between appointment and commencement of training/games.
Note: Full details of the legal requirements and the ochre card visit: http://www.workingwithchildren.nt.gov.au/index.html Under NT Legislation (The Protection of Children Act) the association is liable for a $65, 0000.00 fine for non compliance.
d. All coaches should purchase the ‘Official Australian Baseball Rules’. This book contains the Rules of Baseball, the Australian Baseball League (ABL) By Laws and the International Baseball Association (IBA) By- Laws.
Note: It is the duty of all coaches to familiarise themselves with the current NT Junior rules.
e. The head coach of each team is to be supplied by the regional association/ club with a full list of players in their team which must include full contact details, any medical details that will affect the player while participating, a copy of any assessment carried out and the players’ date of birth.
f. Coaches and players are prohibited from disputing any type of umpiring judgment calls. Example: out/safe, ball/strike or fair/foul. Penalty: automatic ejection.
Note: The head coach (or the person acting in that capacity for the game) is the only team member that may question an umpire regarding a ruling as per vi above this excludes judgement calls.
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SECTION 4 1) GENERAL UMPIRING a. Each junior team should have an accredited Umpire available for all their games (min level 0).
Recommendation: Each team should appoint a “Team Umpire” Any accreditation enquiries should be directed to the BNTI office. Course will be conducted before the commencement of the season and by arrangement if required..A league/completion umpiring rooster may also be implemented
b. Umpires in Chief must be situated behind home plate and be 14 and above (unless approved by the RCU or SDU) or a levelled ABF instructor) and wear the necessary equipment, including enclosed footwear. Thongs and sandals are not permitted. Umpires in Chief are not permitted to umpire from the mound during regular games.
c. Unless otherwise stipulated in the regional By-Laws, in the absence of a league appointed umpire, the home team will provide the Umpire in Chief. (Plate Umpire). The visiting team will provide the base umpire. d. No member of the coaching staff, whose team is participating in a game, should be umpire for that game.
e. Junior players umpiring junior games may only umpire games below their age group, unless they hold a current ABF accreditation. The SDU or RCU may at his discretion limit a junior umpires duties if further instruction/ education/ experience and/or mentoring is needed.
Remember that all umpires, no matter what age, are in control of the game. Any coach, team manager, scorer, or other person who attempts to take advantage of a junior umpire or an umpire who wears the coloured shirt (new or official in training) will be dealt with severely.
f. Umpires are encouraged to allow a generous strike zone in games up to and including the U14 age group. This is defined as an extra ball width on the outside of the strike zone. This is a player development requirement and will encourage players to swing the bat.
g. Those who officiate in baseball should be vaccinated against Hepatitis B.
h. When an umpire notices a player is bleeding or has blood on any part of his person or uniform, he is to direct the player to leave the playing field.( Please see the infectious diseases policy in the section below)
i. Where a player is directed by an umpire to leave the field under Subparagraph H., the umpire will wait a reasonable period to allow the bleeding and change of uniform etc as required under the infectious diseases policy to be attended to. The amount of time is entirely at the discretion of the umpire. If, when this time has elapsed, the player is unable to take his place in the team, he must be replaced in the usual manner of substitution.
j. A player or official, who refuses to promptly obey a direction of an umpire in accordance with Subparagraph H and I above, shall be ejected from the game.
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2) EJECTION REPORTS AND REPORTING
a. It is mandatory to report all ejections. All ejection must be reported in the correct manner on the correct form. (Incident report form) Full details and reference numbers to rules broken/contravened must be included.
Note: Umpires are not responsible for the application or non application of penalties.
b.Reports must be received by the relevant/ designated person within 24 hrs ( after the game)
c. What to do: If you have ejected a player or official. (i) Obtain the official game card from the scorer. (ii) Record ejection on the “umpires report “ section of the game card Include the alleged offender’s name and number or official position/appointment (iii) Sign the card and return it to the scorer. (iv) Obtain an Incident Report Form from the scorers’ table (v) Complete the report. Forward the report to the designated person in your region within 24 hours of the ejection
3) SIX/SEVEN/NINE RULE: a. A maximum of six runs U14 and a maximum of seven runs for U16 can be scored in any one inning. In the U18 a maximum of nine runs apply. e.g. A team has already scored one run less than the maximum runs count in a inning and it is loaded bases and the batter hits a Grand Slam, only the one run counts for the score card, however the hits etc., should count for the purposes of statistic.
COMMENT: It is the intention of this rule to prevent, as far as practicable, games which are so dominated by one team that their opponents lose interest in the game, and as a result may be lost to junior baseball.
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Section 5 Baseball Northern Territory Rules For the Modified Games of: TEE BALL (Under 8) ROOKIE BALL (Under 10) LITTLE LEAGUE
TEE BALL RULES
1) GENERAL a. The Game Duration Max Innings Complete Max Runs 50 mins N/A N/A 6 per inn
NOTES: It is recommended that training should be held before the game starts for a minimum of 20 mins.
b. Teams may field as many as the opposition, up to 12: and bat as many as 12 in any given game. Excess Players are to occupy fielding positions in the outfield. Players must be under the age of 8.
c. Inning mercy limits are as listed under ‘max runs’.
d. All innings started will be completed.
e. The Umpire-in-Chief will be the official timekeeper. Coaches and managers should confirm with the umpire the starting, finishing and cut-off times prior to the game, which are then to be relayed to the scorers.
2) PLAYING RULES a. Fielders may not assume a fielding position in a base path, if the preceding base is occupied. Outfielders should be well behind the infield team mates (at least 5 meters behind the baseline) before play is allowed to begin.
b. Fielders shall be relatively stationary at the time the umpire calls ‘play ball’. They are not required to be motionless, but may not move from one side of the field to the other (except in the act of fielding) or deliberately attempt to distract the batter by waving, running, jumping or shouting. Penalty: one warning per team, per game, then offending fielder replaced for at least remainder of defensive innings.
c. No fielder shall assume a position approximately 3 metres behind Home Plate, in a direct line with the Plate and the Pitcher, and in front of the umpire. No play if otherwise.
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d. All outs on base are to be considered force-outs, eliminating the necessity of the tag. Fielders have the option of touching the base or tagging, even though the latter is not required. Tagging is not permitted on a runner between home plate and first base. e. Once a player in the infield has control of the ball, the runners may advance no further than the base to which they are committed, regardless of whether the fielder throws the ball or not. In effect, there is nothing to lose in attempting to throw the runner out: even if the throw is wild, the runner cannot advance further. The Umpire shall call “Time”, if in his judgement no further play will be attempted, (this would include the event where the ball has been thrown wild) and make the required decisions regarding the awarding of bases. f. Fielders may only occupy the regular infield positions of Pitcher, Catcher, 1st Base, 2nd Base, 3rd Base and Shortstop – all other players are to assume original fielding positions behind these players and be outfielders. No play if otherwise. g. There is no infield Fly Rule for Tee Ball. In addition, the ball becomes dead once caught, and no runners may advance. Runners who had advanced on the play shall be required to return to the base occupied at the time of the hit. h. On an overthrow ball at any base, the ball is automatically declared dead and no runners including the batter/runner may advance. i. For development purposes, left handed players should be encouraged to play at First Base, in the Outfield or Pitcher.
3) BASERUNNING a. Base stealing is not permitted. b. Runners may not leave their base until the batter hits the ball. c. Runners may not advance beyond the base to which they were headed on the call of ‘time’. Time is only to be called once the ball is in the control of a player in the infield, where it is evident that no additional play is being attempted. See Playing Rule (f). Penalty: Runner sent back. d. Runners committed to a base, which is occupied by a fielder in possession of the ball, shall be called out. This is a force play. See Playing Rules e. Runners are required to return to the base initially occupied on a caught fly ball, without risk of being put out, as the ball is dead. See Playing Rules f. On overthrows at any base, the ball is automatically declared dead and no runners including the batter/runner may advance further than the base they are approaching.
4) BATTING a. The Umpire in Chief shall suspend play by calling “Time” before requesting “Batter Up”, at which point the batter shall become ready to hit – and then hit on the command “Play Ball”. There should not be a lengthy period between these calls.
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b. Upon the call “Batter Up”, the hitter is to assume his/her position in the batter’s box in the following three step manner: c. Firstly- the batter steps into the box and reaches to the ball with the bat to ascertain distance. This is called '‘addressing the ball'’ d. Secondly – the batter shall move his/her feet to a preferred position after which point the back foot may not be relocated until after the ball is hit. Penalty: no play results, strike is called on the batter. e. Thirdly – the batter is to place the bat on the rear shoulder to signify readiness f. On the command “Play Ball”, the hitter may level the bat (a half practice swing) ONCE only before attempting to hit the ball. The hitting action is a step with the front foot and the upper body activity associated with the swing.
Note: This procedure will preclude problems associated with walking up and hitting. It will help ensure all players are in a ready position prior hitting the ball. g. Batters may level their bat once only per swing.
Penalty: Strike called on batter. h. Levelling of one’s bat prior to the “Play Ball” call shall be deemed as ‘addressing the ball’. i. If, in the opinion of the umpire, the ball is struck from the Tee and passed the Fair Ball Line and not returned, the ball is in play otherwise it is foul. j. Five (5) strikes and the batter is out. All fouls are strikes. k. The batting side may score no more than 6 runs each time in offence. Should the last at bat of the innings result in more than 6 runs crossing the plate; only 6 shall be scored. l. Players may not dangerously throw the bat. This is an umpire’s judgement call.
Penalty: Warning. Second offence: player called out. Third offence: Player must be removed from the game. Coach is to be warned to practice this prior to next scheduled game. – All play nullified.
5) COACHING a. One Coach is permitted on the field, but is only permitted to be positioned behind the infield when their team is fielding. Coaches in the field may not interfere with the ball in play, nor physically assist their players in the act if fielding. b. Appeals by the defensive coach for runners leaving early, bat throwing, of for taking extra bases in “Time”, may only occur at the conclusion of said play. Such appeals must be in the form of a question and must occur prior to the next official batter addressing the ball.
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c. Appeals by an offensive coach for excessive player movement in the field or players out of position may only occur prior to the call of “Play Ball”. Such appeals must be in the form of a question. d. Coaches must wear at least club shirt and cap. Full uniform is preferred. No open-faced shoes such as thongs or sandals are allowed. e. Coaches are responsible to instruct their players to PROPERLY shake hands at the completion of the game. Hand slapping and other actions are discouraged.
THE INTENTION OF TEE BALL IS FOR DEVELOPMENT ONLY. NO LEAGUE LADDERS OR STATISTICAL DATA ARE REQUIRED.
Note: Mighteeball and Aussie Tee ball are also acceptable Tee Ball formats
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ROOKIE BALL RULES
1) GENERAL a. The Game Duration Max Innings Max. Runs 1 hour 15 min. 7 inns 6 per inn.
b. Teams may field as many as the opposition, up to 12, and bat as many as 12 in any given game. Excess players are to occupy fielding positions in the outfield. Players must be under 10.
c. All innings started shall be completed (weather permitting)
d. Inning run limits are as listed under ‘max runs’.
e. The Umpire in Chief is to be the official timekeeper in time-restricted games. Coaches and managers should confirm with the Umpire the starting, finishing and cut-off times prior to the game, which are then to be relayed to the scorers.
f. An umpire may assign timekeepers duties to the home scorer prior to the game if they so wish.
2) BATTING a. Should the batter hit the ball into the designated pitcher; the batter will be awarded with a single base hit (all runners advance one base only). The designated pitcher should wear a glove for self protection, but must make every effort to avoid toughing any batted ball
b. Only one baseball is allowed the playing field at any given time.
c. Base on balls are allowed in Rookie Ball
d. The dropped third strike rule of the Rules of Baseball (6.09) is not in effect.
e. Each batter will have three (3) swings after which a Tee will be provided for the batter to hit off. The batter will continue his/her at bat until such time as he/she hits the ball into fair territory.
f. When the tee is in use the batter must hit the ball a minimum of 15 feet from the tee before the ball is considered to be in fair territory.
g. The batting side may score no more than 6 runs each time in offence. Should the last at bat of the innings result in more than 6 runners crossing the plate, only 6 shall be officially scored.
3) BASE RUNNING a. Base stealing or running on passed balls and wild pitches is not permitted.
b. Runners may not leave their base until the batter hits the ball.
Penalty: Should the Umpire see such an infringement, a warning will be given and the runner sent back to the base last occupied.
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c. Runners may not advance beyond the base to which they were headed on the call of “time”. “Time” may only be called once the ball is in the control of a player in the infield, where it is evident that no play is being attempted.
Penalty: Runner or runners sent back to the base last legally occupied. d. On overthrows at any base, the ball is automatically dead and no runners including the batter/runner may advance further than the base they are approaching.
4) FIELDING a. The fielding pitcher is not considered an infielder. Infielders must assume their initial fielding positions behind the base paths. Outfielders must be well behind their infielders before play can resume. An appropriate distance is approximately 5 meters behind the infielders. All fielders shall remain relatively stationary when the umpire calls ‘’Play Ball” b. Runners may not leave their base until the batter makes contact with the ball.
Penalty: Should the umpire observe such an infringement, the runner is sent back to the base last legally occupied. If the pitch is hit into fair territory, the infringing runner is ruled out. All other plays resulting from that hit stands. c. Once a player in the field has control of the ball, the runners may advance no further than the base to which they are committed, regardless of whether the fielder throws the ball or not. In effect, there is nothing to lose in attempting to throw the runner out, even if the throw is wild, the runner cannot advance further. d. The umpire shall call “Time” if in his judgement no further play will be attempted, (this would include the event where the ball has been thrown wild) and make the required decisions regarding the awarding of bases. e. Fielders may only occupy the regular infield positions of Pitcher, Catcher, 1st Base, 2nd Base, 3rd Base, and shortstop – all other players are to assume original positions behind these players and be outfielders. No play can start until this occurs.
5) PITCHING a. Should a machine be the pitcher, it is to be operated by the base umpire or another person as designated by the host team and agreed to by the visiting team. b. If a machine is not in use, the designated pitcher will be the batting team’s coach or an assistant. c. The pitch must be delivered over arm. The designated pitcher is to pitch from a kneeling position at a speed conductive to the batter’s ability to make contact with the ball. This is a development tactic to encourage the proper swing and to ensure strikes are thrown. d. No registered Rookie Ball player will be allowed to pitch in the first half of the season. However, coaches should be developing pitchers at practice. During the second half of the season, second year Rookie Ball players MAY BE permitted to pitch to their own batters: under the following directions:
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e. The maximum pitches in a game will be 35 - 2ND year only. f. The pitcher is allowed 5 pitches to any given batter. If unable to throw pitches that can be hit (location and speed): the designated will then step in to finish off the relevant hitter. g. When the pitcher is required to take his turn at bat, a relief pitcher or coach (if relief pitcher is next at bat or running the bases) is permitted to pitch.
Recommendation: Coaches should allow their pitcher to warm up before the game and between innings, by playing catch under supervision. This is a development recommendation.
6) COACHING a. Coaches are permitted to be on the field, but only allowed to be positioned behind the infield when their team is fielding. Coaches in the field may not interfere with the ball in play, nor physically assist their players in the act of fielding. Penalty: Batter is awarded first base; all other base runners advance one base only. b. The coach must ensure that the runners do not leave early, throw bats, or take extra bases on “Time”, may only occur at the conclusion of said “Play”. Penalty: Runner must return the base last occupied, a warning given on throwing the bat second offence the batter is called out. c. The coachers must ensure that when “play ball” is called that there is no excessive movement in the field or no players out of position.
NOTE (umpires): “Play Ball” must not be called until the movement has stopped or the player is in the correct positions. d. Coaches must wear at least the club uniform shirt and cap and be neatly attired at all times. No open-faced shoes such as thongs or sandals are permitted.
THE INTENTION OF ROOKIE BALL IS DEVELOPMENT ONLY. NO LEAGUE LADDERS OR STATISTICAL DATA ARE REQUIRED.
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LITTLE LEAGUE, U14’S, U16’S AND U18’S 1) Playing rules a. Little League shall follow International Little League Baseball Rules, with the exception of no more than 6 runs may be score in an innings. b. All other junior age groups U14, U16 and U18 shall be played as per the rules of baseball and the applicable NT Junior Rules
2) Game Duration and Scheduled Times: a. The scheduling of games and start times will be up to each region. Each region must submit the game schedule and start times to BNTI before the start of the first games.
b. Regulation game: If the umpire terminates play due to adverse weather or ground conditions, the following will apply: 3 completed innings or 45 minutes will constitute a game, if 3 inns or 45 minutes are not reached it is a ‘no game’, which may be replayed at a later date.
SECTION 6 1) FINALS a. All Minor Premiers go straight into the Grand Final.
b. Elimination Final – 2 v 3.
c. Grand Final – Minor Premiers v winners of Elimination Final.
d. A single game of the following duration determines the winner of the Grand Final: (i) Little League: 6 inns (ii) U14: 7 innings or 2 hours. (iii) U16: 7 innings or 2 hours (iv) U18: 9 innings
e. No new inning to start with less than 10 minutes to go.
f. Innings once started must be completed.
g. To qualify to play in the final a player must have played at least 4 games during the season for that team.
h. If the score is tied at completion of time/ required innings the following extra inning may be played: (i) U 8, U10 and U12 - one extra innings. (ii) Little league- as per Little league tournament rules. (iii) U14, U16 and U18 play for result.
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SECTION 7 1) HOW TO CHANGE THE BNTI JUNIOR RULES. a. You must be a coach of a team or an official ( game or committee)
b. You must submit the proposed change(s) to your local association first. i.e. ASBA, KBA or DBL.
c. The board of the association must vote on the proposed change, if NO, no action need to be taken, if yes, the proposal must be submit to BNTI. An official request from the regional association is to be forwarded to the BNTI office.
d. The BNTI board shall seek the recommendation of the NT Head Coach or an appropriately qualified BNTI board appointee for his/her recommendation, the recommendation is then passed to the Baseball NT board for its consideration.
e. The Baseball NT Board will vote on the proposed change The BNTI board is the final arbiter on all junior baseball rules within the Northern Territory. The BNTI Board may at its discretion seek further advice from the ABF or any other body it considers appropriate to provide them with expert advice.
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APPENDIX A Junior age eligibility -Oct 2010 - Sep 2011
October November December January 2011 2010 2010 2010 S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 1 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 Age cutoff date 31st of 31 30 31 December
February For U8,U10,U14, U16 & U18 March 2011 April 2011 May 2011 2011 S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 Little League 27 28 27 28 29 30 31 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 29 30 31 cutoff date- 1st
of May. A player
cannot have September June 2011 July 2011 August 2011 turned 13 2011 before this date. S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 31 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
These dates apply each year, a players’ eligibility age is determined by their age at the 31st of December ie to play under 14s the player cannot have turn 14 before the 31st of December of the year the season commences. This applies to U8, U10, U14, U16 & U18. Little League players cannot turn 13 on or before the 1st of May (following the seasons’ commencement.
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APPENDIX B
INFECTIOUS DISEASES POLICY
A. DEFINITIONS i. In this policy: ii. “ASMF” means Australian Sports Medicine Federation iii. “Club” means any team competing in ABF-affiliated Leagues and Tournaments. iv. "Official" means an official, Baseball umpire, ABF director, coach, trainer, medical practitioner, sports scientist or psychologist or any other person associated with the sport of Baseball and recognised by the ABF in an official capacity other than as an athlete; v. "Player" means a person who plays the game of Baseball under the jurisdiction of the ABF and/or its affiliated members; and is a registered member of the ABF and/or its affiliate vi. "ABF" means Australian Baseball Federation Inc., being the national sporting organisation for the sport of Baseball in Australia as recognised by Australian Sports Commission, Australian vii. Olympic Committee and the national governing body for the sport of Baseball as recognised by International Baseball Association ; viii. "Baseball" includes the sport of Baseball which is being conducted under the jurisdiction, control or sanctioning consent of the ABF or it’s affiliated State or Territory associations;
B. INTRODUCTION i. As in most sports, there is a chance of physical contact and or collision in Baseball. A number of blood-borne infectious diseases can be transmitted during body contact during physical contact or collision. The more serious of these include Hepatitis and HIV infections. These diseases may be spread by contact between broken skin or mucous membranes and the infected agents such as:
Blood Saliva (not for HIV) Semen and vaginal fluids NB. At this stage there is no evidence that sweat/urine, and tears will transmit Hepatitis or HIV.
C. OBJECT AND APPLICATION OF THIS POLICY . The object of this policy is to:
i. Set out the basis for procedures which must be adopted by players, teams and officials in order to prevent the spread of Infectious diseases, namely HIV and Hepatitis B & C within the sport of Baseball.
ii. Detail the responsibilities of athletes, officials and ABF relating to the possible transmission of Infectious Diseases.
iii. Educate athletes and officials on the subject of diseases transmitted through the exchange of blood or other bodily fluids.
iv. Provide the method for determining whether a breach of this policy has occurred.
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v. This policy applies to: All Australian athletes involved in the sport of Baseball under the control or jurisdiction of the ABF, in Australia or overseas. All officials involved in the sport of Baseball in any way and under the jurisdiction of the ABF. All foreign athletes competing in Baseball competition in Australia.
This policy shall be binding on all players/officials/organising affiliates and members of the ABF.
D. RESPONSIBILITIES OF ATHLETES
i. It is the participant’s responsibility to maintain strict personal hygiene as this is the best method of controlling the spread of these diseases.
ii. It is strongly recommended that all participants, involved in baseball and playing under adult rules be vaccinated against Hepatitis B.
iii. .All participants with prior evidence of these diseases should obtain confidential advice and clearance to participate from a doctor prior to participation in baseball.
iv. No Player shall participate in any Baseball game or continue to participate in any game for so long as such Player:
is bleeding or has blood on any part of his person or uniform
v. A Player shall immediately upon a direction by an umpire leave the playing arena where such umpire is of the opinion that the Player is bleeding or has blood on any part of his person or uniform. Upon being directed to leave the playing arena, a Player shall not return or take any further part in any Baseball game until and unless:
The cause of any such bleeding has been abated and the bleeding has stopped. The injury is securely covered to the extent that no blood shall emanate there from. Any blood stained article of uniform has been removed and replaced and Any blood on any part of a Player’s person has been thoroughly cleansed and removed.
E. RESPONSIBILITY OF TEAMS
i. Those handling bleeding players must wear disposable rubber or plastic gloves. Resuscitation bags or disposable mouth to mouth devices must be available.
ii. It is the Host Venue’s responsibility to ensure that the dressing rooms be clean and tidy. Particular attention should be paid to hand-basins, toilets and showers. Adequate soap, paper handtowels, brooms, refuse disposal bins and disinfectants, must be available at all times.
iii. Communal bathing areas (eg. Spas) within the clubs, should be strongly discouraged.
iv. The practices of spitting and urinating in team areas is not permitted.
v. All clothing, equipment and surfaces contaminated by blood must be treated as potentially infectious. Household bleach in a 1:10 solution may be used to wash contaminated areas and white clothing should be soaked in 1:10 solution bleach for 30 minutes before washing. Bleach should be rinsed off after use. Coloured clothing should be soaked in disinfectant for 30 minutes then washed at high temperature on a long cycle.
vi. Sharing of towels, shaving razors, face washers and drink containers must not occur.
vii. All personnel working within baseball areas should be vaccinated against Hepatitis B. viii. In all training areas, open cuts and abrasions must be reported to the coach/official and be
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treated immediately. ix. Teams should undertake education programs to advise players and officials of this policy.
x. No Club shall allow any Player to participate in any Baseball game or continue to participate in any game for so long as such Player:
is bleeding or has blood on any part of his person or uniform
F. RESPONSIBILITY OF UMPIRES
i. Those who officiate in baseball should be vaccinated against Hepatitis B.
ii. When an umpire notices that a player is bleeding or has blood on any part of their person or uniform, he is to direct the Player to leave the playing field. iii. Where a Player is directed by an umpire to leave the field under this Rule the umpire shall wait a reasonable period to allow the bleeding to be attended to. The amount of time is entirely at the discretion of the umpire. If, when this time has elapsed, the player is unable to take his place in the team, he must be replaced in the usual manner of substitution. iv. A player who refuses to promptly obey a direction of an umpire given in accordance with this paragraph (6b) shall be reported by the umpire to the relevant body of baseball at that level. Such a Player shall be dealt with by that body as it deems fit.
v. Umpires have power to eject a player/official if they refuse to obey the rule.
G. AMENDMENT OF THIS POLICY
This Policy will be reviewed regularly and updated accordingly. The ABF may amend this policy at any time, such amendment to take effect upon notification to the affiliated State and Territory association.
It is strongly recommended that all sports medicine staff, coaches, umpires, team managers, administrators, players and their parents be informed of this policy and adopt and implement its commonsense recommendations.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION YOU MAY CONTACT The Australian Baseball Federation Ph. (07) 5510 6800
Alternatively: The Australian Sports Medicine Federation Ph: (02) 6251 6944 Fax: (02) 6253 1489
The Australian Sports Medicine Federation has further information on Infectious Diseases Policy in Australia and Guidelines which must be followed.
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