Communication

Opposing team: A day or two before the game, it is recommended that you reach out to the opposing team’s coach. Confirm the game time and location and talk through any questions you may have.

Players/families: Send out a reminder of the game time and location, and a reminder of what each player should wear/bring (i.e. cap, jersey, pants (no shorts), sneakers) and bring (glove, optional additional playing equipment, water bottle). You might also remind of eating a good meal and using the restroom ahead of games!

Assistant coaches/parent helpers: Confirm attendance and check that snacks are covered (they are the most popular part of many Rookie games).

Planning Ahead

Plan your lineups: In Rookie, you might have your batting order be numerical order of jerseys. Be sure to rotate each game so each player gets to bat first.

Plan your fielding positions: Be sure that all players play an equal time in the infield and outfield, and to rotate through infield positions.

Pack your gear: Bring a tee, soft baseballs, your glove, your equipment bag, and possibly even an extra cap and glove for a player who forgot theirs that day.

Rainy Days

If the field is solid but has a few puddles: Work the field. Use sponges or super-soakers (provided in the shed) to pull standing water off the field. * DO NOT SWEEP THE WATER OFF THE FIELD. If needed, use field conditioner (provided in the shed) to dry out small areas.

If the field is muddy and it’s drizzling out: Still play if you can! At the Rookie level, see if you can use your throw-down bases in the grass nearby. Or you can still squeeze in a little practice on nearby blacktop.

If it’s unsafe to play: Set the expectation with your team that you will let them know of rainouts two hours before the game. Work with your opposing team’s coach to reschedule a game during an open time on the practice schedule, or during one of your practice times.