Little League rules govern mandatory play requirements. The rules in All-Star tournaments are substantially different from those that govern SEPLL's regular season. The rules are as follows:
A Continuous Batting Order places all available, eligible players in a simple roster based on batting order. The minimum number of players on Little League International Tournament roster is 12 and the maximum is 14 (Junior League Division and below; 16 maximum for Senior Division). The manager will fill the team’s batting order utilizing all their players, and then the game progresses through that expected 12- to 14-player batting order throughout the game. Rosters of few than 12 players are permitted with District Administrator approval.
The focus of SEPLL's All Star teams is to produce teams that represent SEPLL's goals of good teamwork, good sportsmanship, and excellence on the field. This latter goal has greater emphasis during All Stars and fielding competitive teams takes a high priority. This focus on success, when coupled with Little League's mandatory play rules noted above, can result in players who find they spend significant game time on the bench or play unfamiliar positions. While these can be excellent learning and emotional growth opportunities for players and parents, some are surprised and disappointed when it happens to them.
Managers must communicate with each player and parent before the All-Star tournament to prepare them for the difference in approach and the fact that not all players will get the playing time that they desire. While coaches should endeavor to give each player an opportunity to demonstrate their ability during the All Star tournament, players and parents should recognize that the coaches’ view as to the best approach for team success will control the decision-making process.