Communication
- Use one main team communication channel.
- Send schedule information early whenever you can.
- Share weather decisions quickly and clearly. The league usually decides between 2 and 4 pm on days with bad weather; check field status.
- Handle playing-time, position or coaching concerns away from players, and not right after a game.
- With 10-, 11- and 12-year-olds, keep a good rotation so the same players aren’t sitting every inning.
- Take league-rule questions to Mickel Santana or the coaches group chat.
Team roles
- Scorekeeper or book support (need to have: you don’t want to keep score on GameChanger and coach at the same time).
- Dugout help, if allowed. Dugout helpers must be signed up through Sports Connect.
- Team communication coordinator (nice to have).
- Snack coordinator. SignUpGenius works well.
- Photos and team events. Don’t forget team photos and sharing pictures through the season.
Before the game
- Confirm the lineup, defensive plan, pitching plan and league-rule requirements.
- Review arrival time and equipment.
- Check field conditions and safety concerns. The home team chalks the field; the visitors drag and rake around the pitcher’s mound.
- Lead a structured warm-up.
- Give players one or two simple priorities for the game.
| Before first pitch | Focus |
|---|---|
| 45–60 minutes | Arrival, equipment, attendance, field check |
| 30–40 minutes | Dynamic warm-up and throwing |
| 20–30 minutes | Defensive positions and communication |
| 10–20 minutes | Hitting preparation and base running |
| 5 minutes | Team message, sportsmanship reminder, lineup check |
During the game
- Keep instructions short and specific.
- Coach decisions and effort, not just outcomes.
- Reinforce positive communication and hustle.
- Track pitching, catching, defensive rotations and required participation carefully. Managers are responsible for pitch limits and rest rules, even if the scorekeeper or umpire doesn’t flag them.
- Keep players engaged in the dugout.
- Use mistakes as teaching moments without embarrassing players.
- Stay calm and respectful with umpires and the other team.
After the game
- Bring the team together for a short, positive review.
- Recognize a player of the game.
- Name one team strength and one thing to work on.
- Thank players, families, umpires and the other team’s coaches.
- Confirm the next practice or game.
- Note any follow-ups: injuries, equipment needs or player development.