Overview

Shelton American Little League endorses the National Little League overarching philosophy. The SALL Board and has made only slight

modifications to the playing rules to enhance the playing experience for our children. The following excerpt is taken

from the Official Regulations and Playing Rules of the National Little League organization:

"Little League Baseball is a program of service to youth. It is geared to provide an outlet of healthful activity and training under good

leadership in an atmosphere of wholesome community participation. The movement is dedicated to helping children become good and decent

citizens. It strives to inspire them with a goal and to enrich their lives toward the day when they must take their places in the world.

It establishes for them rudiments of teamwork and fair play."

Philosophy on Conduct
It is the philosophy of Little League that your child's playing experience shall be positive. Shelton Little League can not allow the enjoyment of the majority of players and families to be jeopardized by misconduct by others. Unfortunately, there may be times when disciplinary action against players, managers, coaches, parents or spectators may become necessary.

Playing Rules

Local Rules
Local rules are encouraged by National Little League to adjust for local conditions. Local rule modifications to the National rules

are approved by the Shelton American Little League Board of Directors. Please review the local rules appropriate for your child's playing

level:

• Majors local rules

• AAA local rules

• AA local rules

• A local rules

• Tee Ball local rules

The Game
A regulation game consists of 6 innings, unless extended due to a tied score or shortened due to one of the following conditions:

    1) the home team needs none or only a fraction of its half of the sixth inning.
    2) the umpire calls the game for any reason.

    3) inclement weather

 

Pitching Restrictions
Please see the local rules for each division regarding pitching restrictions and mandatory rest periods.

Pitch Count Rules for 2008

Team Rules and Conduct
In addition to the National and Local playing rules, each team may have additional team rules approved by Shelton American Baseball. Team rules are established to provide team, parent and player specific participation and other requirements. Any player (or parent) who interferes with team management, including failing to adhere to the established team rules, can expect reduced playing time or other possible sanctions to insure team harmony.

Game Conduct
Players are expected to arrive 1/2 hr prior for pre-game workouts and conduct themselves during the game in an acceptable manner.

It is a team's responsibility to promote good sportsmanship and fair play. Following are simple rules for players to follow throughout

the season:

• Play for the fun of playing, not just to please your parents.
• Play by the rules.
• Never argue with or complain about umpire's calls or decisions.
• Control your temper and resist the temptation to retaliate when you feel you have been wronged.
• Concentrate on playing baseball and on affecting the outcome of the game with your best effort.
• Be a good sport by cheering all good plays, whether it is your team's or your opponent's.
• Treat all players as you would like to be treated.
• Cooperate with your manager, coaches, teammates, opponents and umpires.
• Food and gum are not allowed in the dugouts, although sunflower seeds and water bottles are permitted.

Any player, manager, coach, parent or spectator whose conduct is not consistent with these guidelines may be cautioned by the umpire-in-chief or other League official. Foul or abusive language is strictly prohibited. If an individual is unable to refrain from using foul language or making derogatory remarks to any player, manager, coach, or umpire, the umpire-in-chief or other League official may suspend the game until that individual leaves the Little League Park or other playing area. If the individual refuses to leave the Little League Park or other playing area, the umpire may discontinue the game and the police will be called for assistance. If the disruptive individual is a manager, coach or player, additional sanctions will likely occur depending on the circumstances.

Ejection Protocol
Each umpire has the power and authority to eject players, managers and coaches from the game and possible disciplinary actions the

from S.A.L.L. board.

Players
If a player is ejected, the player shall immediately leave the playing area (field, dugout, bullpen etc.) before play continues, but may become a silent spectator in the stands. In addition, the player is expected to attend subsequent practices for behavior modification counseling. The player shall NOT participate in the next scheduled game, but may watch the game from the stands, but may not wear the team uniform.