Abbotsford Baseball

The Abbotsford Angels Hardball Association 2008 Rule Book

Section 1...Constitution and By-laws

Section 2...Rule Book – Governing League Play, Including differences for Tadpole, Mosquito, PeeWee,
Bantam, & Midget Divisions.

Code of Conduct
Age Requirements
Residence Eligibility
Playing Rules
Field Decorum
Pitching Rules
Field Preparation & Upkeep
Equipment
T-Ball Rules
Tadpole Rules
Mosquito Rules
PeeWee Rules
Bantam & Midget Rules

Section 3...Page 31 Rule Book – Governing Summer Baseball


SECTION 1

CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS

Part 1 – NAME

This Association shall be known as the ABBOTSFORD ANGELS HARDBALL
t;ASSOCIATION.

Part 2 – PURPOSE

2.1 To promote minor baseball in the community of Abbotsford.

2.2 To provide financial support for the baseball programs in the community of
Abbotsford, British Columbia.

2.3 To promote athletic participation in the community of Abbotsford through
assisting baseball training of high school students at Abbotsford schools.

2.4 To cooperate with other advocates of amateur baseball; in particular, the British
Columbia Minor Baseball Association and British Columbia Amateur Baseball
Association .
t;
Part 3 – SCOPE

The Society shall operate as a non-profit organization and shall be carried on without
purpose of gain for its members and any profits or other accretions to the Society shall be
used for promoting its purposes. No director shall be remunerated for being or acting as
a director but a director shall be reimbursed for all expenses necessarily and reasonably
incurred by him while engaged in the affairs of the Association. This clause is
unalterable.

Part 4 – DISSOLUTION

In the event of the winding up or dissolution of the Society, funds and assets of the
Society remaining after the satisfaction of its debts and liabilities, shall be given or
transferred to such organization or organizations promoting the same objects as this
Society, as my be determined by the members of the Society at the time of winding up or
dissolution, and if effect cannot be given to the aforesaid provisions, then such funds
shall be given or transferred to some other organization, provided that such organization
shall be a charitable corporation, a charitable organization, or a charitable trust
recognized by the Revenue Canada as being qualified as such under the provisions of the
Income Tax Act of Canada from time to time in effect. This clause is unalterable.

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ABBOTSFORD ANGELS HARDBALL ASSOCIATION BYLAWS

PART 1 – INTERPRETATION

1.1 Definitions
In these Bylaws, unless the context otherwise requires:
1.1.1 Association means the Abbotsford Angels Hardball Association;
1.1.2 Directors means the directors of the Association for the time being;
1.1.3 Executive means the directors;
1.1.4 Society Act means the Society Act of the Province of British
Columbia from time to time in force and all amendments to it;
1.1.5 Registered Address of a member means his address as recorded in
the register of members.

1.2 The definitions of the Society Act on the date these bylaws become effective
apply to these bylaws.

1.3 Words importing the singular include the plural and vice versa; and words
importing a male person include a female person and a corporation.

PART 2 – MEMBERSHIP

2.1 The members of the Association are the applicants for incorporation of the
Association, and, in either case, have not ceased to be members. There shall be
the following classes of members.
2.1.1 Regular Member – any parent or person in the position of parent to
a person under the age of 18 years who is a participant in the
activities of the Association may apply for membership as a
Regular Member.
2.1.2 Honourary Member – those members recognized for their
outstanding work for the Association. They will be elected by the
membership to be members of the Association unless their
membership is determined in accordance with MEMBERSHIP
Part 2.5. There will be no payment of fees by Honourary Members
whose rights and obligations will otherwise be the same as those of
the Regular Members.

2.2 A person may apply to the directors for membership in the Association on
acceptance by the directors shall be a member.

2.3 Every member shall uphold the constitution and comply with these bylaws.

2.4 The amount of the first annual membership dues shall be determined by the
directors and thereafter the annual membership dues shall be determined by the
directors.

2.5 A person shall cease to be a member of the Association:
2.5.1 By delivering his resignation in writing to the secretary of the
Association or by mailing or delivering it to the address of the
Association.
2.5.2 On his death or in the case of a corporation on dissolution
2.5.3 On being expelled
2.5.4 On having been a member not in good standing for 6 consecutive
months.

2.6 A member may be expelled by a special resolution of the members passed at a
general meeting.
2.6.1 The notice of a special resolution for expulsion shall be
accompanied by a brief statement of the reason or reasons for the
proposed expulsion.
2.6.2 The person who is the subject of the proposed resolution for
expulsion shall be given an opportunity to be heard at the general
meeting before the special resolution is put to a vote.

2.7 All members are in good standing except a member who has failed to pay his
current annual membership fee or any other subscription or debt due and owing
by him to the Association and he is not in good standing so long as the debt
remains unpaid. Provided however, the directors, in their discretion, may waive
or reduce the annual membership fees in individual cases.

2.8 The directors, by a majority vote at any duly constituted meeting of the directors,
shall have the authority to suspend any member whose conduct is considered to
be detrimental to the best interests of the Association. The member has the right
to a hearing before a decision to suspend is made by the directors.

2.9 The directors shall, upon evidence of misconduct of any player, notify the
manager of the team of which the player is a member within 48 hours of the act.
The player, his parent/guardian and his manager shall then appear before a duly
appointed committee of the directors, which shall have full power to suspend or
revoke such player’s right to future membership and participation.

PART 3 – MEETINGS OF MEMBERS

3.1 General meetings of the Association shall be held at such time and place, in
accordance with the Society Act, as the directors decide.

3.2 Every general meeting, other than an annual general meeting, is an extraordinary
general meeting.

3.3 The directors may, whenever they think fit, convene an extraordinary general
meeting. An extraordinary general meeting, if requisitioned in accordance with
the Society Act, shall be convened by the directors.

3.4 Notice of a general meeting shall specify the place, the day and the hour of a
meeting, and in the case of special business, the general nature of that business.

3.4.1 The accidental omission to give notice of a meeting to, or the non-
receipt of a notice by any of the members entitled to receive notice
does not invalidate proceedings at that meeting.

3.5 The first annual general meeting of the Association shall be held not more than 15
months after the date of incorporation and thereafter an annual general meeting
shall be held at least once in every calendar year and not more than 15 months
after the holding of the last preceding annual general meeting. Provided however,
the annual general meetings shall be held in the months of June in each calendar
year.

PART 4 – PROCEEDINGS AT GENERAL MEETINGS

4.1 Special business is:

4.1.1 All business at an extraordinary general meeting except the
adoption of rules of order, and
4.1.2 All business that is transacted at an annual general meeting except,
4.1.2.1 The adoption of rules or order,
4.1.2.2 The consideration of the financial statements,
4.1.2.3 The report of the directors,
4.1.2.4 The report of the auditors, if any,
4.1.2.5 The election of directors,
4.1.2.6 The appointment of the auditor, if required, and
4.1.2.7 Such other business as, under these bylaws, ought to be
transacted at an annual general meeting, or business which
is brought under consideration by the report of the directors
issued with the notice convening the meeting.

4.2 Quorum

4.2.1 No business, other than the election of a chairman and the
adjournment or termination of the meeting, shall be conducted at a
general meeting at a time when a quorum is not present.
4.2.2 If at ay time during a general meeting there ceases to be a quorum
present, business then in progress shall be suspended until there is
a quorum present or until the meeting is adjourned or terminated.

4.2.3 A quorum is 10 members present or such greater number as the
members may determine at a general meeting.

4.3 If within 30 minutes from the time appointed for a general meeting a quorum is
not present, the meeting, if convened on the requisition of members, shall be
terminated; but in any other case, it shall stand adjourned to the same day in the
next week, at the same time and place, and if, at the adjourned meeting, a quorum
is not present within 30 minutes from the time appointed for the meeting, the
members present constitute a quorum; providing that there is never less than 3
members in attendance at all times.

4.4 Subject to Bylaw 19, the president of the Association, the vice-president, or in the
absence of both, one of the other directors present shall preside as chairman of a
general meeting.

4.5 If at a general meeting

4.5.1 There is no president, vice-president, or other director present
within 15 minutes after the time appointed for holding the meeting,
or
4.5.2 The president and all the other directors present are unwilling to
act as chairman, the members present shall choose one of their
members to be chairman.

4.6 Adjourned Meeting

5.6.1 A general meeting may be adjourned from time to time and from
place to place, but no business shall be transacted at an adjourned
meeting other than the business left unfinished at the meeting from
which the adjournment took place.
5.6.2 Where a meeting is adjourned for 10 days or more, notice of the
adjourned meeting shall be given as in the case of the original
meeting.
5.6.3 Except as provided in this bylaw, it is not necessary to give notice
of an adjournment or of the business to be transacted at an
adjourned meeting.

4.7
4.7.1 No resolution proposed at a meeting need be seconded and the
chairman of a meeting may move or propose a resolution.
4.7.2 In case of an equality of votes, the chairman shall not have a
casting or second vote in addition to the vote to which he may be
entitled as a member, and the proposed resolution shall not pass.
4.7.3 Unless inconsistent with the within bylaws, Roberts Rules of Order
latest edition, shall govern proceedings at all meetings of members
or directors.

4.8 A member in good standing present at a meeting of members is entitled to one
vote.
4.8.1 Voting is by show of hands.
4.8.2 Voting by proxy is not permitted.

PART 5 – DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

5.1 The directors may exercise all such powers and do all such acts and things as the
Association may exercise and do, and which are not by these by-laws or by
stature or otherwise lawfully directed or required to be exercised or done by the
Association in general meeting, but subject, nevertheless, to the provisions of

5.1.1 All laws affecting the Association
5.1.2 These bylaws, and rules, not being inconsistent with these bylaws,
which are made from time to time by the Association in general
meeting.
5.1.3 No rule, made by the Association in general meeting, invalidates a
prior act of the directors that would have been valid if that rule had
not been made.

5.2 The president, past president, 1st vice president, 2nd vice president, secretary, and
treasurer and one or more other persons are the directors of the Association.

5.3 Election of Directors

5.3.1 The term of the directors shall be from September 1 following their
election to August 31 the following year.
5.3.2 Separate elections shall be held for each office to be filled, except
for the office of past-president.
5.3.3 An election may be by acclamation, otherwise it shall be by ballot.
5.3.4 If no successor is elected the person previously elected or
appointed continues to hold office.

5.4 The directors may at any time and from time to time appoint a member as a
director to fill a vacancy in the directors. A director so appointed holds office
only until the conclusion of the director’s term and he is eligible for re-election at
the annual general meeting.

5.5 If a director resigns his office or otherwise ceases to hold office, the remaining
directors shall appoint a member to take the place of the former director.

5.6 No act or proceeding of the directors is invalid only by reason of there being less
than the prescribed number of directors in office.

5.7 The members may by special resolution remove a director before the expiration of
his term of office, and may elect a successor to complete the term of office.

5.8 In accordance with article 3 of the Constitution, no director shall be remunerated
for being or acting as a director but a director may be reimbursed for all expenses
necessarily and reasonably incurred by him while engaged in the affairs of the
Association.

PART 6 – PROCEEDINGS OF DIRECTORS

6.1 Meeting of Directors
6.1.1 The directors may meet at the places they think fit to conduct
business, adjourn and otherwise regulate their meetings and
proceedings, as they see fit.
6.1.2 The directors may from time to time set the quorum necessary to
conduct business, and unless so set the quorum is a majority of the
directors then in office.
6.1.3 The president is the chair of all meetings of the directors, but if at a
meeting the president is not present within 30 minutes after the
time appointed for holding the meeting, the vice president must act
as chair, but if neither is present the directors present may choose
one of their number to be the chair at that meeting.
6.1.4 A director may at any time, and the secretary, on the request of a
director, must, convene a meeting of the directors.
6.1.5 Any director or officer that misses two consecutive meetings
without due cause, may be dismissed at the discretion of the
directors.
6.1.6 All matters concerning the policy of the Association shall be
decided by a majority vote of the directors at a duly constituted
meeting and no motion shall be carried without a favourable vote
from the majority of those present.

6.2 Committees

6.2.1 The directors may delegate any, but not all, of their powers to
committees consisting of the director or directors as they think fit.
6.2.2 A committee so formed in the exercise of the powers so delegated
must conform to any rules imposed on it by the directors, and must
report every act or thing done in exercise of those powers to the
earliest meeting of the directors held after the act or thing has been
done.
6.2.3 A committee must elect a chair of its meetings, but if no chair is
elected, or if at a meeting the chair is not present within 30 minutes
after the time appointed for holding the meeting, the directors
present who are members of the committee must choose one of
their number to be the chair of the meeting.
6.2.4 The members of a committee may meet and adjourn as they think
proper.

6.3 For a first meeting of directors held immediately following the appointment or
election of a director or directors at an annual or other general meeting of
members, or for a meeting of the directors at which a director is appointed to fill a
vacancy in the directors, it is not necessary to give notice of the meeting to the
newly elected or appointed director or directors for the meeting to be constituted,
if a quorum of the directors is present.

6.4 A director who may be absent temporarily from British Columbia may send or
deliver to the address of the society a waiver of notice, which may be by letter,
telegram, telex or cable, of any meeting of the directors and may at any time
withdraw the waiver, and until the waiver is withdrawn,

6.4.1 a notice of meeting of directors is not required to be sent to that
director, and
6.4.2 any and all meetings of the directors of the society, notice of which
has not been given to that director, if a quorum of the directors is
present, are valid and effective.

6.5 Voting at a Meeting

6.5.1 Questions arising at a meeting of the directors and committee of
directors must be decided by a majority of votes.
6.5.2 In the case of a tie vote, the chair does not have a second or casting
vote.

6.6 A resolution proposed at a meeting of directors or committee of directors need not
be seconded, and the chair of a meeting may move or propose a resolution.

6.7 A resolution in writing, signed by all the directors and placed with the minutes of
the directors, is as valid and effective as if regularly passed at a meeting of
directors.

PART 7 — DUTIES OF OFFICERS
7.1 The president presides at all meetings of the society and of the directors.

7.2 The president is the chief executive officer of the society and must supervise the
other officers in the execution of their duties.

7.3 The vice president must carry out the duties of the president during the president's
absence.

7.4 The secretary must do the following:

7.4.1 conduct the correspondence of the society;
7.4.2 issue notices of meetings of the society and directors;
7.4.3 keep minutes of all meetings of the society and directors;
7.4.4 have custody of all records and documents of the society except
those required to be kept by the treasurer;
7.4.5 have custody of the common seal of the society;
7.4.6 maintain the register of members.

7.5 The treasurer must

7.5.1 keep the financial records, including books of account, necessary
to comply with the Society Act, and
7.5.2 render financial statements to the directors, members and others
when required.

7.6 In the absence of the secretary from a meeting, the directors must appoint another
person to act as secretary at the meeting.

PART 8 - BORROWING
8.1 In order to carry out the purposes of the society the directors may, on behalf of
and in the name of the society, raise or secure the payment or repayment of
money in the manner they decide, and, in particular but without limiting that
power, by the issue of debentures.

8.2 A debenture must not be issued without the authorization of a special resolution.

8.3 The members may, by special resolution, restrict the borrowing powers of the
directors, but a restriction imposed expires at the next annual general meeting.

PART 9 – NOTICE TO MEMBERS
9.1 A notice may be given to a member, either personally or by mail to the member at
the member's registered address.

9.2 A notice sent by mail is deemed to have been given on the second day following
the day on which the notice is posted, and in proving that notice has been given, it
is sufficient to prove the notice was properly addressed and put in a Canadian post
office receptacle.

9.3 Notice of a general meeting must be given to every member shown on the register
of members on the day notice is given, and

9.4 No other person is entitled to receive a notice of a general meeting.

PART 10 – BYLAWS

10.1 On being admitted to membership, each member is entitled to, and the society
must give the member without charge, a copy of the constitution and bylaws of
the society.

10.2 These bylaws must not be altered or added to except by special resolution.

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SECTION 2

Rule Book – Governing League Play, Including differences for
Tadpole, Mosquito, Pee Wee, Bantam, Midget Divisions.

General Rules

The intent of this Rule Book is to provide a uniform set of rules for all divisions of the
A.A.H.A. for all recognized age divisions. It is important that all League executives,
coaches and managers fully understand the following:
(1) That the B.C.M.B.A. Rule Book, as amended, is the "Official Rule Book" for
League and Tournament play within the Province of British Columbia.
Unless specifically mentioned, ALL REGULAR RULE INTERPRETATIONS
SHALL APPLY as defined in the C.F.A.B. Rule Book and any amendments
thereto.

(2) That the A.A.H.A Rule Book includes some modifications or “House Rules” that
apply to the divisions within the A.A.H.A. and must be followed by all teams in all
applicable divisions. It is important that all coaches in the A.A.H.A. familiarize
themselves with both the BCMBA rule book and the AAHA rules contained within this
document.

CODE OF CONDUCT

(1) The AAHA is committed to providing an environment in which all individuals are
treated with respect. Furthermore, Abbotsford Baseball supports equal
opportunity and prohibits discriminatory practices. Members are expected to
conduct themselves at all times in a manner consistent with the values of AAHA and B C
Minor Baseball. Members engaging in any of the following behavior may be subject to
sanctions enforced by the AAHA’s discipline committee.
(a) not complying with the rules, regulations or policies of Abbotsford Baseball, as
adopted and amended from time to time;
(b) Deliberately disregarding the Rules of Baseball as amended from time to time;
(c) Verbally or physically abusing an opponent, players, officials, umpires,
spectators, or sponsors;
(d) showing disrespect to officials, including the use of foul language and obscene
or offensive gestures;
(e) abusing playing equipment or playing area;
(f) failing to comply with the conditions of entry of an event including any rules
with regard to eligibility or advertising;
(g) using tobacco products on-field at any B C Minor baseball sanctioned
competition;
(h) any other unreasonable conduct which brings the game into disrepute, including
but not limited to, abusive use of alcohol, non-medical use of drugs, use of alcohol
by minors.
13
The B C MINOR Code of Conduct shall govern all disciplinary matters to the
extent that it conflicts with or augments the Code of Conduct of any Association.

EXAMPLES OF MINOR INFRACTIONS

(a) a single incident of disrespectful, offensive, abusive, racist or sexist comments
or behavior directed towards others, including but not limited to peers, opponents,
athletes, coaches, officials, administrators, spectators and sponsors;
(b) unsportsmanlike conduct such as angry outbursts or arguing;
(c) non-compliance with the rules and regulations under which B C Minor Baseball
events are conducted,

EXAMPLES OF MAJOR INFRACTIONS

(a) repeated incidents or disrespectful, offensive, abusive, racist, or sexist,
comments or behavior directed towards others, including but not limited to peers,
opponents, athletes, coaches, officials, administrators, spectators and sponsors.
(b) Playing under an assumed name, falsifying an affidavit or roster, or giving false
information to tournament officials;
(c) knowingly participating while ineligible;
(d) knowingly competing with or against players who have been disqualified;
(e) repeated unsportsmanlike conduct such as angry outbursts or arguing;
(f) activities or behaviour which interfere with a competition or with any athlete’s
preparation for a competition;
(g) pranks, jokes or other activities which endanger the safety of others;
(h) deliberate disregard for the rules and regulations under which B C Minor
Baseball events are conducted, whether at the local or provincial level;
(i) abusive use of alcohol where abuse means a level of consumption which impairs
the individual ability to speak, walk or drive; causes the individual to behave in a
disruptive manner; or interferes with the individual’s ability to perform effectively
and safely;
(j) any use of alcohol by minors
(k) any use of illicit drugs and narcotics
(l) use of banned performance enhancing drugs or methods
(m) any physical contact with an umpire or other game official

(2) Coaches Code of Conduct
(a) Integrity – The coach must act with integrity and honesty in performing all
duties owed to the baseball players, the sport, other members of the coaching
profession, and the public.

(b) Competence – The coach must strive to be well prepared and current in order
that all duties in their level of baseball are fulfilled with competence.
i) Attend appropriate coaching clinics.
ii) Plan out practice sessions.

(c) Athlete’s Interest – The coach must act in the best interest of the baseball
player’s development as a whole person. All players are entitled to equal amounts
of instruction and support. Coaches are encouraged to teach players all positions on
the field by giving opportunities for them to play in all positions from time to time
as deemed appropriate by the coach.

(d) Respect for the Rules – The coach must accept the letter and spirit of the rules
that govern the AAHA. The accepted AAHA rules are covered by Baseball
Canada’s “The Official Rules of Baseball”. The AAHA is also governed by
specific provincial rules in B.C. Minor Baseball Association Rulebook, and the
local Abbotsford rules contained in this document.

(e) Respect for the Umpires – The coach must accept the role of umpire in
providing judgement to ensure that games are conducted fairly and according to
AAHA rules. When approaching an umpire, the following guidelines should be
followed:
i) Why – if a coach believes that a decision is based on an incorrect
interpretation of the rules, he can appeal the decision. Judgement calls by an
umpire are not to be disputed.
ii) When – A coach must appeal the decision immediately with the umpire
who made the call. That umpire has the right to discuss the situation with
another umpire or umpires, and has the right to change his decision, but the
final call is up to the umpire who made the original call.
iii) How – A coach must approach the umpire immediately, and in a polite
fashion. Discussions are to be brief and play is to resume quickly. Baseball
rules allow a coach who disagrees with a call to protest the game, however,
during league play, protests will not be considered.

(f) Responsibilities to Other Coaches – The conduct of coaches towards each other
must be characterized by courtesy, good faith, and respect.

(g) Personal Conduct – The coach must maintain the highest standards of personal
conduct, and support the principles of fair play.

(h) Perspective on the Game – Coaches must teach their players to play fairly and
show respect for the rules, officials, and opponents.

(i) Equipment – The coach must ensure their equipment and the ball field is in good
repair so that the risk of injury is minimized. This includes, but is not limited to the
following:
i) Check catcher’s shin pads to ensure straps are in good condition
ii) Check for potholes in the field
iii) Check the backstop for holes or wires that are sticking out.

(j) Coaches who violate the code of conduct will be held accountable by the AAHA
Discipline Committee.

(3) All coaches must complete a criminal records check prior to participating in any
capacity as a coach in the AAHA. The Association pays for this.

(4) Coaches must sign a coach’s code of ethics prior to coaching for the AAHA.

(5) A formal complaint by any member of the Association must be made in writing.

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Rule 1: Age Requirements

The age limitation of cutoff day and time is 12:01 a.m. as of January 1st of each current
year. Any person who turns 7, 9, 11, 13 or 15 on December 31st, up to and including
12:00 p.m. (midnight) should move up to the next age division*.

*Any player interested in moving into the Mosquito division as an 8 year old must apply in writing
to the AAHA executive outlining the exceptional circumstances that would justify such a move.
A committee will meet to decide whether the move up will be allowed. Applications must be
submitted by February 15.

(1) Division ages are as follows:
5 and 6 years T-Ball
7 and 8 years Tadpole
9 and 10 years Mosquito
11 and 12 years Pee Wee (under 13)
13 and 14 years Bantam (under 15)
15, 16 and 17 year Midget (under 18)

(2) Any over aged player (example - an 11 or 12 year old player by League
age) who lacks the baseball ability due to a physical handicap may play in
one lower age division at the discretion of the Association President or
Player Agent providing:
(a) The Association applies in writing to the B.C.M.B.A. providing full particulars.
(b) Written approval has been obtained from the B.C.M.B.A. If written approval is
not obtained, the player will not be eligible to play in any tournament game.

(3) With the exception of eight year old players moving up from tadpole to
mosquito, any under aged player (example a 10 or 12 year old player by
League age) who has the baseball ability may play in one higher age
division at the discretion of the Association President or Player Agent
provided:
(a) The Association applies in writing to the B.C.M.B.A. providing full particulars.
(b) Written approval has been obtained from the B.C.M.B.A prior to June 1. If
written approval is not obtained the player will not be eligible to play in a higher
division.

(4) Playing in an older age group (playing up):
(a) The maximum number of games a player may play in an older age group (to
include league and/or exhibition and/or tournament and/or playoffs) will be as
follows:
Tadpole 3 games plus one tournament at the Mosquito level only.
Mosquito 3 games plus one tournament at the Pee Wee level only
Pee Wee 3 games plus one tournament at the Bantam level only
Bantam 8 games at the Midget level only
Midget 12 games at a higher level

Players being called up will not be allowed to pitch except Midget may
pitch in Junior.

Note: Movement within a division ie Midget AA to Midget AAA will not be interpreted
as movement up for the purposes of this rule.
(b) The word 'play' in section 4(a) above is interpreted to mean taking an offensive
or defensive position in the game.
(c) If a player exceeds the number of games allowed as defined in rule 4(a) above,
the following will apply:-
(i) the player cannot return to their age division for the balance of the year,
including all league, playoffs, zone and provincial competition.
(ii) the league may be subject to a penalty of up to $250 per game played up to be
determined by the British Columbia Minor Baseball Association Board of
Directors.
(iii) the Association may make written application to appeal to the British
Columbia Minor Baseball Association Board of Directors.
(iv) games played on an integral part of the National Baseball Institute, National
Youth Team and B.C. Select Team programs are not considered when
determining the number of games played in a higher age group.

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RULE 2 - Residence Eligibility

(1) Only persons of eligible age whose residence, as determined by the
residence of their parents or legal guardians, or by school records, is within
the boundaries determined by the Association and approved by the
B.C.M.B.A. shall be eligible for active participation in the Association.
Associations may not accept the registration of any player living outside it’s
boundaries until the properly completed written approval referred to in
paragraph 5 has been received. Players not meeting the residence
requirement will not be permitted to practice or play in the Receiving
Association until they are properly registered. Refer to paragraph 6 below.
Failure to comply with this provision will result in the Receiving Association
being fined $ 200.00 for each player not properly released.

(2) For purposes of clarity, in the event of a disputed residence eligibility,
eligibility is determined as follows:
(a) Firstly, by parent's address
(b) Secondly, by the legal guardian's address
(c) Thirdly, by the address on school records.

(3) A candidate who resides within the boundaries of an Association and is desirous to
play baseball in another Association, may so play providing there is a VALID reason, as
defined in the following rules.

(4) Valid reasons to play baseball in an adjacent Association will be as follows:
(a) A candidate's legal parents reside within one set of Association boundaries but
the candidate resides with legal guardians who reside within the boundaries of
another Association.
(b) Due to City or Municipal requirements a candidate is required to attend a school
of knowledge which is not within the established Association boundaries.
(c) Parents or legal guardians are active participants in the affairs of another
League.
(d) The Association of residence does not provide, either on its own or in
combination with another Association, the level of play that the candidate is
capable of playing ie. The Association of residence provides a AA level within a
division but the candidate is capable of playing at a AAA level. NOTE - In order
for this paragraph to apply the candidate must make the roster of a team in
another Association at the higher level. If the candidate is not successful in making
a team roster at the higher level he will return to the Association of residence.

(5) Written approval, in the form of the BCMBA standard release form, must be
obtained from the ruling Association executive in the event that a candidate is desirous to
play within the boundaries of another Association. If at least one of the VALID reasons
listed in paragraph 4 above applies and the ruling Association does not sign the release,
the affected player may apply to the B.C.M.B.A. Board of Directors to have the validity
of his reasons for moving to another Association considered. The B.C.M.B.A. Board of
Directors, upon due consideration of the player’s reasons for moving, may grant the
player’s release to another Association.

(6) The completed release form referred to in paragraph 5 must be submitted to the
BCMBA Director of Player Personnel for approval. This release shall not be considered
valid until an approved copy of the release has been returned to the Receiving
Association by BCMBA. Therefore, players to whom this paragraph applies, will not be
considered as properly registered until the Receiving Association has the properly
completed and approved form in hand. Refer to paragraph 1 above.

(7) It is the responsibility of the ruling Association executive to ensure that candidates
qualify to residence eligibility.

(8) Failure to comply with the above noted rules will cause the said player to become
ineligible for All-star selection in any age division or Association affiliated with the
B.C.M.B.A.

(9) Any player may complete their age division within the boundaries of the
Association in which they last played even though their residence address is not within
the defined Association boundaries. Written approval is not mandatory in this instance,
however, it is highly recommended to avoid any possible disputes. Refer to By-Laws
Article XVIII, Section 2.

(10) Once a Player has completed their age division, as defined in Rule 5(B)(9), they
must commence playing baseball within the defined Association boundaries of their
residence address subject to Rule 5 in its entirety.

(11) (a) All releases must be signed by the Association Presidents and the BCMBA
Director of Player Personnel on or before April 30 each year for Spring Leagues.
(b) All releases must be signed by the Association Presidents and the BCMBA
Director of Player Personnel on or before July 5 each year for Summer Leagues.
(c ) Releases for single season teams must be signed by the Association Presidents
and the BCMBA Director of Player Personnel on or before June 1 each year.
PLEASE NOTE:- Releases received after the above date(s) may not be approved.

(12) The following fees have been approved by the executive for the 2008 spring season.
These fees must be paid in full before an athlete may participate in practices or games.
Blastball $60
T-Ball $80
Tadpole $95
Mosquito $120
PeeWee $145
Bantam $170
Midget $195

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RULE 3 – PLAYING RULES

(1) The C.F.A.B. official baseball rules, as amended, have been adopted as
official, with the exception of those variations contained in this handbook.

(2) No more than three (3) players shall “huddle” on the playing field at one
time. Umpires should discourage such “huddling” when it tends to delay the
game.

(3) Designated Hitter Rule - as defined by Official Baseball rules - may be an
option for the Midget division only. This shall apply to any level of play from
regular league to Provincial Championships.

(4) Slide or Avoid. If a play is being made, or is about to be made, it is
MANDATORY for players of all age groups to slide or make an effort to
avoid a collision at all bases and home plate. Failure to do either will result
in an automatic 'out'. The ball is dead and no runner may advance beyond
the base that was last legally acquired. An umpire will have the option of
ejection if the incident warrants such a measure.

(5) All offensive players except the batter and the on deck batter must remain
in the dugout at all times. Any defensive player not currently playing must
remain in the dugout at all times. Exception: Pitcher, Catcher and spotter
warming up in the bullpen.

(6) No head first slides to a base or home plate are allowed in Pee Wee,
Mosquito, Tadpole and T-Ball. All offending players will be automatically
called out. (Diving head first back to a base already legally acquired will be
allowed.)

(7) Bodily Fluids Rule (Blood) ALL DIVISIONS
(a) Any player during a game who is bleeding or who has an open wound, shall be
removed from the field of play by the umpires. The player may return to the game
only after the bleeding has stopped and the affected or open wound has been
completely and securely covered to the satisfaction of the umpires.
(b) Should the same player start bleeding again or the affected area shows signs of
bleeding, the umpires may remove the player for the duration of the game.
(c) Should any blood be on the players uniform, it must be washed out completely
to the satisfaction of the umpire prior to the player returning to the game.
(d) The substitute player is only a courtesy player until the original player returns.
(e) If a pitcher, while pitching, suffers an injury referred to in paragraph (a) above,
the umpire will call a courtesy time for no longer than fifteen (15) minutes. If the
pitcher can not return in this time a pitching change must be made.
(f) Should a team only have nine players available at the time of an injury referred
to in paragraph (a) above a courtesy time will be called for no longer than fifteen
(15) minutes. If the affected player is unable to return after this time then the game
will be forfeited.

(8) Force Play Slide Rule
The intent of this rule is to ensure the safety of players, especially when attempting
to turn a double play. On any force play, the runner must slide directly into the base
meaning the runner’s entire body must stay in a straight line between the bases. When a
runner does not slide directly into the base, the umpire shall rule interference when: a)
any contact occurs between the runner and fielder outside of the straight line between
bases, or b) the fielder is forced to avoid contact by jumping the runner or other means.
Penalty: (1) With less than two outs, the batter-runner, as well as the interfering
runner, shall be declared out and all other runners must return to the base they occupied
prior to the pitch; (2) With two outs, the interfering runner shall be declared out and no
other runner shall advance; (3) If the runner’s slide is flagrant, and injuries are incurred or
could have incurred, the runner shall be ejected from the game.

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RULE 4 – FIELD DECORUM

(1) The actions of players, managers, coaches, umpires and League officials
must be above reproach.

(2) Managers and coaches must display leadership and sportsmanlike conduct
at all times.

(3) The use of tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, illegal
substances and alcoholic beverages in any form, is prohibited on the
playing field, benches, dugouts, or any area within the boundaries of the
park by players, managers, coaches, umpires or any official. PENALTY:
Automatic ejection from the game.

(4) Players, managers and coaches while participating in scheduled game are
not permitted to:
(a) Use profanity or gestures which may be considered profane.
(b) Deliberately harass or direct any discourteous remarks at the officials or any
member of the opposing team.

(5) Players, managers or coaches engaging or persisting in conduct or actions
unfavorable to the spirit, principles and objectives of good sportsmanship shall receive
one warning from the umpire. If the offense or offenses continue, offender or offenders
will be removed from the game.

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RULE 5 – PITCHING RULES

(1) Number of Pitches and Required Rest

(2) Pitch Count Rules

(a) There are no maximum total pitch counts for a week except for Mosquito.

(b) A pitcher is permitted to exceed the maximum limit (top number) to complete pitching to a batter.

(c) Pitches thrown in warm-up, bullpen, or ruled no pitch by the umpire because time was called prior to
the pitch, or thrown when ruled no pitch due to a balk do not count towards pitch count.

(d) Pitchers may not pitch on three consecutive days.

(e) If a pitcher pitches less than the lowest number of pitches allowed without
requiring rest, the player is still permitted to catch during that game.  A player
who is brought in to pitch after having already caught that game is restricted to
the number of pitches that would require no rest.

(3) Suspended Games
If a game is suspended the pitchers rest would be determined based on the number
of pitches thrown to that point and recorded for that day.  If a pitcher is ineligible to pitch
at the beginning of a game that is suspended after the first pitch, the pitcher remains ineligible
to pitch in that game when it is completed at a later date.

(4) A pitcher who is removed from the mound during a game shall not be
permitted to return to pitch in the same game, even if the pitcher is retained
in the game at another position. NOTE - If, during an offensive inning, a
pitcher is replaced by a pinch hitter or pinch runner, he/she will have been
considered to have been removed from the mound for the purposes of this
rule.  

(5) BCMBA pitching rules are always in effect for all BCMBA teams at all times regardless
of whether or not the event is sanctioned by the BCMBA.

(6) Penalty
(a) Maximum Pitch Count Violation
If a pitcher is about to exceed his/her maximum pitch count for thte day, the opposing

manager and/or official scorekeeper and/or tournament director must inform the
pitcher's manager before the violation occurs.  If a violation is discovered after it occurs
the pitcher is simply removed from the mound and no further penalty will be invoked.

(b) Rest Rule Violation
If a pitcher pitches without proper rest as defined above, the game will be forfeited to the
opposing team.  Such a violation may be protested by the opposing team up to 48 hours
after the game upon the discovery of the violation. At a provincial championship, the violation
must be protested at the time it occurs.

(7) Enforcement and Tracking
(a) Managers will be respoonsible for tracking the pitch count of their pitchers and may assign
this duty to their scorekeeper, assistant coach, etc, however, it is ultimately the 
manager's responsibility to ensure pitch count is followed.

(b) Each team is responsible for maintaining a log of pitches thrown by their
pitchers on the form provided by BCMBA.  A team may request to view their
opposition's pitch count log prior to a game.  A manager failing to maintain an
accurate log may be reported to BCMBA and may face supplemental discipline
including the forfeiture of games.

(c) Under no circumstance will umpires be expected to track or enforce
pitch count.

(d) In provincial tournaments the official scorekeeper will be responsible for
tracking pitch count.

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RULE 6 – FIELD PREPARATION AND UPKEEP

(1) The home team is responsible for the following:
(a) Rake the base paths and the mound pulling dirt away from the lips up to the
mound.
(b) Line the field
(c) Set out bases
(d) Provide 2 game balls each game.
(e) Clean out their own dugout and teams from out of town.

(2) The visiting team is responsible for the following provided you are playing an
Abbotsford team otherwise it is home teams job as well.
(a) Put away the bases
(b) Rake mound and base paths
(c) Clean out their own dugouts
(d) Put away rakes and equipment
(e) Make sure umpire equipment is put away
(f) Ensure box is locked and lights are turned off

All the above duties are required at the end of practices.

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RULE 7 – EQUIPMENT

(1) It is recommended that League officials make every effort to ensure that all
players wear an athletic support with cup.

(2) Batters, on deck batters, base runners, players used as base coaches or
bat boys in all age categories shall wear double ear flap helmets which
gives protection to the temple, ears, base of skull and top of head.

(3) It is mandatory that full catchers' helmets or skull caps shall be worn by all
catchers, in addition to a normal chest protector, shin guards, face mask -
with throat protector - and athletic supporter with cup. Catchers in all age
categories must wear a protective helmet and mask while catching in
practice and warm-up situations such as bullpen or between innings.
Coaches must wear at least a mask in all practice and warm up situations.
Associations not enforcing this rule will be subject to a fine as determined
by BCMBA.

(4) Acceptable uniforms, foot wear and bat dimensions are covered under
each rule governing the Division.

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RULES GOVERNING THE T-BALL DIVISION (Year 1)

Starting and Ending a Game

(1) Games shall be three (3) or four (4) innings. No score is to be kept.

(2) All games start at 6 - 6:30pm. If it is raining on game day, coaches must phone each
other by 5:15pm and make a decision on whether or not to play. If possible, a make-up
game will be scheduled.

Substitutions and Player Positions

(1) Every player will play every position at least once during the season.
(2) There are a maximum of 6 players in the infield for 1st year T-Ball: Pitcher, 1st, 2nd, 3rd,
Shortstop. It is optional to have a catcher or outfielders.
(3) No player may be held out of the game for disciplinary reasons.
(4) Fielders must stay behind the 10 ft. line until the ball is hit.
(5) The player must throw the ball to make an out. Players may tag their own base only if
the ball is hit to them.
(6) All plays to 1st base must be made by throwing the ball, unless the ball is hit to the 1st
baseman.
(7) A maximum 2 coaches on the field, while their team is playing defensive.
(8) Fielding positions shall be rotated every inning. Defensive positions can be changed any
time during the game. However, it is recommended that this be done at the beginning of an
inning.

The Batter

(1) Every player on the team bats every inning. Last batter in the inning runs all the way
home (even if he or she is thrown out at 1st base).
(2) All batters hit off a “T” for the first 7 weeks of the season.
(3) It is the coaches responsibility to adjust the “T’ for players on the team. The coaches
must remove the “T” after each fair hit ball.
(4) Batting line-ups should be rotated every game to ensure every player gets to hit a
“homerun” at the end of the inning. Players are not to leave the field until the last batter
has crossed home plate.
(5) The “dead ball” area is denoted by a 10 ft arc in front of home plate, which stretches
from the 3rd base line to the 1st base line. Any ball hit into this area without rolling out is
considered a dead ball, and the batter hits again.
(6) The coach is allowed to assist the batter physically if player is having trouble in any
way.
(7) The offensive team should have base coaches at first (1st) and third base.(3rd)
(8) Throwing a bat: 1st time needs a stern warning, 2nd time it’s an out. There is no
leniency on this rule.


The Runner

(1) Players called out at a base must return to the bench.
(2) 1st year T-Ball players can only advance one base at a time no matter how far the ball has
been hit.
(3) There is no advancing bases on over-throws. There are no lead-offs from bases.
(4) There is no sliding into any base, or else it is an out.
(5) There are no plays at home plate. Offensive team should have base coaches at 1st and 3rd.

Pitching

(1) Pitching to all Batters will start on week 8 for players who are comfortable and have a
reasonable chance at making contact with a pitched ball.
a) During practices and the first seven games coaches should emphasize proper batting
techniques.
b) Each team will provide an adult pitcher for their own team. This adult pitcher will pitch
from an appropriate distance depending on the batter.
c) The pitcher can stand or kneel. It is suggested that pitches be thrown underhand to the
batter at a reasonable speed, and on as flat a plane as possible.
d) The batter will receive a total of five (5) pitches to hit a fair ball. If the batter is unable to
hit off a pitch then the tee will be used until they are able.


RULES GOVERNING THE T-BALL DIVISION (Year 2)

Starting and Ending a Game
(same as T-Ball Year 1 with the following changes)

(1) Games shall be three (3) or four (4) innings.

Substitutions and Player Positions
(same as T-Ball Year 1 with the following changes)

(1 ) The playing line is the arc is set at 15 feet. Defensive players must stay behind this line
to field a hit ball.
(2) Each defensive team shall have:
a) a maximum of 6 infielders including the catcher who shall play the usual
positions P, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, Short Stop & Catcher
b) Five outfielders.
(3) There must never be only one player sitting on the bench, even if it means having more
players in the outfield.
(4) Only one adult coach is allowed in the outfield to instruct players. Coaches may not
touch the ball while it is live.


The Batter
(same as T-Ball Year 1 with the following changes)

(1) All batters hit off a “T” for the first 2 weeks of the season.

The Runner
(same as T-Ball Year 1 with the following changes)

(1) After hitting the ball a player may advance as far as second base as long as the ball stays
in the outfield.

Pitching
(same as T-Ball Year 1 with the following changes)

(1) Pitching to all Batters will start on third week for players who are comfortable and have
a reasonable chance at making contact with a pitched ball.
a) During practices and first couple games coaches should emphasize proper batting
techniques.
b) Each team will provide an adult pitcher for its own batters. This adult pitcher will
pitch from an appropriate distance depending on the strength of the batter.
c) The pitcher can stand or kneel. It is suggested that pitches be thrown underhand
to the batter at a reasonable speed, and on as flat a plane as possible.
d) The batter will receive a total of five (5) pitches to hit a fair ball. If the batter is
unable to hit off a pitch then the tee will be used until they are able.
(2) Coaches are not to give “extra chances”.

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RULES GOVERNING THE TADPOLE DIVISION (Year 1)

Starting and Ending a Game

(1) A regular game shall be no more than 6 innings.
(2) No new innings after 7:30 PM.
(3) Each half inning shall be complete with 3 outs or 4 runs scored.
(4) 4 full innings must be played to be considered a game.
(5) Rescheduled games take precedence over practices. (Rained out games must be made
up on the next teams practice time, if not made up by a team it is a forfeit for the team
that cancelled.)
(6) Home team supplies the home plate umpire.
(7) Away team supplies the base umpire.
(8) Pitching machine is set up approximately 46 feet from the back (tip) of home plate.

Substitutions and Player Positions

(1) Defensive team shall use 10 players: 4 outfielders and 6 infielders.
(2) Catcher courtesy rule (optional). With 2 out, when the catcher is a runner on base, the
last player not on base may substitute and run for the catcher to allow the player to get
catcher gear on.
(3) A player must play the same position for the entire 1⁄2 inning except for injury or pee
break.
(4) A player must play the equivalent of 6 innings in every position throughout the
regular season.
(5) Only one defensive coach is allowed on the field at a time.

The Batter

(1) All batters hit a ball pitched by an AAHA approved pitching machine for all innings.
(2) Batter receives a total of 7 pitches per at bat and is called out if they miss the 7th pitch.
(3) A batter cannot be called out on a tipped or foul hit ball unless it is caught.
(4) All players are to bat in order and in rotation according to the line-up given to the
umpire prior to the start of the game.
(5) No bunting is allowed. (Batter is out.)
(6) Machine Interference: if a batted ball hits the pitching machine (before touching a
defensive player) it is considered a hit. The batter advances to first. No runners advance
unless forced.
(7) First offence for throwing a bat is a warning and a dead ball. Second offence the
batter is out. In both cases, no runner may advance.
(8) Offensive team; 1st and 3rd base coaches are allowed.

The Runner

(1) A base runner must be hit home from 3rd base.
(2) No stealing is allowed. (player returns to previous base earned)
(3) No sliding is allowed. (warning)
(4) No head first slides. (Base runner is out.)
(5) Overthrows to second base are considered a live ball.
(6) No runners may advance on an overthrow to first.
(7) No lead offs allowed. (“Time / No-pitch” is called and runners all go back.)
(8) On hits to the outfield, base runners may advance at their own risk of being put out
until the ball is in control in the infield.

Pitching

(1) All pitches in all innings for this division are delivered by an AAHA approved
pitching machine.
(2) An adult from the hitting team will operate the pitching machine.
(3) The pitching machine is set up approximately 46 feet from the back (tip) of home
plate.

RULES GOVERNING THE TADPOLE DIVISION (Year 2)

Starting and Ending a Game
(same as Tadpole Year 1 with the following changes)

(1) A half inning will end with 3 outs or 4 runs, except for the final or open inning that
will have no run limit.
(2) Coaches may not umpire their own game.

Substitutions and Player Positions
(same as Tadpole Year 1 with the following changes)

(1) The defensive team shall use 10 players: 4 outfielders (LF, LCF, RCF & RF) and 6
infielders including a pitcher and a catcher.
(2) Each player on the team should have a chance to pitch at least once during the season.
(3) All players must play at least one inning in the outfield every game.

The Batter
(same as Tadpole Year 1 with the following changes)

(1) A batter, when facing live pitching, will be called out according to the regular rules of
baseball as it pertains to balls and strikes.
(2) A batter, when facing the pitching machine, will be given 7 pitches but will have strikes
called against them when they swing at a pitch AND when they watch a ball in the strike
zone.
(3) A batter cannot be walked when facing the pitching machine.
(4)The player on-deck must be in the circle “behind the batter” eg. A player on-deck
behind a left-handed hitter must be in the circle on the 1st base side. A player on-deck
behind a right-handed batter must be in the circle on the 3d base side. The on-deck
player moving to the circle opposite of his/her dugout must cross BEHIND the catcher

The Runner
(same as Tadpole Year 1 with the following changes)

(1) Runners may advance one base on an overthrow to first. (A runner at third base may
not advance to home in this situation)

Pitching

(1) Players will pitch for the first two innings of every game.
(2) Pitchers will throw from the pitching rubber (in the case of a very weak pitcher,
he/she may be allowed to move a step closer to the batter).
(3) An AAHA approved pitching machine will deliver all the pitches from innings 3 until
the end of the game. (During these innings a defensive player will occupy the pitching
position beside the pitching machine)

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RULES GOVERNING THE MOSQUITO DIVISION

Starting and Ending a Game

(1) Games consist of 6 innings. (In the event of weather or darkness, 4 innings will
constitute a complete game)
(2) The coach must give a copy of his roster to the umpire and the opposing coach prior
to the start of the game. (Please arrive with a completed roster)
(3) Both teams should have someone keeping score.
(4) A team may start the game with 8 players. A team with fewer than 8 players at the
official start time will forfeit the win. Teams are encouraged to play an exhibition game
by sharing players.
(5) Each inning has a 4-run limit with the exception of the 6th or OPEN INNING. If time
does not permit 6 full innings, the fourth or fifth inning may be declared OPEN. The
umpire in consultation with the coaches will make this decision.
(6) No new inning may start after 2 hours from the official start time. (A new inning
starts immediately following the last out of the previous inning) Eg. If the 5th inning
ends at the 119-minute mark, a 6th inning may start.
(7) The mercy rule is in effect. Teams leading by 10 runs after 5 innings will be declared
the winner. (4 1/2 innings if the home team is leading)
(8) RAIN OUTS ARE CALLED AT THE PARK. Parents are to arrive at the park for the
start time. The coaches and the umpire will decide if the game will be played or
postponed.

Substitutions and Player Positions

(1) All players must play at least one inning in the outfield. (based on a 6-inning game)
(2) Coaches may not “sit” a player for two consecutive innings during a game. (The
exception will be for reasons of injury, discipline, or late arrival, at which time coaches
will inform the umpire and opposing coach of the situation)
(3) Coaches are encouraged, as much as possible, to give equal playing time to their
players and to give players the opportunity to try different positions.

The Batter

(1) All players listed on the roster take their turn at bat.
(2) The player on-deck must be in the circle “behind the batter” eg. A player on-deck
behind a left-handed hitter must be in the circle on the 1st base side. A player on-deck
behind a right-handed batter must be in the circle on the 3d base side. The on-deck
player moving to the circle opposite of his/her dugout must cross BEHIND the catcher.
(3) All players other than the batter and the on-deck player must be inside the dugout.
(Exception: pitcher warming up in the bullpen...must have a spotter wearing a helmet)
(4) Players batting out of order will be called out on appeal unless the mistake is caught
before the batter becomes a runner. In this case, the correct batter may replace the
incorrect batter but assume the count.
(5) A player who throws his bat after a hit will receive 1 warning and be called out after
the second offence. (Coaches must not tolerate the throwing of equipment out of
frustration or anger. After 1 warning, players should be benched for an inning if it
happens again)
(6) A coach is limited to 1 timeout per inning to speak to a batter.


The Runner

(1) Runners are permitted to steal bases but cannot leave their base before a pitched ball
has crossed home plate. The offending team will receive 1 warning. A second offence
by any player on that team will result in an out.
(2) Runners may not steal home in the first two innings for the first month of the season.
STARTING THE FIRST MONDAY IN MAY, PLAYERS MAY STEAL HOME IN
ANY INNING.
(3) A runner on third who has taken a lead after the ball crosses the plate but is not
stealing, must return to his base if the catcher completes a throw back to the pitcher. The
runner may steal if the pitcher drops the ball or is overthrown by the catcher or if the
catcher throws to another base.
(4) Runners not stealing must return immediately to their base when the pitcher takes his
place on the mound with possession of the ball.
(5) A runner who reaches first base by means of a base-on-balls may not advance to
second base until the first pitch to the next batter.
(6) A runner who interferes with a fielder attempting to make a play will be called out.
(7) Runners who do not slide OR avoid at all bases including home base will be called
out. (A defensive player is not allowed to block a base without possession of the ball)

Pitching

(1) Pitchers at the Mosquito division are governed by a pitch count using the  
guidelines outlined in the pitching section of the rules.
(2) A pitcher who hits 2 batters in the same inning must be replaced on the mound and
may not pitch again in that game.
(3) A pitcher removed from the mound for any reason may not return to pitch in that
game.
(4) 1st year Mosquito players must pitch in the first two innings of each game. Any
player may pitch in innings 3-6. (Coaches are strongly encouraged to play a 1st year
player at the catcher position in the first two innings of every game)
(5) When, with runners on base, the pitcher fails to deliver the pitch after beginning his
pitching motion, the umpire shall call “TIME...no pitch, BALK ball. No runner may
advance and pitcher receives a warning. A second failure to deliver a pitch once the
pitcher has started his motion will result in called BALL. No runner may advance.
(6) The coach is allowed one visit to the mound per inning per pitcher. A second visit to
the same pitcher in the same inning will require a pitching change.

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RULES GOVERNING THE PEEWEE DIVISION
(differences for Peewee AA are highlighted in italics)

Starting and Ending a Game

(1) Five (5) innings or four and one-half innings (when the home team is ahead) will
constitute a complete game.
(2) Maximum four (4) runs per inning. Last inning (as decided by the plate umpire) is
open inning. In Peewee AA all innings are open.
(3) There will be no 8:15 or 8:30 rule. The plate umpire (not coaches) will decide when it
is too dark to continue.
(4) One (1) extra inning will be played in tie games, daylight permitting.
(5) Rain-outs and cancelled games should be called off minimum of two (2) hours before
game time. It is the responsibility of the home head coach to inform the visiting head
coach AND the umpire scheduler about the cancellation of the game. If contact is not
made between both head coaches, both teams are required to show up at the field ready to
play. It will be then up to the plate umpire to play or not to play the game. (Refer to
Rule 1)
(6) A game cannot be forfeited because there aren’t any umpires. The game shall be
rescheduled. Forfeit time is fifteen (15) minutes after scheduled game time start.
(7) Should one team not be able to field a full team of nine players, and the
opposing team can, the game is "forfeited". The teams may play an
exhibition game, however, pitchers will be subject to Rule 5 in its entirety.
(8) Tournament play: When a league game conflicts with entry into a tournament, it is the
head coach’s responsibility to reschedule the league game.

Substitutions and Player Positions

(1) Every player must play a minimum of three (3) innings per game. In the event of a
shortened game, i.e. rain, darkness or mercy rule, any player who did not play his three
full innings, must play the entire seven innings next league or playoff game.
(2) A team who is sitting out a player for disciplinary reasons must inform the plate
umpire and opposing coach before or during the game begins.
(3) A team that is short players may bring up players from a lower division. These
players may not pitch, under any circumstances. Maximum three (3) games per player.
Requests for call-ups will go through the commissioner.
(4) Courtesy catcher is in place to keep up the speed of the game. Catcher that is on base,
and is scheduled to catch next inning, must be replaced by the last out, when there is
already 2 out.


The Batter

(1) All players listed on the roster take their turn at bat.
(2) Dropped Third Strike
(a) The batter may become a runner when the third strike is not caught providing:
(i) first base is unoccupied, or
(ii) first base is occupied with two out.
(b) Should a catcher drop a third strike, the ball is alive and in play. Runners may
advance at their own risk.

The Runner

(1) Players may lead-off at all bases.
(2) No head first slides advancing to a base, player is automatically out.

Pitching

(1) As per B.C. Minor rules.
(2) A first year Peewee player must pitch a minimum of two (2) innings in a game. ( 4
runs or 3 outs constitute a defensive inning) In Peewee AA, a first year player must
record 3 consecutive outs in each game when playing a team from outside the Association.
When playing an opponent who is also from the Association, 6 outs must be recorded by a
first year pitcher in each game.
(3) If a pitcher hits 2 batters in the same inning, he must be replaced by another pitcher;
he can play another position. This rule does not apply in Peewee AA.
(4) Balks- In the first half of the season, a warning will be given to each individual pitcher
for the first offence and a base given for the second offence. AS Of MAY 1st, THE
ONLY WARNING WILL BE GIVEN AT THE MEETING BETWEEN THE
UMPIRES AND COACHES AT THE START OF THE GAME! In Peewee AA there
are no warnings given to pitchers who balk.
(5) ANY violation of the pitching rules will result in an AUTOMATIC forfeit.
(6) All teams are to keep pitching records with their score book and have them available
and up to date upon request.

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RULES GOVERNING BANTAM AND MIDGET DIVISIONS

-See the BC Minor Rule Book for details with regard to these divisions. The BC Minor
rule book can be located at http://www.bcminorbaseball.org/Acrobat/Rulebook06.pdf


SECTION 3

Rule Book – Governing Summer Baseball for Mosquito,
Pee Wee, Bantam, Midget AA Divisions.

The BC Minor rulebook, to which the AAHA adheres, contains all of the details regarding
Summer Ball rules and guidelines. Following are some highlights from that document and
the AAHA approved rules for summer baseball.

(1) Coaching Certification – Managers and coaches wishing to represent the AAHA in
summer baseball must hold the appropriate NCCP certification prior to July 1 of the
summer season. NCCP requirements are as follows:

a) Mosquito Division
A, AA, AAA - one of three members of the field staff must hold full
N.C.C.P. level one certification. All other members of the field staff must
hold NCCP level one technical.

b) PeeWee Division
Pee Wee A - one member of the field staff must hold full N.C.C.P. level one
certification. All other members of the field staff must hold NCCP level one
technical certification.
Pee Wee AA – All members of the field staff must hold full NCCP level one
certification and NCCP level two technical certification.
Pee Wee AAA - All members of the field staff must hold full NCCP level one
certification and NCCP level two technical certification.

c) Bantam Division
Bantam A - one member of the field staff must hold full N.C.C.P. level one
certification. All other members of the field staff must hold NCCP level one
technical certification.
Bantam AA - One member of the field staff must hold full N.C.C.P. level two
certification. All other members of the field staff must hold a full N.C.C.P.
level one certification and NCCP level 2 technical certification.
Bantam AAA - all members of the field staff must hold a full NCCP level one
and full NCCP level two certification.

d) Midget AA - One member of the field staff must hold full NCCP level one
certification. All other members of the field staff must hold NCCP level one
technical certification.

(2) Coaching Selection – Applications to manage a summer baseball team will be due
back to the Association by May 15 (PeeWee AAA applications are due February 15;
Mosquito AAA applications are due April 15) after which time a selection committee
will meet to choose a manager for each summer team. The following criteria will be used
as a guide for the selection committee:
a) Appropriate NCCP coaching levels attained
b) Past conduct as it relates to the AAHA Code of Ethics
c) Coaching ability
d) Second or first year coach in the division
e) Whether or not the coach has a son or daughter on the team
f) Coaching experience
g) Other information deemed appropriate

Managers will be given discretion to choose their coaches as long as they are qualified as
per the BC Minor regulations with regard to NCCP certification. No manager or coach
without the appropriate NCCP levels will be allowed to participate in summer baseball.

(3) Uniforms – Only AAHA approved uniforms may be worn by summer allstar teams.
AAHA’s colors are white, red, and black. Teams will be issued jerseys, pants, belts,
socks, and hats. Teams are not permitted to wear uniforms that do not conform to the
AAHA standards and are not issued by the Association.

(4) Summer Allstar Fees – The following summer fee schedule has been approved by the
AAHA executive for the 2008 summer season. The following fees are payable to AAHA
and must be paid to the Association prior to teams receiving their equipment and
uniforms:
a) Mini-Mosquito - $50 per player
b) Mosquito - $75 per player
c) Peewee A - $100 per player
d) PeeWee AA & AAA- $125 per player
e) Bantam A- $150 per player
f) Bantam AA & AAA* $175 per player
*Bantam AAA allstar fees will be collected as soon as the team is picked in
the Spring.
g) Midget $175 per player


(5) Umpire Fees – Fees for umpires are included in the approved allstar fees in (4) above.
Umpire fees incurred for summer exhibition games are the responsibility of the team and
are not covered in the fees listed in (4) above.

(6) Fundraising – Teams are responsible for raising funds to pay for the activities of the
summer season including tournament entry fees, provincial tournament fees, additional
training, travel, or additional baseball gear for players. All team revenues and expenses
must be recorded and made available to parents. A detailed report must be submitted to
the Association in September following the summer season. Monies not spent must be
divided equally and returned to the parents of the team. Teams may not carry a balance
forward beyond the summer season.

(7) AAHA Travel Fund – Each summer team that attends a provincial or national
tournament outside the region (ie: Vancouver Island, Interior) is eligible for $500 from
the association to help with travel costs. In addition, “The AAHA will support individual
players under the umbrella of BC Minor who play up to the national level, subject to
funding available at the time; with a maximum amount equal to the registration fees.”
(September 06)

(8) Managers and coaches who violate the rules governing summer baseball will be
subject to disciplinary action as determined by a discipline committee of the Association.

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