Overall Format

The goals for the program are to:

1. Ensure that the experience is positive and fun for all players
2. Teach the players the very basic fundamentals of baseball

Coaches

The coaches’ responsibilities are to teach the basic fundamentals of baseball and provide positive instruction and feedback to the players during the weekly practices and games. Baseball or coaching experiences is a plus, but not required. Parents are encouraged to volunteer to assist the coaches as necessary and provide positive feedback to the players.

Uniforms & Prizes

Each player will receive an Eden Prairie shirt and cap, which they keep. Colors will be assigned for each team. If you would like to add names on the shirts, names can be added for a nominal fee that parents can pay for. Players will also be awarded participation trophies at the last session.

Drinks

Teams are encouraged to coordinate a drink schedule (to be provided by parents on a rotating basis). Parents are also encouraged to bring water for their children, as the children often get thirsty during the sessions.

T-Ball Rules

Overall

It is the coaches’ responsibility to ensure that all players get equal participation and attention. It is also the coaches’ responsibility to maintain equipment throughout the season and ensure its prompt return to the commissioner at the end of the season.

Format

The first several sessions are practice only and emphasize drills and getting to know each other on the team. In the remaining sessions, the first fifteen minutes is practice.

Rules

• Coaches should provide equal playing time for all players, regardless of ability.
• Players should change fielding positions throughout the entire season.
• The defensive team will have 6 players on the field for the following positions: Pitcher, Catcher, First Base, Second Base, Short Stop, and third Base.
• Batting order is continuous throughout the game. All batters will bat in an inning.
• Each player swings until they hit the ball. During the 2nd half of the season (during coach pitch), coaches will throw 5 pitches to each batter. If after 5 pitches, the batter has not hit the ball, the player should then hit from the tee.
• Any ball hit off the tee that does not travel 10 feet from the tee will be considered a foul ball. Coaches should draw an arching line in the field to mark the foul territory.
• “Running it out” is prohibited due to potential injuries. Once the ball is in the infield, base coaches should stop the runners.
• No leading off, stealing, or additional bases on overthrows.
• The defensive team may have up to three coaches on the field for instructional purposes. The offensive team should have a batting coach and two base coaches. Parent volunteers can act as field and base coaches.
• Base coaches will make the calls at the bases. Players thrown out must return to the bench.
• Bases are 45 feet apart.