Definition of Coach. WSLL recognizes three types of volunteers who direct baseball activities on a team (“Baseball Volunteers”) – the Manager, two Coaches of Record (aka Assistant Coaches), and an unlimited number, but usually one to three regular Practice Coaches. Managers and Coaches of Record are considered coaches for all purposes. Practice Coaches are not considered a coach for any purpose but are still subject to the Little League Volunteer Background Investigation rule, where applicable. There are significant requirements of a Baseball Volunteer qualifying as a coach. Little League requires that anyone having repetitive contact with children be identified by the manager, submit a Little League Volunteer Form to the WSLL Safety Officer, and successfully pass the Little League -required background investigation. Little League requires that all coaches be appointed by the President and approved by the Board. Little League requires that the names of the Manager and two Assistant Coaches be reported to Little League. WSLL requires that the Manager and both Assistant Coaches be present in the dugout if they are present for the game (if one were absent, only someone who has passed the Little League background investigation is allowed in the dugout). With these considerations in mind, WSLL defines Practice Coach as one who, on a regular basis, forms a relationship with one or more players of no relation, who regularly looks to him or her for baseball advice, guidance, and direction. Such a coach might direct a practice, teach a baseball skill (such as throwing, catching, pitching, hitting, or running), or provide instruction on a personal, subteam (infielders, pitchers, catchers, outfield, etc.) or team basis. By contrast, a Practice Helper typically performs a rote function to facilitate a drill or game that is being overseen and directed by a coach or manager. Such functions include backing up overthrown balls, pitching batting practice, watching for safety violations, placing the ball on a tee or throwing soft toss. Calling out occasional generalities or words of encouragement like “stand closer to the plate,” “good swing,” or “use two hands” do not transform a Practice Helper into a Practice Coach. Such a helper also might perform coach-like functions on an irregular basis. Because the requirement for a Little League Volunteer Form is tied to the contact with children – and not coaching status – Managers are responsible for ensuring that only those having passed the b...
