FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
(FAQs)

 *    *    *

REGISTRATION

1/         How do I know when it is time to register?

2/         If my child has never registered, can you give me advance notice of when to register?

3/         How old must my child be to participate? Can my child play with younger or older children?

4/         What are the registration periods?

5/         How do I register; what is the deadline for registering?
            How do I register for the Bulldogs - Travel Baseball or Travel Basketball?

6/         Will I get notice that my form and payment have been received?

7/         What happens if I try to register late?

8/         How much does it cost to register?

9/         What kind of payment is accepted?

10/       What does the fee cover?

11/       Are there any other fees?

12/       If my child decides not to play, can I get a refund? If I am entitled to a refund, when will I receive it?

13/       Is financial aid available if I cannot afford the fee?

14/       I’ve moved or changed by email address or phone number, how can I update my contact data to make sure I get emails and mailings from you?

15/       Can I request my child to be with a particular player or coach?

16/      When do the teams practice, when do the teams play games, and other scheduling information?   Basketball  or  Baseball

 *    *    *

1/         How do I know when it is time to register? 

For each sport, advance notice to register occurs in four ways:

1/         a mailing by regular mail to all age appropriate children in our database that is planned to arrive right after Labor Day for basketball and right after New Years day for baseball;

 2/         a notice posted on our website announcing the beginning of registration (also right after Labor Day for basketball and right after New Years day for baseball);

 3/         a mass email to all age appropriate candidates from our database of previously registered children; and

 4/         notices in local newspapers and on local retailer bulletin boards announcing the beginning of registration (also right after Labor Day for basketball and right after New Years day for baseball)

2/         If my child has never registered, can you give me advance notice of when to register?

The short answer is no.  Our only direct contact for registration is by regular mail to those already in the database - those who previously registered with us.  We cannot enter someone into the database unless they are actually registering.  You will have to come back to the website during the relevant sport’s registration period, download the form and instructions, and take it from there.

3/         How old must my child be to participate?  Can my child play with younger or older children?

For baseball: The age cutoff date is April 30 – he or she must be the youngest age of that division on that date   That date is one that is set universally among baseball organization (Little League, Babe Ruth, Prospect Park Baseball Association, etc.) and must be adhered to if teams want to be eligible to play in any outside events.

For basketball: The age cutoff date is December 31 – he or she must be the youngest age of that division on that date.

We will make exceptions for older 4 year olds if the child is sufficiently skilled and the parents are willing accept the responsibility.  For such an approval contact the Vice President of the Sport, go the contacts page of the site for that person’s email address: Click Here

For questions about playing with older (playing up) or younger (playing down) children, click on the following links:

    Playing up - with older children:  Baseball   or  Basketball

    Playing down - with younger children:  Baseball   or  Basketball

 4/         What are the registration periods?

 Baseball – begins right after New Years Day for about two weeks.  It is also possible to register in person at the evaluations (usually late February), but those who register within the originally set deadline of two weeks, will get to be evaluated first. Those who register at the evaluation will have to wait on line until those who registered by mail finish.

Basketball - begins right after Labor Day for about two weeks.  It is also possible to register in person at the evaluations (usually late September or early October), but those who register within the originally set deadline of two weeks, will get to be evaluated first. Those who register at the evaluation will have to wait on line until those who registered by mail finish.

 5/         How do I register?

 The following applies to both baseball and basketball registration:

1/         If your child registered with us in the past, you should receive a registration form and instructions by regular mail at the beginning of the registration period.  Make any corrections and additions on the form in RED INK (be sure your email address is there), and sign the form.  Then mail the form and payment (check or money order only) to the address at the bottom of the form.  PLEASE WAIT FOR YOUR FORM TO ARRIVE UNTIL THE DATE SPECIFIED ON THE WEBSITE.   Data entry is simplified  for our volunteers when they can simply review the corrections made in red ink. 

2/         If you child never registered with us before, go to our website and download the forms and instructions – the form and instructions will be available on the registration page of the site:  Click Here.  Complete the form, sign it, and mail it with payment (check or money order only) to the address at the bottom of the form.  (We may have the form and instructions available for you to pickup at a local retailer.  That will be mentioned in the registration notice on the registration page.)

Since we are not affiliated with the 78^th Police Precinct, please do NOT bring your forms and payment to that station house.

 You can also hand deliver your form and payment to our mail box at the Park Slope Copy Center Mail Office, one floor above the copy center at 123 7^th Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11215.  Please make sure that you write PMB 202 on the envelope along with the organization’s name.  To determine the hours of their mail office, call 718 783-0268.  Please do not ask them questions or expect them to have any forms.  They are an independent mailing office where we keep our mailbox.  They are not affiliated with us and they have asked us to ask you not to ask them about our organization and the registration process.

3/    Registration at the Evaluations:  Finally, we do accept registrations at the evaluations.  However, a/ we prefer to receive them by the original deadline so that our volunteers will have sufficient time for data entry and b/ those who register on time by mail will be given preference at the evaluations -- if you register at the evaluation you will have to wait on line until those who registered by mail get evaluated and we usually schedule the evaluations for unregistered players at the end of the evening, starting around 8:30pm. 

Deadline for registering: A deadline for us to receive your mail-in registration will be posted on the registration form itself and the website.  Please check the website frequently as we may extend the deadline.  The deadline is set at least a week before the evaluations to allow us time to have the data entered and printed out for the evaluators and people to handle the live registration at the evaluations.  However, since Clinic and Prep Clinic players need not be evaluated, after the normal mail in deadline you will have the option to come to any of the evaluations and register there or continue to mail in the registration form as long as we receive it no later than the last evaluation date.

All registrations forms and payments received after the evaluations are considered late with no guarantee to placement and must contain an additional, nonrefundable late fee of $25.

How do I register for the Bulldogs - Travel Baseball or Travel Basketball?
First follow the intramural registration procedures, making sure you checked the "Travel Try Out?" box on the form.  Then make sure your child attends the evaluations.  After the evaluations, you will be informed by the coach.  If your child has made the travel team, he/she will be called by the travel team manager, at which time you must pay the balance of the fee.  If you child has not made a travel team, you will be called by your child's intramural team manager.

 6/         Will I get notice that the form and payment have been received?

No, we are not staffed to do that.  At the evaluations your child’s name will be on the list of children to be evaluated.  (For more on evaluations, go to the section called “Being Placed on a Team.”)  If not on the list, you will have to fill out a form at that time and pay.  If we receive the original check thereafter, we will notify you and tear it up.

7/         What happens if I try to register late?

You child will be placed on a waiting list with no guarantee of placement.  In addition, you must remit a $25 non-refundable late fee with your form and regular payment.  If very late, it is possible that we will have closed the waiting list and will not accept any late forms or payments.  Those accepted for the waiting list and not placed will be refunded the registration fee, not the late fee.  Refunds generally occur about 4-6 weeks after the beginning of the actual season as we must wait for all checks to clear. 

8/         How much does it cost to register?

For each sport, once registration begins, the fee is published on the website in the Registration area, along with a pdf that contains both a copy of the form and instructions.  Click Here for that information.

A registration form without a payment, partial payment, or non-payment of a prior balance will be accepted.  However, until full payment is received, the child will not be placed on the list to be selected on a team at the draft. 

9/         What kind of payment is accepted?

By mail in registration – only persons checks and money orders.  At live registration at the evaluations we also take cash.  No credit or debit cards are accepted. 

10/       What does the fee cover?

General administrative costs of the organization and insurance for the players, coaches, and the board; 

For Baseball: the registration fee covers the cost of uniform for each child (for intramural teams - hat, jersey, pants – not socks, shoes or undergarments; for travel teams (Bulldogs), the uniform is not included in the registration fee and must be paid separately), each teams’ coaches jersey and hat, trophies for each child, umpires fees, field permit fees, equipment (bats, balls, bases, catcher’s equipment (including catcher’s mitt), batting helmets, scorebook, instructional equipment and material, and ice packs.  Each player must provide his/her own glove and batting glove, if so desired). 

For Basketball: the registration fee covers the cost of jersey for each child (intramural and travel) (but not pants, socks, shoes or undergarments), each teams’ coaches jersey, trophies for each child, referee’s fees, gym permit fees, equipment (balls, scorebook, and ice packs), gym security fees, and scoreclocks. 

11/       Are there any other fees?

Late registration fee - $25

Bounced check fee - $25

Uniforms for travel teams.

 12/       If my child decides not to play, can I get a refund?  If entitled to a refund, when will I receive it?

If and how much depends on when the request is made and the reason.  Our refund policy is set forth in the registration area of the site. 

For baseball Click Here then select the "Late Registration, Waiting Lists & Refunds" link.

For basketball Click Here then select the "Late Registration, Waiting Lists & Refunds" link.

When granted, refunds generally occur about 4-6 weeks after the beginning of the actual season as we must wait for all checks to clear. 

13/       Is financial aid available if I cannot afford the fee?

Yes, email us explaining the reason and we will contact you to discuss it.

14/       I’ve moved or changed by email address or phone number, how can I update my registration data to make sure I get emails and mailings from you? 

Go to this link and it will explain how to do it. 

15/       Can I request my child to be with a particular player or coach?

That question is answered for baseball and basketball by clicking here.

*    *    *

BEING PLACED ON A TEAM
(Baseball & Basketball)

1/         How are teams chosen?

2/         When are the evaluations & what must my child bring to them?

3/         Must every child be evaluated?

4/         What were my child’s ratings?

5/         How are players selected onto teams?

6/         Can my child be placed on a team with one of his friends or with a particular coach?

7/         When will I find out if or what team my child will be on?
I haven’t heard from my child’s coach yet.  What team is my child on?

8/        Can my child play with younger or older children?

 *    *    *

1/         How are teams chosen?

It is a two step process:  1/ First they are evaluated by the coaches in a weekday evening evaluation session that occurs about 2-3 weeks before the start of the season in a local gym, and 2/ Second, the coaches meet and formally select players onto their team at a draft about a week after the evaluations.  The travel team players, however, are selected by the travel team coaches prior to the draft so that intramural coaches do not draft players who will not be on their team. 

There is no draft for the youngest players: Baseball Pee Wees and Lions (5-7 year olds) and the Basketball clinic (co-ed 5-7 year olds) and girls’ prep clinic (8-9 year olds).  They are placed on teams based on their requests.  However, we cannot guarantee that such a request will be honored.  There may be instances when a team is full, etc. Those not making a request are placed on a team by the division director without a draft. 

2/         When are the evaluations? 

They generally occur at the end of January for baseball and late September/early October for basketball - about two weeks after the deadline for submission of registrations by mail.

 For baseball evaluations bring only a baseball mitt. Bring nothing to the basketball evaluations.  Since both will be in gyms, they should wear sneakers.  Do not bring your own baseballs and bats and basketballs.  They will not be allowed in the gym. 

3/         Must every child be evaluated?

Except for the youngest age groups (Pee Wees and Lions for baseball, and Clinic and Prep Clinic for basketball), yes, absolutely.  Even late players taken from the waiting list will be asked to come to an evaluation.  There are no evaluations for the Pee Wees and Lions for baseball, and Clinic and Prep Clinic for basketball – but please confirm this on the website and on the instructions provided with the registration form each season. 

4/         What were my child’s ratings?

We only disclose that information to the coaches to help them select teams at the drafts. 

5/         How are players selected onto teams?

Drafts occur about two weeks after the evaluations when all the coaches in each division (age group) meet and select players onto their team.  Only players who have fully paid are on the draft list. 

Baseball Drafts:  Since there are so many teams (and the 9 year old and older players play in the Prospect Park Baseball Association in which there are so many teams for each age group that tiers have been created for the stronger teams to play against each other, and the weaker teams to play against each other), we allow coaches to take those players who have either requested them specifically or players who requested players they have chosen.  But taking any player is always at the discretion of the coach, regardless of the parent’s request.  All requests must be made by the parent on the form.  Verbal statements by a coach at a draft are not accepted unless corroborated by a parent on the phone during the draft.  A strict draft is still maintained with coaches selecting their open spots for the pool of evaluated players.  Each player’s rating, even if allocated to a team based on a request, is therefore essential, as the team’s average rating establishes its position in the order of the draft.   

Basketball Drafts:  Since there are only about 10 teams in each division, we must attempt to balance all the teams as best as possible.  We therefore only allow the coach and assistant coach to have their own children.  All other picks are done on the ratings in a strictly controlled draft.  We therefore do not grant requests of players to be with particular players or coaches. 

6/         Can my child be placed on a team with one of his friends or with a particular coach?

As noted in the prior answer, we will attempt to honor requests for baseball, however it is not guaranteed.  There may be instances when a team is full, the coach may decide not to choose that child, etc.   We do not honor requests for basketball except for the clinics, subject to open spaces in the requested clinic.   The only request honored in basketball is that of the coach and assistant for their own children.

7/         When will I find out if or what team my child will be on?
            I haven’t heard from my child’s coach yet.  What team is my child on?

At the draft, the coaches are given all the contact information we have from you.  The coaches are instructed to immediately call up the players and to welcome them and to tell when the first team meeting will be.  Please do not contact us until after the coaches deadline for contacting the children.  That deadline is posted on the Calendar of Events.  We are not staffed to handle those inquiries.  We will try to respond to such inquiries after the deadline posted on the Calendar of Events.  Such inquiries should be emailed to your child’s division director (whose email address is at the bottom of that division’s home page on our website).

8/        Can my child play with younger or older children?

For questions about playing with older (playing up) or younger (playing down) children, click on the following links:

    Playing up - with older children:  Baseball   or  Basketball

    Playing down - with younger children:  Baseball   or  Basketball

*    *    *

BASEBALL & SOFTBALL

(For questions about registration and how players are chosen onto teams, please go to either the “Registration” section or the “Being Placed on a Team” section.)

1/         What is the difference between intramural and travel teams (Bulldogs)? 

2/         What is the Prospect Park Baseball Association? 

3/         Do we only play against 78th Precinct Youth Council teams? 

4/         Do the teams play against other teams of like ability? 

5/         What are the age breakdowns of the divisions? 

6/         What are rules differences between the divisions? 

7/         Do (or should) girls play baseball or softball?

8/         Are all players required to play each game? 

9/         What are appropriate forms of discipline of players? 

10/       When is the baseball season? 

11/       When do the teams practice and play games? 

12/       Do the players receive uniforms? 

13/       How will I know if the uniform will fit, and if it doesn’t how do I change the item? 

14/       Can my child have a particular jersey number? 

15/       What equipment is provided by the organization? 

16/       Is there a calendar of events that tells us when important events will occur during the season? 

17/       How does the organization have the right to use the fields? 

18/       Can I get a permit to play on a ball field? 

19/       Can my child play up with children who are older? 

20/       Can my child play down with children who are younger? 

21/       Who are the coaches and how can I become one? 

22/       What do we do to qualify the coaches? 

23/       When do the teams practice, and where? 

24/       Is there a minimum playing time required for each player? 

25/       Are there playoffs, and do all teams make them? 

26/       How are seedings determined in the intramural playoffs? 

27/       Do the players get awards/trophies at the end of the season? 

28/       How do I know when games are cancelled? 

29/       Are rained out games made up? 

30/       How do I lodge a complaint about an incident or a rule violation? 

31/       What do I do if a coach or spectator is out of hand? 

32/       What should I do if an umpire doesn’t know what to do or acts inappropriately? 

33/       Are pictures taken of the team and each player? 

34/       What do I do if I haven’t received the photos I ordered or if what I received is not correct? 

35/       What happens if my child is injured? 

36/       If my child (or another child) is injured on the field, what should I do?

 *    *    *

1/         What is the difference between intramural and travel teams (Bulldogs)?

Intramural teams play a season that ends around when public school ends, games will total about 14, games are played mostly in Prospect Park (although they may play in other fields), all players who register on time are selected to a team (there are evaluations to help with placement, not try outs that function as an elimination), requests to play with a particular friend and/or coach is usually honored, the rules require minimum playing time for each player, and the competition is generally of a lesser nature. 

The intramural players ages 5-8 year olds play internally amongst only the 78th Precinct Youth Council teams.  Ages 9+ play against both 78th Precinct Youth Council teams and the other teams in the Prospect Park Baseball Association.

Travel Teams (Bulldogs): play a season that ends around mid-July, they will go to tournaments out of town (such as over Memorial Day weekend), games will total as much as 30-40, games will be played in various parks around Brooklyn, players must make the team after trying out, there is no guarantee of equal playing time, there will usually be weekly practices in addition to games, and the competition will be higher than intramural baseball. 

2/         What is the Prospect Park Baseball Association?

Years ago, all the different organizations in the area held permit for specific time slots and dates individually.  It resulted in chaos on the field when coaches didn’t have their permits with them, other coaches misunderstood the terms of their permits, etc.  As a result, all the organizations got together and formed a super-organization (Prospect Park Baseball Association – PPBA) who sole purposes are to hold the permits, hire the umpires, make the schedules, and assist the park in maintaining the fields.  We are one of about 10 organizations that are members of the PPBA.  

3/         Do we only play against 78th Precinct Youth Council teams?

Intramural Play:  For the 5-8 year olds, we play within our organization only.  From 9 and older and softball, our teams play in the PPBA against the other local organizations.  However, since we are the largest of the organizations, our teams invariably play many games against each other within the PPBA.

 Bulldog/Travel:  Usually there is only one Bulldog team for each age group.  If there is more than one for an age group, they will not play in the same league.  The only exception to that is the summer 8 year old team.

 4/         Do the teams play against other teams of like ability?

Intramural Play: The differences between ability do not appear most obvious until about the age of 9, particularly when the players are pitching to each other and the distances (base paths and pitching) are bigger.  Once the players reach 9, their teams will be placed by their coaches in the tier of their division that is intended to contain teams of players of like ability.  It is an art not a science, particularly since the placement of teams relies on the judgment and good sense of coaches from other organizations.  It has been in operation since 2003 and is about the best way of keeping the competition as level as possible.  

Bulldog/Travel:  Coaches evaluate their talent and attempt to leagues best suited for their team. 

5/         What are the age breakdowns of the divisions?

The ages are listed with the title of each division on the home page of our baseball section of the website.  Click Here 

Note that the Pee Wees are listed for 5-6 year olds, and Lions for 7 year olds.  But to have an even number of teams in each division, we will place older 6 year olds on Lions team. The rules are basically the same, the only significant difference is that the coach pitcher must pitch overhand for the Lions. 

Our program (and the PPBA) includes both baseball (for mixed gender teams) and softball (girls only). 

For basketball Click Here 

6/         What are rules differences between the divisions?

The significant rules differences are:

Baseball (Hardball)

Pee Wee and Lions (5-7 yo): coaches pitch, bases at 40’, the ball is very soft to prevent injury;

Pony Majors (8yo): players pitch at 33’ (they are gradually worked in so that by the 5^th game it is all player pitching), no stealing, bases at 50’; the ball is a bit softer than regular hardballs.

Cubs (9-10 yo): players pitch bases at 43’, bases at 60’, stealing not until the catcher has full possession of the ball, 10 fielders, universal batting order, regular hard balls are used.

Bantam (11-12 yo): Players pitch 47.5’, bases at 70’; all other Major League Baseball rules apply including dropped third strike, bunts, balks, etc. except 10 fielders and universal batting order.

Super Bantam (12-13 yo): Players pitch at 54’, bases at 80’. All other Major League Baseball rules apply including dropped third strike, bunts, balks, etc., universal batting order.

Grasshopper (13-14 yo) and Freshmen (15-16 yo): Major league rules and distances.

 All rules can be accessed from our rules web page: Click Here

 Softball (girls only):

Mustangs (8-10 yo),  Broncos (11-12 yo), and Colts (13-15 yo) – can be found off our rules page: Click Here

 7/         Do (or should) girls play baseball or softball?

Until the age of 8, girls play with the boys in the Pee Wee and Lions divisions.  At the age of 8 they have the choice of continuing to play with the boys at Pony Majors or with the girls playing softball on a Mustang team.  Our preference is for the girls to move to softball because it is just as competitive and fun, if they continue with it, they will be better prepared to play it on their school teams, and we are generally in need of girls to compose enough teams.

 8/         Are all players required to play each game?

Intramural Baseball & Softball:  The rules require that all players play at least 1 of the first two innings and 2 of the first four innings.  Only for reasons of injury or justifiable discipline can those rules be bent.

Travel Baseball:  It is assumed that players who are chosen to the team are sufficiently skilled to be playing.  However, there is no requirement in the leagues in which they play or under 78^th Precinct Youth Council rules, that require players to be given equal playing time.

9/         What are appropriate forms of discipline of players?

We condone only positive reinforcement.  However, players that do not follow our organization’s rules of conduct, are subject to removal from a game or in serious cases, suspension or removal from the team.  Our rules of conduct and a list of the forms of acceptable discipline can be found at the following page on our website: Click Here

 If a coach fails to adhere to those rules, please contact your division director, whose email address can be found at the bottom of your division's home page - Click Here to get to the list of the division home pages..

 10/       When is the baseball season?

Intramural: First weekend of April to the third weekend of June.

Travel (Bulldogs): Spring-April through Mid-July; Summer: end of July through mid-September.

 11/       When do the teams practice and play games?

Practice:

Intramural: It is completely up to the coach to schedule practices.  Unfortunately there are few fields available and permits do not allow for practices, only game play.

Travel Teams (Bulldogs):  Coaches will hold a few practices a week prior to the season and usually one during the season in locations scouted by the coaches.

Pre-Season:  We rent a public school gym starting in December on Sundays for open sessions.  Every two hour session is allocated to a different age group. They are open for all players of that age to practice with the Bulldog coaches.  The sessions are used by the coaches to get an understanding of the skills of the players in anticipation of their choosing their teams.  They will choose the teams in mid-January,m at which team the sessions will be limited only to those who were chosen for the team.

Games:

Intramural: Pee Wees, Lions and Ponys play every Saturday for approximately 10 weeks (games game start as early as 9am and as late as 1 or 3pm depending on the number of teams.  The rest of the teams play in the PPBA and play from 12 - 14 games almost always one each weekend and a few during the week starting at 5:45 or 6pm.

 Travel Teams (Bulldogs):  Schedule vary but usually no less than 2 games per week with at least one, sometimes two, on the weekend.

 12/       Do the players receive uniforms?

Intramural:  Each team is allocated a unique uniform setup – i.e. color combination and style.  The following are included in the fee are a cap, jersey, and pants.  Players are encouraged to buy matching socks at Sport Prospect (7^th Ave between 10-11^th Streets).   The uniforms are given to the coaches and the coaches distribute them to the players.  Since we do not know the precise number of teams until late in the process, the uniforms are generally not available until about the last week of March.  It is recommended that all male players wear a protective cup.  It is required of all catchers.  Sliding pants with a slot for the cup is generally found to be most comfortable.  It can also be purchased at Sport Prospect.

Travel Teams (Bulldogs):  Players must purchase their uniform directly from Sport Prospect (7^th Ave between 10-11^th Streets).  Required to be purchased are a cap, jersey, vest (with their last name printed on it), pant, belt, and socks.  All male players must wear a protective cup.  Sliding pants with a slot for the cup is generally found to be most comfortable.  It can also be purchased at Sport Prospect.  There are also optional Bulldog apparel available.  Check the Bulldog Coaches Materials section of the website - Click Here .

13/       How will I know if the uniform will fit, and if it doesn’t how do I change the item?

Intramural:  Since there is not enough lead time between when we must order the blanks (jerseys) and when the teams are chosen, we order different size assortment for each age group.  Over the years (and through a specific survey of more than 70% of the children in a prior year), we have determined the best pre-pack assortment of sizes for each age group.  So there will be a certain number of xsmall, small, medium, large and extra large jerseys and pants for each team.  The caps are adjustable so that one size fits all.

If there is a fit problem with the pants, Sport Prospect will have an inventory of extra pants (they are white for all teams).  Just go there and exchange your pair.  Fit problems with the jersey should be worked out with the coach by mixing and matching with the players.  If that doesn’t work, go to Sport Prospect to have a new jersey ordered.  We will pay for it but since each team has a uniquely colored jersey which also requires special screenprinting, it is a special order that will take weeks. 

Travel Teams (Bulldogs):  When placing the order with Sport Prospect (7^th Ave between 10-11^th Streets) the player is specifically measured to avoid any size issues.  Fit problems once received should be taken up with Sport Prospect. 

14/       Can my child have a particular jersey number?

Intramural:  That is dictated by the size of the jerseys since the numbers increase as the sizes increase.  So the smaller sizes are the smaller sized jerseys, etc. 

Travel Teams (Bulldogs):  Numbers should be pre-determined in collaboration with the coach.  The coach and travel director must give prior approval of the allocation of all numbers.  Please note two numbers have been retired and cannot be used by any player:  #1 (Marc Lussier) and #24 (Billy Zitelli). 

15/       What equipment is provided by the organization?

Intramural & Travel Teams (Bulldogs):  Each coach receives an equipment bag containing a full set of bases (including home plate and pitching rubber), a full set of catcher’s equipment (mitt, shin guards, chest protector and helmet – but no catcher’s mitt for the Pee Wees and Lions), 2 bats, 2 dozen balls, ice packs, 4 batting helmets, and a scorebook.  Players must supply their own mitts. 

16/       Is there a calendar of events that tells us when important events will occur during the season?

Yes, click on the “Calendar of Events” link on the baseball home page.  It is only active during the season. Click Here

17/       How does the organization have the right to use the fields?

By permits from the Parks Department and the Prospect Park Alliance.  Some are held in the name of the organization, others in the name of the Prospect Park Baseball Association. 

18/       Can I get a permit to play on a ball field?

You can apply with the Parks Department, but all the available fields in our area are already allocated to the PPBA and other organizations.  Once an organization holds a permit, it is grandfathered in for the next year, so it is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to get a field permit. 

19/       Can my child play up with children who are older?

For Intramural Baseball:

Generally there is no prohibition against playing up with older children as long as the parents and players understand that the level of play increases significantly as the ages go up, there is room on that team, and such a placement would not prevent an age appropriate children from playing in that division.  The responsibility for that decision, however, rests solely with the parents. 

 There is one situation, however, that can be dangerous and one which we only allow in exceptional cases:  when an 8 year old requests to play up in the Cub division (9-10s).  The difference in ability and size between 8 and 10 year olds is too much.  So for those who are requesting to have their 7 year olds play up with the 8’s because some friends or a coach is handling the 8 year old team, please consider two important things:

1/         The next year, when they are 8 and want to continue with that team, we will allow it for only exceptionally skilled players who we believe can handle playing with 10 year olds (which is a rare, exceptional case); and

2/         The move from 7 to 8 is a big one – at 8 the players start pitching.  That also means that players will be batting against other players not their coaches.  That element of safety will be removed. 

So in most cases (particularly for the 7 and 8 year olds), we believe that it will better in the long run for your child to stay in his/her age group and meet new friends and coaches instead of having to face it a year later.  Kids generally tend to be open to meeting new friends at a younger age.  If they are on an 8 year old team where they know some of the players and the coach they will feel more comfortable having to hit player pitching.  It is for those reasons that we require that any 7 year old wishing to play up into the Pony/8 year old division be evaluated at the Pony evaluations. 

Travel Baseball:

Our general rule is that players should play on their age appropriate Bulldog team.  The only exception is the summer 8 year old team, when we will allow 7 years who show sufficient skills to also be on that team. 

20/       Can my child play down with children who are younger?

Playing down to a younger age group is generally not permitted because:

1/         of the potential danger it poses to the younger players; and

2/         once a player reaches 9 years old, games are played among the other organizations sharing the permits for the fields.  The controlling body of that organization (to which we belong – the PPBA) requires that they give permission for all players requesting to play down.  They are very stingy about giving permission and generally do so only in cases of a physical or mental disability.  However, we control the decision up through the 8 year olds since the 5-8 year olds play within our own organization only.  So for requests from 6 and 7 year olds to play down, we are more liberal.  However, for requests by 8 year old requests to play with the 7s, the issue of danger looms.  So we require that 8 year olds requested to play must be evaluated by us before making a final determination. 

21/       Who are the coaches and how can I become one?

Most coaches are parents of players on the team that volunteer to coach.  Sometimes a non-parent will coach – such as someone who would like to devote there volunteer efforts to helping children.  If you are interested in coaching, send the Vice President of Baseball or the relevant division director an email request.  That contact information can be found on our contacts page: Click Here  

Given the work schedules of most parents, assistants are necessary to help schedule and run practices. 

22/       What do we do to qualify the coaches?

It is difficult for us to know how good a parent will be as a coach.  We generally learn that after one season’s experience.  That is why each team should have more than one parent volunteer to be an assistant coach. 

We do, however, run a check of the NY and Federal Sex Offender registry to make sure that no coach appears on them.   We also distribute a coaches' guidelines which outlines our exceptions and their responsibilities.  Those guidelines (in the form of a Code of Conduct) can be found on our site - Click Here

23/       When do the teams practice, and where?

Practice times and locations are strictly up to the coach to determine.  Unfortunately there are not enough fields for everyone to practice on.  So, teams must find their piece of a park to work on their game. 

24/       Is there a minimum playing time required for each player?

Intramural Baseball and Softball:  Yes, usually 1 of the 1^st two innings and 2 of the first four innings.  See each division’s rules for the specifics.  This also applies to the playoffs. 

Travel Baseball/Bulldogs:  No.  Players must earn and keep their position in the field and in the batting order. 

25/       Are there playoffs, and do all teams make them?

Intramural Baseball and Softball:  There are no playoffs for the Pee Wees and Lions. We conduct a tournament for all the Pony teams at the end of the season (See the Pony division page for pictures of past winners).  All other intramural teams (9+ yo) participate in the PPBA end of season playoffs.  Whether it is a full single elimination tournament format or a one game contest against the nearest seed will depend on whether there are enough weeks left in the season and if the weather has caused the cancellation of any weekend’s playoff games.

 Travel Baseball/Bulldogs:  Most leagues in which the Bulldogs play finish their season with playoffs. Many of them lead to national championships, such as Babe Ruth (for 13 and older and Cal Ripken for 12 and under).

26/       How are seedings determined in the intramural playoffs?

Based on the regular season records as of Memorial Day weekend (there are no PPBA games that weekend).  It is a culled from the umpires’ cards, which in the past has proven somewhat inaccurate.  With more than 100 teams, the PPBA does its best.  Usually there are teams improperly seeded.  But they will not be changed.  Everyone has to understand that the PPBA is primarily an instructional/recreational experience. 

27/       Do the players get awards/trophies at the end of the season?

Intramural Baseball and Softball: Yes, we give each player a trophy at the end of the season – which are picked up by the coaches and distributed to the team when they choose.  Also, the winners of each division/tier, also get an award from the PPBA. In the past it was a cloth backpack. 

Travel Baseball/Bulldogs:  In October/November, we hold a Bulldogs awards dinner in which all players receive a Bulldog pin and certain players are given awards/trophies.  For a list of the awards and past winners, Click Here to go to the Bulldog awards page. 

28/       How do I know when games are cancelled?

Intramural Baseball and Softball: There are two hotlines to call:  one for the 5-8 year olds (Pee Wee, Lions and Ponys) that is run by this organization (718 483-7184) and one for everyone else run by the PPBA (888 473-6864). 

If a game is not specifically cancelled on the hotline or you get a call by the coach to that effect, assume the game is on and show up at the field.

Travel Baseball/Bulldogs:  That will depend on the league in which the team is playing.  Ask the coach on how to proceed. 

29/       Are rained out games made up?

Intramural Baseball and Softball:  Not usually, with there are a limited number of field slots, usually the entire season is scheduled.  Check the website during the season, however, to determine if a special procedure was setup to allow for makeups. 

Travel Baseball/Bulldogs:  That will depend on the league in which the team is playing, the coach will be able to answer that question. 

30/       How do I lodge a complaint about an incident or a rule violation?

Report it to your division director by email.  His/her email address is located at the bottom of your division’s home page or on the Contact Us page of the website. 

A copy of all rules – of the game and of conduct – can be obtained from links on the Rules page of our website: Click Here 

31/       What do I do if a coach or spectator is out of hand?

Report it to your division director by email.  His/her email address is located at the bottom of your division’s home page or on the Contact Us page of the website. 

Note that the coach is responsible for controlling his/her spectators.  Failure to quell a serious outburst can result in termination of the game and, in the most serious case, ejection from the field of that spectator permanently.  Please remember this is a game for the kids and that parents should be positive role models.  Please help our coaches keep the lid on any emotional situations.  The coach has a tough enough job coaching 14 young players.

32/       What should I do if an umpire doesn’t know what to do or acts inappropriately?

Send an email specifying the game date, time, location, the teams playing, and the issue to umpires@78youthsports.org.  That email will automatically be sent to the person(s) in charge of umpires. 

33/       Are pictures taken of the team and each player?

Yes, you will be notified by email and a posting will be made on our website of picture days.  You will also receive literature and an order form from your coach, or it can be downloaded from our website.  Just follow the directions.  We have arranged it so that your photos will be mailed directly to your home.   Even if you do not want any pictures, please have your child attend the shoot so that 1/ his friends can have him in the picture, and 2/ we can have a complete team in the photo – our teams are usually sponsored and we give a copy of the photo on a plaque to the sponsor as a thank you.  In addition this is a fund raiser for the organization.  

34/       What do I do if I haven’t received the photos I ordered or if what I received is not correct?

Call the photographer at the phone number given on the order form.  If you do not get satisfaction, email us at contactus@78youthsports.org and we will help you.  But please contact us as a last resort. 

35/       What happens if my child is injured?

We carry sufficient accident insurance to supplement your policy.  If you policy does not cover the costs, contact us and we will get you the necessary information.  Email us at contactus@78youthsports.org  

36/       If my child (or another child) is injured on the field, what should I do?

First ask if there is a doctor present.  If so, let the doctor intercede, if he/she chooses.  If not, call 911 immediately.  Do not attempt to administer assistance unless you have been trained to know exactly what to do.  Advise others present of this as well. 

*    *    *

BASKETBALL 
(For questions about registration and how players are chosen onto teams, please go to either the “Registration” section or the “Being Placed on a Team” section.)

1/         What is the difference between intramural and travel teams? 

2/         Do the teams play against other teams of like ability? 

3/         What are the age breakdowns of the divisions? 

4/         Are games played by all divisions? 

5/         Do (or should) girls play on co-ed teams? 

6/         When do the teams practice, when do the teams play games, and other scheduling information? 

7/         Who referees the games? 

8/         What are rules differences between the divisions? 

9/         Are all players required to play each game? 

10/       What are appropriate forms of discipline of players? 

11/       When is the basketball season? 

12/       Do the players receive uniforms? 

13/       How will I know if the uniform will fit, and if it doesn’t how do I change the item? 

14/       Can my child have a particular jersey number? 

15/       What equipment is provided by the organization? 

16/       Is there a calendar of events that tells us when important events will occur during the season? 

17/       How does the organization have the right to use the gyms? 

18/       Can my child play up with children who are older? 

19/       Can my child play down with children who are younger? 

20/       Who are the coaches and how can I become one? 

21/       What do we do to qualify the coaches? 

22/       Are there playoffs, and do all teams make them? 

23/       Do the players get awards/trophies at the end of the season? 

24/       How do I know when games are cancelled? 

25/       Are cancelled games made up? 

26/       How do I lodge a complaint about an incident or a rule violation? 

27/       What do I do if a coach or spectator is out of hand? 

28/       What should I do if a referee doesn’t know what to do or acts inappropriately? 

29/       How can I help in a non-coaching capacity? 

30/       Are pictures taken of the team and each player? 

31/       What do I do if I haven’t received the photos I ordered or what if I received is not correct? 

32/       What happens if my child is injured? 

33/       If my child (or another child) is injured in the gym, what should I do? 

*    *    * 

1/         What is the difference between intramural and travel teams?

Intramural teams play amongst 78th Precinct Youth Council teams in local public school gyms on the weekends only on teams we attempt to balance based on evaluations.  These teams play about 12 games and then a playoffs for a championship.  There are strict rules that require a minimum playing time for each player. 

Travel Teams: play about twice as many games as intramural teams with players who must make the team.  There are no minimum playing time rules and games will be played during the week at night and during the weekends.  In addition there may be one session during the week for practice.  These games are played in an outside league against teams for other organizations.  Our formation of travel teams depends on whether enough players are interested and we can obtain a coach - both of which occurs during the registration and evaluation process, so we are unable to predict what age groups will have travel teams until after registration.  If interested on being on a travel team, the player should indicate so by checking that box on the registration form.

2/         Do the teams play against other teams of like ability?

Intramural Play:  We attempt to achieve that by requiring all players to be evaluated and holding a strict draft in which only the only automatic choices are the children of the coach and assistant coach. 

Travel:  By choosing skilled players, the teams should be competitive enough to play well against our organize teams.  

3/         What are the age breakdowns of the divisions?

The ages are listed with the title of each division on the home page of our basketball section of the website.  Click Here

 There is are co-ed divisions and girls’ divisions.

 4/         Are games played by all divisions?

No.  The co-ed Clinic (ages 5-7) and Girls Prep Clinic (8-9) are intended to be instructional only.  Clinics do not have team nor play in a league format.  Scrimmage games may eventually be played during the sessions.  All other divisions play games in a league format.

5/         Do (or should) girls play on co-ed teams?

Until the age of 7, girls play with the boys in the purely instructional clinic.  At the age of 8 girls have the choice of playing on teams with the boys in the Freshmen division or continuing in the clinic environment with only the girls in the Prep Clinic.  Our preference is for the girls to move to the girls’ divisions as it is just as competitive and fun and we are generally in need of girls to compose enough teams. 

In 2005 we established the Prep Clinic to allow girls a more friendly instructional environment where the emphasis is on skill development and scrimmage games.  It was received and will continue.  Girls who are 9 and wish to play on teams in a league format must make that specific request on their registration form.  If so requesting, those players must be evaluated at the relevant evaluation so that the director of basketball can determine whether grant such a request.

6/         When do the teams practice, when do teams play games, and other scheduling information?

All non-clinic divisions are usually setup into two hour sessions.  In the first hour each team practices on their half of the court. In the second hour, the teams play a full court game.  We may, for the Seniors (14-16) and possibly the Juniors (12-13) and some Girls divisions, practice one hour one night a week and play a game one hour on the weekend.  In any event, all games should be either Saturdays or Sundays.

Schedules: We cannot makeup schedules (times and gyms) until we know how many teams we have for each age group.  As a result we cannot answer questions about the times and locations of games until sometime after the evaluations, which is after registration has closed.  The best we can do is show you last year's schedule - which we do by leaving it posted on the website - click here to go to the schedule home page.  To help you plan other activities know that 1/ Clinics meet at the same time every week (since there are usually more than one co-ed clinic you can request which time not to play and we will try to accomodate you and 2/ for the rest of the divisions, the games are rotated over the course of the total time period allocated for that division.  So it is rare that a team will play the same time every week. 

7/         Who referees the games?

We hire outside professional referee organizations to referee all our games.

8/         What are rules differences between the divisions?

The rules can be found off links on the following website page: Click Here

9/         Are all players required to play each game?

Intramural:  The rules require that all players play at minimum amount of time each game.

Travel Baseball:  There is no requirement in the leagues in which they play or under 78^th Precinct Youth Council rules that require players to be given equal playing time. 

10/       What are appropriate forms of discipline of players?

We condone only positive reinforcement.  However, players that do not follow our organization’s rules of conduct, are subject to removal from a game or in serious cases, suspension or removal from the team.  Our code of conduct and a list of the forms of acceptable discipline can reached by clicking on the appropriate link on the Rule page of our website: Click Here.

If a coach fails to adhere to those rules, please contact your division director, whose email address can be found at the bottom of your division's home page - Click Here to get to the list of the division home pages..

 11/       When is the basketball season?

Intramural: Last weekend of October to the first weekend of March.  The Clinics usually begin two weeks later but end the same time..

Travel: About the same as the intramural season.

 12/       Do the players receive uniforms?

Intramural:  Each team is allocated a unique uniform setup – i.e. color combination and style.  Only the jersey is included in the fee. Players are encouraged to buy matching socks at Sport Prospect (7^th Ave between 10-11^th Streets).   The jersey are given to the coaches and the coaches distribute them to the players.  Since we do not know the precise number of teams until late in the process, the uniforms are generally not available until about a week before the beginning of the season.  Players must supply their own shorts must have NOT have any pockets.

Travel Teams:  Yet to be determined.  Ask the coach or email the division director.

13/       How will I know if the uniform will fit, and if it doesn’t how do I change the item?

Intramural:  Since there is not enough lead time between when we must order the blanks (jerseys) and when the teams are chosen, we order different size assortment for each age group.  Over the years (and through a specific survey of more than 70% of the children in a prior year), we have determined the best pre-pack assortment of sizes for each age group.  So there will be a certain number of xsmall, small, medium, large and extra large jerseys for each team. 

Fit problems with the jersey should be worked out with the coach by mixing and matching with the players.  If that doesn’t work, go to Sport Prospect to have a new jersey ordered.  We will pay for it but since each team has a uniquely colored jersey which also requires special screenprinting, it is a special order that will take weeks. 

Travel Teams:  To be determined. 

14/       Can my child have a particular jersey number?

Intramural:  That is dictated by the size of the jerseys since the numbers increase as the sizes increase.  So the smaller sizes are the smaller sized jerseys, etc. 

Travel Teams:  Numbers should be pre-determined in collaboration with the coach.  The coach and travel director must give prior approval of the allocation of all numbers. 

15/       What equipment is provided by the organization?

Intramural & Travel Teams:  Basketballs, scorebooks, and first aid supplies.   Extra scorebooks and first aid supplies should be found in a storage area in each gym.  If we are short, please email your division director. 

Please do not bring personal basketballs to the practices or games.  They will be taken from the players and held until after the practice or game. 

16/       Is there a calendar of events that tells us when important events will occur during the season?

Yes, click on the “Calendar of Events” link on the basketball home page.  It is only active during the season.  Click Here 

17/       How does the organization have the right to use the gyms?

By permits from Department of Education with the prior permission of the custodian and principal. 

18/       Can my child play up with children who are older?

For Intramural Basketball:
Generally we don’t allow it since we attempt to balance teams by employing a strict evaluation and draft process.  Any exception to this rule must be approved by the VP of Basketball whose email address can be found on the Contact Us page of our website - Click Here.   Nine year old girls with previous experience playing organized basketball may request to be evaluated for the JV division.  The Division Director will review the evaluation, discuss the option with parents, and make a decision as to whether the nine year old will be allowed to “play up”.

Travel Basketball:
Our general rule is that players should play on their age appropriate team.  Exceptions must be granted by the VP of Basketball whose email address can be found on the Contact Us page of our website - Click Here 

19/       Can my child play down with children who are younger?

We do not allow children to play down unless there are exceptional circumstances.  Such approval must be granted by the VP of Basketball whose email address can be found on the Contact Us page of our website - Click Here 

20/       Who are the coaches and how can I become one?

Most coaches are parents of players on the team that volunteer to coach.  Sometimes a non-parent will coach – such as someone who would like to devote there volunteer efforts to helping children.  If you are interested in coaching, send the Vice President of Basketball or the relevant division director an email request.  That contact information can be found on our contacts page - Click Here. 

21/       What do we do to qualify the coaches?

It is difficult for us to know how good a parent will be as a coach.  We generally learn that after one season’s experience.  That is why each team should have more than one parent volunteer to be an assistant coach. 

We do, however, run a check of the NY and Federal Sex Offender registry to make sure that no coach appears on them.  We also distribute a coaches' guidelines which outlines our exceptions and their responsibilities.  Those guidelines (as a Code of Conduct) can be found on our site at:  Click Here 

22/       Are there playoffs, and do all teams make them?

Intramural:  Every division (except the clinics) has single elimination playoff to crown a champion.  The teams are seeded based on their regular season record. 

Travel:  Most leagues in which we play finish their season with playoffs. 

23/       Do the players get awards/trophies at the end of the season?

Intramural: Yes, we give each player a trophy at the end of the season – which are picked up by the coaches and distributed to the team when they choose.  Also, the winners and runners up of each division also get a trophy. 

Travel:  Most leagues award trophies to the winners and runner’s up.

 24/       How do I know when games are cancelled?

Intramural:  Games are rarely cancelled.  Even heavy snow is not a barrier since the custodians are required to keep the sidewalks clear at all times.  However, you can check our hotline (718 483-7184).  If a game is not specifically cancelled on the hotline or you get a call by the coach to that effect, assume the game is on and show up at the gym.  

Travel:  That will depend on the league in which the team is playing.  Ask the coach on how to proceed. 

25/       Are cancelled games made up?

Intramural:  Not usually, with there are a limited number of gym time slots, usually the entire season is scheduled.  Check the website during the season, however, to determine if a special procedure was setup to allow for makeups.

 Travel:  That will depend on the league in which the team is playing, the coach will be able to answer that question.

 26/       How do I lodge a complaint about an incident or a rule violation?

Report it to your division director by email.  His/her email address is located at the bottom of your division’s home page or on the Contact Us page of the website - Click Here.

A copy of all rules – of the game and of conduct – can be obtained from links on the Rules page of our website: Click Here

27/       What do I do if a coach or spectator is out of hand?

Report it to your division director by email.  His/her email address is located at the bottom of your division’s home page or on the Contact Us page of the website - Click Here.

Note that the coach is responsible for controlling his/her spectators.  Failure to quell a serious outburst can result in termination of the game and, in the most serious case, ejection from the field of that spectator permanently.  Please remember this is a game for the kids and that parents should be positive role models.  Please help our coaches keep the lid on any emotional situations.  The coach has a tough enough job coaching 10 young players.

 28/       What should I do if a referee doesn’t know what to do or acts inappropriately?

Send an email specifying the game date, time, location, the teams playing, and the issue to referees@78youthsports.org.  That email will automatically be sent to the person(s) in charge of referees.

 29/       How can I help in a non-coaching capacity?

We are always in need of someone to keep the scorebook and scoreclock at every game.  Please volunteer and the coaches and/or division director will explain what to do.  If you know of someone needing community service credit, this is an ideal job.   If no one volunteers, we must choose a parent from the audience otherwise the game cannot proceed.

 30/       Are pictures taken of the team and each player?

Yes, you will be notified by email and a posting will be made on our website of picture days.  You will also receive literature and an order form from your coach, or it can be downloaded from our website.  Just follow the directions.  We have arranged it so that your photos will be mailed directly to your home.   Even if you do not want any pictures, please have your child attend the shoot so that 1/ his friends can have him in the picture, and 2/ we can have a complete team in the photo – our teams are usually sponsored and we give a copy of the photo on a plaque to the sponsor as a thank you.  In addition this is a fund raiser for the organization.  

31/       What do I do if I haven’t received the photos I ordered or if what I received is not correct?

Call the photographer at the phone number given on the order form.  If you do not get satisfaction, email us at contactus@78youthsports.org and we will help you.  But please contact us as a last resort. 

32/       What happens if my child is injured? 

We carry sufficient accident insurance to supplement your policy.  If you policy does not cover the costs, contact us and we will get you the necessary information.  Email us at contactus@78youthsports.org 

33/       If my child (or another child) is injured in the gym, what should I do?

First ask if there is a doctor present.  If so, let the doctor intercede, if he/she chooses.  If not, call 911 immediately.  Do not attempt to administer assistance unless you have been trained to know exactly what to do.  Advise others present of this as well. 

*    *    *

CONTACTING US 

1/         How do I contact a specific person in the organization? 

2/         Can I call someone? 

3/         Does the organization have an office? 

4/         I am not receiving emails from the organization? 

5/         How can I be removed from your emailing list?

 *    *    *