Parent Checklist

2004 SEASON

In a continuing effort to ensure that all participants in GRBA activities have a safe, fun and enriching experience, we ask that you be familiar with and adhere to the following guidelines:

	Be on time in delivering and picking up your player from all activities. This will make it easier for the managers and coaches who are volunteering their time.
	Talk to your player about safety in crossing streets and driveways and when in parking lots. Please also obey all posted instructions and warnings regarding traffic and use of the fields and facilities.
	Instruct your player that the managers and coaches are in charge of all practices and games and that their directions must be followed. This will increase everyone’s fun and learning.

Adhere to the following guidelines regarding equipment:

Baseballs and Softballs. Be aware of the types of balls that are used at your player’s level of play. At the younger levels of play, the GRBA has elected to utilize reduced injury factor baseballs and softballs, and a fairly large quantity of these has been provided to managers/coaches. Please do not permit your player to bring other balls to practices or games unless they meet the appropriate specifications.
Helmets. Players may utilize a personal helmet as long as it fits properly and bears the “NOSCME” logo. Each equipment box at each field has been stocked with chinstraps. Encourage your player to use these.
Chest Protectors for Batters. Each field box except for the Senior Leagues has been stocked with a “flak jacket” to protect players from rib-related injuries. Encourage your player to use these.
Bats. Again, certain levels of play restrict the types of bats that may be used by your player. Baseball bats for Tee Ball, Pee Wee, Junior and Pony leagues must bear the “Approved Little League” logo. Softball bats must bear the “Approved Little League” logo or the “Amateur Softball Association” logo. Approved bats are provided to managers and coaches at the T-Ball and PeeWee levels. Bats for use in the Senior League must meet one of the two following criteria: 1) The "Little League" endorsement; or 2) BESR (Ball Exit Speed Ratio) certification.
Footwear. Cleats are not required. When worn, all cleats must be plastic molded. No metal spikes are permitted.
Cups. Your player should be strongly encouraged to wear protective cups and supporters (supporters and cups for girls are available) for games and practices. Hard cups are required for catchers.
Be aware of weather conditions. In warmer weather, please provide sunscreen and a water bottle with sufficient capacity. Also, instruct your player regarding the hazards of and proper behavior when the weather conditions include the threat or presence of lightning.
Glasses. Players who wear glasses must have safety lenses or goggles
Mouthpieces. Mouthpieces are available and should be considered for all players, especially those who wear braces or other dental appliances.
Stay on bench. Instruct your player that they must be on the bench when they are not at bat, on deck, or in the field. All on-deck players must utilize the safety batting cages where available and, if safety cages are not available in the Pony and Senior Leagues only, behind the backstop.

You should also be aware of other types of safety equipment you canpurchase for your player. While the GRBA does not mandate these items, these items are available at or through most sporting goods retailers. You should discuss any questions you may have on them with your player’s manager, or with any member of the GRBA Safety Committee.

Sliding Pants - These items protect the hips and upper legs from abrasions caused by sliding into bases. They are recommended for players in the Senior Leagues.
Knee Pads - These items protect knees from abrasions caused by sliding into bases.
Elbow Protectors for Batters - These items protect the front elbow and part of the arm from a thrown baseball or softball.
Foot Protectors for Batters - These items protect the front foot from a batted ball hitting the ankle area.