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2025 ASAP Safety Manual
League ID # 195058 | Northern California District 3
District Administrator, Nancy Miller
SFLL Safety Officer, Daniel Gerard
Updated March 2025
Shape Description automatically generated with medium confidence
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ASAP Safety Manual
Season 2025
San Francisco Little League Telephone Directory
Emergency (private or public phone): 9-1-1
Police Emergency (cell phone): 415-553-8090
Fire Emergency (cell phone): 415-861-8020
Emergency Services (Marin area) 415-472-0911
Police (Non-Emergency): 415-553-0123
Fire (Non-Emergency): 415-558-3200
Poison Control Information 415-431-2800
SF Family and Children's Services (FCS) Hotline,
available 24/7
800-856-5553
or 415-558-2650
SF Animal Care & Control 415-554-6364
San Francisco Little League Safety Officer: Daniel Gerard
Cell 415-317-0615
Home 415-682-0676
SF Hospitals/24-Hour Emergency Rooms
Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center
1001 Potrero Ave
(628) 206-8000
Saint Francis Memorial Hospital
900 Hyde St
(415) 353-6000
St. Mary's Medical Center
450 Stanyan St
(415) 668-1000
UCSF Medical Center
505 Parnassus Ave
(415) 476-1000
CPMC Van Ness Campus
1101 Van Ness Ave
(415) 600-6000
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ASAP Safety Manual
Season 2025
When to Call an Ambulance
❑ When you suspect a neck or spine injury. The Little Leaguer may have a loss of
sensation or is unable to move body parts.)
❑ The Little Leaguer experiences loss of consciousness
❑ When a Little Leaguer is not breathing. The Little Leaguer’s chest is not rising, he or
she is turning bluish in color and there is no air exchange.
❑ You suspect a severe or serious head injury.
❑ When you suspect heatstroke. The Little Leaguer may become disoriented or
confused, there is an absence of sweating, and the skin is flushed and warm.
❑ Spleen injury. The signs of a spleen injury are severe abdominal pains which could
become worse; the Little Leaguer may have pain in the shoulder region, usually on
the left side. Earlier signs: Little Leaguer is pale and has a rapid pulse.
❑ Severe bleeding. Bleeding that cannot be controlled through direct pressure.
❑ Cardiac arrest. Little Leaguer could go into cardiac arrest from a severe blow to the
heart, for example, from a baseball or respiratory arrest.
❑ Respiratory Distress. If a Little Leaguer is having trouble breathing, and is short of
breath, and they have used their inhaler and they appear to be getting worse call
9‐1‐1.
❑ Abnormal position of extremity or if you suspect a fracture that you are unable to
immobilize to transport to hospital. Examples include a dislocated ankle or displaced
leg fracture. WHEN TO SEND LITTLE LEAGUER TO A DOCTOR/HOSPITAL Send
the injured Little Leaguer immediately to the hospital or doctor when:
❑ The injury results in immediate or obvious inflammation or swelling.
❑ It involves a wound or external bleeding from a laceration or incision that requires
stitches.
❑ There is a suspicion of possible concussion. So if he has visual disturbance, inability
to walk correctly, disorientation, and memory loss (See head injury sheet for more
detailed information)
❑ You are unsure of the extent of the injury. Always protect your Little Leaguer and
yourself. PLAY IT SAFE!
Emergency (private or public phone): 9-1-1
Police Emergency (cell phone): 415-553-8090
Fire Emergency (cell phone): 415-861-8020
Emergency Services (Marin area) 415-472-0911
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Concussion Protocol
Athletes who experience one or more of the signs and symptoms listed below after a bump,
blow, or jolt to the head or body may have a concussion:
Signs Observed by Coaching Staff Symptoms Reported by Athlete
Is confused by assignment or position Headache or “pressure” in head
Appears dazed or stunned Nausea or vomiting
Forgets an instruction Balance problems or dizziness
Is unsure of game, score, or opponent Double or blurry vision
Moves clumsily Sensitivity to light
Answers questions slowly Sensitivity to noise
Loses consciousness (even briefly, CALL 911) Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes Concentration or memory problems
Can’t recall events prior to hit or fall Confusion
Can’t recall events after hit or fall Just not “feeling right” or is “feeling down”
Concussion Action Plan
If you suspect that a player has a concussion, you should take the following four steps:
1. Remove athlete from play
2. Ensure the athlete is evaluated by a healthcare professional. Do not try and judge
seriousness of the injury yourself
3. Inform athlete’s parent or guardian about the possible or known concussion and give
them the fact sheet on concussion. (Available from Concession Stand or SFLL Safety
Officer or the back of this safety manual)
4. Allow athlete to return to play ONLY with permission from an appropriate health care
professional who has utilized a return to play protocol
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Mandated Reporter When To Call
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Accident Reporting Procedures
WHEN TO REPORT
Any incident that causes any player, Manager, Coach, umpire, volunteer, or spectator to
receive medical treatment and/or first aid must be reported to the league Safety Officer
within 24 hours of the incident. This includes active and passive treatments such as the
evaluation and diagnosis of the extent of the injury or periods of rest. Basically, if you are
required to take a player or other person off the field of play due to an injury, you should
report the incident to the Safety Officer.
WHAT TO REPORT
All such incidents described above must be reported either by telephone or by e-mail. To
reach the league Safety Officer, Daniel Gerard, you can call:
Cell Phone: 415-317-0615
Email: safety@sfll.org
HOW TO REPORT
San Francisco Little League uses our online ASAP Incident/Injury Tracking Report form for
tracking accident information and informing Little League Baseball®. A hard copy of this
form is provided in the Appendix. You can also download it from www.littleleague.org found
under forms and publications.
Submit the online form online to provide the league’s Safety Officer with the information
necessary to track the incident. This will include:
● The name, address, and phone number of the individual involved.
● The date, time, and location of the incident.
● As detailed a description of the incident as possible.
● A description of what type of first aid was rendered and by whom.
● The preliminary estimation of the extent of any injuries.
● The name and phone number of the person reporting the incident.
● An indication as to whether this incident could have been prevented.
FOLLOW-UP BY SAN FRANCISCO LITTLE LEAGUE
Within 48 hours of receiving the incident report, the Safety Officer will contact the injured
party and/or the injured party’s parents and (1) verify the information received; (2) obtain any
other information deemed necessary; (3) check on the status of the injured party; and (4) in
the event that the injured party required other medical treatment (i.e., Emergency Room visit,
doctor’s visit, etc.) will advise the parent or guardian of the league’s insurance coverage and
the provisions for submitting any claims.
If the extent of the injuries are more than minor in nature, the league President will
periodically call the injured party to (1) check on the status of any injuries, and (2) check if
any other assistance is necessary in areas such as submission of insurance forms, etc. until
such time as the incident is considered “closed” (i.e., no further claims are expected and/or
the individual is participating in the League again).
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Season 2025
SFLL 2025 Board of Directors
Katherine Gillespie President 415-812-7099
Bob Hillman Player Agent 415-203-1611
Dan Gerard Safety Officer 415-317-0615
Doug McDowell Vice President, Gifts and Sponsorships 415-535-3927
Howard Holderness Secretary, Player Agent & President Emeritus 415-244-0344
Jaime Hersh Volunteer Coordinator 415-420-0790
Jamal Farley Player Agent 310-403-9085
James Nash Director, Coach Training & Education 415-518-5144
John Butler Treasurer 415-447-0554
Josh Bagley Vice President, Player Agents 415-994-0535
Kevin Lewis Chief Umpire 415-517-0749
Mark Kahn Challenger Program Director & President Emeritus 415-564-5450
Tat Luong Player Agent 415-407-2660
Tony Berning Player Agent 646-492-0180
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Season 2025
Table of Contents
San Francisco Little League Telephone Directory...................................................................2
SF Hospitals/24-Hour Emergency Rooms.............................................................................. 2
When to Call an Ambulance.................................................................................................... 3
Concussion Protocol............................................................................................................... 3
Signs Observed by Coaching Staff ..............................................................................4
Symptoms Reported by Athlete ...................................................................................4
Concussion Action Plan................................................................................................4
Mandated Reporter When To Call........................................................................................... 5
Accident Reporting Procedures...............................................................................................6
WHEN TO REPORT.......................................................................................................... 6
WHAT TO REPORT........................................................................................................... 6
HOW TO REPORT............................................................................................................ 6
FOLLOW-UP BY SAN FRANCISCO LITTLE LEAGUE.....................................................6
SFLL 2025 Board of Directors................................................................................................. 7
Table of Contents.................................................................................................................... 7
League Safety Mission Statement.........................................................................................16
League Safety Officer............................................................................................................16
Emergency Response Issues.....................................................................................16
League Safety Code..............................................................................................................16
The ASAP Program............................................................................................................... 17
Coaching Requirements........................................................................................................ 19
SFLL Child Protection Program.............................................................................................19
SFLL ON-FIELD VOLUNTEER ID BADGE..................................................................... 19
JD PALATINE (JDP) BACKGROUND CHECKS..............................................................20
LIVESCAN FINGERPRINTING....................................................................................... 21
REQUIRED ABUSE AWARENESS TRAINING FOR ADULTS....................................... 22
CDC HEADS-UP CONCUSSION TRAINING.................................................................. 22
SFLL MANAGER & COACH REQUIREMENTS..............................................................22
FIRST AID+CPR CERTIFICATION..................................................................................23
CDC HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS (HRI) PREVENTION....................................................23
SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST......................................................................................... 24
SAFE SPORT ACT.......................................................................................................... 24
SKILLS TRAINING FOR MANAGERS AND COACHES................................................. 25
Coach On-Field Training............................................................................................ 25
San Francisco Baseball Academy Coaching Clinics.................................................. 25
Positive Coaching Alliance Training........................................................................... 26
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General Health & Safety Protocols........................................................................................26
Risk Acknowledgement.............................................................................................. 26
Stay-Home-When-Sick Policy.................................................................................... 26
Hand Hygiene & Equipment Sanitation...................................................................... 26
COVID HEALTH SAFETY POLICY................................................................................. 26
RETURNING TO THE PROGRAM AFTER EXPERIENCING SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19..................... 27
SFLL Play Safe Program.......................................................................................................28
FIRST AID EQUIPMENT................................................................................................. 28
First Aid Kits............................................................................................................... 28
Cell Phones................................................................................................................ 28
FIELD CONDITIONS MUST BE APPROPRIATE FOR SAFE PLAY...............................28
Field Inspection.......................................................................................................... 28
Weather and Lighting Conditions............................................................................... 28
Thunderstorms........................................................................................................... 28
GENERAL SAFETY RULES FOR PRACTICES AND GAMES....................................... 28
Authorized Persons Allowed on Field.........................................................................28
Storage of Equipment................................................................................................. 28
Keeping Equipment Off the Field................................................................................28
Retrieving Foul Balls...................................................................................................28
Players Should Keep Their Eye on the Ball................................................................29
Spacing Players During Warm-Ups............................................................................ 29
Warm-Ups.................................................................................................................. 29
Player Protecting Battery During Warm-Ups.............................................................. 29
Managers/Coaches May Warm Up Pitchers.............................................................. 29
No Soft Toss Against Fences..................................................................................... 29
Players Must Remain in Dugout................................................................................. 29
Players Must Not Touch Bats in the Dugout............................................................... 29
No On Deck Circle (Except in Juniors/Seniors)..........................................................29
No Headfirst Slides (Except in Juniors/Seniors).........................................................29
Sliding Skills Must be Practiced..................................................................................29
Cleats......................................................................................................................... 29
No Horseplay.............................................................................................................. 30
Pitching Machines...................................................................................................... 30
Supervision Of Ejected, Ill or Injured Children............................................................30
Players In Casts Must Remain in Dugout...................................................................30
EQUIPMENT SAFETY.....................................................................................................30
Regular Inspection of Equipment Required................................................................30
Baseballs.................................................................................................................... 30
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Batting Helmet Standards...........................................................................................30
Use of Batting Helmets............................................................................................... 30
Faceguards.................................................................................................................30
Athletic Supporters/Cups Required............................................................................ 30
Cups Required for Catchers....................................................................................... 30
Catcher’s Required Safety Equipment....................................................................... 31
Catcher’s Chest Protector.......................................................................................... 31
Catcher’s Helmet........................................................................................................ 31
Catcher’s Mitt............................................................................................................. 31
Mouthguards...............................................................................................................31
Safety Glasses........................................................................................................... 31
Jewelry....................................................................................................................... 31
Casts Not Permitted................................................................................................... 31
Safety Bases.............................................................................................................. 31
LITTLE LEAGUE BAT RULES......................................................................................... 32
Batting Donuts Cannot Be Used.................................................................................32
PENALTY FOR USING AN ILLEGAL BAT...................................................................... 33
PRE-GAME SAFETY ISSUES.........................................................................................33
ENSURING SAFE PLAY ON THE FIELD........................................................................ 36
First Baseman............................................................................................................ 37
Second Baseman....................................................................................................... 38
Third Baseman........................................................................................................... 38
Shortstop.................................................................................................................... 38
Center Fielder............................................................................................................. 38
Fly Balls...................................................................................................................... 38
Ground Balls............................................................................................................... 38
Catcher....................................................................................................................... 38
Obstruction................................................................................................................. 38
Interference................................................................................................................ 38
OVERUSE INJURIES...................................................................................................... 40
Little League Elbow.................................................................................................... 40
Causes....................................................................................................................... 40
Symptoms...................................................................................................................41
Pitching Count Limitations.......................................................................................... 41
Number of Pitches Allowed........................................................................................ 42
A Pitcher Cannot Move to the Catching Position........................................................42
Once Removed, A Pitcher Cannot Returned to the Mound........................................42
Rest Requirements (Seniors to Minors)..................................................................... 42
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Breaking Pitches.........................................................................................................43
RECOGNIZING PITCHING ARM FATIGUE.................................................................... 45
TEACH SAFE SLIDING TECHNIQUES.......................................................................... 45
ADVANCED SLIDING TECHNIQUES............................................................................. 47
Bent Leg and Pop-Up................................................................................................. 47
Bent-Leg and Hook Slide............................................................................................47
Real Hook Slide.......................................................................................................... 47
MOUTHGUARDS............................................................................................................ 47
MAKE SURE YOUR PLAYERS USE SUNSCREEN....................................................... 48
Melanoma Statistics................................................................................................... 49
Signs of Melanoma (ABCDs of Melanoma)................................................................49
Increased Risk Factors for Melanoma........................................................................49
Prevention.................................................................................................................. 49
KEEP YOUR PLAYERS HYDRATED.............................................................................. 50
BATTING CAGE GUIDELINES........................................................................................50
ADDITIONAL HEALTH TIPS FOR BASEBALL............................................................... 50
LIGHTNING SAFETY PROCEDURES............................................................................ 51
Lightning and Its Dangers...........................................................................................51
What to do if someone is struck by lightning.............................................................. 52
General Safety Rules............................................................................................................ 53
GENERAL ACCIDENT PREVENTION............................................................................ 53
BICYCLE SAFETY RULES..............................................................................................54
House Rules For Parents And Players
At League Fields................................................................................................................... 55
Treating Baseball Related Injuries........................................................................................ 56
INJURY MANAGEMENT................................................................................................. 56
CALLING FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE................................................ 57
When to Call............................................................................................................... 57
What Number to Call.................................................................................................. 57
WHEN TO CALL AN AMBULANCE.................................................................................57
WHEN TO SEND LITTLE LEAGUER TO A DOCTOR/HOSPITAL..................................58
WHAT IS FIRST AID?...................................................................................................... 58
FIRST AID KITS...............................................................................................................58
GOOD SAMARITAN STATUTES..................................................................................... 59
COMMUNICABLE DISEASE PROCEDURES.................................................................60
LITTLE LEAGUE EXCESS INSURANCE........................................................................60
MEDICAL RELEASE REQUIREMENTS......................................................................... 61
First Aid................................................................................................................................. 61
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Required Training....................................................................................................... 61
What is CPR?............................................................................................................. 61
HOW TO RECOGNIZE A HEART ATTACK.....................................................................62
HOW TO RECOGNIZE CARDIAC ARREST................................................................... 62
HOW TO PERFORM CPR (ON ADULTS AND CHILDREN)........................................... 63
SEE LAST PAGE FOR ONE PAGE CPR GUIDE INFOGRAPHIC..................................63
USE OF AN AED............................................................................................................. 64
USING THE AED ON CHILDREN UNDER 9-YEARS-OLD............................................ 64
HEIMLICH MANEUVER.................................................................................................. 66
COMMOTIO CORDIS...................................................................................................... 66
What is Commotio Cordis?......................................................................................... 66
Prompt Treatment with an AED Required.................................................................. 68
If You Suspect Commotio Cordis, What Should You Do?.......................................... 69
Concussion................................................................................................................. 69
Signs of Head and Spine Injuries............................................................................... 70
Signs Observed by Parents, Guardians or Coaches..................................................70
Symptoms Reported by the Athlete............................................................................70
General Care for Head and Spine Injuries................................................................. 70
In the event of any injury involving the head or spine:................................................70
Concussion Action Plan..............................................................................................71
SHOCK............................................................................................................................ 71
HEAT EXHAUSTION AND HEAT STROKE.................................................................... 72
Heat Cramps.............................................................................................................. 72
Heat Exhaustion......................................................................................................... 72
First-aid for Heat Exhaustion...................................................................................... 73
Heat Stroke.................................................................................................................73
First Aid for Heat Stroke............................................................................................. 73
Tips to Prevent Heat Illness........................................................................................73
Signs and Symptoms..................................................................................................75
Treatment for Fractures.............................................................................................. 75
Treatment for Compound Fractures........................................................................... 75
Routine Irritations (Sand, dirt, and other “foreign bodies” on the eye surface)...........75
Embedded Foreign Body (An object penetrates the globe of the eye).......................76
Treating a “Black Eye”................................................................................................ 76
Tips to Help Prevent Sports-Related Eye Injuries...................................................... 77
TOOTH INJURIES........................................................................................................... 77
Avulsion (Tooth Knocked Out Entirely)....................................................................... 78
Fracture...................................................................................................................... 78
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Luxation (Tooth in Socket but in Wrong Position).......................................................78
Extruded Tooth........................................................................................................... 78
ASTHMA.......................................................................................................................... 79
SPRAINS AND STRAINS................................................................................................ 80
What is the difference?............................................................................................... 80
Sprains....................................................................................................................... 80
Strains........................................................................................................................ 80
Treatment................................................................................................................... 80
WOUND CARE................................................................................................................ 81
NOSEBLEED................................................................................................................... 82
BEE STINGS................................................................................................................... 82
LICE................................................................................................................................. 83
Head Lice General Guidelines....................................................................................84
Snack Shack Safety.............................................................................................................. 85
The Top Six Causes For Illness..................................................................................85
Every worker must be instructed on these guidelines before they can work..............85
Hand Washing............................................................................................................ 85
Health and Hygiene.................................................................................................... 86
Food Handling............................................................................................................ 86
Menu...........................................................................................................................86
Cooking...................................................................................................................... 86
Reheating................................................................................................................... 86
BBQ (Tepper Field)..................................................................................................... 86
Oven (Ketcham Field).................................................................................................86
Cooling and Cold Storage.......................................................................................... 86
Dishwashing............................................................................................................... 86
Ice............................................................................................................................... 87
Wiping Cloths............................................................................................................. 87
Insect Control and Waste........................................................................................... 87
Food Storage and Cleanliness................................................................................... 87
Minimum Worker Age................................................................................................. 87
Storage Shed Procedures..................................................................................................... 87
Appendix A: SFLL Manager & Coach Requirements............................................................ 88
Appendix B: SFLL Parent’s Codes of Conduct..................................................................... 91
Your Child and Their Team......................................................................................... 91
Your Opponents..........................................................................................................91
The Umpires............................................................................................................... 91
Your Coach/Team....................................................................................................... 91
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The League................................................................................................................ 91
Appendix C: SFLL Player’s Codes of Conduct..................................................................... 92
Appendix D: SFLL Concussion Prevention, Treatment & Management Policy.....................93
Appendix E: Field Pre-Game Procedures............................................................................. 94
TEPPER FIELD (TI#1)..................................................................................................... 94
Home Team................................................................................................................ 94
Away Team................................................................................................................. 94
Playing Field Start-up................................................................................................. 94
Equipment Locations.................................................................................................. 94
Snack Shack...............................................................................................................94
Announcer Booth........................................................................................................ 94
KETCHAM FIELD (TI#2)..................................................................................................95
Home Team................................................................................................................ 95
Away Team................................................................................................................. 95
Playing Field Start-up................................................................................................. 95
Equipment Location.................................................................................................... 95
FORT SCOTT NORTH AND SOUTH FIELDS ............................................................... 96
Home Team................................................................................................................ 96
Both Teams.................................................................................................................96
Equipment Location.................................................................................................... 96
SF REC & PARK (SFRPD) FIELDS.................................................................................96
Home Team................................................................................................................ 96
Moscone Hennessey.................................................................................................. 96
TEPPER FIELD (TI#1)..................................................................................................... 97
Responsible Parties: Coaches of BOTH teams..........................................................97
Put Away Equipment.................................................................................................. 97
Snack Shack...............................................................................................................97
Announcer Booth........................................................................................................ 97
Check all locks............................................................................................................97
KETCHAM FIELD (TI#2)..................................................................................................98
Responsible Parties: Coaches of BOTH teams..........................................................98
Playing Field Shutdown.............................................................................................. 98
Put Away Equipment.................................................................................................. 98
Snack Shack...............................................................................................................98
Announcer Booth........................................................................................................ 98
FORT SCOTT NORTH AND SOUTH FIELDS ............................................................... 99
Responsible Parties: Coaches of BOTH teams..........................................................99
Playing Field Shutdown.............................................................................................. 99
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SF REC & PARK (SFRPD) FIELDS.................................................................................99
Both Teams.................................................................................................................99
Moscone Hennessey.................................................................................................. 99
Appendix G: Safety Improvement Suggestion Form .......................................................... 100
Appendix K: Sample Player Medical Release Form............................................................101
Appendix L: Sample AIG Accident Notification Form (Parent/Guardian Statement)...........102
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League Safety Mission Statement
Welcome to another season with San Francisco Little League!
Little League Baseball® was the first youth sports organization to establish a child protection
program, and more than 25 years since this program was initiated, Little League remains
committed to providing opportunities to enhance educational efforts, strengthen background
check and training requirements, and provide families and parents with the information
needed to help keep their players safe.
San Francisco Little League has joined with Little League Baseball®, Inc. and leagues
throughout the country in making a commitment to safety through Little League Baseball’s
ASAP program.
League Safety Officer
Responsibility for league safety procedures rests with the Safety Officer, who is appointed to
the Board of Directors to oversee and manage the ASAP program. For the 2025 season,
the Safety Officer is Dan Gerard. He can be reached by telephone at:
Work: 415-317-0615
Home: 415-682-0676
In the event of an accident or injury to a player, manager, coach, umpire, or spectator that
requires treatment by a physician or other medical provider, you must notify the Safety
Officer within 24 hours. (See p. 6 for more details).
Emergency Response Issues
The league’s baseball fields are located within the jurisdictions of the following
fire/emergency districts.
Police Emergency (cell phone): 415-553-8090
Fire Emergency (cell phone): 415-861-8020
Emergency Services (Marin area) 415-472-0911
League Safety Code
San Francisco Little League has adopted the following safety rules and procedures that
incorporate the Safety Code of Little League Baseball®1 as well as other measures designed
to make both practices and games as safe as possible. Please familiarize yourself with them
before your first practice because they provide the foundation for the league’s safety
program.
1 The Safety Code for Little League Baseball® can be found in Appendix B of the 2025 Rulebook.
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The ASAP Program
In 1995, Little League Baseball® introduced ASAP (“A Safety Awareness Program”). The
mission of ASAP is:
“To create awareness, through education and information, of the opportunities to provide a
safer environment for kids and all participants of Little League Baseball.”
Introduced in 1995 and long the pacesetter in youth sports safety, Little League® has taken
the lead with the development of ASAP (A Safety Awareness Program). With the help of
corporate sponsors, Musco Lighting and AIG Insurance, ASAP has increased overall safety
awareness, reduced injuries by 80% and lowered insurance costs for participating leagues.2
San Francisco Little League recognizes the importance of the ASAP program through the
appointment of a Safety Officer to the Board of Directors and the implementation of safety
measures that are designed to make playing baseball in our community a safer and more
enjoyable experience for players, Managers, Coaches, and spectators.
As part of ASAP, San Francisco Little League is required to submit a completed safety plan
to Little League Baseball® by March 24, 2025, explaining the steps we have taken and plan
to take to become a safer league.
The 2025 Safety Manual provides a comprehensive overview of the league’s safety program
as well as a summary of first aid guidelines for use in addressing field emergencies. It is
distributed annually to the league’s managers, coaches, snack shack workers, and board of
directors. Please familiarize yourself with its contents, as adherence to its provisions is
expected of all league volunteers.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ASAP PROGRAM
San Francisco Little League’s ASAP Safety Manual meets the following 15 requirements for
a qualified ASAP plan.
1. The league has an active Safety Officer who sits on the Board of Directors and
whose name is on file with Little League International. (See pp. 2, 6, 7, 16)
2. The league publishes and distributes a copy of the ASAP Safety Manual on our
website: www.tinyurl.com/sfllASAP. Each team will receive a quicklink to a digital
copy of this safety manual in their coaches binder. Managers and or Team Safety
Officers should ensure they have access to a copy of the safety manual at all league
functions. (See p. 33, back cover)
3. The league posts and distributes emergency and key official’s phone numbers. (See
pp. 2, 7)
4. Managers, coaches, board members, and any other persons, volunteers or hired
workers, who provide regular service to the league and/or have repetitive access to
2
“ASAP: A Safety Awareness Program,” Little League Baseball®, Inc., available online at
https://www.littleleague.org/player-safety/asap/.
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or contact with players or teams must fill out San Francisco Little League’s volunteer
application form online in SportsConnect, as well as provide a government-issued
photo identification card for ID verification, and three personal references. (See pp.
20-21)
5. The league provides and requires fundamentals/skills training, with at least one
coach or manager from each team attending each year. (See p. 25-26)
6. The league requires first aid training for coaches and managers, with at least one
coach or manager from each team attending. (See p. 23)
7. The league requires managers/coaches or umpires to walk the field to check for
hazardous conditions before it is used for a practice or game. (See p. 28)
8. The league completes an annual Little League® Facility Survey in the Little League
Data Center to help it find and correct facility concerns.
9. The league has written safety procedures for concession stands, and the concession
manager is trained in safe food handling/preparation and procedures. (See pp.
85-87)
10.The league requires regular inspection and replacement of equipment. (See pp.
30-32)
11. The league requires prompt reporting of accidents to the league Safety Officer within
24 hours and tracking of such accidents to evaluate safety procedures and to help
avoid future injuries. (See p. 6)
12.The league requires a first aid kit at each practice and game. (See pp. 28, 58)
13.The league enforces Little League® rules including those rules governing proper
equipment and the rule prohibiting coaches from catching pitchers even during
batting practice. (See pp. 28-45)
14.The league utilizes Sports Connect for registration as required by the charter
guidelines. Player registration data sent from Sports Connect to the Data Center will
fulfill ASAP requirement 14.
15.The league will answer new survey questions as required in the Little League Data
Center when submitting our safety plan.
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Coaching Requirements
Managing or coaching a Little League team is both a privilege and a responsibility. San
Francisco Little League expects its coaching volunteers not only to understand the rules of
the game, but how to interact with children of various ages; how to teach them fundamental
baseball skills; and how to oversee practices and games that are safe, instructive, and fun.
Managers and Coaches are also role models for their players and are expected to behave
accordingly at all times.
“The actions, on or off the field, of players, managers, coaches, umpires and league officials
must be above reproach. Any player, manager, coach, umpire or league representative who
is involved in a verbal or physical altercation, or an incident of unsportsmanlike conduct, at
the game site or any other Little League activity including through online social media, is
subject to disciplinary action by the Local Little League Board of Directors.” [Little League
Baseball® Official Regulations, XIV(a)].
In keeping with this philosophy, Managers and Coaches must satisfy the following
four requirements:
1. Submit a volunteer application online in SportsConnect to the league each season
and complete all league ID badge requirements.
2. Subscribe to the San Francisco Little League Managers & Coaches Expectations
Contract.
3. Complete first aid training at a minimum of a biannual basis, with one Manager or
Coach from each team attending each year; and,
4. Attend a baseball skills course at least once per year.
SFLL Child Protection Program
The safety and well-being of all San Francisco LIttle League participants is paramount.
SFLL’s Child Protection Program provides tools and resources to help keep the San
Francisco Little League community a safe, welcoming environment for all children and
families.
SFLL uses our Coach & Volunteer Safety Compliance Portal to keep track of the many
certifications that make up our Child Protection Program; all certificates of completion should
be uploaded to the portal.
Additional information regarding Little League Baseball’s child protection program is available
at https://www.littleleague.org/player-safety/child-protection-program/.
SFLL ON-FIELD VOLUNTEER ID BADGE
Any Adult SFLL volunteer, or youth SFLL volunteer age 17 years or older, who interacts with
youth players on practice or playing fields, or volunteers on the SFLL board or in the SFLL
front office, MUST have a valid current season, SFLL-issued ID badge when on the field or
acting in an official capacity on behalf of the league. On-field volunteers including managers,
head coaches, assistant coaches, practice assistants, apprentice coaches and umpires must
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receive an official SFLL ID badge prior to being cleared to interact with athletes or participate
in on-field and team activities in an official capacity, and must carry their ID badge at all times
when attending clinics, practices and games. An ID badge will be issued by the league once
volunteers have met the following certification requirements.
ONLY CERTIFIED VOLUNTEER, CURRENT SEASON, ID BADGE CARRYING AND
ROSTERED PERSONS ARE ALLOWED TO HAVE CONTACT WITH PLAYERS IN
DUGOUTS AND/OR FIELDS OF PLAY DURING PRACTICES AND GAMES.
In order to receive an ID badge you must complete ALL of the following:
1. Register yourself as a coach or volunteer on the SFLL website
(tinyurl.com/sfllvolunteer) each season (SFLL board and front office staff only:
annually, resetting October 1 each year)
2. Complete a JD Palatine (JDP) online background check annually (resets every
October 1)
3. LiveScan fingerprint scan/background check once for SFLL for a lifetime
4. Complete the Little League Baseball Abuse Awareness Certification annually
(resets every October 1)
5. Complete the online Concussion Protocol Certification annually (REQUIRED for
Coaches/On-Field Volunteers)
6. Complete the Diamond Leader training program once for a lifetime (REQUIRED
for Coaches/On-Field Volunteers)
7. Drag and drop a headshot photo directly into this Google Drive folder. Name
the photo file this way otherwise we won't be able to use it:
“[First Name] [Last Name]”; Example: “Lou Seal.jpg"
JD PALATINE (JDP) BACKGROUND CHECKS
Little League International conducts enhanced background screening through its partner,
J.D. Palatine (JDP), utilizing the JDP National Criminal Search, plus Developed names, and
collects data from more than 685 million criminal records, sex offender registries in 50 states,
OFAC, FBI Terrorist List, Proprietary Offender Data, Department of Public Safety,
Administrative Office of the Courts, Department of Corrections, Federal/State/Local wanted
fugitive lists, as well as searches of the SafeSport Centralized Disciplinary Database and
Little League International Ineligible/Suspended List.
All volunteers with regular, repetitive access to players, are required to complete the
JDP background check process annually, resetting October 1 every year.
Coaches and Volunteers will receive an automated message from San Francisco Little
League titled, "SAN FRANCISCO LITTLE LEAGUE Volunteer Application”; please click
through the link to begin the process and you will be directed to the JD Palatine (“JDP")
website to complete the process. Click here to see if you have a current JDP Background
check on file.
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If you haven't done so already, you must complete the SFLL Coach & Volunteer Registration
form to authorize us to perform a background check. Navigate to it here:
www.tinyurl.com/SFLLCOACH. Once complete, email safety@sfll.org to initiate your JDP
request. If you completed a JDP check for the Spring Season, you will not need to do this
step again for Fall Ball.)
LIVESCAN FINGERPRINTING
Bill AB 506 passed by the State of California added all Youth Service Organizations to the list
of organizations whose volunteers and staff must complete LiveScan background checks.
SFLL fingerprinting is required even if you have already done it for another organization. You
only have to be fingerprinted once for a lifetime for service with SFLL. Click here to see if
you have a current LiveScan on file with SFLL.
Spring 2025 LiveScan Events:
SF Baseball Academy (Lobby)
3010 Geary Boulevard, San Francisco, California 94118
● Saturday, December 7, 2024, 12:00 - 1:00 PM
● Sunday, December 8, 2024, 12:00 - 1:00 PM
● Saturday, December 14, 2024, 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Reserve your 3-minute appointment:
Station 1
Station 2
Margaret S. Hayward Playground
1016 Laguna Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
● Sunday, December 15, 2024, 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Reserve your 3-minute appointment:
Station 1
Station 2
SF State University, Towers Conference Center (Lobby)
798 State Drive, San Francisco 94132
● Saturday January 18, 2025; 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Reserve your 3-minute appointment:
Station 1
Station 2
SF County Fair Building (Lobby)
1199 9th Avenue, San Francisco, 94122
● Monday, January 27, 2025; 6:30 - 7:30 PM
● Tuesday, January 28, 2025; 6:30 - 7:30 PM
● Wednesday, January 29, 2025; 6:30 - 7:30 PM
● Thursday, January 30, 2025; 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Reserve your 3-minute appointment:
Station 1
Station 2
Kezar Stadium (@Opening Day Parade)
● Sunday March 2, 2025; 9:00 - 10:00 AM
Reserve your 3-minute appointment:
Station 1
Station 2
You can also visit any LiveScan provider (PRINT FORM); or visit SFLL's preferred LiveScan
provider for a free scan at your convenience:
iD SOLUTIONS
Willie Mah, wmah@idsfingerprinting.com, (415) 661-3665
Inner Sunset Business Hours (By Appointment): Monday-Friday, 9:00A -5:00P
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REQUIRED ABUSE AWARENESS TRAINING FOR ADULTS
The Little League Abuse Awareness Training, in compliance with Little League Regulation
I(c)(10), is required to be completed annually by every individual before assuming any official
duties for the current season. The training must be completed on or after October 1 of each
year to be considered valid for the upcoming season.
The Little League Abuse Awareness Training provides resources to create a positive and
safe environment for all athletes, coaches, parents, legal guardians, and umpires by
understanding how to recognize misconduct and abuse of all types. Topics covered include
how to identify and report incidents and what abuse awareness policies should be in place.
The interactive Abuse Awareness training should take approximately 45 minutes.
Little League's Abuse Awareness Training can be accessed at
https://www.littleleague.org/university/.
Little League International will notify SFLL when you have completed the training, no
certificate upload is required. However we recommend you keep a copy of your certificate
somewhere handy until it expires.
CDC HEADS-UP CONCUSSION TRAINING
California law requires that all managers/coaches, administrators and officials complete an
online concussion training once every two (2) years before supervising youth athletes. Other
volunteers may complete this training as well, but it is not required.
Heads-Up Concussion Training may be fulfilled online and takes roughly 45 minutes to
complete. Drag and drop your completion certificate directly into this Google Drive folder.
Name the file this way otherwise we won't be able to use it:
“[Date of Completion]_Heads Up Concussion_[Your Name]”
Example: “01152025_Heads Up Concussion_Lou Seal.pdf”
Check to see if you've already submitted a certificate here.
SFLL MANAGER & COACH REQUIREMENTS
All SFLL on-field staff including managers, head coaches, assistant coaches and practice
assistants are expected to read and adhere to the SFLL Manager & Coach Requirements
(See Appendix A). Managers and coaches that have not lived up to the Manager & Coach
Requirements may be demoted or benched from coaching in the current or future seasons
and/or will have their child’s playing privileges suspended, and may be precluded from future
participation with SFLL.
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LITTLE LEAGUE DIAMOND LEADER TRAINING
Focused on ensuring children have a positive, well-rounded experience on and off the field,
the Little League® Diamond Leader Training Program navigates Little League volunteers
through real-life scenarios that are being faced in local leagues all around the world each
year. Coaches and volunteers will have a better understanding of the impact they have on
their players, both on and off the field.
The Little League® Diamond Leader Training Program training can be accessed at
https://www.littleleague.org/diamondleader/.
Little League International will notify SFLL when you have completed the training, no
certificate upload is required. However we recommend you keep a copy of your certificate
somewhere handy in case it's needed in the future.
FIRST AID+CPR CERTIFICATION
California law requires at least one adult who is CPR/First Aid certified to be in attendance at
all games. Ideally, coaches who have not been certified within the last two years, plus at
least one assigned parent per team, should receive this training.
CPR Certificates
If you have a current CPR certificate you can drag and drop a copy into this Google Drive
folder. Name the file this way otherwise we won't be able to use it:
“[Date of Completion]_CPR Certificate_[Your Name]”
Example: “01152025_CPR Certificate_Lou Seal.pdf"
Check to see if you've already submitted a certificate here.
First Aid Training
Coach & Volunteer First Aid training is scheduled to take place on Saturday, January 18,
2025 at SF State University. If you are unable to attend SFLL's in-person First Aid training in
person, you can watch a recording of our Spring 2024 training here:
https://vimeo.com/906166810/6415d2710f
CDC HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS (HRI) PREVENTION
California law requires coaches to receive first aid training, including, but not limited to a
basic understanding of the signs and symptoms and the appropriate response to heat illness.
Other volunteers may complete this training as well, but it is not required.
Heat illness training may be fulfilled online and takes roughly 20 minutes to complete.
https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/hsb/extreme/Heat_Illness/index.html
Submit a record of the date you complete this training in the SFLL Coach+Volunteer Safety
Compliance Portal. There is no completion certificate to upload.
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SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST
Sudden Cardiac Arrest is the number one cause of death in the United States for
student-athletes during exercise. Caused by a structural or electrical problem associated with
the heart, Sudden Cardiac Arrest happens when the heart unexpectedly stops beating and
pumping blood. This course will help you learn and recognize the warning signs and
symptoms of Sudden Cardiac Arrest.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest training may be fulfilled online and takes roughly 45 minutes to
complete. https://nfhslearn.com/courses/sudden-cardiac-arrest
Drag and drop your completion certificate directly into this Google Drive folder. Name the file
this way otherwise we won't be able to use it:
“[Date of Completion]_Sudden Cardiac Arrest_[Your Name]”
Example: “01152025_Sudden Cardiac Arrest_Lou Seal.pdf"
Check to see if you've already submitted a certificate here.
SAFE SPORT ACT
● “Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Abuse and SafeSport Authorization Act of 2017”
became federal law in 2018
● The goal of SafeSport is to protect children from abusive situations by engaging more
people in the reporting and education processes
● A volunteer now can be held legally responsible if they have firsthand knowledge and fail
to report any type of Child Abuse to the correct parties
● SafeSport covers all types of Child Abuse both physical and psychological
● Little League International and all local little league programs must adhere to the
following requirements from the SafeSport Act:
o Reporting of Abuse involving a minor to the proper authorities
o All volunteers of a local league are now mandated reporters and could face criminal
charges if the league chooses to ignore, or not report to the proper authorities, any
witnessed act of child abuse, including sexual abuse, within 24 hours.
o Local leagues must be aware of the proper procedures to report any type of abuse in
their state. Please reference www.LittleLeague.org/ChildAbuse
o Leagues must adopt a policy that prohibits retaliation for “good faith” reports of child
abuse.
o Leagues must adopt a policy that limits one-one-one contact with minors.
https://www.littleleague.org/player-safety/child-protection-program/safesport-resource
s-parents/
● San Francisco Little League’s policies require:
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o Coaches must ensure all In-Program individual training sessions with a Minor Athlete
be observable, interruptible and never one on one. A second Abuse Awareness
Certified participant must be present.
o SFLL Coaches may not provide private/individual training sessions to SFLL players
without receiving advance, written consent from San Francisco Little League and the
Minor Athlete’s parent/guardian at least annually, which can be withdrawn at any
time. Parents/guardians must be allowed to observe the individual training session.
For additional information, USA Baseball's Minor Athlete Abuse Prevention Policies
can be found here
[https://usabdevelops.com/page/4912/resources/17096/base-minor-athlete-abuse-pr
evention-policies-maapps].3
SKILLS TRAINING FOR MANAGERS AND COACHES
Managers and coaches are required to familiarize themselves with the skills needed by
young players to play baseball, not only better but also more safely. With Managers and
Coaches being the most critical volunteers in the program -- from their presence at games
and practices to their authority at those events -- having well trained Coaches and Managers
is vital to the development of young players as well as to the health and safety of everyone
involved.
In order to be eligible as a Manager or Coach in San Francisco Little League, every
active Manager and Coach must attend a skills training program once every two (2)
years, with one member of the coaching staff from each team attending each year.
In 2025, the league will be offering baseball skills training on the following dates and times:
Coach On-Field Training
On-field training will cover a wide range of topics from planning practices and teaching
fundamentals, to running games and interacting with umpires, with a focus on local SFLL
rules and policies. Coaches will also have an opportunity to get together with the other
coaches in their division and talk about the upcoming season.
Sunday, February 2, San Francisco Baseball Academy
9:00 AM - Noon: Tee Ball
2:00 - 5:00 PM: Farms
Saturday, February 8, Margaret Hayward/Lang Field
2:00 - 5:00 PM: Juniors
Sunday, Feb 23, South Sunset D2
9:00 AM - Noon: Rookie & AA Minors
2:00 - 5:00 PM: AAA Minors & Majors
San Francisco Baseball Academy Coaching Clinics
SFLL is partnering with San Francisco Baseball Academy to offer clinics to coaches and
practice assistants in all divisions. A limited number of coaches' kids are also invited to
participate in each session.
Wednesday, April 3, 2025, 7:00 PM
Coach Pitching Clinic
3 Appendix A
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Positive Coaching Alliance Training
SFLL partners with Positive Coaching Alliance to bring their research-based training and
resources to our coaches, athletes, parents and leaders to ensure a positive youth
development experience for ALL kids in our community.
Coach Classroom Training
Saturday, January 18, 2025, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
San Francisco State University
General Health & Safety Protocols
San Francisco Little League is committed to providing the safest playing environment
possible. We routinely monitor local, regional, and national reporting to ensure we are
keeping current with the most recent health recommendations and mandates.
Risk Acknowledgement
Parents/Guardians are required to complete a Participant Waiver & Release of Liability for
each player at the time of registration. Log into your SportsEngine account to view a copy of
your registration agreement: user.sportngin.com/users/sign_in.
Stay-Home-When-Sick Policy
No one with symptoms of COVID-19 or another communicable illness, or who is in
isolation or quarantine for COVID-19 or another communicable illness, should attend
practices or competitions.
Hand Hygiene & Equipment Sanitation
Staff, coaches, and players are encouraged to sanitize their hands upon entering and exiting
the field, sneezing, or coughing into hands, and drinking water.
COVID HEALTH SAFETY POLICY
The State of California ended its state of emergency related to Coronavirus Disease 2019
(“COVID-19”) on February 28, 2023 and announced plans to rescind many of its remaining
orders. The State will now shift focus to its COVID-19 SMARTER Plan (more information is
available online at covid19.ca.gov/smarter/). In light of the State’s end of the state-wide
emergency, and based on local conditions and the current scientific and epidemiological
understanding of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Health Officer of the City and County of San
Francisco (the “Health Officer”) is, concurrent with this Rescission, terminating the local
health emergency declaration issued on March 6, 2020, in response to the spread of
COVID-19. The Health Officer is also terminating most remaining COVID-19 related health
orders, maintaining a couple of those orders, and issuing two new limited orders for
designated high-risk settings.
Effective at 11:59 p.m. on February 28, 2023, the orders and directives of the Health Officer
of the City and County of San Francisco listed below are rescinded in full.
List of Orders and Directives Being Rescinded:
1. Order No. C19-07 (main health officer order, including guidance for government,
businesses, and individuals and guidance and rules on masking and vaccination,
originally issued March 16, 2020, and most recently revised December 21, 2022);
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2. Order No. C19-15 (hospital and large provider testing, issued July 21, 2020, and
most recently revised January 13, 2022);
3. Order No. C19-20 (rules for test collection sites, issued January 25, 2022);
4. Unnumbered Order (Optum Serve testing, issued June 22, 2020);
5. Directive No. 2020-02 (isolation and quarantine directive, issued May 1, 2020, and
most recently revised February 17, 2023); and
6. Directive No. 2020-03 (shell of old isolation directive, issued May 1, 2020, and most
recently revised June 6, 2022).
The most important ongoing protection against serious illness and hospitalization related to
COVID-19 remains up-to-date COVID-19 vaccination, including receipt of the most recent
booster dose recommended by the United States Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (“CDC”). The Health Officer still strongly recommends that everyone continue
appropriate protections based on their situation, including the following five measures: 1)
following the CDC’s most current COVID-19 vaccination and booster guidance; 2) wearing a
well-fitted mask in appropriate settings based on personal risk factors, especially if you or
someone you live with is vulnerable to the worst outcomes of COVID-19; 3) staying home
whenever you feel sick in order to protect others around you and following the CDC’s and the
State’s isolation and quarantine guidance; 4) staying aware of medications that you can use
when you get sick with COVID-19, including drugs like Paxlovid that can decrease the
severity of infection, especially for anyone over 50 years old or who has other risk factors;
and 5) remaining aware of information about COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses.
See the full list of Health Orders & Directives for COVD-19, visit:
https://sfbos.org/health-orders-and-directives-covid-19
RETURNING TO THE PROGRAM AFTER EXPERIENCING SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19
● Anyone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 (through a positive test or medical
diagnosis), should isolate using the guidelines listed in the CDPH guidance.
● Players who are ill should continue to stay home until their symptoms have improved.
They should also take a COVID-19 test. Keeping sick children at home has helped
reduce mass transmission of common illnesses.
● A player may return if symptoms are: (i) due to a pre existing/chronic conditions such as
allergies; or (ii) if they have recovered but are still experiencing lingering symptoms (e.g.
cough, stuffy nose). Athletes with a cough, runny nose should wear a mask while in the
dugout or when wearing team-provided catchers gear.
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SFLL Play Safe Program
FIRST AID EQUIPMENT
First Aid Kits
Each of the league’s fields is equipped with a first aid kit with various accessories including
nitrile gloves, betadine, band-aids, 3x3 band-aids, alcohol swabs, 2x2 gauze, 4x4 gauze,
paper tape, and ice packs. Kits are stored in the storage sheds, Snack Shacks or equipment
boxes at Tepper, Ketcham and Fort Scott fields and are replenished on a regular basis.
Portable first aid kits are issued to the Manager of each team that travels to other
fields/communities. These should be brought to all practices and games outside the league.
Cell Phones
Managers and Coaches must have accessible, at both practices and games, at least one
fully operational and charged cell phone.
FIELD CONDITIONS MUST BE APPROPRIATE FOR SAFE PLAY
Field Inspection
Prior to each practice and game, the Manager or Coach of each team is required to inspect
the field for holes, damage, stones, glass, foreign objects, and other potentially dangerous
conditions. Any dangerous conditions should be promptly reported to the league Safety
Officer (Dan Gerard, 415-317-0615) or the President/Field Officer (Katherine Gillespie,
415-812-7099). Field Opening Procedures are included in the Appendix.
Weather and Lighting Conditions
No games or practices should be held when weather or field conditions are unfavorable,
particularly when lighting is inadequate.
Thunderstorms
Although thunderstorms are uncommon in Northern California, they do occur from time to
time. At the first sign of such a storm, everyone should leave the field and seek shelter.
(See p. 35).
GENERAL SAFETY RULES FOR PRACTICES AND GAMES
Authorized Persons Allowed on Field
Only registered players; managers, coaches, practice assistants with current valid SFLL ID
badges; and umpires are permitted on the playing field or in the dugout during practice
sessions and games at all times.
Storage of Equipment
During both practices and games, all team equipment must be stored within the team dugout
or behind screens, and not within the area defined by the umpires as “in play.”
Keeping Equipment Off the Field
During games, the responsibility for keeping bats and loose equipment off the field of play
should be that of either a regular player assigned for this purpose or the team’s coaching
staff.
Retrieving Foul Balls
Foul balls that are batted out of the playing area should be retrieved by an adult or
responsible child and returned to the umpire responsible for the game. At no time should
there be a scramble for the ball.
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Players Should Keep Their Eye on the Ball
During practices and games, all players should be alert and watching the batter on each
pitch.
Spacing Players During Warm-Ups
During warm-up drills, players should be spaced so that no one is endangered by wild throws
or missed catches.
Warm-Ups
All pre-game warm-ups (i.e., playing catch, pepper, swinging bats, etc.) should be performed
within the confines of the playing field and not within areas that are frequented by spectators.
Player Protecting Battery During Warm-Ups
When a pitcher is warming up in the bullpen or along the side of the field during a game or
batting practice, there must be a player with a batting helmet and glove stationed between
the batter and the pitcher and catcher to field balls hit in their direction.
Managers/Coaches May Warm Up Pitchers
Baseball and Softball (Regular Season) – Rule 3.09 [rule revised effective spring 2024]:
Managers or coaches are permitted to warm up a pitcher at home plate or in the bullpen or
elsewhere at any time including in-game warm-up, pre-game warm-up, and in other
instances. They may also stand by to observe a pitcher during warm-up in the bullpen.
No Soft Toss Against Fences
Soft toss drills using baseballs against any chain link fence is not permitted.
Players Must Remain in Dugout
During games, offensive players must remain in the dugout throughout the game. The only
exception to this rule is when a player needs to use an available restroom, and in that case,
they must return immediately to the dugout. If only one adult Manager or Coach is present
for a given game, they must remain in the dugout at all times and may not serve as a base
coach. [Rule 4.05(b)].
Players Must Not Touch Bats in the Dugout
Players must not pick up or handle a bat while in the dugout until it is their time to bat.
No On Deck Circle (Except in Juniors/Seniors)
There is no on-deck circle except in the Junior and Senior Leagues. [Rule 1.08, Note 1].
Only the first batter of each half inning is permitted outside the dugout between half-innings
in the Major, Minor, Rookie Minor, Farm, and T-Ball leagues. [Rule 1.08, Note 2]. This
means that no player should handle a bat, even while in the dugout, until it is their time to
bat. Players in the on-deck circle at the Junior and Senior League levels should be alert to
the area around them when swinging a bat.
No Headfirst Slides (Except in Juniors/Seniors)
Headfirst slides are not permitted in the Major, Minor, Rookie Minor, Farm, and Tee Ball
leagues, except when returning to a base. Any runner at these levels who does so is out.
[Rule 7.08(a)(4)].
Sliding Skills Must be Practiced
Sliding should be introduced at the Rookie Minors level and practiced regularly at every level
thereafter.
Cleats
Except in the Juniors and Seniors, shoes with metal spikes or cleats are not permitted.
Shoes with molded cleats are permissible. [Rule 1.11(h)].
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No Horseplay
At no time should “horseplay” be permitted on the playing field.
Pitching Machines
Pitching machines must be in good working order (including extension cords, outlets, etc.)
and must be operated only by adult managers and coaches.
Supervision Of Ejected, Ill or Injured Children
Players who are ejected, ill or injured should remain under supervision until released to the
child’s parent or guardian.
Players In Casts Must Remain in Dugout
If a player has a cast, they will not play in a game. If an umpire is wearing a cast they will not
officiate [Rule 1.11 (k)]. If a player has a cast and would like to sit with their team, while they
may not take the field, they are allowed to sit in the dugout with other team members. Any
manager or coach who has a cast on must remain in the dugout during the game.
EQUIPMENT SAFETY
Regular Inspection of Equipment Required
Equipment should be inspected regularly as to its condition as well as for proper fit. If any of
your equipment needs to be repaired or replaced, please contact the Equipment Manager,
Steve Avigian (415-515-5011 voice+sms).
Baseballs
Safety balls are used in the farm league.
Batting Helmet Standards
Each team is provided with 6 batting helmets (7 for Juniors/Seniors) that must meet
NOCSAE (National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment)
specifications and bear the NOCSAE stamp and an exterior warning label. Altering the
helmet in any form may void the helmet warranty and.or NOCSAE certification. Helmets
may not be repainted and may not contain tape. Little League® recommends that no
alterations be made to any type of helmet. [Rule 1.16]. If a player elects to use a personal
helmet, it must also meet Little League standards.
Use of Batting Helmets
During practices as well as games, use of the helmet by the batter, all base runners, and
youth base coaches is mandatory. Use of a helmet by an adult base coach is optional.
[Rule 1.16].
Faceguards
Players who are functionally one eyed (best corrected vision in the worst eye of less than
20/50) are required to use these helmets during practices and games.
Athletic Supporters/Cups Required
All male players are required to wear athletic supporters. [Rule 1.17].
Cups Required for Catchers
Male catchers must wear a metal, fibre or plastic type cup. [Rule 1.17].
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Catcher’s Required Safety Equipment
All catchers must wear chest protectors with a neck collar, “dangling” type throat guard, shin
guards, and catcher’s helmet with mask, all of which meet Little League specifications and
standards. [Rule 1.17].
Catcher’s Chest Protector
All male catchers must wear a long-model chest protector. Female catchers must wear a
long or short model chest protector. Junior/Senior catchers must wear an approved long or
short model chest protector. [Rule 1.17].
Catcher’s Helmet
All catchers must wear a catcher’s helmet and mask with a “dangling” type throat protector
during infield/outfield practice, pitcher warm-up, and games. The catcher’s helmet must
meet NOCSAE specifications and standards and bear the NOCSAE stamp. Catcher’s
helmets may not be repainted and may not contain tape or re-applied decals unless
approved in writing by the helmet manufacturer or authorized dealer. Skull caps are not
permitted. [Rule 1.17].
Catcher’s Mitt
All catchers must wear a catcher’s mitt (not a first baseman’s mitt or fielder’s glove) of any
shape, size or weight consistent with protecting the hand. [Rule 1.12]. In addition, catchers
should be encouraged to wear a Palmgard® glove on their catching hand, which is
specifically designed to absorb impacts and help to prevent bone bruises and soft tissue
damage.
Mouthguards
Children who pitch as well as all infielders should also be strongly encouraged to wear
mouthguards.
Safety Glasses
Parents of players who wear glasses should be encouraged to provide “safety glasses.”
Jewelry
Jewelry is permitted to be worn. Any jewelry worn by a player that poses harm to injury will
be subject to removal. This rule applies regardless of the composition of such jewelry, hard
cosmetic item, or hard decorative item. Hard items to control the hair, such as beads, are
permitted. Jewelry that alerts medical personnel to a specific condition is permitted.
Sunglasses are also permitted. [Rule 1.11(j)].
Casts Not Permitted
Casts may not be worn during practices or games. [Rule 1.11(k)].
Safety Bases
Little League Rule 1.06 requires all leagues to utilize bases that disengage their anchor at all
levels, meaning first, second, and third base must be breakaway or release bases.[Rule
1.06].
For SFLL this would apply in particular to Fort Scott, Paul Goode Field and some Rec & Park
fields. It is imperative that the breakaway bases are properly placed and secured to prevent
injury. This includes keeping the base areas level at all times. The bases should be level,
plumb and parallel to the base lines.
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For Fort Scott and the Treasure Island fields, progressive release bases are used. For these
to release properly, the bases must be installed correctly. To do this, remove dirt from the
square in-ground fixture and firmly insert the orange plastic peg in the fixture. The base is
placed within the square fixture and over the orange plastic peg. Do not use the bases
without the orange peg as they will not tolerate release properly.
LITTLE LEAGUE BAT RULES
Little League Rule 1.10 mandates that only bats meeting the USA Baseball Bat standard
(USABat) or the BBCOR performance standard (Juniors and Seniors divisions only) may be
used during practices and games. Non-wood and laminated bats used in the Little League
(Majors) and below, Intermediate (50-70) Division, and Junior League divisions, shall bear
the USA Baseball logo signifying that the bat meets the USABat – USA Baseball’s Youth Bat
Performance Standard. All BPF – 1.15 bats are prohibited. The bat diameter shall not
exceed 25⁄8 inches for these divisions of play. Bats meeting the Batted Ball Coefficient of
Restitution (BBCOR) standard may also be used in the Intermediate (50-70) Division and
Junior League Division. Additional information is available at LittleLeague.org/batinfo.
Allowed Allowed
(Juniors/Seniors Only)
NOT ALLOWED
Batting Donuts Cannot Be Used
The traditional batting donut cannot be used at any level of play. [Rule 1.10, Note 1]
Pine Tar & Similar Substances Are Not Permitted
The use of pine tar or any other similar adhesive substance is prohibited at all levels of Little
League Baseball. Use of these substances will result in the bat being declared illegal and
removed from play. [Rule 1.10, Note 2]
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PENALTY FOR USING AN ILLEGAL BAT
If a batter enters the batter’s box with or uses an illegal bat, the penalty will include:
● The head coach of the team will be ejected from the game (Rule 6.06)
● The batter who violated the rule will be ejected from the game
(Rule 6.06)
● The offensive team will lose one eligible adult base coach for the duration of the
game. (Rule 6.06)
● Ejected coaches and players will be further suspended for one game and may not be
at the game site, including pregame and postgame activities. (Rule 4.07)
NOTE: If the certification mark/s on a bat are not legible, that bat cannot be used and
must be removed from the game.
PRE-GAME SAFETY ISSUES
Safety considerations begin long before the first pitch of the game. Before a practice or
game, you need to ask yourself:
1. Have you brought contact information for parents of players with you in the event
of an injury? SFLL has provided each team with a Coaches Binder for you to collect
and store the Little League medical release form for every player on your team.
2. Do you have a fully charged cell phone available for emergency calls?
● If an emergency occurs, you will need to use a cell phone at most fields to reach the
County Emergency Dispatch Center. Make sure you have a fully charged cell phone
that will work on the fields where you practice and play your games since some
carriers’ phones do not work in certain locations. If an emergency occurs, you will
need to call for aid immediately.
● From a cell phone, you should dial 415-861-8020 (Fire) or 415-553-8090 (Police),
or in Marin: 415-472-0911 (emergency dispatch). A cell phone call placed to
9-1-1 will be directed to the California Highway Patrol in Vallejo, and precious
seconds will be lost as they reroute the call to the Emergency Dispatch Center.
Store the number in your cell phone directory and commit the number to memory.
3. Have you inspected the field for hazardous conditions?
● Since our practices and games are scheduled at fields that are open to the public,
you are required before both practices and games to inspect the field for holes,
damage, stones, glass and other conditions that could make playing there
dangerous. A checklist is included in the Appendix.
● If you find a condition that needs to be addressed, please contact the Safety Officer,
Daniel Gerard or President, Katherine Gillespie.
4. Is your equipment safe and in conformance with Little League specifications?
● Check your equipment frequently. Run your hands along bats to make sure there
are no serious dents or slivers. Non-wood bats may develop dents from time to time.
Bats that have cracks or sharp edges, or that cannot pass through the approved
Little League bat ring for the appropriate division must be removed from play. The
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2-1/4-inch bat ring must be used for bats labeled 2-1/4. The 2-5/8-inch bat ring must
be used for bats labeled for 2-5/8. Cracked or broken bats should never be used.
● The bat must be a baseball bat which meets the USA Baseball Bat standard
(USABat) as adopted by Little League. It shall be a smooth, rounded stick, and
made of wood or of material and color tested and proved acceptable to the USA
Baseball Bat standard (USABat).
Non-wood and laminated bats used in the Little League (Majors) and below, and
Junior League divisions shall bear the USA Baseball logo signifying that the bat
meets the USABat – USA Baseball’s Youth Bat Performance Standard. All BPF –
1.15 bats are prohibited. The bat diameter shall not exceed 2-5/8 inches for these
divisions of play. Bats meeting the Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution (BBCOR)
standard may also be used in the Junior and Senior League Divisions. Additional
information is available at LittleLeague.org/BatInfo. [Rule 1.10]
● Check the batting helmets to make sure they are not cracked. Every helmet must
have the NOCSAE stamp and an exterior warning label. [Rule 1.16] If any of your
helmets are missing these or they are cracked, they must not be used and should be
returned to the league so that they can be replaced.
● Constant attention must be given to the proper fit of personal protective equipment,
including batting helmets and catcher’s masks, chest protectors, and shin guards.
Do not permit a player to take the field with ill-fitting protective equipment.
5. Have you had your players warm up and stretch before they begin to play?
● Before practices and games, have your players warm up and stretch prior to
throwing. Warm up to throw, don’t throw to warm up.
● Jumping jacks or a jog around the field should be used first to warm up the entire
body. Then you should focus on warming up the arms and shoulder muscles before
stretching them. This can be done by having them make large circles with their
arms, both forward and backward, followed by smaller circles. After stretching the
arm and shoulder muscles, don't forget to have them stretch their hamstrings,
quadriceps, calves, and Achilles’ tendons.
● The purpose of stretching is to increase flexibility within the various muscle groups
and prevent tearing from overexertion. During stretching, you should contract (i.e.
tighten) the muscle and then relax it before stretching further. Hold the stretch for at
least 10 seconds. You should never "bounce" during any stretch, as this can tear
the muscle tissue.
● Stretching the muscles related to the activity is very important. A pitcher should pay
particular attention to stretching their arm and back muscles. A catcher should focus
on stretching their legs and back.
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Warm-up drills JPEG
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6. Have you placed your players far enough apart during their warm-up throws to
prevent injuries?
● After your players have stretched, they generally will warm up their throwing arms
by playing catch with a partner. This should always be done with one set of players
standing along the outfield foul line and their partners standing at a reasonable
distance toward center field.
● Please make sure that each pair is spaced far enough away from the players on
either side that errant throws or missed catches will not hit another player.
● Always remind players who need to walk behind other players who are playing catch
to pay attention to the thrown ball.
7. Are your male players properly equipped?
● Little League rules require all male players to wear an athletic supporter and cup.
The league recommends that every male player in the Seniors, Juniors, Majors, and
Minors wear a cup even if they do not catch to avoid damage from bad hops or
misplayed balls. [Rule 1.17]
ENSURING SAFE PLAY ON THE FIELD
Once play begins, there are a number of other safety issues you need to consider:
1. Have you minimized the risk of players being hit by the ball?
● In a study of concussions occurring during baseball and softball participation in
pediatric patients (4–17 years old) from 2012 to 2021, the majority of weighted
national estimated concussions were due to head-to-ball injuries.4
Therefore, during
your practices, you should stress to all players that they need to keep their eye on
the ball at all times, whether they are in the field or at bat. This safe practice should
be drilled into them so continuously that it becomes a reflective action.
● Batters must be taught at an early stage how to avoid being hit by a wild pitch. The
proper approach is to have the batter turn away from the pitch, toward the backstop,
with their head down and protected by their shoulders. A ball that hits a player in the
back will still hurt, but will do less potential harm than a ball to the head or chest. Be
particularly aware of the potential for commotio cordis when there is any blunt
trauma to a child’s chest. (See p. 67). Practice with whiffle balls so that the proper
reaction becomes instinctive, but don’t overemphasize this drill to avoid putting fear
in the batter’s head.
● Every batter, base runner, and youth base coach must wear a properly fitted,
NOCSAE approved helmet that bears the NOCSAE stamp as well as an exterior
warning label before stepping on the field. [Rule 1.16].
4 Varag Abed, Gregory S. Hawk, Caitlin Conley, Roy Akarakian, Austin V. Stone, Epidemiological analysis of
pediatric baseball and softball concussions in United States emergency departments, The American Journal of
Emergency Medicine, Volume 69, 2023, Pages 143-146, ISSN 0735-6757,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2023.04.025.
(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0735675723002103)
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● Once a batter becomes a base runner, that player
should be taught to run outside the foul lines when
going from home to first and from third to home, to
reduce the chance of being hit by a thrown ball.
● Players who have not demonstrated a measure of
control with their throws should never be permitted to
pitch to other players.
● Throwing and catching drills should be set up to
minimize the risk that a thrown ball can hit a player
who is focused on catching or throwing another ball.
● Help your players learn to judge fly balls by using drills
that start out easy and become more difficult as the
players’ judgment and skill improves. Use whiffle balls
in the lower leagues to develop confidence.
2. Have you taught your players how to avoid collisions in the field?
Collisions between players on the field can lead to serious medical injuries. They are usually
caused by errors in judgment or lack of teamwork between fielders.
One of the most serious potential injuries from an on-field collision is concussion. According
to a 2022 publication by the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine, “A
concussion is a traumatic injury to the brain that alters mental status or causes other
symptoms. Many people assume they do not have a concussion if they have not lost
consciousness. However, significant injury can occur without losing consciousness at all,”
and, “If left undiagnosed, a concussion may place an athlete at risk of developing second
impact syndrome—a potentially fatal injury that occurs when an athlete sustains a second
head injury before a previous head injury has completely healed.” 5
During the final game of the 2003 American League Division Series between the Boston Red
Sox and the Oakland A’s, Red Sox center fielder Johnny Damon collided with second
baseman Damian Jackson on a pop fly hit to shallow center by the A’s Jermaine Dye.
Damon lay on the ground unconscious for several minutes before being taken from the field
by ambulance. He suffered a Grade 2 concussion that kept him out of the first two games of
the American League Championship Series against the N.Y. Yankees.
In order to reduce the potential for such collisions, it is critically important to establish zones
of defense for your players. It is particularly important when players are chasing fly or foul
balls. Once the zones are established, situation drills should be held until these zones and
patterns become familiar to the players. The responsible player should call out their
intentions in a loud voice to warn others away. Some general rules:
First Baseman
The first baseman should catch all balls that are reachable and are hit between second base
and the catcher.
5 Sports Tips: Concussion (2022, American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine), available online:
https://ncys.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/2022_ST_Concussion-1.pdf
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Second Baseman
The second baseman should call all balls that are reachable that are hit behind first base.
Third Baseman
The third baseman should catch all balls that are reachable and are hit between third and the
catcher.
Shortstop
The shortstop should call all balls that are reachable that are hit behind third base. The
shortstop also has the responsibility for fly balls hit in the center of the diamond and in the
area of second base. Since the glove of most shortstops is on the left hand, it is easier for
the shortstop than the second baseman to catch fly balls over second base.
Center Fielder
The center fielder has the right of way in the outfield and should catch all balls that theycan
reach. Another player should take the ball if it’s clear it cannot be reached by the center
fielder.
Fly Balls
Outfielders have priority over infielders for fly balls hit between them.
Ground Balls
Priorities are not so easily established on ground balls, but most managers expect their base
players to field all ground balls they can reach. The third baseman should cut in front of the
shortstop on slow hit grounders to third or short because their momentum will carry them
toward first base.
Catcher
The catcher is expected to field all topped and bunted balls that can be reached except when
there is a force play or squeeze play at home.
In addition, the Little League Playing Rules include a series of rules designed to prevent
collisions between opposing players.
Obstruction
A fielder is not permitted to block off a base, base line, or home plate from a base runner
while not in possession of the ball. This is “obstruction,” and the obstructed runner is entitled
to at least one base beyond the base last legally touched by the runner before the
obstruction. [Rules 2.00, 7.06(a)].
Interference
It is “interference” if any base runner fails to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field a batted
ball. [Rules 2.00, 7.09]. The runner is out and the ball is dead. It is also “interference” if:
● the batter hinders the catcher in an attempt to field the ball. [Rule 7.09(a)]
● any batter or runner who has just been retired hinders or impedes any following play
being made on a runner. Such runner shall be declared out for the interference of a
teammate. [Rule 7.09(e)]
● the runner fails to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field a batted ball, or
intentionally interferes with a thrown ball, provided that if two or more fielders attempt
to field a batted ball, and the runner comes in contact with one or more of them, the
umpire shall determine which fielder is entitled to the benefit of this rule, and shall not
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declare the runner out for coming in contact with
a fielder other than the one the umpire
determines to be entitled to field such a ball.
[Rule 7.09(j)]
Preventing Collisions at a Base or at Home
In order to prevent collisions at a base or at home plate,
the Playing Rules require the runner to slide or attempt
to get around a fielder who has the ball and is waiting to
make the tag. [Rule 7.08(a)(3)]. If the runner fails to do
so, they are out.
3. Have you taught your players safe bat handling
techniques?
Younger players need to be taught not to throw the bat after hitting the ball. This can be
done by having the player drop the bat in a marked-off circle near where the running starts or
calling the player out in practice whenever they fail to drop the bat correctly.
Players should never be permitted to pick up a bat in the dugout until they are heading out to
the plate or, in the Juniors or Seniors, on deck circle. If mishandled, a bat can cause serious
unintended injury.
The on-deck circle in the Juniors and Seniors should be located behind a screen so the
player cannot be hit by a line drive foul. All players and adults should be trained to walk
around the on-deck circle, whether it is in use or not.
● No one should ever approach a player who is holding a bat from behind without
letting them know of their presence.
● During infield or fly ball practice, a player (usually the catcher), who is assigned to
catch balls for the hitting coach, should be given the specific assignment of warning
away anyone who comes too close.
4. Have you taught your catchers safe catching techniques?
● Assuming that the catcher is wearing the required protective equipment, their
greatest exposure is to the ungloved hand. The catcher must be taught to keep the
throwing hand relaxed and situated either behind their back or behind their glove.
● The catcher should be taught to throw the mask and helmet in the direction opposite
their approach in going for a popup.
● The catcher should be taught to keep a safe distance back, about a foot, from the
swinging bat. If the catcher hinders or prevents a batter from hitting a pitch, it is
considered “interference” and the batter is entitled to first base. [Rules 2.00, 6.08(c)].
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OVERUSE INJURIES
Little League Elbow
Medial epicondyle apophysitis (MEA), also known as Little League elbow, is an overuse
injury prevalent among adolescent athletes whose sport involves repetitive overhand
throwing, racket use, or other overhead arm motions. The medial epicondyle is a bony
protrusion on the medial elbow with its own ossification center, separate from the main distal
humeral physis, known as an apophysis. This growth center at the medial epicondyle
develops around 6-7 years of age and typically fuses by age 15.6,7
Mitchel Storey, M.D., the team physician for the Seattle Mariners, explains: “Little League
elbow is a process of damage to the joint surfaces. Pitchers’ elbows at that age, as are most
of their joints, are immature, so they have open growth plates and something of a tenuous
blood supply to those growth plates. Little League elbow involves an overload on the medial
side of the elbow, so that the ligament attached to the growth plate starts to pull away. And
on the other side of the elbow there can be a compressive phenomenon that can cause a
condition called osteochondritis dissecans, in which damage is followed by poor blood flow
and small areas of bone death.”8
Causes
“Little League Elbow” is particularly prevalent during the early weeks of the season because
many players have not been throwing regularly during the off-season, and their arms have
not been strengthened sufficiently to withstand the forces that are placed on them when
throwing.9
The majority of baseball elbow injuries are noncontact injuries to the dominant arm resulting
from repetitive pitching. Five percent of youth pitchers suffer a serious elbow or shoulder
injury (requiring surgery or retirement from baseball) within 10 years. The risk factor with the
strongest correlation to injury is amount of pitching. Specifically, increased pitches per game,
innings pitched per season, and months pitched per year are all associated with increased
risk of elbow injury. Pitching while fatigued and pitching for concurrent teams are also
associated with increased risk. Pitchers who also play catcher have an increased injury risk,
perhaps due to the quantity of throws playing catcher adds to the athlete’s arm. Another risk
factor is poor pitching biomechanics. Improper biomechanics may increase the torque and
force produced about the elbow during each pitch. Although throwing breaking pitches at a
9 B. Thurston, “Recognizing Pitching Faults and Injury Patterns”,
https://baseballarticles.com/recognizing-pitching-faults-and-injury-patterns/. Thurston is a baseball coach at
Amherst College in Massachusetts. His article is one of several excellent instructional articles on baseball
coaching found at https://baseballarticles.com/.
8
“Little League Elbow,” ESPN Training Room, ESPN.com (2000), which can be found via a cached file through
Google at:
http://64.233.179.104/search?q=cache:wHbODLOthAEJ:espn.go.com/trainingroom/s/2000/0426/503111.html+E
SPN+and+%22Little+League+elbow%22&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=1.
7 Delgado J, Jaramillo D, Chauvin NA. Imaging the Injured Pediatric Athlete: Upper Extremity. Radiographics.
2016 Oct;36(6):1672-1687.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27726752
6 Chen FS, Diaz VA, Loebenberg M, Rosen JE. Shoulder and elbow injuries in the skeletally immature athlete. J
Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2005 May-Jun;13(3):172-85. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15938606
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young age has been suggested as a risk factor, existing clinical, epidemiologic, and
biomechanical data do not support this claim. 10
Additionally, overuse injuries are being increasingly linked to specialization in one sport at an
early age and the year-round training for that sport that often follows. Angela Smith, M.D.,
an orthopedic surgeon at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, notes that “parents in virtually
every sport [are] pushing their children to excess in pursuit of college scholarships or the
dream of a professional sports career.”11
Overuse or repetitive trauma injuries represent
approximately 50% of all pediatric sport-related injuries. It is speculated that more than half
of these injuries may be preventable with simple approaches.12
Dr. Lyle Micheli, a pioneer in the field of treating youth sports injuries, says, “By playing one
sport year-round, there is no rest and recovery for the overused parts of their body. Parents
think they are maximizing their child’s chances by concentrating on one sport. The results
are often not what they expected.”13
Symptoms
The earliest sign is pain with throwing, and as the damage progresses the pain can continue
after throwing. If the damage becomes worse there may be swelling around the elbow and
even loss of motion. In the shoulder the only symptom is pain, and swelling is rarely seen.14
Pitching Count Limitations
Recognizing the risks of overuse injuries, Little League Baseball® has established pitch
count rules. Pitchers in all divisions of Little League, from age 6 to 18, will have specific pitch
count limits for each game, based on their age. The number of pitches delivered in a game
will determine the amount of rest the player must have before pitching again.
In the past, Little League’s pitching regulations have used innings pitched to determine
pitcher eligibility. Recently, researchers and medical professionals in the field of sports
medicine have been working to determine if the actual number of pitches thrown (i.e., pitch
count) is a safer way to regulate pitching in youth baseball. Most notable among those
calling for pitch counts has been Dr. James R. Andrews, M.D., medical director at the
14 Johns Hopkins Medicis, Elbow Problems in Little League Baseball Players,
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/elbow-problems-in-little-league-baseball-play
ers
13 Bill Pennington, “Doctors See a Big Rise in Injuries for Young Athletes,” The New York Times, p. A1
(February 22, 2005),
https://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/22/sports/othersports/doctors-see-a-big-rise-ininjuries-for-young-athletes.ht
ml.
12 Valovich McLeod TC, Decoster LC, Loud KJ, Micheli LJ, Parker JT, Sandrey MA, White C. National Athletic
Trainers' Association position statement: prevention of pediatric overuse injuries. Journal of athletic
training, 46(2), 206–220. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-46.2.206
11 B. Pennington, “Doctors See a Big Rise in Injuries as Young Athletes Train Nonstop,” The New York Times,
p. A1 (February 22, 2005),
https://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/22/sports/othersports/doctors-see-a-big-rise-ininjuries-for-young-athletes.ht
ml
10 Fleisig GS, Andrews JR. “Prevention of elbow injuries in youth baseball pitchers”. Sports Health. 2012
Sep;4(5):419-24. doi: 10.1177/1941738112454828. PMID: 23016115; PMCID: PMC3435945.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1941738112454828
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American Sports Medicine Institute (ASMI) in Birmingham, Ala. Dr. Andrews is the world’s
foremost authority on pitching injuries and ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction, or, as it is
better known, “Tommy John surgery.” The ASMI and the USA Baseball Medical and Safety
Advisory Committee have worked closely with Little League to create the guidelines for the
new regulation.
Little League Baseball®
is the first national youth baseball organization to institute a pitch
count. The Little League International Board of Directors approved the measure
unanimously at its annual meeting in September 2006.
Number of Pitches Allowed
The table below gives an overview of the number of pitches that will be allowed per day for
each age group during the regular season in 2025.
League Age Pitches Allowed Per Day
13-16 95
11-12 85
9-10 75
6-8 50
A Pitcher Cannot Move to the Catching Position
A player who played the position of catcher for three (3) innings or less, moves to the pitcher
position, and delivers 21 pitches or more (15- and 16-year-olds: 31 pitches or more) in the
same day, may not return to the catcher position on that calendar day.
EXCEPTION: If the pitcher reaches the 20-pitch limit (15- and 16-year-olds: 30- pitch limit)
while facing a batter, the pitcher may continue to pitch, and maintain their eligibility to return
to the catcher position, until any one of the following conditions occur: (1) that batter reaches
base; (2) that batter is retired; (3) the third out is made to complete the half-inning or the
game; or (4) the pitcher is removed from the mound prior to the batter completing their
at-bat.
This rule recognizes that catchers throw as many balls as the pitcher and that the rest
requirements would lose their purpose if pitchers could be put behind the plate after they
have reached their pitch count limits. Although the rule does not say it, it would be equally
inappropriate to put a player on the mound after he has been the catcher for a part of the
game.
Once Removed, A Pitcher Cannot Returned to the Mound
Except in the Juniors and Seniors, players once removed from the mound may not return as
pitchers. [Reg. VI(b)]. At the Junior and Senior level, a pitcher who remains in the game at a
different position can retake the mound but only once during the remainder of the game.
Rest Requirements (Seniors to Minors)
Pitchers league age 15-16 must adhere to the following rest requirements:
● If a player pitches 76 or more pitches in a day, four (4) calendar days of rest must be observed.
● If a player pitches 61-75 pitches in a day, three (3) calendar days of rest must be observed.
● If a player pitches 46-60 pitches in a day, two (2) calendar days of rest must be observed.
● If a player pitches 31-45 pitches in a day, one (1) calendar day of rest must be observed.
● If a player pitches 1-30 pitches in a day, no (0) calendar day of rest is required.
NOTE 1: Under no circumstance shall a player pitch in three (3) consecutive days.
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NOTE 2: A pitcher’s pitch count for the purposes of day(s) rest threshold is determined by
the first pitch thrown to a batter. The pitcher may not start a new batter once the limit
imposed in Regulation VI(c) has been met.
Pitchers league age 14 and under must adhere to the following rest requirements:
● If a player pitches 66 or more pitches in a day, four (4) calendar days of rest must be observed.
● If a player pitches 51-65 pitches in a day, three (3) calendar days of rest must be observed.
● If a player pitches 36-50 pitches in a day, two (2) calendar days of rest must be observed.
● If a player pitches 21-35 pitches in a day, one (1) calendar day of rest must be observed.
● If a player pitches 1-20 pitches in a day, no (0) calendar day of rest is required.
NOTE 1: Under no circumstance shall a player pitch in three (3) consecutive days.
NOTE 2: A pitcher’s pitch count for the purposes of day(s) rest threshold is determined by
the first pitch thrown to a batter. The pitcher may not start a new batter once the limit
imposed in Regulation VI(c) has been met.
Breaking Pitches
Some within the baseball community have advocated for a ban on curveballs. However, the
study conclusions do not clearly support such a ban. Furthermore, a ban on breaking balls
would not be simple to put into practice. How does a volunteer Little League manager,
coach, or umpire know when a player is throwing a curveball? With such a wide range of
aptitude and ability, it’s practically impossible to judge if any youth pitcher intended to throw a
curveball or if that’s just how the ball came out of the pitcher’s hand. To task our dedicated
volunteers with judging the type of pitch thrown is not only unfair, it would be impractical.15
A five-year study, conducted by Little League Baseball and Softball, in collaboration with
USA Baseball, the governing body of amateur baseball in the United States, and the
Department of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill,
found that the primary cause of arm injuries in youth baseball players was overuse.16
It also
failed to show an increased risk of arm injury due to breaking pitches, such as curve balls.
The aim of the study, the first substantive research done in this area, was to describe the
incidence and prevalence of pitching arm injuries and examine the risk factors.
The study used three different test groups – Little League pitchers (ages 8-13); high
school-aged pitchers; and college-aged pitchers. The Little League test group consisted of
410 players who were followed for four years between 2006 and 2010. The test group from
the high school level was made up of 293 players who were recruited in 2007 and followed
for additional years. The college test group consisted of 629 players that were followed for
two years beginning in 2008.
16 The following information can be found on the Little League website, Youth Baseball Pitching Study Shows
Overuse is Primary Cause of Arm Injuries,
https://www.littleleague.org/partnerships/pitch-smart/overuse-primary-cause-arm-injuries/.
15
"The Learning Curve Little League® Seeks to Address Concerns, Answer Questions about Curveballs &
Overuse”, https://www.littleleague.org/downloads/learning-curve-unc-arm-safety-study/.
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The pitchers were surveyed each year to assess their pitching methods, techniques, pain
presence and injury occurrence. The factors acquired from the surveys were then analyzed
to assess which of those factors influenced pitching injury risk.
The study produced several findings including the following:
● The relationship between age, type of pitch and injury risk is complex, but there was
no clear evidence that throwing breaking pitches at an early age was an injury risk
factor; and;
● The data showed the primary cause of arm injuries is overuse, not the type of pitch.
With the rise in elbow and shoulder injuries in adolescent baseball pitchers, the adult
community needs to take steps to prevent these injuries.17 An adolescent pitcher may not
have enough physical development, neuromuscular control, and proper coaching instruction
to throw a curveball with good mechanics. Throwing curveballs too early may be
counter-productive, leading to arm fatigue as well as limiting the youth’s ability to master
fastball mechanics.
Thus, the recommendations for preventing injuries in adolescent baseball pitchers are:
● Watch and respond to signs of fatigue (such as decreased ball velocity, decreased
accuracy, upright trunk during pitching, dropped elbow during pitching, or increased
time between pitches). If an adolescent pitcher complains of fatigue or looks fatigued,
let him rest from pitching and other throwing.
● No overhead throwing of any kind for at least 2-3 months per year (4 months is
preferred). No competitive baseball pitching for at least 4 months per year.
● Do not pitch more than 100 innings in games in any calendar year.
● Follow limits for pitch counts and days rest.
● Avoid pitching on multiple teams with overlapping seasons.
● Learn good throwing mechanics as soon as possible. The first steps should be to
learn, in order: 1) basic throwing, 2) fastball pitching, 3) change-up pitching.
● Avoid using radar guns.
A pitcher should not also be a catcher for his team. The pitcher-catcher combination results
in many throws and may increase the risk of injury.
If a pitcher complains of pain in his elbow or shoulder, discontinue pitching until evaluated by
a sports medicine physician. Inspire adolescent pitchers to have fun playing baseball and
other sports. Participation and enjoyment of various physical activities will increase the
player’s athleticism and interest in sports.
17 American Sports Medicine Institute, "Position Statement for Adolescent Baseball Pitchers”, 2013.
https://asmi.org/position-statement-for-adolescent-baseball-pitchers/
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The study’s final two recommendations have long been a part in Little League® safety
initiatives: education at all levels of baseball, especially the youngest levels, including
coaching correct technique; and parent awareness of injury prevention programs.18
RECOGNIZING PITCHING ARM FATIGUE
As the pitcher’s pitch count rises, the Manager and Coaches need to be watching for signs of
arm fatigue.19
Generally, the first indications a pitcher is tiring are loss of control and a
reduction in velocity. In addition, it is likely a pitcher is tiring and should be removed from
the mound if:
● The pitcher rushes their motion trying to generate more power with the body and
reduce the stress on their arm. This action actually causes more stress because the
arm drags behind the normal throwing rhythm. The pitcher will have a greater loss of
hand and pitch speed.
● The pitcher shortens their arm deceleration path and follow-through. They will lose
normal arm extension during the release and deceleration phase.
● The pitcher takes more time between pitches, walks around the mound, etc.
● The pitcher stretches, shakes, or swings their arm or shoulder more between
pitches.
● The pitcher does not get their hand and elbow up to the normal height in the
cocked position. It will appear that they have lowered their elbow during the motion.
● The pitcher grimaces or flinches during the release and deceleration phase.
● Between innings, the pitcher massages their elbow (lower biceps) or top of the
shoulder (biceps tendon) area. With arm fatigue, the pitcher’s hand often trembles.
If a pitcher exhibits evidence of arm fatigue, take them out of the game and give their arm a
chance to rest for an inning or two. Do not compound their fatigue by putting them at a
position like catcher that will require them to continue to use their arm.
TEACH SAFE SLIDING TECHNIQUES
Players, especially at the Rookie and Minor League levels, need to be taught how to slide
into a base both properly and safely. At the outset, you need to understand that most, if not
all, of your players will not have received any formal instruction in sliding techniques. Some
of the players may even be afraid to slide. You need to tailor your instruction to your
players’ level of experience.
First, explain why and when it is necessary to slide.
In Little League, sliding is used:
1. to stop a player’s forward momentum at the base
2. to avoid a tag
19 B. Thurston, “Recognizing Pitching Faults and Injury Patterns”,
https://baseballarticles.com/recognizing-pitching-faults-and-injury-patterns/.
18 The following information is from "The Learning Curve Little League® Seeks to Address Concerns, Answer
Questions about Curveballs & Overuse”,
https://www.littleleague.org/downloads/learning-curve-unc-arm-safety-study/.
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3. to get back to the base; and,
4. always when the play is close
In the Juniors/Seniors divisions, sliding can also be used to break up a double play.
20
The Little League Playing Rules provide that any runner is out when they do not slide or
attempt to get around a fielder who has the ball and is waiting to make the tag. [Rule
7.08(a)(3)]. Headfirst slides are not permitted while advancing to a base in T-Ball, Farm Ball,
Rookie Minors, Minors or Majors; any runner at these levels who slides headfirst while
advancing is out. [Rule 7.08(a)(4)]. However, headfirst slides are permitted when returning
to a base. [Rulebook Appendix B, Safety Code for Little League].
Second, explain proper sliding technique
Players should be taught (1) to find a comfortable side for sliding; (2) how to land; and (3)
how to use a bent leg slide to insure safety. With respect to the sliding side, if the player
slides to their right side, they will usually use their right foot as the takeoff foot. Going to the
left side, they should use the left foot as the takeoff foot. As takeoff occurs, the arms are
thrown out or up, the upper body is extended backwards, and the feet forward, all somewhat
close to parallel to the ground.
When a player lands, they should land on their buttocks with their head up, arms out or up
for balance (never with the hands down for support), hands closed (to avoid finger injuries),
and toes upward. Major League baseball players sometimes put their batting gloves in their
hands or scoop up some dirt from the infield to remind themselves to keep their hands
closed when sliding.
The bent-leg slide, also known as a “Figure 4 slide,” is used most
frequently at the Little League level and is the easiest to teach. The
player tucks their left leg or right leg in a bent position and places
their foot under the other leg, which has a slight bend to it to reduce
the risk of ankle and leg injuries when sliding into the base. From
above, the player’s legs look like the number 4.
Third, run your players through a sliding drill, which should be
adapted to their level of skill. At the most basic level of skill, have
your players sit on the ground and alternate bending their left leg and
then their right leg in the bent leg tucked position. This will help
them find the most comfortable position for sliding.
If you have a commercial sliding pad available, place it on the
outfield grass. The pad is designed with a movable cloth sheet that
is draped over the top surface of the pad. The players slide into this
20 The information in this section is derived from T. O’Connell, “Sliding,” baseballtips.com, which can be found
online at https://baseballarticles.com/sliding/. O’Connell was inducted into the American Baseball Coaches
Association (ABCA) Hall of Fame in 2004. O’Connell’s coaching career spanned 36 years at the high school
and collegiate level, and he finished with a combined record of 634-431-11 (.590). O’Connell was the founder
of Massachusetts Baseball Coaches Association in 1967. He began his coaching career at Braintree High
School (1964-71) before moving on to the college ranks. He was head coach at Brandeis University (1972-82)
before taking over at Princeton University, where O’Connell’s teams won three Ivy League titles. He coached
at Princeton until his retirement in 1997.
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sheet, so place the loose end closest to your players,
who should be lined up single file about 5 feet away. If
you don’t have a sliding pad you can use recycled
cardboard boxes or an old sheet on the grass and have
your players take off their cleats.
Next, have each player stand on top of the sliding pad
and fall into the bent-leg slide from a standing position.
Do not have them take any steps, yet. The player should
concentrate on their landing and direction and getting the
bent leg tucked in underneath. You can then have all the players practice from a standing
position with three walking steps. Players that are comfortable on either side should practice
both; however, others should perfect their best side first.
Next, all players should slide with a running four-to-five step start. Eventually, work up to
having them run and slide into the pad from 15 feet away. A slide usually begins about two
body lengths from the base, so they should learn how far they can slide with a good, running
start.
During drills, the coaches can correct any mistakes by carefully watching the position in
which the player lands. Make sure they have the hands out or up, the body is extended with
head up, one leg is bent and tucked underneath the other, and the toes are up. The player’s
buttocks and calf of the bent leg should show the wear of absorbing the force of the slide;
otherwise, they are landing incorrectly.
ADVANCED SLIDING TECHNIQUES
Bent Leg and Pop-Up
As you slide, place the foot of the extended leg on the base, throw the weight forward, and
raise the body in one motion. Continue running to the next base.
Bent-Leg and Hook Slide
Slide right or left of the bag by three-to-four feet, depending on the player’s size. When
approaching the base, bend the extended (top) leg back, and it will hook the bag when
sliding by. Remember, the left foot hooks the bag sliding to the right, and the right foot hooks
the bag sliding to the left.
Real Hook Slide
Same landing position as previously discussed. However, both legs remain extended toward
the bag. As the bag is contacted, the toe of the inside foot will hook the base, and the knee
will bend at the same time. The outside foot will continue past the bag and off the ground.
On the hook slide, if sliding right, hook with the left foot and leg, keeping the right leg
extended and off the ground. If sliding left, hook with the right foot and leg, keeping the left
leg extended and off the ground.
MOUTHGUARDS
In 2023, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry revised their Policy on Prevention of
Sports-Related Orofacial Injuries based upon a review of current dental and medical
literature related to orofacial injuries. The report recognizes,
“Popular sports such as baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, volleyball, and gymnastics
lag far behind in injury protection. Baseball accounts for most injuries in the seven- to
12-year-old age group”, and, “Although some sports-related traumatic injuries are
unavoidable, most can be prevented.40-42 Helmets, facemasks, and mouthguards have
been shown to reduce both the frequency and severity of dental and orofacial trauma.
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Piatt21
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[...] The protective and positive results of wearing a mouthguard have been
demonstrated in numerous epidemiological surveys and tests.” 21
The league recommends that pitchers, particularly in the Major League, use a properly
fitted mouthguard. At the Little League level, the pitching rubber sits only 46 feet away
from the plate, compared with 60.5 feet at the Juniors’/Seniors’ level. Due to the shorter
distance, a line drive “comebacker” hit at a Little League pitcher will reach the mound in less
than half a second. A pitcher may not be able to react in such a short period of time to
protect themselves.
Even in the Juniors and Seniors’, a mouthguard is highly recommended for pitchers. While
the mound is further away than in Little League, the hitters are bigger and stronger. Pitchers
at this level face the same risk of injury from a hard-hit comebacker.
Mouthguards are also recommended for infielders, who often must deal with bad hops
from ground balls. A properly fitted mouthguard will reduce the potential for dental trauma in
such a situation.
MAKE SURE YOUR PLAYERS USE SUNSCREEN
When she was 14, Charlie Guild of Corte Madera was badly sunburned after she forgot to
reapply her sunscreen at a pool party.
22
Two years later, she received another bad sunburn
while on a family Christmas vacation trip to Puerto Vallarta.
Charlie was just 25 when she learned she had melanoma. She died from it eight months
later, in November 2003. Her mother, Valerie Guild, said “I never had the faintest idea that
literally a burn could cause you to get a fatal disease. It can.”23
Most people receive 80 percent of their entire life’s exposure to the sun by the time they turn
18. Sun overexposure, which can trigger skin cancer, is therefore mostly experienced as a
child and young adult, the years when children are involved in Little League.
In November 2004, Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig, 73, was diagnosed
with a Level IV melanoma after his physician noticed a blotch on the skin above his right eye
during a routine examination.24
The following month, he underwent surgery, which included
the removal of two lymph nodes. Fortunately, the pathology showed no spread of the cancer,
and Selig was given a clean bill of health.25
25 T. Boswell, “Steroids? Politics? Selig Discovers Perspective,” The Washington Post (December 25, 2004),
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A24872-2004Dec24.html.
24
“Selig Treated for Skin Cancer in New York,” FOXSports.com (December 8, 2004). See also, “Selig Has
Surgery for Skin Cancer, The New York TImes (December 7, 2004), available from the paper’s archives at:
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9D01E1D61431F934A35751C1A9629C8B63.
23 Karen Springen, Newsweek, “Dying to be Tan” (6/27/05) https://www.newsweek.com/dying-be-tan-119953
22 Karen Springen, Newsweek, “Dying to be Tan” (6/27/05) https://www.newsweek.com/dying-be-tan-119953
As a result of Charlie’s death, the Guild family has started the Charlie Guild Melanoma Foundation, now AIM at
Melanoma is a global foundation dedicated to finding more effective treatments and, ultimately, the cure for
melanoma (https://www.aimatmelanoma.org/). See also, J. Ryan, “Grieving Moms Fight Melanoma,” San
Francisco Chronicle (July 4, 2004), available at
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2004/07/04/BAG157GN181.DTL.
21 American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Policy on prevention of sports-related orofacial injuries. The
Reference Manual of Pediatric Dentistry. Chicago, Ill.: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; 2024:124-9.
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Shonda Schilling, the 40-year-old wife of Boston Red Sox ace pitcher Curt Schilling, learned
that she had melanoma in February 2001.
Although she grew up in the Baltimore area, Shonda always felt that being tan was a priority
and spent hours every year sunbathing. Since her diagnosis, she has had two Stage II
melanomas and four melanoma in situ’s removed from her back, chest, legs, and arms in five
different surgeries.
As a result of her experience, Shonda established The SHADE Foundation
(http://www.shadefoundation.org) with the goal of educating children about the risks of sun
exposure and providing information on sun-safe products and clothing.26
Educate your players about the risk of sun over-exposure and teach them to look for signs of
abnormal moles or other skin blemishes that might be precursors of skin cancer. Victims
have died of melanoma as early as their early 20’s.
Remind players that sunscreen is a vital part of their pre-game warm-ups and should be
worn anytime when playing, especially between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM, when the
sun’s rays are at their strongest.
Melanoma Statistics
● Malignant melanoma is increasing faster than any other cancer.
● California has one of the highest rates of melanoma cases in the nation. Other states
with high rates include Arizona, Florida, Texas, and New York.
● Past prevalence rates of individuals diagnosed with melanoma were 1 in 1500
people. Current rates are 1 in 75.
Signs of Melanoma (ABCDs of Melanoma)
A. Asymmetry, one half of the mole is unlike the other.
B. Border is irregular in outline.
C. Color changes or varies from light to dark brown.
D. Diameter of the mole is larger that a pencil eraser.
Increased Risk Factors for Melanoma
If you have any of the following, you should see a dermatologist for a melanoma screening:
● Light colored eyes, fair skin, blonde/red hair or light brown hair
● Freckles or many moles on the body
● Anyone with considerable sun exposure or use of tanning parlors/booths
● Family history of skin cancer
Prevention
● Wear protective clothing, large brim hats, long sleeves, pants, and sunglasses
● Keep children under the age of 6 months out of the sun completely
● Use sunscreen SPF-30 or higher that protects against both UVA/UVB rays. Look for
sunscreen that contains zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or Parsol 1789. Apply the
sunscreen half an hour before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours when
outdoors or after getting out of the water
26 This information is taken from “Shonda’s Story,” originally published on http://shadefoundation.org/about/.
See also, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJMOw0aXCoM.
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● Winter sun is dangerous, especially at higher altitudes when skiing or hiking
● Schedule annual body mole checks with a dermatologist or knowledgeable physician
● Schedule follow-up visits once a mole is removed
KEEP YOUR PLAYERS HYDRATED
When children are physically active, their muscles generate heat, thereby increasing their
body temperature. As the body temperature rises, the body’s cooling mechanism --
perspiration -- kicks in. As a child perspires, their sweat evaporates, and the body is cooled.
Unfortunately, children get hotter than adults during physical activity, and their cooling
mechanism is not as efficient as an adult’s. If fluids are not replaced, children can become
overheated and dehydrated. This is as true in the cooler days of spring as it is in the hotter
summer months. The additional clothing children wear to stay warm on cool spring evenings
makes it difficult for sweat to evaporate, so the body does not cool as quickly.
During both practices and games, your players must be encouraged to drink fluids
even when they don’t feel thirsty. You should schedule drink breaks every 15 to 30
minutes during practices and encourage your players to drink fluids between the innings of
games.
Appropriate drinks for the dugout include water and sports drinks like Gatorade. Fruit juices,
which are high in carbohydrates, may cause stomach cramps, nausea, and diarrhea when
the child becomes active. Avoid carbonated drinks like sodas because they may decrease
fluid volume and many contain caffeine, which is a diuretic and can dehydrate the body
further.
BATTING CAGE GUIDELINES
● Adult supervision is required at all times when the batting cage is in use
● If a pitching machine is used to deliver the balls, the pitching machine must be
operated by an adult
● Only one batter and one pitcher/pitching machine operator are allowed in the cage at
a time
● The pitcher/pitching machine operator must use an “L” fence protector
● Every child in the batting cage, both hitters and pitchers, should wear a batting
helmet
● Make sure that observers do not stand close enough to the net that they could be
struck by a ball that hits the netting
ADDITIONAL HEALTH TIPS FOR BASEBALL
Temple University Hospital27 has compiled the following health tips that you should know to
keep your players healthy and prevent injury:
27 These tips are part of the advice given to Little League coaches by Jim Rogers, a certified athletic trainer at
Temple University Hospital’s Sports Medicine Center. Rogers notes that “many adults don’t realize children’s
bodies can’t take the same amount of physical stress adult bodies can take. That’s because children are still
growing and therefore are more susceptible to injury.” Rogers’ advice can be found online at
https://baseballarticles.com/category/health-strength/.
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● Stretching the muscles related to the activity is very important. For example, if a child
is pitching, he or she should concentrate on stretching their arm and back muscles. If
a child is catching, the focus should be on the legs and back.
● A good warm-up is just as important as stretching. A warm-up can involve light
calisthenics or a short jog. This helps raise the core body temperature and prepares
all of the body’s muscles for physical activity.
● Children should not be encouraged to “play through pain.” Pain is a warning sign of
injury. Ignoring it can lead to greater injury.
● Swelling with pain and limitation of motion are two signs that are especially significant
in children. Don’t ignore them. They may mean the child has a more serious injury
than initially suspected.
● Rest is by far the most powerful therapy in youth sports injuries. Nothing helps an
injury heal faster than rest.
● Children who play on more than one team are especially at risk for overuse injuries.
● Injuries that look like sprains in adults can be fractures in children. Children are more
susceptible to fractures because their bones are still growing.
● Children’s growth spurts can make for increased risk of injury. A particularly sensitive
area in a child’s body during a growth spurt is the growth plate -- the area of growth in
the bone. Growth plates are weak spots in a child’s body and can be the source of
injury if the child is pushed beyond their limit athletically.
● Ice is a universal first aid treatment for minor sports injuries. Ice controls the pain
and swelling caused by common injuries such as sprains, strains, and contusions.
LIGHTNING SAFETY PROCEDURES
While Northern California rarely experiences thunderstorms, you must understand the risks
associated with such storms and know what steps to take in the event one occurs during a
practice or game.28
Lightning and Its Dangers
● The average thunderstorm is 6-10 miles wide and moves at a rate of 25 miles per
hour
● The average lightning stroke is 5-6 miles long with up to 30 million volts at 100,000
amps flowing in less than a tenth of a second
● All thunderstorms produce lightning and are dangerous
● In an average year, lightning kills more people in the U.S. than either tornadoes or
hurricanes
Lightning often strikes outside the area of heavy rain and may strike as far as 10 miles from
any rainfall. Once the leading edge of a thunderstorm approaches to within 10 miles, you
are at immediate risk due to the possibility of lightning strokes coming from the storm’s
28 This guidance is provided from the Little League Rulebook, Appendix A.
https://www.littleleague.org/playing-rules/appendices/appendix-a/
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overhanging anvil cloud. This fact is the reason that many lightning deaths and injuries
occur with clear skies overhead.
If you hear thunder, you are in danger. On average, the thunder from a lightning stroke can
only be heard over a distance of 10 miles, depending on terrain, humidity, and background
noise around you. By the time you can hear the thunder, the storm has already approached
to within 10 miles. The sudden cold wind that many people use to gauge the approach of a
thunderstorm is the result of downdrafts and usually extends less than 3 miles from the
storm’s leading edge. By the time you feel the wind, the storm can be less than 3 miles
away!
You can gauge the proximity of a lightning strike by counting the number of seconds between
the sight of lightning and the sound of thunder that follows. Play should be halted and
evacuation of the area called for when the count between the lightning flash and the sound of
thunder is 30 seconds or less.
To avoid exposing players and spectators to the risk of lightning, take the following
precautions
● Postpone activities if thunderstorms are imminent. Prior to an event, check the
latest forecast and, when necessary, postpone activities early to avoid being caught in
a dangerous situation. Stormy weather can endanger the lives of participants, staff,
and spectators.
● Keep an eye on the sky. Pay attention to weather clues that may warn of imminent
danger. Look for darkening skies, flashes of lightning, or increasing wind, which may
be signs of an approaching thunderstorm.
● Listen for thunder. If you hear thunder, immediately suspend the practice or game
and instruct everyone to get to a safe place. Substantial buildings provide the best
protection. Once inside, stay off corded phones and stay away from any wiring or
plumbing. Avoid sheds, small or open shelters, dugouts, bleachers or grandstands. If
a sturdy building is not nearby, a hard-topped metal vehicle with the windows closed
will offer good protection, but avoid touching any metal.
● Avoid open areas. Stay away from trees, towers, and utility poles. Lightning tends
to strike the taller objects.
● Stay away from metal bleachers, backstops, and fences. Lightning can travel long
distances through metal. Do not permit players to hold any metal objects such as
metal bats.
● Do not resume activities until 30 minutes after the last thunder was heard.
If you feel your hair on end (indicating lightning is about to strike)
● Crouch down on the balls of your feet, put your hands over your ears, and bend
your head down. Make yourself as small a target as possible and minimize your
contact with the ground.
● Do not lie flat on the ground.
What to do if someone is struck by lightning
Most lightning strike victims can survive a lightning strike. However, medical attention may
be needed immediately.
● Lightning victims do not carry an electrical charge, are safe to handle, and need
immediate medical attention.
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● Call for help. Have someone call 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911
(Marin) from a cell phone). Medical attention is needed as soon as possible.
● Give first aid. Cardiac arrest is the immediate cause of death in lightning fatalities.
However, some deaths can be prevented if the victim receives the proper first aid
immediately. Check the victim to see that they are breathing and have a pulse and
continue to monitor the victim until help arrives. Begin CPR if necessary. (See p. 48
for a review of CPR). If an AED is available, use it to analyze the person’s heart
rhythm and, if necessary, shock the heart to restore the natural sinus rhythm.
● If possible, move the victim to a safer place. An active thunderstorm is still
dangerous. Don’t let the rescuers become victims. Lightning CAN strike the same
place twice.
General Safety Rules
GENERAL ACCIDENT PREVENTION
The league encourages parents and players to consider how they can incorporate safety in
their thinking from the time they leave their homes to come to the games.
Parents should be reminded repeatedly of their responsibility to:
● See that all passengers use seat belts. California law requires all vehicle occupants
to be seat belted while a vehicle is in operation. Only adults and children older than
12 should sit in the front passenger seat if the car has a passenger-side airbag.
Children must be secured in an appropriate child passenger restraint (safety seat or
booster seat) until they are at least 6 years old or weigh at least 60 pounds. Do not
carry passengers in cargo areas of vans and pick-ups.
● See that their vehicles are in safe operating condition.
● Observe all traffic signs and regulations.
● Drive defensively.
Youngsters who are walking or biking to or from the field should be reminded to:
● Not hitch rides.
● Use street or highway crossings protected by traffic signals as much as possible.
● Always walk in single file off the roadway, and on the side against the flow of traffic
where there are no sidewalks.
● Wear light-colored clothing and carry a flashlight when walking along a road after
dark.
● Be just as alert to the dangers of moving traffic when in a group as when alone. Do
not depend on others.
● Observe bicycle safety rules.
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BICYCLE SAFETY RULES
If a child will be riding their bicycle to the field for practices or games, here are some
important safety tips:
● Know the route.
● Wear a properly fitted helmet.
● Complete the ABC Bike Safety Check.
Plan the safest route from your home to the field with your child, and practice riding the route
together. Promote good riding skills including obeying all traffic laws, riding to the right of
the road, and wearing helmets properly.
Medical research shows that 85% of a cyclist’s head injuries can be prevented by the correct
use of a helmet. Your child’s helmet should fit snugly and be worn level on their head,
covering the forehead. The straps should be comfortably snug under the chin so that the
helmet stays in place. If the helmet is properly adjusted, it should not move more than an
inch in any direction,
A bike safety check requires the following before each ride:
● Air. Make sure the tires have the proper amount of air pressure. Improperly inflated
tires cause wear and place the rider in danger. The required amount of pressure can
be found on the side of the tire.
● Brakes. Make sure the brakes are in good working order. Brakes should bring the
bike to a halt within a safe distance. Lever brakes should not pull closer than
one-half the distance to the handlebar.
● Crank. The crank is the part of the bicycle where the sprocket, chain and pedals are
connected. There should be no wobble or play when you move the crank arms side
to side.
Have your child take a test ride on the sidewalk or in the driveway prior to leaving for the
field. If the bicycle is not functioning properly, have it repaired by a qualified technician
before letting your child ride.
Please remind your child not to wear a bike helmet when playing on playground equipment.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has received reports of two strangulation
deaths to children when their bike safety helmets became stuck in openings on playground
equipment resulting in hanging. When a child gets off a bike, they should take off their
helmet.
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House Rules For Parents And Players
At League Fields
In addition to the safety procedures that have been adopted to improve safety conditions on
and around the field, San Francisco Little League has developed a set of safety rules aimed
at parents, players, and spectators to be observed prior to, during, and following practices
and games. Please make sure you communicate these matters to your players and their
parents. These apply to ALL Little League fields of play
● The speed limit is 5 mph in roadway and parking lots while attending any league
function. Drivers should watch for small children around parked cars.
● No alcohol is allowed in any parking lot, field, or common areas where league
activities occur.
● There is NO SMOKING including e-cigarettes in the stands or around the field at any
league practice or game.
● Children should not be permitted to play in the parking lots at any time.
● Use crosswalks when crossing the roadway. Always be alert for traffic.
● No profanity.
● Players on their way to and from games shall not swing bats or throw baseballs at any
time until they reach the field area and are under the supervision of a Manager or
Coach.
● No throwing or batting balls against dugouts or against the backstop.
● No throwing rocks or other objects.
● No horseplay in the walkways at any time.
● No climbing fences.
● No pets are permitted at league games or practices.
● No dogs allowed on any diamonds or athletic fields including SF Rec & Park,
Paul Goode, Fort Scott, and Treasure Island.
● Observe all posted signs. Players and spectators should be alert at all times for foul
balls and errant throws.
● After each game, each team must clean up trash in the dugout and around the stands.
Failure to comply with the above may result in expulsion from league fields and
activities.
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Treating Baseball Related Injuries
INJURY MANAGEMENT
In the event of an injury to a player, the Manager and Coaches must take control and
manage the situation. This requires an assessment of the severity of the injury, deciding
whether the injury requires emergency medical assistance, providing appropriate first aid to
treat the injury, and simultaneously dealing with the other players on the team. Some things
to keep in mind:
● Make sure all play is stopped to protect the injured player from further injury as well
as to protect the other members of the team who are not being closely monitored due
to the coaching staff’s focus on the injured player.
● Check the player’s breathing, pulse, and alertness to enable you to judge the
seriousness of the injury.
● If necessary, call or have someone else call for emergency assistance by dialing
9-1-1 or, if using a cell phone, 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin).
○ Send someone to the nearest intersection to direct the emergency medical
personnel to your location.
● Review the medical release form found in the coaches binder for important
information regarding any medical conditions the injured player may have.
● Call or notify the player’s parents. Their telephone number(s) can be found on the
medical release form found in the coaches binder.
● Evaluate the seriousness of the injury.
○ Determine if the player can be moved off the field. If so, move the player to
the sideline for a closer examination. If not, clear an area around the player
and begin an evaluation of their condition.
○ Determine if the player can return to the field or needs first aid. If first aid is
required, you should be prepared to provide the appropriate treatment.
■ Administer first aid, if necessary. (See p. 62 for details).
■ If the Emergency Dispatch Center has been contacted, turn over care
to the professionals when they arrive and assist as necessary.
■ If the parents are not available, go to the hospital with the ambulance.
Turn over responsibility for the other players to an Assistant Coach.
■ If emergency medical treatment is not required, urge the parents and
player to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
■ Record the injury on the ASAP Incident/Injury Tracking Report, a copy
of which can be found in the Appendix. Notify the league Safety Officer
within 24 hours. (See p. 69).
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CALLING FOR EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
When to Call
If a player or spectator suffers an injury or develops a serious medical condition during a
practice or game, the first decision you must make is whether to seek emergency medical
care by dialing 9-1-1. If you are uncertain whether to call 9-1-1, your decision has been
made for you -- call 9-1-1 immediately.
Also, please note that the average response time on 9-1-1 calls is 5 to 7 minutes. En route,
paramedics are in constant communication with the local hospital preparing them for
whatever emergency action might need to be taken. You cannot do this.
Therefore, never try to transport an accident victim to the hospital. Perform whatever first aid
you are capable of to stabilize the victim and wait for the paramedics to arrive.
What Number to Call
The telephone number you dial for emergency medical assistance is dependent on whether
you are placing the call from a public (or other land based) telephone or from a cell phone.
● From a public phone (or other land-based phone): 9-1-1
● From a cell phone, a 9-1-1 call will connect you to the California Highway Patrol.
Therefore, you must call these numbers from a cell phone to reach the Dispatch Center:
● From a cell phone: 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin)
Remember: When calling for assistance, either by dialing 9-1-1 or 415-553-8090, the
dispatcher will be able to provide instructions for any emergency. STAY CALM, the other
children and parents will take their clues from you!
WHEN TO CALL AN AMBULANCE
● When you suspect a neck or spine injury. The Little Leaguer may have a loss of
sensation or is unable to move body parts.)
● The Little Leaguer experiences loss of consciousness no matter how long or how short
● When a Little Leaguer is not breathing. The Little Leaguer’s chest is not rising, he or she
is turning bluish in color and there is no air exchange.
● You suspect a severe or serious head injury.
● When you suspect heatstroke. The Little Leaguer may become disoriented or confused,
there is an absence of sweating, and the skin is flushed and warm.
● Spleen injury. The signs of a spleen injury are severe abdominal pains which could
become worse; the Little Leaguer may have pain in the shoulder region, usually on the
left side. Earlier signs: Little Leaguer is pale and has a rapid pulse.
● Severe bleeding. Bleeding that cannot be controlled through direct pressure.
● Cardiac arrest. Little Leaguer could go into cardiac arrest from a severe blow to the
heart, for example, from a baseball or respiratory arrest.
● Respiratory Distress. If a Little Leaguer is having trouble breathing, and is short of
breath, and they have used their inhaler and they appear to be getting worse call 9-1-1.
● Abnormal position of extremity or if you suspect a fracture that you are unable to
immobilize to transport to hospital. Examples include a dislocated ankle or displaced leg
fracture.
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WHEN TO SEND LITTLE LEAGUER TO A DOCTOR/HOSPITAL
Send the injured Little Leaguer immediately to the hospital or doctor when:
● The injury results in immediate or obvious inflammation or swelling.
● It involves a wound or external bleeding from a laceration or incision that requires
stitches.
● There is a suspicion of possible concussion. So if he has visual disturbance, inability
to walk correctly, disorientation, and memory loss (See head injury sheet for more
detailed information)
● You are unsure of the extent of the injury. Always protect your Little Leaguer and
yourself. PLAY IT SAFE!
WHAT IS FIRST AID?
As the name implies, first aid refers to the first level of care given to an injured person. It is
usually performed by the first person on the scene and continued until professional medical
assistance arrives. At no time should anyone administering first aid go beyond his or her
capabilities. Know your limits!
In order to ensure that the league has properly trained adults at every practice and game,
each Manager and Coach is required to complete a course in first aid along with CPR
certification on a biannual basis.
A thorough review of the topics covered by the league’s first aid course can be found
beginning on page 62 of the Safety Manual.
FIRST AID KITS
San Francisco Little League has equipped each playing field with a first aid kit that contains
the following items:
⇒ Instant Ice Packs
⇒ Nitrile (Non-Latex) Gloves
⇒ 2x2 gauze
⇒ 4x4 gauze
⇒ Regular Strip Bandages
⇒ Extra Large Adhesive Bandages
⇒ 1 CPR Face mask
⇒ 1 Roll of Tape
⇒ Alcohol swabs
These First Aid Kits are stored in the following locations:
● Team’s Equipment Bag
● Tepper Snack Shack
● Ketcham Field Shed
Teams in all divisions of play are also equipped with small, portable First Aid Kits as part of
their team equipment. Please take these with you to all practices and games that take place
in other communities.
The kits are replenished at regular intervals by the league Safety Officer. If you notice that
any of the kits are missing the enumerated items, please let the Safety Officer know as soon
as possible.
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GOOD SAMARITAN STATUTES
California has adopted several “Good Samaritan” statutes that grant specified immunity from
liability arising out of acts or omissions committed during the rendition of emergency medical
care. While this discussion should not be considered legal advice and is not intended to be
an exhaustive account of the scope of this immunity, a brief summary follows:
Physicians
Physicians who in good faith render emergency care at the scene of an emergency cannot
be held liable for damages resulting from their acts or omissions committed during the
rendering of such care. [Business & Professions Code §2395]. The determination of
whether the care was provided in “good faith” is a fact question as to whether the physician
believed he or she was responding to an emergency or, instead, whether, under the
circumstances, a physician acting in good faith would have reasonably concluded his or her
immediate assistance was not required. Bryant v. Bakshandeh (1991) 226 Cal.App.3d 1241,
1247.
Lay Volunteers
No person, whether or not a trained medical professional, who, in good faith and not for
compensation, renders emergency care at the scene of an emergency can be held liable for
damages resulting from any act or omission in connection with the rendition of that aid.
[Heath & Safety Code §1799.102].
CPR Training
In addition, no person who has completed a basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (“CPR”)
course which complies with American Heart Association or American Red Cross standards,
and who in good faith renders emergency CPR at the scene of an emergency can be held
liable for damages resulting from any acts or omissions arising out of the rendition of such
aid unless his or her conduct in rendering the CPR amounted to “gross negligence” or he or
she rendered the CPR with the expectation of receiving payment. [Civil Code §1714.2(a), (b)
& (e)]. This immunity also extends to the entity or organization that provided, supervised or
sponsored the CPR training and to the instructor who gave the training (provided the
instructor was properly supervised). [Civil Code §1714.2(c) & (d)].
AED Training
Further, any person who, in good faith and not for compensation, renders emergency care or
treatment by the use of an AED at the scene of an emergency is not liable for any civil
damages resulting from any acts or omissions in rendering the emergency care, provided the
user has not acted with gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct. [Civil Code
§1714.21(b) and (f)].
Heimlich Maneuver
Finally, those individuals who administer the “Heimlich Maneuver” or other first aid
procedures (not involving the insertion of any physical instrument or device into the mouth or
throat) in attempting to remove food stuck in another person’s throat are immune from civil
liability when acting in emergency situations. [Health & Safety Code §114180].
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COMMUNICABLE DISEASE PROCEDURES
1. Bleeding must be stopped, the open wound covered, and the uniform changed if
there is blood on it before the athlete may continue.
2. Routinely use gloves to prevent mucous membrane exposure when contact with
blood or other body fluids is anticipated (Provided in the first aid kit).
3. Immediately wash hands and other skin surfaces if contaminated with blood.
4. Clan all blood contaminated surfaces and equipment.
5. Managers, Coaches, and Volunteers with open wounds should refrain from all direct
contact until the condition is resolved.
6. Follow accepted guidelines in the immediate control of bleeding and disposal when
handling bloody dressings, mouth guards and other articles containing body fluids.
LITTLE LEAGUE EXCESS INSURANCE
San Francisco Little League provides excess insurance coverage through Little League
Baseball® for injuries suffered to players during practices and games. This insurance is to
be used as a supplement to other insurance carried under a family policy or insurance
provided by the player’s parent’s employer. If there is no primary coverage, Little League
insurance will provide benefits for eligible charges, up to Usual and Customary allowances
for our area, after a $50.00 deductible per claim, up to the maximum stated benefits.
If a child sustains a covered injury while taking part in a scheduled Little League Baseball®
game or practice, here is how the insurance works:
● The Little League Baseball® Accident Notification Form must be completed by the
child’s parents (if the claimant is under 19 years of age) and a league official and
forwarded directly to Little League Headquarters within 20 days after the accident.
Initial medical/dental treatment must be rendered within 30 days of the Little League
accident.
● Itemized bills, including description of service, date of service, procedure and
diagnosis codes for medical services/supplies and/or other documentation related to
a claim for benefits are to be provided within 90 days after the accident. In no event
shall such proof be furnished later than 12 months from the date the initial medical
expense was incurred.
● When other insurance is present, the parents or claimant must forward copies of the
Explanation of Benefits or Notice/Letter of Denial for each charge directly to Little
League Headquarters, even if the charges do not exceed the deductible of the
primary insurance program.
● The policy provides benefits for eligible medical expenses incurred within 52 weeks
of the accident, subject to Excess Coverage and Exclusion provisions of the plan.
● Limited deferred medical/dental benefits may be available for necessary treatment
after the 52-week time limit when:
○ Deferred medical benefits apply when necessary treatment requiring the removal
of a pin/plate, applied to transfix a bone in the year of injury, or scar tissue
removal, after the 52-week time limit is required. The Company will pay the
Reasonable Expense incurred, subject to the Policy’s maximum limit of $100,000
for any one injury to any one Insured. However, in no event will any benefit be
paid under this provision for any expenses incurred more than 24 months from the
date the injury was sustained.
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○ If the Insured incurs Injury to sound, natural teeth and Necessary Treatment requires
treatment for that Injury be postponed to a date more than 52 weeks after the injury
due to, but not limited to, the physiological changes of a growing child, the Company
will pay the lesser of: (1) A maximum of $1,500 or (2) Reasonable Expenses incurred
for the deferred dental treatment.
○ Reasonable Expenses incurred for deferred dental treatment are only covered if they
are incurred on or before the Insured’s 23rd birthday. Reasonable Expenses incurred
for deferred root canal therapy are only covered if they are incurred within 104 weeks
after the date the Injury occurs. No payment will be made for deferred treatment
unless the Physician submits written certification, within 52 weeks after the accident,
that the treatment must be postponed for the above stated reasons. Benefits are
payable subject to the Excess Coverage and the Exclusions provisions of the Policy.
MEDICAL RELEASE REQUIREMENTS
Where any player has suffered an injury that requires medical treatment, whether or not the
injury occurred while playing baseball, the player’s parent or guardian must provide the league
Safety Officer with a copy of a signed medical release from the player’s physician authorizing
them to resume play before they will be permitted to return to the field.
First Aid
This section of the league Safety Manual is designed to serve as a refresher course on the
topics and issues that are discussed in the league’s first aid training program.
Required Training
All Managers and Coaches in the league are required to take a first aid training class once
every other year, and at least one Manager and Coach from each team is required to take the
class each year. Classes are offered annually by the league prior to Opening Day. Physicians
and other individuals (e.g., police officers, fire fighters, etc.) who are trained as part of their
professional duties, are exempt from this requirement.
CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (“CPR”)
What is CPR?
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (“CPR”) involves a series of assessments and skills used in
sequence to provide rescue support and maintain some oxygen and blood flow to the heart and
brain of an individual who has stopped breathing. This is the second of four links in the
American Heart Association Chain of Survival. The four links encompass:
● Phone 9-1-1 or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) to activate the emergency
medical services (EMS) system.
● Starting CPR.
● Early defibrillation by trained rescuers or EMS personnel; and,
● Advanced care by EMS and hospital personnel.
CPR is the critical link that buys time between the first link (calling 9-1-1) and the third link (early
defibrillation). CPR allows oxygen to flow to the brain and heart until defibrillation or other
advanced care can restore normal heart rhythm. Victims of cardiac arrest who receive CPR
from bystanders are more than twice as likely to survive as victims who do not receive such
support. The earlier you give CPR to a person in cardiac or respiratory arrest, the greater the
victim’s chance of survival.29
29 American Heart Association, “Cardiac Arrest.”
https://www.heart.org/en/about-us/heart-attack-and-stroke-symptoms. The AHA estimates that more than 95
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HOW TO RECOGNIZE A HEART ATTACK
A heart attack (acute myocardial infarction) occurs when a coronary artery becomes blocked,
and the heart muscle is dying. The most common signs of a heart attack are:
● Uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, heaviness, or pain in the center of the
chest that lasts for more that a few minutes or that goes away and comes back.
● Pain to the neck, jaw or down the left arm.
● Chest discomfort with lightheadedness, fainting, sweating, nausea or shortness of
breath.
Not all warning symptoms occur in every heart attack. People who are having a heart attack
may complain of vague signs or symptoms. If any symptoms occur, don’t wait. Get help
immediately. Phone 9-1-1 or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) (cell phone). Delay
can be deadly.
After you have phoned 9-1-1, have the person rest quietly and calmly. Help the person into a
position that allows the easiest breathing.
HOW TO RECOGNIZE CARDIAC ARREST
When a coronary artery is blocked during a heart attack, the heart muscle is deprived of
oxygen and may stop pumping blood. The heart muscle may begin to quiver in the abnormal
heart rhythm called ventricular fibrillation (“VF”). This produces cardiac arrest. The only
treatment for VF is defibrillation with an automated external defibrillator (“AED”). If CPR is
provided until an AED arrives, defibrillation is more likely to be successful.
A victim of cardiac arrest will have three (3) red flag signs:
● No response. Victims of cardiac arrest do not respond when you speak to them or
touch them. If you are alone with someone who suddenly becomes unresponsive,
immediately phone 9-1-1. If a second rescuer is present, send them to call 9-1-1
while you begin CPR.
● No normal breathing
● No signs of circulation. Once you discover that the victim is unresponsive and 9-1-1
has been called, begin CPR. If the person in cardiac arrest does not take a normal
breath when you check for breathing, or if they are gasping for breath, you should
begin chest compressions immediately. If the victim does not have a pulse or you are
unsure if they have a pulse, begin chest compressions immediately.
CPR WILL NOT HURT SOMEONE IF THEY DON’T NEED IT. THE PERSON WILL DIE IF
THEY NEED CPR AND NO ONE PROVIDES IT.
percent of cardiac arrest victims die before reaching the hospital. Brain death and permanent death start to
occur in just 4 to 6 minutes after someone experiences cardiac arrest. In cities where defibrillation is provided
within 5-7 minutes, the survival rate from sudden cardiac arrest is as high as 49 percent.
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HOW TO PERFORM CPR (ON ADULTS AND CHILDREN)
Step 1: Check response. Before performing CPR, check whether the individual is
responsive by gently shaking them and asking, “Are you OK?”
If they are unresponsive and are not breathing or no normal breathing
Step 2: Call 9-1-1. If the person is unresponsive, phone 9-1-1 immediately or send someone
else to phone 9-1-1. Remember, from a cell phone you must dial 9-1-1 or 415-553-8090 (SF),
415-472-0911 (Marin) This number will connect you directly to the Emergency Dispatch
Center.
Carefully place the person flat on their back on a firm surface. If the person is injured or you
suspect an injury, move them only if necessary and turn the head, neck, and body as a unit.
If you can, send someone else to get an automatic external defibrillator (AED)
Then, remember C-A-B: Circulation – Airway – Breathing
Step 3: Check for Signs of Circulation. Now look for signs of circulation (e.g., normal
breathing, coughing or movement). Do not take more than 10 seconds to check for signs of
circulation. If you are not confident that signs of circulation are present, start chest
compressions.
Step 4: Begin Chest Compressions. To provide chest compressions, place the heel of one
hand on the center of the chest right between the nipples. This positions the hand on the
lower half of the breastbone. Place the heel of the second hand on top of the first hand.
Position your body directly over your hands. Your shoulders should be above your hands, your
elbows should be straight (not bent), and you should look down on your hands. Push hard at
a rate of 100 to 120 compressions a minute.
For an ADULT push the breastbone in 11⁄2 to 2 inches with each compression. According to
new guidelines from the American Heart Association, “Push hard, push fast.” For a small
child use one or two hands on the lower half of the chest. Press down 1/3 the depth of the
chest or at least 2 inches. Allow the chest to return to its normal shape between compressions
but leave your hands on the chest between compressions. Minimize interruptions in your
chest compressions.
Step 5: Recovery Position. If the victim develops signs of circulation (wakes up, begins to
move, speaks, etc.) and resumes normal breathing, place the victim in a position that will hold
the airway open and continue to monitor the victim’s breathing. If there are no signs of trauma,
turn the victim onto their side in the recovery position. If trauma has occurred, leave the victim
on their back and hold their airway open using a jaw thrust as needed.
SEE LAST PAGE FOR ONE PAGE CPR GUIDE INFOGRAPHIC
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USE OF AN AED
According to the American Heart Association, more than 436,000 cardiac arrest deaths occur
each year in the U.S.30
Cardiac arrest is caused when the heart’s electrical system
malfunctions. The heart stops beating properly. The heart’s pumping function is “arrested,” or
stopped. In cardiac arrest, death can result quickly if proper steps aren’t taken immediately.
Cardiac arrest may be reversed if CPR is performed and a defibrillator shocks the heart and
restores a normal heart rhythm within a few minutes
AEDs are used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. It's a sophisticated, yet
easy-to-use, medical device that can analyze the heart's rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an
electrical shock, or defibrillation, to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm.
The device is designed to be user-friendly, with clear instructions on how to use it in case of an
emergency. It's important for everyone to be aware of what an AED is and how to use it, as it
could make a difference in saving someone's life.
In the state of California, any person who, in good faith and not for compensation, renders
emergency care or treatment by the use of an AED at the scene of an emergency is not liable
for any civil damages resulting from any acts or omissions in rendering the emergency care31
.
USING THE AED ON CHILDREN UNDER 9-YEARS-OLD
Although cardiac arrest in children is extremely rare, it can occur in cases of commotio cordis,
hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, congenital coronary artery abnormalities, long QT syndrome,
and Wolff-Parkinson White Syndrome.32
On July 1, 2003, the American Heart Association issued a Scientific Statement stating that
AEDs are safe for children as young as 1 year of age.33
Automated external defibrillators
(AEDs) may be used for children 1 to 8 years of age who have no signs of circulation. Ideally
the device should deliver a pediatric dose. The arrhythmia detection algorithm used in the
device should demonstrate high specificity for pediatric shockable rhythms, ie, it will not
recommend delivery of a shock for nonshockable rhythms (Class IIb).ge.
33 R. Sampson, M.D., et al., “Use of Automated External Defibrillators for Children: An Update,” Circulation, Vol.
107 (July 1, 2003). https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/01.CIR.0000074201.73984.FD
32 S. Berger, “Sudden Cardiac Death in Children and Adolescents,” AMAA Journal (Spring 2002).
31 California Civil Code -- 1714.21
30 American Heart Association, “Heart Attack, Stroke and Cardiac Arrest Symptoms”
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiac-arrest/about-cardiac-arrest
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HEIMLICH MANEUVER
If a child or adult is choking on a foreign body, use the Heimlich maneuver (abdominal thrusts)
to relieve severe or complete obstruction of the airway caused by the object.
● Make a fist with one hand.
● Place the thumb side of the
fist on the victim’s abdomen,
slightly above the navel and
well below the breastbone.
● Grasp the fist with the other
hand and provide quick,
upward thrusts into the
victim’s abdomen.
● Repeat the thrusts and
continue until the object is
expelled or the victim
becomes unresponsive.
If the obstruction is not relieved, the
victim will stop breathing. When the
victim becomes unresponsive and you
are alone, activate the EMS system
by calling 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090
(SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a
cell phone). Then attempt CPR. If
another person is present, send them
to call 911 while you begin CPR.
CPR may be effective for the person who becomes unresponsive from choking because the
muscles in the upper airway relax and a complete airway obstruction may become only a
partial obstruction. If this occurs, you may be able to deliver rescue breaths successfully.
Additionally, evidence indicates that chest compressions may help relieve choking.
COMMOTIO CORDIS
In June 1998, 6-year-old Jacob Watt, an Illinois Little Leaguer, was hit in the chest by a foul
ball while he waited to bat during a T-Ball game. He collapsed and died on the field from a
rare condition known as commotio cordis.34
What is Commotio Cordis?
Commotio cordis (cardiac concussion) is a medical term used to refer to a low impact, blunt
trauma to the chest that causes a frequently fatal heart arrhythmia, most commonly ventricular
fibrillation (“VF”). Although the precise mechanism of cardiac arrest in commotio cordis has
not been determined with certainty, it is believed that if the impact occurs at a precise point in
34 R.A. Knox, “Cause of Heart Stoppage Pinpointed, The Boston Globe (June 18, 1998). See also, K. Webster,
“Baseball Can Kill If It Hits Chest At Wrong Heart-Cycle Point, Study Says,” The Seattle Times (June 18, 1998).
https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/?date=19980618&slug=2756854
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the cardiac cycle, just over 1/100th of a second as the heart repolarizes electrically in
preparation for the next heartbeat, the heart can be short circuited.
Children under 16 years of age are particularly vulnerable, apparently because of their unique
thoracic architecture.35
According to Barry J. Maron, M.D. of the Minnesota Heart Institute
Foundation, a leading researcher on the subject, “Not every blow to the chest is going to result
in a death like this. Timing, force, and location have to conspire to produce this rare but tragic
thing.”36
Statistics compiled by the U.S. Commotio Cordis Registry in Minneapolis indicate that while
the incidence of commotio cordis in youth sports is rare, it occurs more frequently in youth
baseball than in any other sport. Of the 128 confirmed cases of commotio cordis reported to
the Registry between 1985 and September 2001, 53% involved baseballs or softballs.37
Similar data are available from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission. From 1973 to 1995, there were a total of 88 deaths in
the 5- to 14-year-old age group from baseball related injuries. Of this
total, 43% occurred from commotio cordis.38
In May 2002, 7-year-old Nader Parman of Atlanta, Georgia, was
playing baseball in his front yard with a 15-year-old neighbor, who was
hitting him pop-ups. The older boy accidentally hit a line drive that
struck Nader in the chest. Although Nader’s father rushed outside,
immediately called 911, and started administering CPR, Nader died as
a result of commotio cordis.39
39
“Just the Wrong Moment: Boy Struck in Chest with Baseball Dies,” abcNEWS.com (May 22, 2002). See also,
“Heartbreaking,” tufts e-news (May 22, 2002).
38 American Academy of Pediatrics, Committee on Sports Medicine and Fitness, “Risk of Injury from Baseball
and Softball in Children,” Pediatrics, Vol. 107, No. 4, pp. 782-784 (April 2001).
https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/107/4/782/63569/Risk-of-Injury-From-Baseball-and-Softball
-in?redirectedFrom=fulltext
37 B.J. Maron, M.D., et al., “Clinical Profile and Spectrum of Commotio Cordis,” JAMA, Vol. 287, No. 9, pp.
1142-1146 (March 6, 2002). https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/194700.
Maron and colleagues examined the 128 confirmed cases of commotio cordis entered into the U.S. Commotio
Cordis Registry in Minneapolis as of September 1, 2001.
Although the study notes that commotio cordis occurred during a variety of competitive sporting activities, the
overwhelming majority involved baseball and softball. “Of 107 commotio cordis events that involved a blunt
impact to the chest from a projectile, 53 occurred with baseballs. Of these, 50 were baseballs of apparent
regulation design, (1) was a hard rubber ball, and (2) involved baseballs that were marketed commercially as
reduced injury, softer-than-normal (so-called safety or training) balls. Another 14 events involved softballs.”
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/194700
36 K. Webster, “Baseball Can Kill If It Hits Chest At Wrong Heart-Cycle Point, Study Says,” The Seattle Times
(June 18, 1998). https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/?date=19980618&slug=2756854
35 M.S. Link, M.D., “Mechanically Induced Sudden Death In Chest Wall Impact (Commotio Cordis),” Progress in
Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Vol. 82, pp. 175-186 (2003). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526014/
See also, S.M. Yabek, M.D., “Sudden Death in the Young” (November 2009).
https://www.hmpgloballearningnetwork.com/site/emsworld/article/10319957/sudden-death-young
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Prompt Treatment with an AED Required
Commotio cordis is almost invariably fatal unless the victim undergoes prompt
defibrillation using an automated external defibrillator (“AED”).40
While initial
cases reported very low survival, a significant increase in reported survival has
been noted in recent years, likely due to improved recognition and early
treatment. The most recently reported survival rates exceed 50%. 41
“After three to five minutes, if you cannot get the individual back into their
regular rhythm, it’s unlikely that they’ll survive,” says Mark Link, M.D., Associate
Professor of Medicine at Tufts New England Medical Center in Boston.42 Of 68
Registry cases in which resuscitation was begun within 3 minutes, 25%
survived, compared to only 3% in which resuscitation was delayed for more
than 3 minutes.43
Generally, every 1-minute delay in defibrillation reduces the
survival rate by 7 to 10%.44
In June 2001, Sean Morley, a 13-year-old baseball player from Buffalo Grove,
Illinois, was hit in the chest by an inside fastball during a junior high school
game. He collapsed on the field as his heart went into VF. Sean was fortunate. Two of the
parents in the stands were doctors who were promptly able to administer CPR. Another parent
managed to flag down a patrolling police officer who happened to be driving by the field and
had an AED in his vehicle, and Sean’s heart was successfully defibrillated.45
In January 2022, millions watched as the Buffalo Bills’ Damar Hamlin took a hit that stopped
his heart during Monday Night Football. In the months that followed, Hamlin confirmed the
cause of his near-fatal collapse on as commotio cordis, a rare event caused by a blow to the
chest.46
With any cardiac arrest, survival depends on people nearby acting to correct the problem
within seconds to minutes. For Damar Hamlin, the chain of survival began with immediately
activating emergency medical personnel, beginning CPR and using a defibrillator.
46 The following information can be found in the publication, What is commotio cordis, which NFL player Damar
Hamlin says stopped his heart?”, Michael Merschel, American Heart Association News, 4/18/23,
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2023/04/18/what-is-commotio-cordis-which-nfl-player-damar-hamlin-says-stopped
-his-heart
45
“L. Guerrero, “Pitch Wasn’t Teen’s Last, Thanks to Defibrillator,” Chicago-Sun Times (June 15, 2001. See
also, “Young Teen Doesn’t Miss a Beat After a Philips HeartStart Defibrillator Saved His Life,” which can be
found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7c2siBvS44.
44 American Heart Association, “Sudden Cardiac Death.” https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cardiac-arrest
43 M.S. Link, M.D., “Mechanically Induced Sudden Death In Chest Wall Impact (Commotio Cordis),” Progress in
Biophysics & Molecular Biology, Vol. 82, pp. 175-186 at 177 (2003).
42
“Just the Wrong Moment: Boy Struck in Chest with Baseball Dies,” abcNEWS.com (May 22, 2002). See also,
“Heartbreaking,” tufts e-news (May 22, 2002).
41Tainter CR, Hughes PG. Commotio Cordis. [Updated 2023 Feb 5]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island
(FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526014/
40 B.J. Maron, M.D., et al., “Clinical Profile and Spectrum of Commotio Cordis,” JAMA, Vol. 287, No. 9, pp.
1142-1146 at 1146 (March 6, 2002). https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/194700.
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If You Suspect Commotio Cordis, What Should You Do?
In the event a player suffers a blunt trauma to the chest and collapses, loses
consciousness or becomes lightheaded, commotio cordis should be considered the
likely cause, and immediate action must be taken. According to Dr. Link, “Onlookers often
assume the child had the wind knocked out of him or her. But this can be a catastrophic
assumption because, in fact, the child may have experienced a potentially fatal event.”47
Immediately call 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a cell phone) and
advise the dispatcher of the emergency and your precise location. If the victim is not
breathing, CPR must be started at once. If an AED is available, use it to determine if the
victim’s heart needs to be defibrillated and follow the instructions given by the device.
HEAD INJURIES
Concussion
A concussion is defined as any blow to the head. Although once considered “a relatively
benign condition,” as a commentary in a recent issue of the medical journal Pediatrics noted,
medical research now recognizes it as “a critical medical issue with distressing, potentially
permanent consequences.”48
If a player receives a blow to the head, they should be removed
from the game and should not be permitted to return until they have been examined by a
physician and has received a medical release. Research has shown that exertion, whether
physical or mental, can exacerbate and prolong symptoms as a child’s brain heals.49
● See that the victim gets adequate rest.
● Note any symptoms and see if they change within a short period of time.
● If the victim is a child, tell the parents about the injury and have them monitor the child
after the game.
● Advise the parents to take the child to a doctor for further examination and tell them
that the child will need a medical release before being permitted to return to the field.
If the victim is unconscious after the blow to the head, suspect a head and/or neck injury.
DO NOT MOVE THE VICTIM. Call 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a
cell phone) immediately. Regardless of how short the length of time a player may be
unconscious; although a player may appear to be getting ‘better’ this may be a life-threatening
emergency. Call 9-1-1 and send the player to the emergency room. If there are any problems,
contact the safety officer at 415-317-0615 immediately.
49 Charek DB, Elbin RJ, Sufrinko A, et al. Preliminary evidence of a dose-response for continuing to play on
recovery time after concussion. J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2020;35:85-91.
48 S. Levine, “Playing Through Pain? Not for Kids: Concussions Take Longer to Mend, Research Shows,” The
Washington Post (October 10, 2006).
47 Press Release, “Study Finds AEDs Effective in Treating Sudden Cardiac Arrest Caused by Blunt Trauma in
Children,” (May 2, 2001).
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Signs of Head and Spine Injuries
The following are signs and symptoms of injuries to the head and/or spine.
Signs Observed by Parents, Guardians or Coaches
If your child has experienced a bump or below to the head during a game or practice, look for
any of the following signs and symptoms of a concussion:
● Appears dazed or stunned
● Is confused about assignment or position
● Forgets an instruction
● Is unsure of game, score, or opponent
● Moves clumsily/Loss of Balance
● Answers questions slowly
● Loses consciousness (even briefly)
● Shows behavior or personality changes
● Can't recall events prior to or after hit or fall
● Bruising of the head, especially around the eyes and behind the ears.
● Seizures
● Severe pain or pressure in the head, neck, or back
● Heavy external bleeding of the head, neck, or back
● Blood or other fluids in the ears or nose
● Unusual bumps or depressions on the head or over the spine
Symptoms Reported by the Athlete
● Persistent headache or "pressure" in head
● Nausea or vomiting
● Balance problems or dizziness
● Double or blurry vision or any other vision impairment as a result of the injury
● Sensitivity to light
● Sensitivity to noise
● Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
● Concentration or memory problems
● Confusion
● Does not "feel right"
● Impaired Breathing as a result of the injury
● Tingling or loss of sensation in the hands, fingers, feet, and toes
● Partial or complete loss of movement of any body part
General Care for Head and Spine Injuries
In the event of any injury involving the head or spine:
● Call 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a cell phone)
immediately
● Minimize movement of the head and spine
● Maintain an open airway
● Check consciousness and breathing
● Control any external bleeding
● Keep the victim from getting chilled or overheated till paramedics arrive and take over
care
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Concussion Action Plan
Remember these KEY concepts:
1. Remove athlete from play
2. Ensure the athlete is evaluated by a healthcare professional. Do not try and judge
seriousness of the injury yourself
3. Inform athlete’s parent or guardian about the possible or known concussion and give
them the fact sheet on concussion. (Available from Concession Stand or SFLL Safety
Officer or the back of this safety manual)
4. Allow athlete to return to play ONLY with permission from an appropriate health care
professional who has utilized a return to play protocol
5. All concussion procedures must follow the procedures set forth in accordance with
https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/policy/index.html
6. All players, coaches, volunteers and League personnel have acknowledged that they
have complied with the CDC California Concussion Policy including but not limited to:
● Understanding the Policy
● Discussing the Policy with their players
● Compliance with the Back to Play criteria
SHOCK
An individual who suffers a serious injury or illness is likely to develop shock. Shock is a
dangerous condition and can be fatal. Signs of shock include:
● Restlessness or irritability
● Altered consciousness
● Pale, cool, moist skin
● Rapid breathing
● Rapid pulse
Caring for shock involves the following simple steps:
● Have the victim lie down. Helping the victim rest comfortably is important because pain
can intensify the body’s stress and accelerate the progression of shock
● Control any external bleeding
● Help the victim maintain normal body temperature. If the victim is cool, try to cover him
or her to avoid chilling
● Try to reassure the victim
● Elevate the legs about 12 inches unless you suspect head, neck, or back injuries or
possible broken bones involving the hips or legs. If you are unsure of the victim’s
condition, leave him or her lying flat
● Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink, even though he or she is likely to be
thirsty
● Call 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a cell phone)
immediately. Shock cannot be managed effectively by first aid alone. A victim of shock
requires advanced medical care as soon as possible
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HEAT EXHAUSTION AND HEAT STROKE
Sweat acts like our natural air conditioner. As sweat
evaporates from our skin, it cools us off. Our personal cooling
system can fail, though, if we overexert ourselves on hot and
humid days. When this happens, our body heat can climb to
dangerous levels. This can result in heat exhaustion or a heat
stroke that is life threatening.
In July 2001, Corey Stringer, a 27-year-old Pro Bowl tackle for
the Minnesota Vikings, collapsed from heat stroke during an
early training camp practice held during a heat spell when
temperatures were in the 90’s by mid-morning. His body
temperature had climbed to 108 degrees by the time he was
hospitalized, and he died early the following morning from
cardiac arrest brought on by multiple organ failure.50
In the last several years, high school and college athletes have also died of heat illness during
practices in hot, humid weather.
51
The combination of high heat and humidity can create an
atmosphere where an athlete’s body cannot properly dissipate the heat they generate in even
normal activities.
Heat illness can also affect umpires. In June 2002, an umpire at Busch Stadium in St. Louis
had to be assisted from the field when he collapsed behind the plate during a game being
played in 96-degree weather with high humidity.
52
The young and old are especially susceptible to heat illness, as are people who work or
exercise strenuously outside for long periods during the day. This combination demands that
coaches of young athletes be vigilant.
Heat Cramps
Heat cramps usually occur after strenuous exercise or an outdoor activity. Symptoms of heat
cramps are:
● Severe pain and cramps in the legs and abdomen
● Faintness or dizziness
● Weakness
● Profuse sweating
This condition requires immediate medical attention but is usually not life threatening.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs when one is exposed to heat for a prolonged period of time. It takes
time to develop as fluids and salt, which are vital for health, are lost through perspiration during
exercise or other strenuous activities. It is very important to drink lots of liquids before, during,
and after exercise in hot weather.
52
“Heat Illness: What You Need to Know,” ASAP News, Vol. 9, No. 5, pp. 2-3 (June/July 2002).
51 Between 1995 and 2001, heat-related problems during summer drills killed 18 high school or college football
players according to statistics from the University of North Carolina. “Struck Down by Heat: Heat Stroke Kills NFL
Player After Morning Workout,” abcNews.com (August 1, 2001).
50
“Struck Down by Heat: Heat Stroke Kills NFL Player After Morning Workout,” abcNews.com (August 1, 2001).
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The signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
● Cool, clammy, pale skin
● Sweating
● Dry mouth
● Fatigue, weakness
● Dizziness
● Headache
● Nausea, sometimes vomiting
● Muscle cramps
● Weak and rapid pulse
First-aid for Heat Exhaustion
● Move the person to shade or a cool place
● Have the victim lie on their back with their feet elevated
● If conscious, give half a glass of water every 15 minutes
● Get medical help
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke, unlike heat exhaustion, strikes suddenly, with little warning. When the body's
cooling system fails, the body's temperature rises quickly. Heat stroke can be life threatening
and requires immediate medical attention!
Signs of heat stroke include:
● Very high temperature (104°F or higher)
● Hot, dry, red skin
● No sweating
● Deep breathing and fast pulse -- then shallow breathing and weak pulse
● Dilated pupils
● Confusion, delirium, hallucinations
● Convulsions
● Loss of consciousness
Chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, use of alcohol, and vomiting or diarrhea can put
children and adults at risk for heat stroke during very hot weather. Heat stroke in children is
not only due to high temperatures and humidity, but also to not drinking enough fluids.
First Aid for Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. To treat heat stroke, you must:
● Call 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a cell phone), and then
start first aid
● Move the victim to a cool place
● Cool the victim quickly by giving a cool bath (sponging with cool water) and by fanning
● Treat the victim for shock (see p. 61 for details)
● Offer a conscious person half a glass of water every 15 minutes
Tips to Prevent Heat Illness
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can be prevented with this advice:
● Know that once you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Some people perspire
more than others. Those who do should drink as much fluid as they can during hot,
humid days. Drink continuously during hot days, even before you are thirsty.
● Drink plenty of liquids such as water or sports drinks (Gatorade, All Sport, PowerAde)
every 15 minutes (16-20 oz./hour). When you exercise, it is better to sip rather than
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gulp the liquids. Avoid sodas, which often contain caffeine because they increase the
rate of dehydration.
● Do not exercise vigorously during the hottest times of the day. Instead, run, jog or
exercise closer to sunrise or sunset. If the outside temperature is 82° F or above and
the humidity is high, do your activity for a shorter time.
● Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothing, such as cotton, so sweat can
evaporate. And, put on a wide-brimmed hat with vents that provides shade and allows
ventilation.
● Use sunscreen to prevent sunburn, which can hinder the skin’s ability to cool itself.
● Do not stay in or leave anyone in closed, parked cars during hot weather.
● Take caution when you must be in the sun. At the first signs of heat exhaustion, get
out of the sun or your body temperature will continue to rise.
● If you feel your abilities start to diminish, stop activity, and try to cool off. Sit in the
shade, an air-conditioned car or use ice bags or cold water to lower the body’s
temperature. Drink lots of liquids, especially if your urine is a dark yellow, to replace
the fluids you lose from sweating. Thirst is not a reliable sign that your body needs
fluids.
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BROKEN BONES
Signs and Symptoms
Always suspect a possible broken bone or other serious injury to a joint when the following
signs are present:
● There is a significant deformity in the affected area of the body
● There is bruising and swelling present
● The person is unable to use the affected part of the body
● There are bone fragments sticking out of a wound
● If the victim felt a snap or pop at the time of injury
● If the injured area is cold and numb
● If the cause of the injury suggests that it may be severe
If any of these conditions exists, call 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from
a cell phone) immediately and administer care to the victim until the paramedics arrive.
Treatment for Fractures
Fractures need to be splinted in the position found and no pressure is to be put on the area.
Splints can be made from almost anything: rolled up magazines, twigs, bats, etc. In children,
it is often impossible to determine if there is a fracture unless an x-ray of the bone is taken. If
you suspect a fracture, the child should receive professional medical attention.
Treatment for Compound Fractures
A compound fracture is one where the bones are displaced and poking through the skin. Once
you have established that the victim has such a broken bone, you should call 9-1-1 (or
415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a cell phone) and control the bleeding. Then,
you should comfort the victim, keep them warm and still, and treat the person for shock if
necessary.
EYE INJURIES
You can treat many minor eye irritations by flushing the eye, but more serious injuries require
medical attention. A 2020 study found that eye injury is an important contributor to the burden
of vision impairment and blindness in the United States.53
When in doubt, err on the side of
caution and call for help.
Routine Irritations (Sand, dirt, and other “foreign bodies” on the eye surface)
● Do not try to remove any “foreign body” except by flushing.
● Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the eyelids to examine or flush the eye.
● Do not touch, press, or rub the eye, and do whatever you can to keep the child from
touching it.
● Tilt the child’s head over a basin with the affected eye down and gently pull down the
lower lid, encouraging the child to open their eyes as wide as possible.
53 Swain, T., & McGwin, G. (2019). The Prevalence of Eye Injury in the United States, Estimates from a
Meta-Analysis. Ophthalmic Epidemiology, 27(3), 186–193. https://doi.org/10.1080/09286586.2019.1704794
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● Gently pour a steady stream of lukewarm water from a pitcher across the eye.
● Flush for up to fifteen minutes, checking the eye every five minutes to see if the foreign
body has been flushed out.
● Since a particle can scratch the cornea and cause an infection, the eye should be
examined by a doctor if there continues to be any irritation afterwards.
● If a foreign body is not dislodged by flushing, it will probably be necessary for a trained
medical practitioner to flush the eye.
Embedded Foreign Body (An object penetrates the globe of the eye)
● Call 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a cell phone) for
emergency help.
● Cover both eyes (the unaffected eye must be covered to prevent movement of the
affected eye). If the object is small, use eye patches or sterile dressings for both. If
the object is large, cover the injured eye with a small cup taped in place and the other
eye with an eye patch or sterile dressing. The point is to keep all pressure off the
globe of the eye.
● Keep the child as calm and comfortable as possible until the paramedics arrive.
Treating a “Black Eye”
A black eye is often a minor injury, but it can also appear when there is significant eye injury or
head trauma. A visit to your doctor or an eye specialist may be required to rule out serious
injury, particularly if you are not certain of the cause of the black eye.
For a “simple” black eye:
● Apply cold compresses intermittently: 5 minutes to 10 minutes on, 10 minutes to 15
minutes off. If you are not at home when the injury occurs and there is no ice
available, a cold soda will do to start. If you use ice, make sure it is covered with a
towel or sock to protect the delicate skin on the eyelid.
● Use cold compresses for 24 to 48 hours, then switch to applying warm compresses
intermittently. This will help the body reabsorb the leakage of blood and may help
reduce discoloration.
● If the child is in pain, give acetaminophen (Tylenol) – not aspirin or ibuprofen, which
can increase bleeding.
● Prop the child’s head with an extra pillow at night and encourage them to sleep on the
uninjured side of their face (pressure can increase swelling).
● Have the parent call the child’s doctor, who may recommend an in-depth evaluation to
rule out damage to the eye. Call immediately if any of the following symptoms appear:
o Increased redness
o Drainage from the eye
o Persistent eye pain
o Distorted vision
o Any visible abnormality of the eyeball
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If the injury occurred during one of the child’s routine activities such as a sport, follow up by
investing in an ounce of prevention -- protective goggles or unbreakable glasses are vitally
important.
Tips to Help Prevent Sports-Related Eye Injuries
● Parents must insist their children wear appropriate eye protection during sporting
activities.
● Children participating in baseball or softball, considered high-risk sports for eye injuries
by the American Association of Ophthalmology, should always wear appropriate
sports-specific protective eyewear. The league encourages the use of appropriate eye
protection.
● Protective lenses should be made of polycarbonate material, a material ten times more
impact-resistant than other plastics that can withstand the force of a .22 caliber bullet.
Polycarbonate material offers the best protection against many sports-related eye
injuries.
● Contact lenses, ordinary street glasses or industrial safety eyewear (ANSI Z87.1) are
not a substitute for protective eyewear. Contact lenses, ordinary glasses, and
industrial safety eyewear offer no protection against eye injuries.
● Make sure the sports protective eyewear fits properly. The eyewear can be properly
fitted by an ophthalmologist.
● Make sure the child wears their sports protective eyewear every time they play.
● If a child sustains an eye injury, don’t try to treat it yourself. Go to the local emergency
room or call the child’s ophthalmologist immediately.
TOOTH INJURIES
Tooth injuries can be divided into three categories: avulsion,
fracture, and luxation.54
An avulsion removes the entire tooth from its socket.
A fracture typically splits the tooth into two fragments, one
attached to the socket and one free.
A luxation shifts the tooth position at the level of the root but
does not remove it from the socket.
Often these injuries occur in combination, but each requires a
different approach on the field. However, all require
immediate treatment by a professional. If the child’s
dentist is unavailable, transport them immediately to the
nearest emergency room. ER physicians know how to
address these injuries, and emergency rooms have dentists on
call to treat problems that only a dentist can handle.
54 This information is taken from W.O. Roberts, M.D., “Field Care of the Injured Tooth,” The Physician and
Sportsmedicine, Vol. 28, No. 1 (January 2000).
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Avulsion (Tooth Knocked Out Entirely)
If a player receives a blow to the mouth and an entire tooth is knocked out, place a sterile
dressing directly in the space left by the tooth and tell the player to bite down on it to stop the
bleeding. A dentist can successfully replant a tooth that has been knocked out if they can do
so quickly and the tooth has been cared for properly.
● Avoid trauma to the tooth while handling it. Handle the tooth only by the crown. Do not
handle the tooth by the root. Do not brush or scrub the tooth. Do not sterilize the
tooth.
● If there is debris on the tooth, gently rinse it with water or saline.
● If possible, reimplant the tooth and have the player stabilize the tooth by biting down
gently on a towel or handkerchief. Do this only if the player is alert and conscious.
● If you are unable to reimplant the tooth, you should store it in the following order of
preference: (1) Cold whole milk is preferred, followed by cold 2% milk; (2) cold normal
saline solution; (3) saline soaked gauze on ice; (4) between the player's gum and the
side of cheek or under the player’s tongue, if they are alert; or (4) a cup of cold water.
Time is essential. Transport the player to a dentist or nearest emergency room
immediately. Reimplantation within 30 minutes has the highest rate of success. After 2
hours, the chances of saving the tooth are slim.
Fracture
A fracture can be classified as a root fracture, broken tooth, or chipped tooth. If the fracture
involves the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels and is housed in the pulp chamber
and root canals, it can be very painful. Pulp involvement can be identified by a bleeding site or
a pink or red dot in the middle of the dentin, which is the yellowish portion of the tooth located
directly beneath the enamel.
● Tooth fragments should be handled on their enamel surfaces and sent with the player
to the dental office as described under Avulsion, above. Stabilize the portion of tooth
left in the mouth by gently biting on a towel or handkerchief to control the bleeding.
● Should extreme pain occur, which occurs if the pulp nerve is exposed, limit contact with
the victim’s other teeth, tongue or the air.
● A tooth can also be loosened by trauma with no visible fracture or displacement. This
injury should also be referred to a dentist for radiologic evaluation to look for tooth
fracture below the gum line.
● Transport the player to the dentist or nearest emergency room immediately.
Luxation (Tooth in Socket but in Wrong Position)
There are three types of displaced tooth: extruded, laterally displaced, and intruded. All
require immediate transfer to a dental office.
Extruded Tooth
The extruded tooth appears longer than the surrounding teeth.
● Reposition the tooth in the socket using firm finger pressure.
● Stabilize the tooth by having the player gently bite on a towel or handkerchief.
● Transport the player to the dentist or nearest emergency room immediately.
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Lateral Displacement
The laterally displaced tooth is positioned ahead of or behind the normal tooth row.
● Try to reposition the tooth using finger pressure.
● The player may require a local anesthetic to reposition the tooth; if so, stabilize the
tooth by having them gently bite on a towel or handkerchief.
● Transport the player to the dentist or nearest emergency room immediately.
Intruded Tooth
The intruded tooth is pushed into the gum and appears shorter than the surrounding teeth.
● DO NOTHING. Avoid any repositioning of the tooth.
● Transport the player to the dentist or nearest emergency room immediately.
ASTHMA
Asthma is a chronic lung disease that makes it harder to move air in and out of your lungs. It
can start at any age. Understanding can help put you on the right path to managing asthma. If
one of your players suffers from asthma, their condition should be listed on their medical
release form. Asthma is a potentially life-threatening condition.
Asthma breathing problems usually happen in “episodes,” but the inflammation underlying
asthma is continuous. An asthma episode is a series of events that result in narrowed
airways. These include swelling of the lining, tightening of the muscle, and increased secretion
of mucus in the airway. The narrowed airway is responsible for the difficulty in breathing with
the familiar “wheeze.”55
Asthma medications help reduce underlying inflammation in the airways and relieve or prevent
symptomatic airway narrowing. Two classes of medications have been used to treat asthma --
anti-inflammatory agents and rescue medicines or bronchodilators.
You should seek emergency care if a child experiences any of the following56
:
● Your lips or nails are turning blue
● Your nostrils are flaring each time you breathe in
● The skin between your ribs or at the base of your throat appears stretched every time
you breathe in
● You are taking 30 or more breaths per minute
● Talking or walking at a normal pace is difficult
If you are at all uncertain of what to do in case of a breathing emergency, call 9-1-1 (or
415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a cell phone) as well as the child’s
parent/guardian.
56 American Lung Association Scientific and Medical Editorial Review Panel, latest update: October 23, 2024).
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma/symptoms-diagnosis/when-to-see-your-do
ctor
55
“American Lung Association's Asthma Basics program,
https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/asthma/learn-about-asthma/asthma-basics
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SPRAINS AND STRAINS
What is the difference?
A sprain is a stretching or tearing of ligaments — the tough bands of fibrous tissue that
connect two bones together in your joints. The most common location for a sprain is in your
ankle.57
A muscle strain is an injury to a muscle or a tendon — the fibrous tissue that connects muscles
to bones. Minor injuries may only overstretch a muscle or tendon, while more severe injuries
may involve partial or complete tears in these tissues. Sometimes called pulled muscles,
strains commonly occur in the lower back and in the muscles at the back of the thigh
(hamstrings).
The difference between a strain and a sprain is that a strain involves an injury to a muscle or to
the band of tissue that attaches a muscle to a bone, while a sprain injures the bands of tissue
that connect two bones together.
58
Sprains
A sprain can result from a fall, a sudden twist, or a blow to the body that forces a joint out of its
normal position. This can result in a tear or overstretch of the ligament supporting that joint.
Typically, sprains occur when people fall and land on an outstretched arm, slide into base, land
on the side of their foot, or twist a knee with the foot planted firmly on the ground. Ankle
sprains are the most common type of sprain, but the knee is another common site for this type
of injury.
The usual signs and symptoms of a sprain include pain, swelling, bruising, and loss of the
ability to move and use the joint. However, these signs and symptoms can vary in intensity,
depending on the severity of the sprain. Sometimes people feel a pop or tear when the injury
happens.
Strains
A strain is caused by twisting or pulling a muscle or tendon. Strains can be acute or chronic.
An acute strain is caused by trauma or an injury such as a blow to the body. It can also be
caused by improperly lifting heavy objects or overstressing the muscles. Chronic strains are
usually the result of overuse – prolonged, repetitive movement of the muscles and tendons.
Typically, people with a strain experience pain, muscle spasm, and muscle weakness. They
can also have localized swelling, cramping, or inflammation and, with a minor or moderate
strain, usually some loss of muscle function. Individuals typically have pain in the injured area
and general weakness of the muscle when they attempt to move it. Severe strains that
partially or completely tear the muscle or tendon are often very painful and disabling.
Treatment
Treatment for sprains and strains is similar and can be thought of as having two stages. The
goal during the first stage is to reduce swelling and pain. At this stage, doctors usually advise
patients to follow a formula of RICE – Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation – for the first
24 to 48 hours after the injury. The doctor may also recommend an over the counter or
prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, such as aspirin or ibuprofen (e.g., Advil), to
help decrease pain and inflammation.
58 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/muscle-strains/symptoms-causes/syc-20450507
57 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sprains/symptoms-causes/syc-20377938
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For people with a moderate or severe sprain, particularly of the ankle, a hard cast may be
applied. Severe sprains and strains may require surgery to repair the torn ligaments, muscle,
or tendons. Surgery is usually performed by an orthopedic surgeon. It is important that
moderate and severe sprains and strains be evaluated by a doctor to allow prompt,
appropriate treatment to begin.
WOUND CARE
Some wounds such as small cuts or minor abrasions require only simple first aid measures.
Others, however, require immediate first aid followed by professional medical care.
Small cuts or abrasions
Even minor cuts and scrapes can become contaminated and infected. In order to reduce the
chances of infection, you should:
● Whenever possible, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water before
administering first aid. If you cannot do so, use some of the antibacterial wipes found
in the league first aid kits.
● Keep the wound and all first aid materials as clean as possible. When opening
packages of sterile pads or dressings, handle only the edges. Do not touch the area
that comes in contact with the wound.
● Clean the wound and the surrounding area gently with mild soap and water and rinse
it. If water and soap are unavailable, use hydrogen peroxide. Blot the area dry with a
sterile pad or clean dressing.
● Cover the wound with an appropriately sized bandage, pad, or wrapped gauze. These
materials are contained in the league first aid kits.
Deep wounds
A serious wound must be cleansed and treated by professional medical personnel. If a person
suffers such a wound, call 911 (or 415-553-8090 (SF), 415-472-0911 (Marin) from a cell
phone) immediately and treat the person for bleeding and shock.
● To control bleeding, have the victim lie down and elevate the injured limb higher than
the heart unless you suspect a broken bone.
● Apply direct pressure on the wound with a sterile pad or clean cloth.
● If the bleeding is controlled by direct pressure, bandage the wound firmly with clean
cloth strips or bandages to protect the wound and prevent possible infection. Check
the person’s pulse to make sure the bandage is not too tight.
● If direct pressure is ineffective, bleeding can often be controlled by applying tourniquet
to the limb, do so immediately!
● For the scalp: Press the thumb against the bone in front of the ear. Because of
extensive circulation, pressure may have to be applied to both sides of the head.
● For the face: Press the fingers against the hollow area of the jaw. Both sides may
require compression.
● For the neck: Place the thumb against the back of the victim’s neck against the
vertebrae. Slide three fingers to the side of the airway where the wound is located.
Locate the pulsing artery; then squeeze it toward the thumb. Do not compress both
sides of the neck.
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● For the chest or armpit: Press the thumb downward in the groove behind the
collarbone.
● For the arm: Place the flat side of the finger in the groove between the muscles on the
inner side of the arm. With your thumb on the outside of the arm, press toward the
bone at a point about halfway between the shoulder and the elbow.
● For the hand: Place your thumb on the inner side of the wrist and press toward the
bone.
● For the leg: At the groin area where the legs and the torso meet, press the inner thigh
against the bone with your fist or the heel of your hand.
APPLY A TOURNIQUET WITHOUT DELAY! IT MAY BE THE ONLY WAY TO SAVE A LIFE!
NOSEBLEED
To treat a nosebleed (epistaxis), loosen the clothing around the neck area and instruct the
victim to sit up with their head tilted forward.
● Instruct the victim to breathe through the mouth.
● If the bleeding is from the front of the nose,
o Pinch the nostrils together for 10-15 minutes.
o Place cold, wet towels or cloths over the nose and face.
o If the bleeding continues, insert a small sterile pad in one or both nostrils. Do
not use cotton or anything with loose fibers. Pinch the nostrils together. If the
bleeding persists, get professional medical care.
● If the bleeding is from the back of the nose, take the victim to the emergency room or
get professional medical help immediately.
BEE STINGS
Some individuals are highly sensitive or allergic to bee venom. If such a person is stung by a
bee, wasp, or yellow jacket, they may develop an anaphylactic reaction, which can be life
threatening if not treated immediately.
● Do not wait for allergic symptoms to appear. Call 9-1-1 (or 415-553-8090 (SF),
415-472-0911 (Marin) from a cell phone) immediately.
● If breathing difficulties occur, start rescue breathing techniques; if the pulse is absent,
begin CPR.
● Signs of an allergic reaction: nausea; severe swelling; breathing difficulties; bluish face,
lips, and fingernails; shock or unconsciousness.
● If the victim has gone into shock, treat accordingly (see p. 71).
If the person is not known to have an allergy to bee stings and does not exhibit signs of an
allergic response:
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● Remove the stinger or venom sac by gently scraping with a fingernail or business card. Do
not remove the stinger with tweezers as more toxins from the stinger could be released
into the victim’s body.
● For multiple stings, soak the affected area in cool water. Add one tablespoon of baking
soda per quart of water.
● For mild or moderate symptoms, apply ice to reduce the swelling.
LICE
Head lice are parasites which infest human hair. These parasites are a social nuisance, but
according to the Centers for Disease Control and most medical experts, lice cannot carry or
transmit any disease or serious ailment to humans. They also do not manifest into epidemics
but can be passed between people where a few or more can become carriers. The lice cannot
fly or jump but make their way from one person to another through close human contact. The
lice lay eggs (called nits) which attach to the shaft of hair strands. The nits may take between
6-10 days to hatch into actual lice. Some cases cause itchy scalps.
No matter how relatively minor the medical profession may consider lice on the scale of public
health issues, it is important to be informed and take reasonable precautions. The best way to
control lice is to avoid close human contact between children. The spread of other public
health-related ailments, including viruses, bacteria, etc. will also be better controlled by not
hugging, wrestling, and engaging in other general close contact.
The sharing of baseball and softball equipment has been discussed as a potential way for
transmitting head lice between people. Consider this statement from the Harvard School of
Public Health. “Shared helmets and headphones in schools or recreational settings may rarely
and transiently harbor an occasional louse or nit; the effort necessary to effectively inspect and
clean these devices, however, is not likely warranted.” Brushes and combs are, however, cited
by many experts as a more likely method of lice transmission because they may actually move
the lice from the afflicted person.
Still, however unlikely transmission of lice from one player to another sharing a helmet, it is
important to San Francisco Little League that parents, coaches and players are comfortable
and feel secure from such ailments.
● First and foremost, if parents choose to purchase their child’s own helmet, it must be
NOCSAE approved with the seal on the helmet. These personal helmets should not be
shared among players on the team.
● Second, it is important for coaches and SFLL volunteers, board members, etc., to maintain
the child’s confidentiality. Discretion is important as head lice carries a social stigma.
● In the case that a team helmet must be shared, SFLL players should wear a baseball cap
beneath each helmet. (Some players may want to wear a kerchief or thin hat instead of a
baseball cap for a better fit).
● For any child who has been identified with head lice, they shall be excused from catching.
We cannot safely decontaminate the gear and batting helmets. It is recommended that
anyone who is catching either wear their hat backwards, wear a bandana, swim hat or
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other thin type of hair cover to serve as a barrier under a shared catcher’s helmet OR use
their own NOCSAE approved equipment. Wipe the inside of the catcher’s headgear with a
damp towel (water only) between players.
● No chemicals or sprays of any kind should be used on any equipment for any reason.
Chemical sprays will degrade the padding inside the helmets making them unsafe for use.
● Helmets should be wiped out with a damp towel (damp with water only) between players.
● Helmets can either be stored in a sealed plastic bag between practices and games (lice
cannot live without a human host) or lightly rinsed out (please do not do both – wet
helmets should not be stored in a plastic bag; they will grow mold/bacteria).
● SFLL parents should check their children regularly for lice/nits.
● Parents must notify the team manager and the league Safety Officer if their child
has lice.
● Any player with lice/nits will use a separate helmet from the rest of the team, with the
manager ensuring the dignity of the player throughout the condition.
● Players should never share hats, jackets, etc.
● Helmets, hats, jackets etc. should not be left on top of one another or in close proximity.
● Further, any player kept out of school due a lice infestation, will also be asked to not
participate in SFLL activities, until a return to school is permitted. If they won’t let your son
or daughter go to school, they should be kept out of SFLL activities as well.
● SFLL provides NOCSAE approved baseball and softball equipment as required by Little
League. If parents purchase helmets or other equipment for their children, it must be
NOCSAE approved.
Head Lice General Guidelines
Treatment for head lice is recommended for persons diagnosed with an active infestation. All
household members and other close contacts should be checked; those persons with evidence
of an active infestation should be treated. Some experts believe prophylactic treatment is
prudent for persons who share the same bed with actively infested individuals. All infested
persons (household members and close contacts) and their bedmates should be treated at the
same time.
Retreatment of head lice usually is recommended because no approved pediculicide
(peh-DICK-you-luh-side) is completely ovicidal. To be most effective, retreatment should occur
after all eggs have hatched but before new eggs are produced. The retreatment schedule can
vary depending on the pediculicide used.
Follow the instructions and guidelines from your healthcare provider. When it is safe for your
child to return to school, it is permissible for your child to return to Little League. Remember:
No school, no Little League. Any questions contact Dan Gerard, San Francisco Little League
Safety Officer.
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Snack Shack Safety
The Snack Shacks at Tepper and Ketcham fields have implemented a number of food safety
handling guidelines for the 2025 season. These will be posted in the Snack Shacks and
should be communicated to the volunteers working at the Snack Shack during games or
league events.
All Snack Shack personnel are required to familiarize themselves with Snack Shack
procedures before working in the Snack Shack or handling food. The league has a Snack
Shack safety and operations meeting before the Snack Shack goes into operation each
season.
The Top Six Causes For Illness
1. Inadequate cooling and cold holding.
2. Preparing food too far in advance of service.
3. Poor personal hygiene and infected personnel.
4. Inadequate reheating.
5. Inadequate hot holding.
6. Contaminated raw foods and ingredients.
SNACK SHACK GUIDELINES
Every worker must be instructed on these guidelines before they can work.
Hand Washing
Frequent and thorough hand washing remains the first line of defense in preventing food borne
disease. The use of disposable gloves can provide an additional barrier to contamination, but
they are no substitute for hand washing!
● Use soap and warm water.
● Rub your hands vigorously as you wash them.
● Wash all surfaces including the backs of hands wrists, between fingers and under
fingernails.
● Rinse hands well.
● Dry hands well.
● Dry hands with paper towels.
● Turn off water using paper towel, instead of your bare hands.
Wash your hands in this fashion before you begin work and especially after performing any of
these activities:
● After touching bare human body parts other than clean hands and clean exposed
portions of arms.
● After using restrooms.
● After caring for or handling animals.
● After coughing, sneezing, using a handkerchief or disposable tissue.
● After touching soiled surfaces.
● After drinking, using tobacco, or eating.
● During food preparation.
● When switching from raw to ready to eat foods.
● After engaging in activities that contaminate hands.
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Health and Hygiene
Only healthy workers should prepare and serve food. Anyone who shows symptoms of
disease (cramps, nausea, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, etc.) or who has open sores or
infected cuts on the hands should not be allowed in the food concession area. Workers should
wear clean outer garments and should not smoke in the concession area.
Food Handling
Avoid hand contact with raw, ready to-eat foods and food contact surfaces. Use an acceptable
dispensing utensil to serve food. Touching food with bare hands can transfer germs to food.
Menu
The Snack Shack menu should be kept simple and should not include potentially hazardous
foods (protein salads, cut fruits and vegetables, etc.). Avoid using precooked foods or
leftovers. Use only foods from approved sources, avoiding foods that have been prepared at
home. Complete control over your food, from source to service, is the key to safe, sanitary
food service.
Cooking
Use a food thermometer to check on cooking and holding temperatures of potentially
hazardous foods. All potentially hazardous foods should be kept at 41o F or below (if cold) or
140o F or above (if hot). Ground beef products (e.g. hamburgers and hot dogs) must be
cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 155o F. Burgers must be cooked frozen. Do
not thaw them out. Most food borne illnesses from temporary events can be traced back to
lapses in temperature control. Return the uncooked burgers to the freezer.
Reheating
Do not reheat any food items.
BBQ (Tepper Field)
Do not wear plastic or other flammable gloves while operating the BBQ. An adult should
remain at the BBQ at all times to prevent small children from suffering accidental burns. If the
BBQ operator is handling raw, uncooked food, take care not to handle cooked food, buns or
other products.
Oven (Ketcham Field)
Do not wear plastic or other flammable gloves while operating the oven. An adult should
remain at the oven at all times to prevent small children from suffering accidental burns. If the
oven operator is handling raw, uncooked food, take care not to handle cooked food, buns or
other products.
Cooling and Cold Storage
Foods that require refrigeration must be cooled to 41o F as quickly as possible and held at that
temperature until ready to serve. To cool foods down quickly, use an ice water bath (60% ice
to 40% water), stirring the product frequently, or place the food in shallow pans no more than 4
inches in depth and refrigerate. Pans should not be stored one atop the other and lids should
be off or ajar until the food is completely cooled. Check temperature periodically to see if the
food is cooling properly. Allowing hazardous foods to remain unrefrigerated for too long has
been the Number ONE cause of food borne illness.
Dishwashing
Use disposable utensils for food service. Keep your hands away from food contact surfaces,
and never reuse disposable dishware. Wash in a four-step process:
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● Washing in hot soapy water;
● Rinsing in clean water;
● Chemical or heat sanitizing; and
● Air drying.
Ice
Ice used to cool cans/bottles should not be used in cup beverages and should be stored
separately.
Wiping Cloths
Rinse and store any wiping cloths in a bucket of sanitizer (example: 1 gallon of water and 1⁄2
teaspoon of chlorine bleach). Well sanitized work surfaces prevent cross-contamination and
discourage flies.
Insect Control and Waste
Keep foods covered to protect them from insects. Store pesticides away from foods. Place
garbage and paper wastes in a refuse container with a tight fitting lid. Dispose of wastewater
in an approved method (do not dump it outside). All water used should be potable water from
an approved source.
Food Storage and Cleanliness
Keep foods stored off the floor at least six inches. After your session is finished, clean the
concession area and discard unusable food.
Minimum Worker Age
Volunteers under 16 should work under the supervision of an adult.
Storage Shed Procedures
The following procedures apply to all the storage sheds and lock boxes used by the league
and apply to anyone who has been issued a key and access to all our facilities.
● All individuals with keys to the league equipment sheds or lock boxes (i.e., Managers and
Coaches) should be aware of their responsibilities for the orderly and safe storage of
equipment.
● Before you use any machinery located in the shed or lock boxes (e.g., pitching machines,
lawn mowers, weed whackers or other electrical equipment), please familiarize yourself
with the proper use of the equipment. If it is available, locate and read the written
operating procedures for the equipment. Otherwise, discuss the proper use of the
equipment with a knowledgeable individual in the league.
● All chemicals or organic materials stored in league sheds shall be properly marked and
labeled as to contents.
● All chemicals or organic materials (i.e., lime, fertilizer, etc.) stored within the equipment
sheds shall be separated from the areas used to store machinery and gardening
equipment (i.e., rakes, shovels, etc.) to minimize the risk of puncturing storage containers.
● Any witnessed “loose” chemicals or organic materials within these sheds should be
cleaned up and disposed of as soon as possible to prevent accidental poisoning.
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Appendix A: SFLL Manager & Coach
Requirements
San Francisco Little League coaches are required to promote a culture of respect and safety:
● Foster a culture that prioritizes safety, respect, and well-being over winning at all costs.
● Promote inclusivity and respect at all levels of our league.
● Coaches and volunteers should serve as role models for appropriate behavior.
MANAGER & COACH EXPECTATIONS
SFLL Managers and Coaches will subscribe to this contract enumerating their responsibilities
and the league’s expectations of them. All Managers and Coaches have the following
responsibilities:
● As a league representative, to always be courteous, helpful, and respectful of one’s
players, umpires, and opposing teams. Model this behavior for your players as well as
for spectators.
● To be encouraging at all times of one’s own team players and those of other teams. Be
positive and respect each child as an individual; strive to understand each child’s skills
and abilities as well as potential and set reasonable expectations for each child’s level
of play.
● To supply information as necessary to complete your Volunteer Application.
● To complete all league training and certification requirements; and carry an official
SFLL league ID badge to all practices and games.
● To read and adhere to the San Francisco Little League Child Protection Program.
● To be physically and mentally fit to lead and teach players at all practices and games.
● To be as organized and ready for each practice and game as possible so that the
players will benefit the most from your leadership.
● To be prepared for emergencies of any kind, as a responsible adult in charge of
children.
● To make sure that the playing environment is safe and supportive for children learning
new and improving existing baseball skills.
● To read, understand and follow all Little League rules and regulations, including those
in the Little League Rulebook (aka “Green Book”), in the SFLL Local Rules, and
outlined in the league ASAP Safety Manual.
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● To read and understand the SFLL Parent & Player Codes of Conduct.
● To attend and complete a course in first aid training on a biannual basis prior to
Opening Day.
● To attend coaching and/or skills training programs at least once per year in order to
develop as much knowledge as possible of fundamental baseball skills and strategies.
Training programs may be required more frequently as determined by the League.
● To attend Positive Coaching Alliance training at least once per year.
● To attend scheduled meetings and functions as appropriate to your position.
● To bring the current Little League Baseball® Official Regulations and Playing Rules to
every game.
● To have, in your possession at all practices contact information for all player parents if
an injury should occur.
● To make sure that emergency telephone numbers are available all times.
● To have a fully charged cellular telephone with which to make emergency calls in your
possession or confirm its availability at all practices and games.
● To be alert to potential hazards on or around the field, and to take action immediately to
address those hazards, to the extent possible. The playing field must be inspected
by the Manager or Coach prior to every practice and game.
● To submit an incident report and notify the league Safety Officer, Dan Gerard within 24
hours, of any incident that causes any player, Manager, Coach, umpire, volunteer or
spectator to receive medical treatment or first aid.
● To take immediate action if any player, Manager, Coach, umpire, official or spectator
puts anyone at risk of harm or injury or inflicts injury on anyone (mental or physical),
intended or not. If the Manager or Coach believes a player has intentionally injured
another player during a practice or game, that player is to be immediately suspended
from play until such time as the league Board of Directors has reviewed the incident
and made a decision regarding the player. You must submit a report of any such
incident to the league President, Katherine Gillespie, within 24 hours.
● To enforce the Little League bans on the use of tobacco, drugs or alcohol in any form
(including e-cigarettes) on the playing fields, in the dugouts or in the stands.
● To supervise the care and use of all league equipment and uniforms and to regularly
inspect the equipment to make sure it is safe for use.
● To use only the baseballs specified for use in your league.
● To recommend that all male players are appropriately equipped with athletic supporters
and hard cups, where appropriate, at both practices and games.
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● To assist in the clean-up of the field and stands after every game, and, when the home
team, drag the field after every game and practice (Treasure Island fields).
● To return all equipment to the league Equipment Manager at the end of the season and
to complete any end-of-season evaluation forms.
MANAGER & COACH CODES OF CONDUCT
PROFANITY, RACIAL OR ETHNIC COMMENTS, OR OTHER INTIMIDATING ACTIONS
TAKEN BY COACHES, SPECTATORS, PLAYERS, OR VOLUNTEERS WILL NOT BE
TOLERATED.
ALCOHOL AND FIREWORKS ARE NEVER ALLOWED AT LITTLE LEAGUE GAMES OR
PRACTICES AND/OR ANY OF OUR FIELDS INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO SF REC
& PARK FIELDS, PAUL GOODE, FORT SCOTT, RIORDAN AND OUR TREASURE ISLAND
FIELDS.
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Appendix B: SFLL Parent’s Codes of Conduct
SFLL strives to create a positive atmosphere where children learn the game of baseball or
softball, develop values and have fun. All members of the SFLL community have a role to play
in creating this positive atmosphere. By giving careful thought to these codes of conduct and
putting effort into living up to them, you can help create this positive atmosphere.
Please read the Parent’s Code of Conduct below and review the Player’s Code of Conduct
with your child.
Your Child and Their Team
● Be supportive of your child. Always cheer them on, especially when they struggle.
● Do not yell at or speak negatively to your child or their teammates in public.
● Do not coach your child or their teammates during a game (unless you are a coach).
● Do not ever let any player feel like they lost the game. The team wins and the team loses.
Your Opponents
● Never yell at or speak negatively to an opposing coach, parent or player.
● Do not engage in cheering that could be considered disrespectful to or might interfere
with the performance of the opposing team.
The Umpires
● Never yell at, criticize or even offer advice to an umpire (even in a polite
manner). Comments should be directed to your coach or a league administrator.
● Never blame the outcome of a game on an umpire. Umpire’s decisions are not always
correct, but successful players learn how to overcome those decisions, not use them as
excuses.
Your Coach/Team
● Do drop off and pick up your child on time for practices and games.
● Do keep your coach informed about absences or late arrivals that can’t be avoided.
● Do remain off the field and out of the dugout unless you are serving in an official capacity.
● Do help the coach or team parent out by volunteering for team duties. Make sure you are
doing your fair share.
● If you are not satisfied with an aspect of your child’s experience, talk to the coach about it
at a time he/she can listen. Generally, this is not immediately before or after a game.
The League
● Understand that SFLL only happens through the hard work of our volunteers.
Be appreciative of their efforts.
● Criticisms should be directed to a Board member or your coach.
● Do patronize the snack shack at Treasure Island Field and make sure it is open and
manned during your games.
● If any confrontation does occur, please step in and act as a peacemaker.
● Never swear.
● Never smoke or drink alcoholic beverages at a game or practice.
● Never threaten, harass, or use foul language to League officials, coaches, or umpires.
● Consequences: Parents that have not lived up to this code of conduct will be prevented
from attending games and/or will have their child’s playing privileges suspended and may
be precluded from future participation with SFLL.
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Appendix C: SFLL Player’s Codes of Conduct
SFLL strives to create a positive atmosphere where children learn the game of baseball or
softball, develop values and have fun. All members of the SFLL community have a role to play
in creating this positive atmosphere. By giving careful thought to these codes of conduct and
putting effort into living up to them, you can help create this positive atmosphere.
Please read the Parent’s Code of Conduct below and review the Player’s Code of Conduct
with your child.
1. Listen to and respect the directions of coaches and umpires during all league activities.
2. Never argue with or show disrespect towards the umpire or coaches.
3. Be positive with your teammates. Don't criticize.
4. Do not harass or act disrespectfully towards the opposing team.
5. Regularly attend practices and games. When you miss a game or practice, apologize to
the coach.
6. Be on time (tell your parents this is important to you). If you are late, apologize to your
coach.
7. Do not throw bats or helmets. These actions can lead to an immediate ejection from a
game.
8. Do not intentionally hurt another player. This will lead to an immediate ejection from the
game, suspension from future games, and/or dismissal from the team.
9. Never swear.
10. Clean up the dugout after every game. Ask the coach what else you can do to help.
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Appendix D: SFLL Concussion Prevention,
Treatment & Management Policy
The Legislature enacted a law which requires youth sports organizations to adopt a policy
concerning the prevention and treatment of injuries to the head which may occur during a
youth’s participation in competitive sports, including, without limitation, a concussion of the
brain.
A concussion is a brain injury that results from a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body which
causes the brain to move rapidly in the skull and which disrupts normal brain function. The
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States Department of Health and
Human Services estimates that as many as 3.8 million concussions occur each year in the
United States which are related to participation in sports and other recreational activities.
Athletes who continue to participate in an athletic activity while suffering from a concussion or
suffering from the symptoms of an injury to the head are at greater risk for catastrophic injury
to the brain or even death. Ensuring that a Little League player who sustains or is suspected of
sustaining a concussion or other injury to the head receives appropriate medical care before
returning to baseball activity will significantly reduce the child’s risk of sustaining greater injury
in the future.
THEREFORE, San Francisco Little League hereby adopts the following policy for purposes of
prevention, treatment, and management of injuries to the head that may occur during a
player’s participation in the Little League program, including, without limitation, a concussion of
the brain:
1. Prior to a team’s first practice each season, every manager, coach, and adult assistant
shall:
a. Familiarize themselves with the CDC publication “Heads Up – Concussion in Youth
Sports – A Fact Sheet for Coaches”. This publication will be provided to all such
individuals by the League Safety Officer or other Board members; and,
b. Complete the CDC on-line training course at:
https://www.train.org/cdctrain/course/1089818/ A copy of the Certificate of Completion
for each of the above individuals shall be submitted to the League Safety Officer.
2. If a Little League player sustains, or is suspected of sustaining, an injury to the head while
participating in any Little League game or even the player must:
a. Be immediately removed from the game or event; and
b. May only return to Little League activity if the parent or legal guardian of the player
provides a signed statement from a provider of health care indicating that the youth is
medically cleared for Little League participation and the date on which the player may
return to participation.
3. The Little League player and his or her parent or legal guardian must sign the
statement below acknowledging that they have read and understand the terms and
conditions of the policy and agree to be bound by San Francisco Little League’s
Concussion Prevention, Management and Treatment Policy.
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Appendix E: Field Pre-Game Procedures
TEPPER FIELD (TI#1)
Home Team
● Snack Shack
● Bring Umpire gear provided with your gear bag
Away Team
● Field Prep
● Announcer's Booth, Scoreboard
Playing Field Start-up
1. Place bases and remove plugs from base receptacles
2. Rake dirt from 2b side of first base into sliding area returning to 1b
3. Rake dirt from LF side of 2nd base into sliding area on 1b side of base area (we don’t
want a hard area in the sliding area of 2nd base)
4. Rake dirt into sliding area for 3rd base.
5. Rake dirt into depressions in the home plate area (batters boxes and catchers box) and
level
6. Rake mound, filling in landing hole and hole in front of pitcher’s rubber.
7. Drag infield dirt
8. Hose down infield dirt to keep dirt from blowing away
9. Unlock bathrooms and announcer's booth
10. Raise the flag from the announcer’s booth
Equipment Locations
● Umpire Equipment – Announcer’s booth
● Bases – Green Shed
● Drags and Rakes – Green Shed
Snack Shack
1. Follow the Tepper Field Snack Shack Operations Manual
Announcer Booth
1. Open shutters and bolts
2. Turn on power strip to sound/PA system and scoreboard
3. Follow all posted instructions regarding sound/PA system
4. Scoreboard Guide located in the Announcers Booth
Check all locks: both bathrooms, announcer booth, snack shack, green shed, tan container
shed. Keep unoccupied building doors closed, and all locks secured at all times during
games. If any locks are missing, notify John Mac at 415-564-6622 immediately.
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KETCHAM FIELD (TI#2)
Home Team
● Snack Shack
● Bring Umpire gear provided with your gear bag
Away Team
● Field Prep
● Announcer's Booth, Scoreboard
Playing Field Start-up
1. Place bases and remove plugs from base receptacles
2. Rake dirt from 2b side of first base into sliding area returning to 1b
3. Rake dirt from LF side of 2nd base into sliding area on 1b side of base area (we don’t
want a hard area in the sliding area of 2nd base)
4. Rake dirt into sliding area for 3rd base.
5. Rake dirt into depressions in the home plate area (batters boxes and catchers box) and
level
6. Drag infield dirt
7. Hose down infield dirt to keep dirt from blowing away
8. Measure and place portable mound (for baseball)
9. Unlock port-a-potty
Equipment Location
● Umpire Equipment – Gray Container
● Bases – Gray Container
● Drags and Rakes – Gray Container
● Portable Mound – Gray Container
● Scoreboard controls - Door of Gray Container
● Keep unoccupied building doors closed, and all locks secured at all times during
games. If any locks are missing, notify John Mac at 415-564-6622 immediately.
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FORT SCOTT NORTH AND SOUTH FIELDS
Home Team
● Bring Umpire gear provided with your gear bag
Both Teams
1. Field Prep
2. Place bases and remove plugs from base receptacles
3. Rake dirt from 2b side of first base into sliding area returning to 1b
4. Rake dirt from LF side of 2nd base into sliding area on 1b side of base area (we don’t
want a hard area in the sliding area of 2nd base)
5. Rake dirt into sliding area for 3rd base.
6. Rake dirt into depressions in the home plate area (batters boxes and catchers box) and
level
7. Drag infield dirt
8. How-do guide for lining for game
Equipment Location
1. The following equipment is stored in the Fort Scott field shed:
o EMAIL YOUR PLAYER AGENT FOR THE CODE.
o SFLL Coach’s keys open our lockers
2. Umpire Equipment
3. Bases on base cart
4. Rakes
5. Spray water can (fill using spigot outside shed building)
6. Equipment cart
7. Paint/striping equipment
8. Keep door closed and key in lock box/lock box secured at all times during games.
SF REC & PARK (SFRPD) FIELDS
Home Team
● Bring Umpire gear provided with your gear bag
● Place bases
Moscone Hennessey
● Combination locks have been placed at the Moscone Diamond 4 (Hennessey) dugout
gates to restrict access to permitted users only.
● EMAIL THE JUNIORS PLAYER AGENTS FOR THE CODE.
● Please note that there are some gates locked with a keyed lock and they should be not
be used.
● Coaches should be unlocking the gates upon arrival, relocking the locks to the fence
so they are not lost or taken when no one is looking, and then lock up the gates when
you leave.
● If you run into any issues with access while on-site, please reach out to Park Patrol directly at
415-242-6390.
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Appendix F: Post-Game Procedures (All Fields)
TEPPER FIELD (TI#1)
Responsible Parties: Coaches of BOTH teams
Coaches should meet after the game and divide duties to ensure that the field is left in good
condition and facilities are secured to prevent loss from theft. Leave the field in the condition
you would like to receive it as the team coming the next day. Playing Field Shutdown
1. Remove Bases and insert plugs in base receptacles
2. Rake dirt from 2b side of first base into sliding area returning to 1b
3. Rake dirt from LF side of 2nd base into sliding area on 1b side of base area (we don’t
want a hard area in the sliding area of 2nd base)
4. Rake dirt into sliding area for 3rd base.
5. Rake dirt into depressions in the home plate area (batters boxes and catchers box) and
level
6. Rake mound, filling-in landing hole and hole in front of pitcher’s rubber.
7. Drag infield dirt
8. Hose down infield dirt to keep dirt from blowing away
9. Players from each team should pick up and dispose of the trash in their respective
dugouts
10. Take down the flag, fold it, and store it in the announcer’s booth.
Put Away Equipment
1. Umpire Equipment – Announcer’s booth
2. Bases – Green Shed
3. Drags and Rakes – Green Shed
Snack Shack
1. Follow the Tepper Field Snack Shack Operations Manual
Announcer Booth
1. Take down American flag (and Little League flag if using) and return it to Announcer's
Booth cabinet
2. Close Shutter and bolt closed
3. Turn off power strip to sound/PA system
4. Turn off lights
5. Lock door
Check all locks
Including bathrooms, announcer booth, snack shack, green shed, tan container shed. If any
locks are missing, notify John Mac at 415-564-6622 immediately.
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KETCHAM FIELD (TI#2)
Responsible Parties: Coaches of BOTH teams
Coaches should meet after game and divide duties to ensure that field is left in good condition
and facilities are secured to prevent loss from theft. Leave the field in the condition you would
like to receive it as the team coming the next day.
Playing Field Shutdown
1. Remove Bases and insert plugs in base receptacles
2. Rake dirt from 2b side of first base into sliding area returning to 1b
3. Rake dirt from LF side of 2nd base into sliding area on 1b side of base area (we don’t want
a hard area in the sliding area of 2nd base)
4. Rake dirt into sliding area for 3rd base.
5. Rake dirt into depressions in the home plate area (batters’ boxes and catchers’ box)
6. Return mound to shed, rake mound area, filling-in landing hole and hole in front of
pitcher’s rubber.
7. Drag infield dirt
8. Hose down infield dirt to keep dirt from blowing away
9. Have players clean up the trash in their respective dugouts
Put Away Equipment
1. Ketcham Field Equipment storage
2. Drags and Rakes
3. Portable Mound
4. Lock Container
5. Check all locks – Porta-potty, and container shed. (If any locks are missing, notify John
Mac at 415-564-6622 immediately)
Snack Shack
1. Follow the Ketcham Field Snack Shack Operations Manual
Announcer Booth
1. Take down American flag (and Little League flag if using) and return it to Announcer's
Booth
2. Bring in speakers, coil the cords on the close window and lock it.
3. Turn off power strip to sound/PA system (power strip located by the window)
4. Turn off lights
5. Turn off scoreboard
6. Lock door
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FORT SCOTT NORTH AND SOUTH FIELDS
Responsible Parties: Coaches of BOTH teams
Coaches should meet after game and divide duties to ensure that field is left in good condition
and facilities are secured to prevent loss from theft. Leave the field in the condition you would
like to receive it as the team coming the next day.
Playing Field Shutdown
1. Remove Bases and insert plugs in base receptacles
2. Rake dirt from 2b side of first base into sliding area returning to 1b
3. Rake dirt from LF side of 2nd base into sliding area on 1b side of base area (we don’t want
a hard area in the sliding area of 2nd base)
4. Rake dirt into sliding area for 3rd base.
5. Rake dirt into depressions in the home plate area (batters’ boxes and catchers’ box)
6. Rake mound area, filling-in landing hole and hole in front of pitcher’s rubber.
7. Have players clean up the trash in their respective dugouts
Both Teams: Put Away Equipment
1. Rakes
2. Bases
3. Lock field shed
4. If the lock box is missing, notify Park Maintenance at (415) 677-2267 immediately.
SF REC & PARK (SFRPD) FIELDS
Both Teams
● Have players clean up the trash in their respective dugouts
● Remind fans to pick up litter from the stands and pack out excess trash.
Moscone Hennessey
● Relock any combination locks/gates that you opened while onsite. Notify Park Patrol
(number below) and your player agent immediately if any locks are missing.
If you run into any issues with access while on-site at any SFRPD facility, please reach
out to Park Patrol directly at 415-242-6390.
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Appendix G: Safety Improvement Suggestion
Form
Date:
Field:
Name:
Phone Number:
Division:
Team:
Areas of Concern:
Describe Safety Problems:
Recommendations for Solving Problem:
❑ I can volunteer to help resolve this problem.
Additional Comments:
Please email this form to the league Safety Officer: daniel.gerard@post.harvard.edu
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Appendix K: Sample Player Medical Release Form
https://tinyurl.com/sfllmedicalrelease
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Appendix L: Sample AIG Accident Notification
Form (Parent/Guardian Statement)
https://www.littleleague.org/downloads/accident-claim-form/
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