 |
 |
 |
| President Kevin Shea 781-749-4056 | Secretary George Grant 781-875-1589 | Treasurer Bill Ford 781-749-1719 |
| VP Baseball Operations Owen Kane 781-749-7588 | VP Business Operations Elliot Sherman 617-633-8314 | Communications Director Marianne Vinton 781-740-8876 |
| Player Agent Glenn Vinton 781-740-8876 |
| Umpire Coordinator (Non BOD) Rich Magner 781-740-2929 | Coaching Coordinator Sean Reagan 781-749-0025 | Equipment Coordinator Wayne Southworth |
| Board Member Derek Irvin 781-740-8635 | Board Member Ron Hutchins 781-335-6394 | Board Member Andy Wheeler 781-740-2373 |
| Board Member Bob Beniers 978-337-1181 | Board Member Neal Kenney 781-749-7574 | Board Member Joe Craven 781-740-0549 |
| Board Member Bob Madden 781-953-1673 | Board Member Mike Bennis 781 424-7357 | Board Member Joe Phelan 781-749-8716 |
| Board Member Jeffrey Hartwell 781-740-8850 |
HLL BOD Meeting Minutes - January 17, 2005
Hingham Little League Board of Directors Meeting
January 17, 2005
Hingham Recreation Center
Meeting Minutes
The twenty sixth meeting of the Hingham Little League Board of Directors was
called to order by President Rob Blomberg at 7:35 pm.
Present: Rob Blomberg, Cliff Boyle, Bruce Corwin ,Joe Craven, Tim Driscoll, Melissa Flanagan, Joe Granatino, Bob Keyes, Mike Letorney, Rick Linehan, Rich Magner, Owen McConville, Elliot Sherman
Absent: Mark Igo, Paul LeBlanc, Tia Mastromatteo, Rick West, Steve White, Tim Zyrkowski
Opening Discussions
President Rob Blomberg called the meeting to order at 7:35 pm.
Secretarys Report
Approval of Meeting Minutes from 1/3/04 Meeting
o One correction noted by Elliot, Articles of Incorporation are filed, it is the Certificate of Conditions which need to be renewed.
o Minutes approved with above changes, to be posted by Tim Driscoll
Treasurers Report
Current Balance
o Current balance is ,022.00
Outstanding Expenses
o Beacon Sports balance closed out
o Other expenses
 Field. Fencing and Other Expenses for Haley and Hersey
Roofing on dugouts upcoming expense. Work wont be done until after winter. Was noted the Steve Jacobs Construction offered to help, we can reciprocate with a Tee-Ball Sponsorship for the donation of labor. A motion was made and vote passed to work with Steve Jacobs Construction in building the dugout roofing structure as above. Suggested to use Hollingsworth Field in Braintree for a template of what we are looking for. Rich Magner will follow up with Steve.
Citizens Bank Update
o An account has been opened up with Citizens Bank.
Need to create a detailed balance sheet for the 2005 year
o Use of Quicken
 Rick Linehan will get together with Bob to continue work on this.
Business Related Issues
Local Little League Business Filings and Topics
o Articles of Incorporation-Renewal
 Expired 10/31/04 and need to filed by Alan Gladstone
Clarification as above, the Certificate of Conditions is what needs to be renewed
o Public Charity Filings
 Use of CPA Gladstone
Bob contacted him, busy in tax season, will set up meeting at end of March for the financial matters our deadline is not until June 15th.
o 501 (3) c Form
 Update from Joe Craven
Joe is working on the form, we actually have 27 months from inception to file so were in good shape, he needs to report balances and budget of 3 year period, board needs to sign Conflict of Interest statement for non-profit status, etc. Joe will update us at the next meeting
o Insurance Fees and Options
 Part of Charter Renewal Registration
Hold, not pressing
o Population Waiver
 Rob is in the process of updating last years letter and forwarding it to Don Whitman and Little League
Hingham Rec Department Permit
o Permit available in 3/05
o Further discussion on fields tabled until Grounds Committee Report
 We learned from various sources that the Rec Dept will be instituting a participant fee for use of the fields to offset the costs of maintenance. The arrangement is .00 per participant per program. Fee expected to be in 00-00 range which we will absorb. Further discussion ensued regarding the School Department permit application which requires the same per user fee (brought up by Cliff Boyle). It was decided to table further discussion until we had more details for which fields we might be available, what slots, and if we could assign to only 1 or 2 levels (ie TeeBall or Farm, Minor)
National Little League Business Filings
o Charter Application
Renewal due in 5/05
o Charter Fees
Part of insurance application
Both of these items can be put on hold for now, not due until May
Audit of 2003/2004 HLL Financial Results
o Use CPA Gladstone
o Schedule a date for the audit
o Communicate the results of the audit
As above, agreed to use Gladstones services, but he is not available in busy tax season Bob will set up a meeting with Mr. Gladstone in late March
New Business
Player Registration-Membership Committee Report
o Rick Linehan and Elliot Sherman are Co-Chairpersons
o Update existing HLL Player Database
Update on proposed changes to the database
There is availability on the website to leverage the database which ultimately can support all data regarding players in a centralized location. The new database would be accessible by the board, supports billing, automated registration, etc (for next year). The fee for the additional service is reasonable, but now data gathering is taking place in anticipation of moving to the database, and it was decided to wait to take a vote to appropriate the funds until next meeting when there is more information available as to cost and specific services.
o Player Registration Fees for the 2005 Season have been determined and the Registration Form has been updated and is on the HLL Website
o Registration Dates
Hingham Rec Center will be used
Registration Dates
Saturday-1/22/05 from 12:00 pm 3:00 pm
Monday-1/24/05 from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Registration by mail will be encouraged
Create spreadsheet for volunteers at registration sessions
o Rob distributed a signup sheet for volunteers, looks like were covered well for all hours, those not present should please follow up / show up to help out. (Rob sent an email subsequent to the meeting to this effect)
Separate Challenger Division table will be created at registration
o Decided to have 1 big table / area to register for Majors, Minors, Farm, and T Ball, and separate tables each for Volunteers (including Managers and Coaches), Sponsorships, and the Challenger Division. There will be Membership forms available for those seeking to join HLL. Well also push fundraising with plenty of stickers to sell .
Previous players who supplied birth certificates
o Reminder, if already played in HLL last year no Birth Certificates are required, but if any doubt please ask for one! All new players regardless of division are required to provide a copy of their Birth Certificate.
Finalize all outstanding registration issues
o Joe Granatino will bring along cash boxes
o Need 400 copies of the registration packetsElliot will provide
o Need supplies of staplers, tape, pens Elliot and Rick will provide the materials
o Mailing of Registration Postcards
Status of mailing of postcards
Sent, most of the members report getting them, some didnt
Communicate Registration Dates
Articles in Hingham Journal - done
Registration notices distributed in schools and the Rec Center = done
o Posting to the Hingham Youth Hockey site as well
o HLL Website
Updated with all registration details including Challenger Division
o Use of Comcast Cable to promote registration
Joe Granatino will call tomorrow to see if they put on the Hingham Town Channel.
Sponsorships and Donations-Committee Report
o Chairpersons are Melissa Flanagan and Tia Mastromatteo
o Update of database of 2004 sponsors at all four levels (Major, Minor, Farm and T Ball)
Identify returning sponsors
All set at major level. There are 13 open slots in Minors, will inquire if last year sponsors would like to extend this year. Continue to add sponsors, Citizens Bank, Steve Jacobs Construction, etc. Will have a table at registration for Sponsorships. Suggestion was made to have signage listing all sponsors to make it more widely seen.
o Letters to 2004 sponsors who failed to pay sponsorship fees in 2004
Rob will forward letter to all sponsors who failed to meet their sponsorship obligations
Rob has HLL Letterhead and will send letters to get this squared away.
o Review rates charged in 2004/Recommendation on Rates for 2005
In 2004 rates were Majors-0/year or ,200/three years; Minors and Farm-0/year or 0/three years and T Ball-0
Determine sponsorship rate for Challenger Division
Fee is 0. See comments under Challenger Divison later on in the minutes.
o Review details of sponsorship packet for 2005
Identify any potential changes that need to be made
Review Various Options For Sponsorships in 2005
First Option of Renewal, etc.
o Discuss Other Issues
501 (c) (3) form required for Verizon sponsorship
League Rules and Local By-law Issues
Player Agent Report
o Mike Letorney is Player Agent
o Status of Tryout dates
Dates are confirmed. SSSC, big field on right
March 19th and March 20th 9:00 am 1:00 pm
Mike will inquire to get returning HHS Varsity players to assist
o Status of Draft
Majors, Friday April 1st 7:00 9:00 pm at Rec, Minors Sunday April 4th time and location to be determined
o Other Topics
Players with SSSC certificate can join Farm, 8 yr olds in Minors will take into consideration
Major League Committee Report
o Joe Granatino is Chairperson
o Playing rules in Majors were left unchanged
o Age limitations and restrictions
All 12 year olds automatically in Majors (Little League rule)
Limitations on number of 10 year olds in Majors
In 2004 it was a maximum of three per team
o Outstanding issue until registration is finalized
o Metal bats will be used in Majors
o Major teams will not be redrafted in 2005
o Other topics
One issue discussed, a coach left town and question was asked whether that team is compensated with extra pick. Determined that the Draft Order and rules will be further evaluated prior to Draft date.
Minor League Committee Report
o Determine Chairperson(s)
Paul LeBlanc is the Chairperson
o Review current playing rules in Minors and determine if any changes need to be made
o Make recommendations to the Board regarding:
Age limitations and restrictions
Some 11 year olds will play in Minors
Issue of 8 year olds playing in Minors
Make recommendations to the Board on wood bat vs metal bat issue at the Minor Level
Motion was made and passed to allow metal bats in the Minor Division this year
o Metal bats will be used in Majors
o Other topics
Recommendation made to offer 1 batting helmet with face mask as an option for players to wear at bat. Considerable discussion ensued regarding the merits of the mask, should it be mandatory or optional, is there data regarding safety, etc. Further discussed looking into using a RIF ball (less than standard ball, some favorable data exists on safety factor). The issue of optional/mandatory facemasks was tabled for further discussion at this time.
Farm League Committee
o Chairperson is Tim Driscoll
o Playing rules in Farm will be unchanged in 2005
o Make recommendations to the Board regarding age limitations and restrictions
Issue of younger players in Farm League will be revisited after registration is completed
o Wood bat or metal bats can be used
o Other topics
TBall Committee
o Chairperson is Mark Igo
o Playing rules in TBall have been updated
o Other topics
Managers Committee Report
o Joe Craven is Chairperson
o Data base of 2004 HLL Managers and Coaches has been reviewed
Joe reported that all recipients of interest except 2 responded to the email sent out in early January, and all but 2 expressed interest still in managing/coaching. These are spread pretty well among divisions, plenty affirmative and still more volunteers needed. Due to schedules, the committee was not able to meet again but will shortly, to prepare for next board meeting to establish the process for selection for manager, format of process, etc.
Potential oversubscription at the majors level for Managers with Mangers needed at all other levels
o Manager candidates at all levels will be interviewed
Use Little League Approved Manager/Coach application
o CORI applications will be completed and submitted by all prospective Managers and Coaches
o Intermediate and advanced training for Managers and Coaches will occur
Coaching training will include How to Run A Practice, Hitting, Pitching, Catching, Defense instruction, etc, as well as Boys of Baseball opportunities. Goal of the training to aim for consistency of coaching techniques throughout the program.
o Practice manual for HLL will be developed
o Zero Tolerance policy
Discussed that this will addressed at the Coaches Meeting.
o Other topics
Equipment Committee Report
o Rick West is Chairperson(s)
o Update database to identify existing equipment and uniforms at all four levels
o Create equipment budget
Factor in Challenger Division
o Determine what equipment needs to be replaced
o Consider potential vendors for ordering equipment
o Equipment that will be provided
Majors-hat, shirt, pants and sox
Minors, Farm and T Ball-hat and shirt
Challenger Division
Recommend hat, shirt, pants and sox
o See under further notes, motion made and passed to provide full uniform for division players.
Additional equipment-RIF baseballs, etc.
No report due to absences of committee members. Need to get going on this front as there is a lot to do. Rob will follow up
Umpire Committee Report
o Rich Magner is Chairperson
o Review umpire requirements, rule changes and expectations for 2005
o Rates for umpires remain unchanged
o Completion of CORI form for all umpires
o Rule books need to be ordered
Also discussed need to order new shirts for new umpires. Rich to follow up with Mark on this issue.
o Date selected for umpire kickoff meeting
Rich provided update 1st meeting is scheduled for March 16, Rec Center, 7:30pm. Rich asked Melissa if she could post upcoming in the Hingham Journal addressed to the youth of the town age 13 and older to come to this informational meeting. Suggested that adults would be considered for umpiring if any requested, we support the opportunity it gives to the younger kids still interested in participating in organized sports.
Challenger Division Report
o Chairpersons are Rob Blomberg, Joe Granatino and Tia Mastromatteo
o Update from Rob on Discussions with Ralph Rowe of Braintree Little League and Dianna Clarke of Hingham TOPS Soccer Program
Highlights include: the program in Braintree is very successful and it is worth the effort, Best thing Ive done as President of the Braintree Little League, Ralph Rowe. Treat the division and players like any others, kids really enjoy participating, go with full uniforms and trophies to hype it up The TOPS program is also successful, with 20-30 participants of varying capabilities, but all sharing in the fun.
o Requirements for the Program
Identification and number of players
Update on communication with Parents Advisory Committee
Upcoming, Joe has spoken with Director of Special Ed in town, they are very supportive and grateful, will work with us as this develops.
o Player Criteria can be within Hingham or outside of Hingham
No player will be turned away
o Creation of Registration Form
o Schedules and Fields
Saturday vs Sundays
Conflict with the TOPS Soccer program
Rob discussed working around the establishe TOPS program so as to not conflict; may want to schedule on Saturdays as the TOPS plays on Sundays, but only through mid May. We acknowledge that we can continue with division play later into June or more, no restriction.
o Uniforms and equipment
A motion was made and passed to provide full uniforms for players in the division. Trophies will also be awarded to all players at the end of the season.
o Fees
Make decision vs donations vs waived fees
Input received from several sources points out that players should not be treated differently and should pay regular fee (scholarships can be awarded on as needed basis, no player will be turned away)
o Sponsorship
Discussed fee for sponsorship opportunities in this division. This is the most popular/sought after sponsorship level in the Braintree program. A motion was made and passed to establish a sponsorship fee of 0 per team
o Funding/Grant status
o Finalize Playing Rules
o Communication of the Challenger Division Program
Hingham Journal
HLL Website
Challenger table at HLL Registration with brochures and video
Parents meeting post registration
o Creation of Buddy List
o Creation of Parental and Volunteer List
o Handicap Rest Room issue
o Kickoff Ceremonies
o End of Year Awards Ceremonies
o Other topics
Buildings, Property and Grounds Committee Report
o Cliff Boyle and Tim Zyrkowski-Co-Chairs
o Status of Existing Playing Fields-Haley, Hersey and PAL Fields
o Update on potential expansion to other fields
Will continue to inquire availability of Foster, South, etc.
o Update on status of discussions with Hingham Softball, Hingham Rec or other groups regarding additional fields
Cliff reported application received from School Committee, noting the fee per participant per field. Discussed issue in detail, determined we need more information on what permits we can get before deciding on how to best utilize the school fields at the most affordable cost.
o Status of Ordering Portable Rest Rooms
Social Committee Report
o Chairpersons are Melissa Flanagan and Tia Mastromatteo
o Identify potential fundraisers
Golf/tennis tournament-9/05
Date set for September 21st at SS Country Club. Discussed that tournament is intended as a social function in addition to fundraising opportunity. Further details will be report later.
Dinner/dance
Other suggestions
Old Business
Calendar of Events
o Review HLL Calendar of Events
o Changes to the Calendar
o Post Calendar on the website
Rob will update and forward to Mark for posting on website.
Hingham Little League Website
o Additional content for the HLL Website
Update for Challenger Division
Further Consideration of Baseball Options Within Hingham for Players Older Than 12 Years old
o At the 12/6/04 HLL BOD Meeting the HLL BOD affirmed that there is no interest in offering baseball options for players age 14 and older
o At the same time there was ongoing interest in determining what potential baseball programs Hingham Hull Babe Ruth might offer to the Hingham 13 year olds.
o Status of followup discussions with Hingham Hull Babe Ruth
o Update from 1/12/05 HH Babe Ruth Board Meeting
Meeting was held, no plans to support 13 year old league. Option still exists to support a 1x / week sandlot league with instruction. More information next meeting.
Schedule for Upcoming Meetings
o Monday 2/7/05
o Monday 3/7/05
o Monday 3/21/05
o Monday 4/4/05
o Monday 4/11/05
o Monday 5/2/05
o Monday 5/16/05
o Monday 6/6/05
o Monday 6/20/05
o Monday 7/11/05
o Monday 8/8/05
o Monday 9/12/05
o Monday 10/3/05
o Monday 10/24/05 (Annual Meeting)
Other Old Business
New Business
o Bob Keyes distributed a flyer on a piece of field equipment that is used to dry fields, called a drain roller Roll Dry that is supposed to be terrific. After struggling with puddles several days last year, the special Diamond Turf on the infield at Haley was dumped on the grass, ultimately killing it. This device takes care of puddles in short order for a reasonable price. A motion was made and passed to purchase the device. Bob will follow up, report back on specific pricing.
o Issue of potential use of concession stand at PAL field was discussed. There is potential to raise funds, using the football shed. Several members thought this would be a great idea to support, as well as manning the trailer which is available at Haley to help bolster funds. Being late, the issue was tabled at this time and will be put on future meeting agenda for further discussion.
Meeting was adjourned at 9:45 pm.
January 17, 2005
Hingham Recreation Center
Meeting Minutes
The twenty sixth meeting of the Hingham Little League Board of Directors was
called to order by President Rob Blomberg at 7:35 pm.
Present: Rob Blomberg, Cliff Boyle, Bruce Corwin ,Joe Craven, Tim Driscoll, Melissa Flanagan, Joe Granatino, Bob Keyes, Mike Letorney, Rick Linehan, Rich Magner, Owen McConville, Elliot Sherman
Absent: Mark Igo, Paul LeBlanc, Tia Mastromatteo, Rick West, Steve White, Tim Zyrkowski
Opening Discussions
President Rob Blomberg called the meeting to order at 7:35 pm.
Secretarys Report
Approval of Meeting Minutes from 1/3/04 Meeting
o One correction noted by Elliot, Articles of Incorporation are filed, it is the Certificate of Conditions which need to be renewed.
o Minutes approved with above changes, to be posted by Tim Driscoll
Treasurers Report
Current Balance
o Current balance is ,022.00
Outstanding Expenses
o Beacon Sports balance closed out
o Other expenses
 Field. Fencing and Other Expenses for Haley and Hersey
Roofing on dugouts upcoming expense. Work wont be done until after winter. Was noted the Steve Jacobs Construction offered to help, we can reciprocate with a Tee-Ball Sponsorship for the donation of labor. A motion was made and vote passed to work with Steve Jacobs Construction in building the dugout roofing structure as above. Suggested to use Hollingsworth Field in Braintree for a template of what we are looking for. Rich Magner will follow up with Steve.
Citizens Bank Update
o An account has been opened up with Citizens Bank.
Need to create a detailed balance sheet for the 2005 year
o Use of Quicken
 Rick Linehan will get together with Bob to continue work on this.
Business Related Issues
Local Little League Business Filings and Topics
o Articles of Incorporation-Renewal
 Expired 10/31/04 and need to filed by Alan Gladstone
Clarification as above, the Certificate of Conditions is what needs to be renewed
o Public Charity Filings
 Use of CPA Gladstone
Bob contacted him, busy in tax season, will set up meeting at end of March for the financial matters our deadline is not until June 15th.
o 501 (3) c Form
 Update from Joe Craven
Joe is working on the form, we actually have 27 months from inception to file so were in good shape, he needs to report balances and budget of 3 year period, board needs to sign Conflict of Interest statement for non-profit status, etc. Joe will update us at the next meeting
o Insurance Fees and Options
 Part of Charter Renewal Registration
Hold, not pressing
o Population Waiver
 Rob is in the process of updating last years letter and forwarding it to Don Whitman and Little League
Hingham Rec Department Permit
o Permit available in 3/05
o Further discussion on fields tabled until Grounds Committee Report
 We learned from various sources that the Rec Dept will be instituting a participant fee for use of the fields to offset the costs of maintenance. The arrangement is .00 per participant per program. Fee expected to be in 00-00 range which we will absorb. Further discussion ensued regarding the School Department permit application which requires the same per user fee (brought up by Cliff Boyle). It was decided to table further discussion until we had more details for which fields we might be available, what slots, and if we could assign to only 1 or 2 levels (ie TeeBall or Farm, Minor)
National Little League Business Filings
o Charter Application
Renewal due in 5/05
o Charter Fees
Part of insurance application
Both of these items can be put on hold for now, not due until May
Audit of 2003/2004 HLL Financial Results
o Use CPA Gladstone
o Schedule a date for the audit
o Communicate the results of the audit
As above, agreed to use Gladstones services, but he is not available in busy tax season Bob will set up a meeting with Mr. Gladstone in late March
New Business
Player Registration-Membership Committee Report
o Rick Linehan and Elliot Sherman are Co-Chairpersons
o Update existing HLL Player Database
Update on proposed changes to the database
There is availability on the website to leverage the database which ultimately can support all data regarding players in a centralized location. The new database would be accessible by the board, supports billing, automated registration, etc (for next year). The fee for the additional service is reasonable, but now data gathering is taking place in anticipation of moving to the database, and it was decided to wait to take a vote to appropriate the funds until next meeting when there is more information available as to cost and specific services.
o Player Registration Fees for the 2005 Season have been determined and the Registration Form has been updated and is on the HLL Website
o Registration Dates
Hingham Rec Center will be used
Registration Dates
Saturday-1/22/05 from 12:00 pm 3:00 pm
Monday-1/24/05 from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm
Registration by mail will be encouraged
Create spreadsheet for volunteers at registration sessions
o Rob distributed a signup sheet for volunteers, looks like were covered well for all hours, those not present should please follow up / show up to help out. (Rob sent an email subsequent to the meeting to this effect)
Separate Challenger Division table will be created at registration
o Decided to have 1 big table / area to register for Majors, Minors, Farm, and T Ball, and separate tables each for Volunteers (including Managers and Coaches), Sponsorships, and the Challenger Division. There will be Membership forms available for those seeking to join HLL. Well also push fundraising with plenty of stickers to sell .
Previous players who supplied birth certificates
o Reminder, if already played in HLL last year no Birth Certificates are required, but if any doubt please ask for one! All new players regardless of division are required to provide a copy of their Birth Certificate.
Finalize all outstanding registration issues
o Joe Granatino will bring along cash boxes
o Need 400 copies of the registration packetsElliot will provide
o Need supplies of staplers, tape, pens Elliot and Rick will provide the materials
o Mailing of Registration Postcards
Status of mailing of postcards
Sent, most of the members report getting them, some didnt
Communicate Registration Dates
Articles in Hingham Journal - done
Registration notices distributed in schools and the Rec Center = done
o Posting to the Hingham Youth Hockey site as well
o HLL Website
Updated with all registration details including Challenger Division
o Use of Comcast Cable to promote registration
Joe Granatino will call tomorrow to see if they put on the Hingham Town Channel.
Sponsorships and Donations-Committee Report
o Chairpersons are Melissa Flanagan and Tia Mastromatteo
o Update of database of 2004 sponsors at all four levels (Major, Minor, Farm and T Ball)
Identify returning sponsors
All set at major level. There are 13 open slots in Minors, will inquire if last year sponsors would like to extend this year. Continue to add sponsors, Citizens Bank, Steve Jacobs Construction, etc. Will have a table at registration for Sponsorships. Suggestion was made to have signage listing all sponsors to make it more widely seen.
o Letters to 2004 sponsors who failed to pay sponsorship fees in 2004
Rob will forward letter to all sponsors who failed to meet their sponsorship obligations
Rob has HLL Letterhead and will send letters to get this squared away.
o Review rates charged in 2004/Recommendation on Rates for 2005
In 2004 rates were Majors-0/year or ,200/three years; Minors and Farm-0/year or 0/three years and T Ball-0
Determine sponsorship rate for Challenger Division
Fee is 0. See comments under Challenger Divison later on in the minutes.
o Review details of sponsorship packet for 2005
Identify any potential changes that need to be made
Review Various Options For Sponsorships in 2005
First Option of Renewal, etc.
o Discuss Other Issues
501 (c) (3) form required for Verizon sponsorship
League Rules and Local By-law Issues
Player Agent Report
o Mike Letorney is Player Agent
o Status of Tryout dates
Dates are confirmed. SSSC, big field on right
March 19th and March 20th 9:00 am 1:00 pm
Mike will inquire to get returning HHS Varsity players to assist
o Status of Draft
Majors, Friday April 1st 7:00 9:00 pm at Rec, Minors Sunday April 4th time and location to be determined
o Other Topics
Players with SSSC certificate can join Farm, 8 yr olds in Minors will take into consideration
Major League Committee Report
o Joe Granatino is Chairperson
o Playing rules in Majors were left unchanged
o Age limitations and restrictions
All 12 year olds automatically in Majors (Little League rule)
Limitations on number of 10 year olds in Majors
In 2004 it was a maximum of three per team
o Outstanding issue until registration is finalized
o Metal bats will be used in Majors
o Major teams will not be redrafted in 2005
o Other topics
One issue discussed, a coach left town and question was asked whether that team is compensated with extra pick. Determined that the Draft Order and rules will be further evaluated prior to Draft date.
Minor League Committee Report
o Determine Chairperson(s)
Paul LeBlanc is the Chairperson
o Review current playing rules in Minors and determine if any changes need to be made
o Make recommendations to the Board regarding:
Age limitations and restrictions
Some 11 year olds will play in Minors
Issue of 8 year olds playing in Minors
Make recommendations to the Board on wood bat vs metal bat issue at the Minor Level
Motion was made and passed to allow metal bats in the Minor Division this year
o Metal bats will be used in Majors
o Other topics
Recommendation made to offer 1 batting helmet with face mask as an option for players to wear at bat. Considerable discussion ensued regarding the merits of the mask, should it be mandatory or optional, is there data regarding safety, etc. Further discussed looking into using a RIF ball (less than standard ball, some favorable data exists on safety factor). The issue of optional/mandatory facemasks was tabled for further discussion at this time.
Farm League Committee
o Chairperson is Tim Driscoll
o Playing rules in Farm will be unchanged in 2005
o Make recommendations to the Board regarding age limitations and restrictions
Issue of younger players in Farm League will be revisited after registration is completed
o Wood bat or metal bats can be used
o Other topics
TBall Committee
o Chairperson is Mark Igo
o Playing rules in TBall have been updated
o Other topics
Managers Committee Report
o Joe Craven is Chairperson
o Data base of 2004 HLL Managers and Coaches has been reviewed
Joe reported that all recipients of interest except 2 responded to the email sent out in early January, and all but 2 expressed interest still in managing/coaching. These are spread pretty well among divisions, plenty affirmative and still more volunteers needed. Due to schedules, the committee was not able to meet again but will shortly, to prepare for next board meeting to establish the process for selection for manager, format of process, etc.
Potential oversubscription at the majors level for Managers with Mangers needed at all other levels
o Manager candidates at all levels will be interviewed
Use Little League Approved Manager/Coach application
o CORI applications will be completed and submitted by all prospective Managers and Coaches
o Intermediate and advanced training for Managers and Coaches will occur
Coaching training will include How to Run A Practice, Hitting, Pitching, Catching, Defense instruction, etc, as well as Boys of Baseball opportunities. Goal of the training to aim for consistency of coaching techniques throughout the program.
o Practice manual for HLL will be developed
o Zero Tolerance policy
Discussed that this will addressed at the Coaches Meeting.
o Other topics
Equipment Committee Report
o Rick West is Chairperson(s)
o Update database to identify existing equipment and uniforms at all four levels
o Create equipment budget
Factor in Challenger Division
o Determine what equipment needs to be replaced
o Consider potential vendors for ordering equipment
o Equipment that will be provided
Majors-hat, shirt, pants and sox
Minors, Farm and T Ball-hat and shirt
Challenger Division
Recommend hat, shirt, pants and sox
o See under further notes, motion made and passed to provide full uniform for division players.
Additional equipment-RIF baseballs, etc.
No report due to absences of committee members. Need to get going on this front as there is a lot to do. Rob will follow up
Umpire Committee Report
o Rich Magner is Chairperson
o Review umpire requirements, rule changes and expectations for 2005
o Rates for umpires remain unchanged
o Completion of CORI form for all umpires
o Rule books need to be ordered
Also discussed need to order new shirts for new umpires. Rich to follow up with Mark on this issue.
o Date selected for umpire kickoff meeting
Rich provided update 1st meeting is scheduled for March 16, Rec Center, 7:30pm. Rich asked Melissa if she could post upcoming in the Hingham Journal addressed to the youth of the town age 13 and older to come to this informational meeting. Suggested that adults would be considered for umpiring if any requested, we support the opportunity it gives to the younger kids still interested in participating in organized sports.
Challenger Division Report
o Chairpersons are Rob Blomberg, Joe Granatino and Tia Mastromatteo
o Update from Rob on Discussions with Ralph Rowe of Braintree Little League and Dianna Clarke of Hingham TOPS Soccer Program
Highlights include: the program in Braintree is very successful and it is worth the effort, Best thing Ive done as President of the Braintree Little League, Ralph Rowe. Treat the division and players like any others, kids really enjoy participating, go with full uniforms and trophies to hype it up The TOPS program is also successful, with 20-30 participants of varying capabilities, but all sharing in the fun.
o Requirements for the Program
Identification and number of players
Update on communication with Parents Advisory Committee
Upcoming, Joe has spoken with Director of Special Ed in town, they are very supportive and grateful, will work with us as this develops.
o Player Criteria can be within Hingham or outside of Hingham
No player will be turned away
o Creation of Registration Form
o Schedules and Fields
Saturday vs Sundays
Conflict with the TOPS Soccer program
Rob discussed working around the establishe TOPS program so as to not conflict; may want to schedule on Saturdays as the TOPS plays on Sundays, but only through mid May. We acknowledge that we can continue with division play later into June or more, no restriction.
o Uniforms and equipment
A motion was made and passed to provide full uniforms for players in the division. Trophies will also be awarded to all players at the end of the season.
o Fees
Make decision vs donations vs waived fees
Input received from several sources points out that players should not be treated differently and should pay regular fee (scholarships can be awarded on as needed basis, no player will be turned away)
o Sponsorship
Discussed fee for sponsorship opportunities in this division. This is the most popular/sought after sponsorship level in the Braintree program. A motion was made and passed to establish a sponsorship fee of 0 per team
o Funding/Grant status
o Finalize Playing Rules
o Communication of the Challenger Division Program
Hingham Journal
HLL Website
Challenger table at HLL Registration with brochures and video
Parents meeting post registration
o Creation of Buddy List
o Creation of Parental and Volunteer List
o Handicap Rest Room issue
o Kickoff Ceremonies
o End of Year Awards Ceremonies
o Other topics
Buildings, Property and Grounds Committee Report
o Cliff Boyle and Tim Zyrkowski-Co-Chairs
o Status of Existing Playing Fields-Haley, Hersey and PAL Fields
o Update on potential expansion to other fields
Will continue to inquire availability of Foster, South, etc.
o Update on status of discussions with Hingham Softball, Hingham Rec or other groups regarding additional fields
Cliff reported application received from School Committee, noting the fee per participant per field. Discussed issue in detail, determined we need more information on what permits we can get before deciding on how to best utilize the school fields at the most affordable cost.
o Status of Ordering Portable Rest Rooms
Social Committee Report
o Chairpersons are Melissa Flanagan and Tia Mastromatteo
o Identify potential fundraisers
Golf/tennis tournament-9/05
Date set for September 21st at SS Country Club. Discussed that tournament is intended as a social function in addition to fundraising opportunity. Further details will be report later.
Dinner/dance
Other suggestions
Old Business
Calendar of Events
o Review HLL Calendar of Events
o Changes to the Calendar
o Post Calendar on the website
Rob will update and forward to Mark for posting on website.
Hingham Little League Website
o Additional content for the HLL Website
Update for Challenger Division
Further Consideration of Baseball Options Within Hingham for Players Older Than 12 Years old
o At the 12/6/04 HLL BOD Meeting the HLL BOD affirmed that there is no interest in offering baseball options for players age 14 and older
o At the same time there was ongoing interest in determining what potential baseball programs Hingham Hull Babe Ruth might offer to the Hingham 13 year olds.
o Status of followup discussions with Hingham Hull Babe Ruth
o Update from 1/12/05 HH Babe Ruth Board Meeting
Meeting was held, no plans to support 13 year old league. Option still exists to support a 1x / week sandlot league with instruction. More information next meeting.
Schedule for Upcoming Meetings
o Monday 2/7/05
o Monday 3/7/05
o Monday 3/21/05
o Monday 4/4/05
o Monday 4/11/05
o Monday 5/2/05
o Monday 5/16/05
o Monday 6/6/05
o Monday 6/20/05
o Monday 7/11/05
o Monday 8/8/05
o Monday 9/12/05
o Monday 10/3/05
o Monday 10/24/05 (Annual Meeting)
Other Old Business
New Business
o Bob Keyes distributed a flyer on a piece of field equipment that is used to dry fields, called a drain roller Roll Dry that is supposed to be terrific. After struggling with puddles several days last year, the special Diamond Turf on the infield at Haley was dumped on the grass, ultimately killing it. This device takes care of puddles in short order for a reasonable price. A motion was made and passed to purchase the device. Bob will follow up, report back on specific pricing.
o Issue of potential use of concession stand at PAL field was discussed. There is potential to raise funds, using the football shed. Several members thought this would be a great idea to support, as well as manning the trailer which is available at Haley to help bolster funds. Being late, the issue was tabled at this time and will be put on future meeting agenda for further discussion.
Meeting was adjourned at 9:45 pm.
Feb 10, 2005, 8:08 pm by Tim Driscoll
[Go Back]
Sponsors
|
