Suffern Little League is only successful because we have people that truly want to be involved with their children’s experience in the league. The league is completely run by volunteers made up primarily of parents and guardians of the players.
We encourage parents to volunteer for any position, but where we tend to need the most help is in the managerial positions in the lower divisions. I know you are saying to yourself, "Well I really don't know how to manage a team" or "I really don't have much knowledge about hte sport". We have many resources for parents that might be hesitant to sign up to be a Manager, having no baseball experience. We have fundamental training manuals, and videos that are available. At the T-ball level, parents will often find themselves on the field helping anyway, and it helps us, to know in advance, that we have volunteers we can count on to be Managers, Coaches and Team Parents. This relaxed atmosphere of T-Ball will help the parent get a feel for the responsibility, and whether it is a good fit for them at higher division levels.
It is also helpful for parents and guardians to sign up to volunteer in other areas as well. Managers need, and well appreciate, the help of Coaches and Team Parents throughout the season. On every registration, we include a question where one can sign up for Manager or Coach. To get more involved, simply check one of these boxes off while registering your child, or let us know anytime by sending us a feedback at our feedback link at the Feedback button on the left side of the home page.
Team volunteers consist of 1 Manager, 2-3 coaches, and perhaps 1 Team Parent.
The primary responsibility of the Manager is to be the leader of the team. The team decisions rest with the Manager. This is a basic list of what the Manager needs to be responsible for:
Introducing themselves to the players and welcoming the players to the team
Scheduling and holding practices
Ensure proper communication to all team members
Ensure enough players show up for games
Setting game lineups and substitutions
Ensure fair and proper playing time for players
Ensure safety and order for players
Instructing Players on fundamentals of Teamwork, Good Sportsmanship and Discipline
It is at the discretion of the Manager to delegate any of these responsibilities to the Coaches and Team Parent. It is the responsibility of the Coaches and Team Parent to assist the Manager as requested, and follow the Manager’s lead in assuring the responsibilities are covered.
Non-Team volunteers are welcome too. We always need help announcing games, doing field maintenance, cleaning up, and various other chores around the complex.
You will find that Volunteering at the ball field is both a fun and very satisfying. Please consider it for this and all future seasons!
