For some players and parents, entering into the Little League program may be a brand new experience!
To help anyone who may be unfamiliar with Little League or baseball itself, Little League International has launched a program called “The Basics.” It includes a video series which covers the basics of hitting, catching, throwing, fielding, and baserunning, as well as the basics of choosing equipment.
Parents who are new to Little League may also want to have a look at Little League International’s Parents’ Guide to Little League.
This How to Play Baseball article, which summarizes the rules of professional baseball, might be helpful for parents to read if baseball is a new sport to them. In Little League Baseball, the professional baseball rules are modified to accommodate the younger players–with the youngest divisions having the most modifications. In general, the field dimensions are smaller (60 feet between the bases for players aged 9-12; the pitcher’s mound is 46 feet from home plate); the games are shorter (6 innings or less, typically); and special rules, such as mandatory play requirements, are in place to ensure all players get a chance to participate. Please see our Game Rules page for more information.
If you find these rules a bit overwhelming at first, don’t worry! You will gradually learn the most important aspects of the game as you go through a season with your child and their team. 🙂
Parents should be sure to check out our Equipment and Skill Development pages, too.
The resources under the “Discover” tab in your Team Snap account are also worth having a look at! These resources can also be found in the Coach’s Corner baseball section of the Team Snap affiliated MOJO website. They cover many topics, from the basics to more advanced skills, including: