WMLL Head & Assistant Coaches must be leaders who recognize that they hold a position of trust and responsibility in a program that deals with a sensitive and formative period of a child’s development. Although knowledge of the game is important, these men and women must be something more than just skill teachers. It is required that these individuals have the understanding, patience and capacity to work with children and the ability to inspire respect from their players, players’ families, umpires and spectators. Above all else, Head & Assistant coaches must realize that they are helping to shape the physical, mental and emotional development of young people.
The heart of Little League is what happens between the adult coach and the player. Children this age are strongly influenced by individuals whose ideals and aspirations are similar to their own. These adults and players share a common interest in the game, a desire to excel and a determination to win. Because of this unique bond, coaches must be sensitive to the mental and physical limitations of each player and recognize that the game is a vehicle for training and enjoyment, not an end in itself.
Some specific duties of Head & Assistant Coaches are:
- Teach players specific game skills and strategies
- Assure that players look like a team – wear the uniform properly and display appropriate team spirit and sportsmanship
- Work to provide a safe playing and warm-up environment
- Comply with the WMLL Code of Conduct and respect the calls of the umpires even if you do not agree with them. Follow-up with your League Coordinator after the game on any issues you would like to address.
- Work with the Team Coordinator to maintain communication with the team’s parents and WMLL League Coordinators
- Play the game in accordance with national and local rules
- Distribute and collect equipment and uniforms
Any individual who wishes to be a Head or Assistant Coach should contact the specific League Coordinator responsible to indicate your desires and submit an application letter which outlines qualifications.