What Do Board Members Do?

Board members manage a wide range of responsibilities to keep the league operating efficiently. Their duties include, but are not limited to:

1. League Operations

• Organize Registration: Oversee online sign-ups, player eligibility, and team assignments.
• Create practice and game schedules, including tournament brackets.
• Interleague Coordination: Collaborate with neighboring leagues to set up interleague play.
• Manage Tournament Logistics: Prepare fields, update brackets, and ensure compliance with Little League International rules.

2. Dispute Management

• Address disputes between players, coaches, parents, and umpires.
• Handle complaints, rule infractions, and disciplinary matters fairly and consistently.

3. Player Safety and Behavior

• Enforce the ASAP Safety Plan (A Safety Awareness Program).
• Address safety concerns with fields, equipment, or facilities.
• Manage inappropriate behavior from parents, coaches, and players.

4. Communication and Engagement

• Answer Questions: Respond to numerous inquiries about schedules, uniforms, rules, tournaments, and registration.
• Website Maintenance: Keep the league website updated with schedules, announcements, and resources.
• Manage Sponsors: Secure sponsors, hang sponsor signs, and coordinate league communications.

5. Financial and Facility Management

• Budget and Fundraising: Oversee league finances, fundraisers, and sponsorship funds.
• Vendor Relations: Work with vendors and contractors for equipment, uniforms, and facility repairs.
• Concessions: Load, unload, and manage supplies for the concession stand.
• Facility Repairs: Fix broken equipment, field issues, and maintain safe playing environments.

6. Uniforms and Equipment

• Coordinate uniform orders, distribution, and replacements.
• Ensure teams have the necessary equipment and address maintenance concerns.

7. Events and Special Projects

• Organize Opening Day ceremonies, tournaments, and fundraising events.
• Oversee field prep, cleanup, and logistics for large events.

How to Become a Board Member

1. General Membership

To be eligible for a board position, individuals must be a General Member of Katy American Little League.

• Who Qualifies?

• Any person sincerely interested in active participation (volunteering) to further the objective of this Local League may apply to become a member.  These would include managers, coaches, team reps/moms, groundskeepers, concessionaires, committee members, and board members. These individuals must undergo a background check and complete Child Awareness Training in accordance with Little League guidelines.

• How to Join:

• Any adult actively interested in furthering the objectives of the the Local League may become a regular member upon applying for or expressing interest in membership

• Having a background check completed and completion of Child Awareness Training

•  and be approved by the majority vote of Board of Directors

2. Board Member Elections

• Election Timing: Held annually at the Annual Meeting held no later than Oct 31st
• Nomination Process: Members can nominate themselves or regular members in good standing
• Voting: Only members may be allowed to vote or be nominated

3. Term of Service

• Board members serve a one-year term and may be re-elected annually.

4. Mid-Term Vacancies

• Vacancies are filled by a majority vote of the remaining board members.

Meetings

1. General Membership Meetings

• When: Annually, at the end of the spring season.
• Purpose: Updates, electionsn for new members, and member discussion
• Open to: General Members

2. Annual Meetings

• When: Held annually no later than October 31st of each year
• Purpose: Electing the Executive Board of Directors, update on the condition of the league, general summary of financials

3. Board of Directors Meetings

• When: Monthly throughout the year.
• Purpose: Discuss league operations, finances, schedules, and key issues.
• Attendance: Board members

4. Special Meetings

• When: As needed to address urgent matters like safety issues or league disputes.

What Is Expected of Board Members?

Board members commit to:

1. Time Dedication

   • Attend monthly meetings, league events, and tournaments.
   • Commit 5-15 hours per month, depending on role and season.
     
   
   

2. Hands-On Participation

   • Respond to parent and coach inquiries.
   • Load/unload concessions and manage supplies.
   • Hang sponsor banners, fix broken equipment, field maintenance and coordinate repairs.
   • Volunteer at League events: Tryouts, Opening Day, etc
     
     

3. Professionalism

   • Handle disputes calmly and fairly.
   • Uphold Little League International rules and league policies.
     
   
   

4. Collaboration

   • Work closely with other board members, volunteers, and league partners.