Wiseburn Aviation Softball – Volunteer Coach Checklist

Thank you for volunteering to coach with Wiseburn Aviation Softball!
Please review and commit to completing the responsibilities listed below. These steps help ensure a safe, fun, and consistent experience for all players across our league.

1. Compliance & Training

• Complete background check and provide the required information (full name, DOB, address, email, and cell).

• Complete SafeSport and Concussion Training.

  • Both are required by USA Softball (our governing body).

  • Must be completed before any practices or games begin.

2. League Rules &Team Communication

• Review your league and division rules, then email confirmation of completion to your Division VP.

• Initiate contact with your team (email first).

  • Introduce yourself and provide details about logistics and season's schedule

  • Remind families that defensive face shields are strongly recommended for safety.

  • Explain that families will need to buy softball pants, belt, face mask, glove and bat. You can decide on a color for the pants and belt - our league colors are bright pink, white and black. Face mask is optional for 6U and 8U but recommended! 

3. Build Your Coaching Team

• Recruit at least two assistant coaches, plus a team parent, scorekeeper, and field helper.

  • Provide full name, DOB, address, email, and cell for background check and SafeSport (for assistant coaches only).

  • Team parent, scorekeeper, and field helper need these checks only if they assist in the dugout or at practices.

Important Notes:

• Only adults who have completed both the background check and SafeSport may interact directly with players.

• Role Summaries:

  • Team Parent: Handles team communications, banner, snacks, Opening Day gift basket, etc.

  • Scorekeeper: Uses GameChanger for scorekeeping and manages digital scoreboards at AG and Good Stuff fields.

  • Field Helper: Preps the field (drag, water, chalk, check for safety), allowing coaches to focus on warm-ups.

4. Meetings & Training

• Attend the Managers Meeting to review expectations and ask questions.

• Attend the Managers Skills Training (3-hour session with professional coaches).

  • Date and time will be provided by the board. 

5. Practice Logistics

• Work with the scheduler and other managers to secure practice times; be flexible when possible.

  • If conflicts arise, contact your Division VP to explore solutions (e.g., shared practice options).

• Once you’ve cleared background and training requirements, begin practices.

• Pick up league equipment from the Equipment Manager (includes catcher gear loan and a box of balls). 

6. Running Practices

• Only allow cleared adults (background + SafeSport) to assist.

• Plan each practice in advance; focus on safety, enjoyment, and skill development.

• Use drills and ideas from the manager training.

• Keep players active through station work rather than full-field simulations.

Safety Notes:

• Only one player in the batting cage at a time.

• Always close the cage door when a player is hitting.

7. Season Events

• Opening Day: Attend with your team (usually early March).

  • Includes team photos, activities, and league introductions.

• Games:

  • Arrive 1 hour early to warm up players. 

  • Complete field prep duties (dragging, bases, chalking).

  • Consider using a revolving lineup for fairness and equal at-bats.

  • Rotate players through positions to build skills (while prioritizing safety).

  • As the season progresses, begin assigning more specific positions if you think your team is ready.

  • Be mindful to avoid any perception of favoritism, especially with your own child.

• Post-Game: End with a positive team moment—compliments, cheers, or a fun huddle.

• Stay in touch with parents throughout the season. Encourage attendance at Wiseburn Aviations’s clinics.

8. Tournament & Season Close

• Tournament (8U & up):

  • Later in the season, check in with board President if you're interested in signing up for a post-season Tournament. 

  • Tournaments are usually one weekend at a park nearby. 

• Closing Ceremonies:

  • Attend with your team to celebrate the season.

Final Note

🎉 Thank you! Coaching is one of the most rewarding experiences you can share with your child.
Your effort, time, and leadership make a lasting impact on every player — and create memories they’ll never forget.