Thanks for Making the Choice to Coach Little League

Coaching Little League® is a choice you’ve made to serve the children and families in your community, and for that, Little League International says, “Thank you!”

We realize it’s not easy to volunteer your time, even if you have a child in the program, or on your team. The challenges of being a coach, however, are rewarded by the sharing of fun experiences, and forging positive memories that will last a lifetime.

Don’t minimize, or take for granted, the impact that you, and the thousands of Little League coaches like you around the world, have on your players throughout the season. Your willingness to see everyone equally and treat them with respect goes well beyond their ability to hit, run, or throw. It’s also important to realize that your influence goes beyond the regular season. During September and October, coaches, new and veteran alike can gain valuable experience through these weeks that are designed for training and development.

During the autumn months, school is back in session, and kids are looking for some fun with friends away from the classroom. When Little Leaguers® play Fall Ball they have an opportunity to experience the game they love in a more relaxed environment. What makes this time of year special are the seeds of hope that are being planted, and the anticipation it fosters for the next Little League season. Players who will be entering the league, or those getting their first look at the next level, welcome the chance to see what lies ahead, and the same is true of their parents. The introductions and expectations of the coaches during the off season also begin to round into shape during this time.

Just like the regular season, Fall Ball is an invitation to families. As coaches, you are the welcoming committee. Whether you have coached for several seasons, or if this is your first year, make yourself available to the people in your community. Make the choice to give of yourself, and remember that Little League is about making the games fun Little League is unique, and its mission is easily understood if parents, coaches and players all believe they are there for the greater good.

HCLL VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENT

Phase 1: Online Registration
Volunteers can sign up on Sports Connect by logging into the the HCLL Website(http://hainescitylittleleague.com) click"Volunteer" in the menu, and select"Find Volunteer Roles". You must complete the application, undergo a background check via JDP andcomplete training.

Steps for Volunteers to Sign Up:
Log In/Create Account: Go to your local league’s Sports Connect portal and log in (or create a new account if you do not have one).
Select "Volunteer": Click on the Volunteer tab on the left-side menu.
Find Role: Click +Find Volunteer Roles.
Choose Position: Select the desired program (e.g., Baseball/Softball), division, and specific role (e.g., Coach, Team Parent).
Complete Application: Fill out the required information, including personal details, andsign up as a user.
Background Check (JDP): Within 24 hours, you will receive an email from JDP (themandatory background check vendor). Complete this, as it is required for all individualsinteracting with players.
Finalize Requirements: Complete any additional required training (e.g., Abuse Awareness)and upload required documents like a photo ID.

Phase 2: Post-Registration Requirements
After the online application is submitted, the league's safety officer will coordinate the finalmandatory requirements.

Mandatory Actions:
Background Check:
You will receive a separate, confidential email from Haines City LL (JDP ,the official Little League provider).Follow the instructions in this email immediately to provide the information needed for the screening.
Abuse Awareness Training:
Complete the free, required Abuse Awareness Training Course online.Provide the completion certificate to your league's safety officer.
Additional Certifications:
Your local league will inform you if your specific role or staterequires further training, such as:
CPR/First Aid/AED certification
Concussion awareness training
Fingerprinting Day- TBD