Captain's Meeting Minutes

Captain's Meeting Minutes

By Joe Mardeusz

There were three big items of discussion at this year’s captain’s meeting: 1) What is an illegal bat, 2) What will National reimburse, and 3) The election of a Softball Director.

A bat that is listed as illegal in ASA is illegal in the Falcon Tournament. It was suggested that National cover a fixed amount. This issue will be brought up at a future National Board Meeting (pending approval from the National Board of Directors). Mike Linardi was elected as Softball Director. Congratulations Mike!

1. Each team will play a minimum of five games.

2. Entry forms are due one month prior to the tournament. No exceptions.

3. Captains of each team will notify the host Nest about guests attending the softball weekend, including the banquet. Your Nest is financially liable for guests.

4. Separate umpires were recommended for Friday evening and another set for Saturday games. Two ASA officials for the championship game, depending on availability of umpires.

5. An ASA official is to be present at the captain’s meeting for local rule clarification.

6. Provide ice water and cups at each playing field every two hours, plus provide garbage bags for trash.

7. Each team will provide scorekeepers for every game. Cross-check several times during each game. Please report final scores to the host Nest Chairman or another designated person at the completion of the game

8. Each captain is responsible to check that their softball players are paid benefit members of the Polish Falcons of America. You should check with your Nest Financial Secretary.

9. You must be an insured member of the Polish Falcons of America 45 days prior to the tournament

10. Traveling trophy will be awarded each year.

11. Incomplete team rosters will be provided with players during the entire tournament. Team adjustments will be made prior to the opening pitch of the tournament.

12. Team rosters will be limited to a maximum of 15 players.

13. The captain’s meeting will be held at 4 p.m., including the team draw.

14. The tournament will start immediately after the captain’s meeting.

15. A District may submit a team combining Nests.

16. Several Nests can combine players to form a team.

17. Bats listed as illegal by ASA are not allowed.

18. The umpires are to check the bats prior to the tournament.

19. “One up” explanation is the three home run rule. After three home runs we will play one up, meaning in the next inning you cannot hit another home run until the other team matches the total. Then you are allowed one more home run.

20. Home run is a dead ball and you do not have to run the bases.

21. The games should be scheduled for one hour and fifteen minutes.

22. Courtesy runners. If required, a courtesy runner will be allowed for the current batter. Once getting on base, the batter can request a courtesy runner. The courtesy runner will be the person that made the last out of the last inning.

23. Directions and rosters may be placed on the PFA National Web site and e-mail, too.

24. MVP awards are up to the each host Nest.

25. All players must sign an insurance waiver, which will be provided by National Headquarters, prior to the start of the tournament.

26. The winning team would like to receive a championship T-shirt.

27. The host Nest should provide score books for each diamond.

28. Any fraternal organization can be invited to our tournament. The players must be insured members of their fraternal organization. The second year they must become insured members of the Polish Falcons of America.

29. Each batter will start with a 1-1 count at bat.

30. Each game will be seven innings in length.

31. If a team is ahead by 10 runs at the completion of the fifth inning, the game will end. This is our mercy rule.

32. When planning arrangements with the hotel, reserve a minimum of five rooms per team.

33. The $50 entry fee covers the meals, softballs, umpire fees, and entertainment provided.

34. The Polish Falcons of America will pay for facility rental and awards such as plaques or trophies for the final team standings by approved budget.

35. Two consecutive years’ prior participation is required before being awarded the tournament.

In 2007, Nest 147, Mt. Pleasant, Pa., will host the tournament with Druh Michael Linardi as Chairman.

Again, all teams were very pleased with the tournament. Everyone appreciated the warm hospitality extended. A heartfelt “Czolem” is extended to Druh Fryt and Nest 336 for a superb weekend. This annual tournament is a fine example of fraternalism. See you next year in Mt. Pleasant!