Player/Parent Handbook

OHIO WAVE ORGANIZATION

 The Ohio Wave Fastpitch Organization was established in 2001 in Greenville, Ohio. Our teams are made up of players from all over the Western Ohio, Indiana, and beyond. We are a 501(3)c Non-Profit Ohio Corporation. 

Ohio Wave players have the opportunity to train all season long as a member of the Ohio Wave Fastpitch Organization. Our indoor training facility "The Academy" opened in  December 2006 and it will be one of the few in this part of the state.

 The Ohio Wave works very hard to create a positive environment for our athletes to compete at the highest level of select fastpitch softball. Our goal is to help each and every player in our program develop their individual skills and teach them to be the best team player they can be. If getting to the next level of fastpitch softball is what your child has in mind, then this is the right program for them. Much is expected of each player and their families. Many sacrifices have to be made each and every year. We respect that and reward that by providing excellent training and playing experience throughout the year. This is not Rec ball or All-Stars, it is SELECT fastpitch softball. Players are selected because they have exhibited the traits and skills necessary to be part of one of the Ohio Wave Teams. 

The Ohio Wave teams typically play in ASA, USSSA, NSA and USFA tournaments and it is the goal of each team to play in the Nationals at the end of the summer. Most age groups also plan to participate in at least one winter tournament.

 The Ohio Wave Fastpitch Organization and The Academy, is committed to promoting the game of fastpitch softball and helping all players improve their skills year round. To meet these goals The Academy hosts a series of fastpitch clinics, an indoor league, an instructional league, and our annual Fall Fastpitch League. Please refer to the links on our welcome page for more details about these events.  

If you want to know more about our organization please feel free to contact us anytime at ohiowave@woh.rr.com

MISSION STATEMENT 

The Ohio Wave Fast Pitch club is a non-profit charitable corporation organized under the IRS laws encompassing 501(c)(3) entities, and is committed to providing opportunities for young athletes to engage in quality, competitive experiences.  The Ohio Wave is dedicated to the idea that any athlete, regardless of race, creed, religious affiliation, or socio-economic status should be given that opportunity.  A competitive athletic experience can instill a good work ethic, enhance social development, contribute to mental and physical health, and teach values of personal   responsibility, self-discipline, self-motivation, and teamwork. Participation in fast pitch softball also improves the athlete's opportunity to realize the goals of: 

Each of the above goals involves individual player growth. This includes improvement in skill level AND in the mental outlook necessary to be a successful member of a Select softball team. 

 PHILOSOPHY

 The most important consideration in forming a team is developing a philosophy.  What is the motivation behind forming this team?  Will it be a “participation team” where everyone gets equal playing time, or, a “performance team” where playing time must be earned?  The Ohio Wave is most definitely a “performance team”.  Another critical component of team philosophy includes “how are new players found and included as regular team members”?  The answer to this question is not as easy.   

The purpose of the Directors is to provide direction for the organization. The Directors will aid in the decision making of the organization, provide ideas, structure and assistance in fundraising, team structure, tournaments, uniforms, hotels and promotion of the Ohio Wave.  

A successful team and organization requires communication. It is imperative that the player, parent or coaches relate concerns to each other. If there is still a problem or concern, the player, parent and/or coach can request a hearing with the Directors. The Director's decision will be final in all cases.  

TEAM PARENTS 

To take part of the administrative load off of the coach, a team parent will be selected. They will be responsible for coordinating travel arrangements, sitting on any organization committees (uniforms, pins, fundraisers, etc.) The team parent is the primary communication link regarding all administrative matters between the players, the parents, the coach, and the Ohio Wave Directors.  

STANDARDS OF CONDUCT 

There is a lot more expected of our players other than their softball skills. Players are expected to participate in all scrimmages/practices as scheduled. Failure to do so may result in less playing time in the next tournament. It is the player's responsibility to notify the coach or parent representative if they cannot attend. If a player needs to miss several practices because of extra-curricular commitments, they are required to provide the coach with a schedule to allow for proper practice planning.  

Players are expected to sign up for the full “season” and to make all tournaments. All players will be given ample playing time in tournaments – especially during pool play.  However, during tournament play where the objective is to advance as far into the playoffs as possible players will be played at the discretion of the coach based on skill level and team needs. 

Players are expected to consistently work on their own to raise the levels of their physical condition and skill.  All players will sign a code of conduct form as part of their membership with the team. The following standards must be observed for one to continue as an active member of Ohio Wave; violation of standards marked with (*) mean suspension.  Standards marked with (**) will result in the immediate dismissal from the organization.   

1.      **Alcohol and drugs are prohibited at all times.

2.      **Smoking is prohibited.

3.      *Excellence in academic performance is required. All players must meet the requirements of the public school system No Pass/No Play policy.

4.      *As a representative of the Ohio Wave, no actions that will hinder the player's performance, game, or scholastics will be tolerated. The player's actions and behavior should always be such as to reflect positively on the player and their team.

5.      *Players must be on time for all team commitments.

6.      Players must call their team coach and parent representative when they are going to be late or absent from a practice or tournament.

7.      All players are required to pursue all physical conditioning activities and drills unless excused by a doctor or the coach.

8.      Players must report all physical injuries or illness to their head coach immediately.

9.      Players unable to attend supervised practices are expected to actively pursue physical conditioning and skill improvement on their own.

10.   Players are required to take proper care of practice equipment, keeping in mind that the equipment is the property of the Ohio Wave.

11.   Each player will keep their coach informed of their presence at tournaments.

12.   Each player is expected to treat all other players, teammates, coaches, referees, and fans with courtesy and respect.

13.   If players are involved in a dispute, they must immediately work out problems between them. If they are unable to resolve their problem immediately, they must meet with the coaches until their problems are resolved. Problems between players must never be left unresolved.

14. *During any overnight travel the coach will determine curfew.  Violations will result in suspension for games.  Consistent violations will result in dismissal from the team.

 TOURNAMENT PLAY

 Because the length of softball games can be unpredictable and tournament formats and management varies it is difficult to pinpoint the time a tournament may end. Also, exact tournament schedules or final confirmations are often not available until just before the tournaments begin (often the night before play starts). This is partly due to late entries, withdrawals or team changes, all of which impact the actual tournament playing schedule and match-ups.

The Ohio Wave has no control over the administration of these tournaments, but we do make suggestions, as do other clubs, to those who run the tournament for incorporation in their next one.  Since team entry fees must be paid weeks in advance, and the large amount of planning required for travel and lodging, it is extremely important that the team coach is notified as far in advance as possible of any tournament a player cannot attend.

Parents and players should closely review the tournament schedule provided (also listed on the website) and notify the coach of any conflicts. We understand that situations such as illness do cause short notice conflicts; it is the ones known in advance of which we must be informed as soon they are identified in order to best adjust to the situation.  Player's cost beyond fees already scheduled is kept to a minimum; the only thing the players are responsible for paying during an average tournament is their individual meals, snacks, travel, and lodging. 

PLAYING TIME

Playing time is very important to everyone. It is important to apply the skills and fundamentals taught in practice in a game situation. Only then can a coach and player truly realize which skills the player is proficient at and which skills require more training.  Nevertheless, every player should have an opportunity to play during pool games. Your team fees go toward practice time and instruction by qualified, experienced coaches, NOT playing time in tournaments.

More playing time is earned by being at practice and working hard to improve, as well as, executing the skills when given the opportunity to play.  The coaches are advised to give everyone opportunities to contribute their individual skills and abilities to the team during pool play matches. 

 OUT OF TOWN TRIPS 

Coaches are not responsible for parenting or accommodating players with regard to travel and hotel accommodations. No player(s) will room with a coach. 

PRACTICE RULES 

·  Players are required to be ready to begin practice at the designated start time.  Begin practice mentally prepared. Have personal goals for all practices. A good time to think about goals is during warm-up.

·  If a player must miss a practice, a telephone call to the coach or asst. coach is mandatory before practice.

·  Advance notice is mandatory if a player cannot make a practice or tournament due to vacation, family commitment, etc

·  Each practice session is very important to the development of our athletes. Players need to make every effort to be at every practice so they don't miss too much instruction that could affect their performance at tournaments. Also, the coach prepares practice plans according to whom and how many are attending. They need to know in advance if someone will have to miss a practice.

·  Please bring your own plastic water bottle to practice and tournaments.

·  There will be no jewelry allowed at practice. Please leave your jewelry at home, you will not be permitted to wear it on the field, and your coach/team is not responsible for it when you take it off.

·  Only players who are current in their dues will be allowed to take part in practices or tournament play unless prior arrangements have been made and approved by the Directors.

·  Miscellaneous items. We will jog at all times during practice, especially when shagging, we will always call the ball, when your teammates are getting tired, encourage them, and respect the decisions made by the coach.  

GENERAL INFORMATION 

Uniforms

Every Ohio Wave player will be issued uniforms that they will keep at the end of the season.

Equipment

Every Ohio Wave player will be issued a new bat bag and helmet w/ facemask. Returning players have the option to keep last years bat bag and helmet for a discount on their fees. However, if a player needs a new bat bag or helmet during the season, it is the parents/players responsibility to purchase new ones.

Fundraising

Each team will have fundraising opportunities specifically to offset travel and unforeseen expenses.

The Softball Season

The Softball Season essential begins after teams have been selected. Teams may participate in fall tournaments and/or leagues as well as winter indoor tournaments and/or leagues. Outdoor tournaments will begin in the spring and be in full force the months of June and July. All teams are expected to qualify for a National Tournament 

COLLEGE SOFTBALL ASPIRANTS 

It is expected that a number of players will continue their softball careers in college. The club team experience is becoming a MUST in order to compete intercollegiately, especially for those hoping to obtain an athletic scholarship. Participation in national tournaments/showcases, is also a MUST if your daughter is to be “spotted” by college coaches.  Our program will assist any players wanting to market themselves by helping with videotapes and sending letters to coaches. The team will assist in making sure we play in national qualifiers, national tournaments, and showcase tournaments.  

HOW TO BE A SUPPORTIVE PARENT 

Youth programs cannot be successful without the support of parents. The following guidelines are for concerned parents as they strive to be supportive of their young athletes without being pushy.

1. Supportive parents focus on mastering sport skills and strategies rather than competitive rankings.  Sport mastery focuses on performance, which can be controlled by the athlete, while competitive ranking focuses primarily on winning and losing, an outcome, which is frequently outside the athlete's control. An overemphasis on competitive rank and an under emphasis on sport mastery is a primary cause of a dramatic dropout rate in competitive sports by 12 to 18 year olds.

2. Supportive parents decrease the pressure to win.  Supportive parents realize that sports create pressure to succeed. Additional pressure from the parent is likely to be counterproductive, particularly, in the long run.  Supportive parents avoid making the outcome of the game bigger than life.  As a game or a competition becomes blown out of proportion, a youngster's self esteem can become tied to winning or losing. A child should not feel less valuable or less loved when a game is lost.

3. Supportive parents believe that sport's primary value is the opportunity for self-development. The probability of achieving lasting fame and glory via sport is low. Many outstanding athletes never achieve professional status. However, their sports experiences have allowed them to develop life-long values and self-respect.

4. Supportive parents understand the risks. Competition places the athlete on center stage. Anytime you attempt to succeed publicly, you risk failing where others can judge you.  In the long run, competing is willingness to chance failure.  Giving your best is what athletics is all about.

5. Supportive parents communicate their true concerns directly with the coach.  A positive working relationship is based upon clearly communicated mutual goals among parents, coaches and athletes.  While a parent cannot control the behavior of a coach, they can communicate with the coach on a regular basis about the overall development of their child.

6. Supportive parents understand and respect the difference between parental roles and coaching roles. Both parents and coaches need to understand their different roles in supporting the young athlete.  While parents are ultimately responsible for their child's development, once they have chosen a program/coach they must leave the coaching to the coach.  Even though Supportive parents often play sports with their child they avoid coaching "over the shoulder" of the coach and/or publicly questioning the coaching decisions.

7. Supportive parents control negative emotions and think positively.  Few athletes wish to perform poorly. Negative reactions to poor performances only add to an athlete's pressures. Supportive parents realize that even the athlete who "chokes" is trying to succeed. In fact, part of the problem with many athletes is that they are trying too hard to succeed. Criticizing such athletes does little to enhance their performances.

8. Supportive parents avoid the use of fear. The use of punishment and withdrawal of love can pressure kids to perform better.  Unfortunately, such strategies tend to trade short-term performance gains for long-term emotional risks to the youngster's health and well being. Supportive parents recognize that a love for sport is rarely fostered by fear of the consequences of failure.

9. Supportive parents avoid criticizing. Nagging parents often confuse support with constantly reminding the children that they need to practice, condition more and concentrate. Overly involved parents frequently lose their objectivity. They are unable to provide critical emotional support, which children often need before and during highly competitive contests.

10. Supportive parents recognize and understand expressions of insecurity. Youngsters who express high anxiety, more often than not, have parents who are insensitive to their symptoms. When children are nervous, uncertain, or feeling pressure, insensitive parents may trivialize the child's fears or see such concerns as signs of weakness. Supportive parents realize that such expressions are normal and are a call for emotional support.

11. Supportive parents avoid the use of guilt. "We've done so much for you," or "The family's given so much for you, the least you could do is take advantage of what we've provided for you” are typical remarks of UN-Supportive parents. They use guilt to manipulate the child to perform the way the parents’ desire. 

PLAYER/COACH/PARENT RELATIONSHIP 

Softball can teach many good traits, such as the spirit of cooperation, and the regard for physical fitness; but it is difficult for these and other desirable traits to take root in young players when the adults around them fail to set a proper example. We ask that parents refrain from criticizing opposing players, other parents, coaches, officials, umpires, or teammates.  In spectator enthusiasm we are often prone to issue several instructions to the players that may be contrary to those of the coach, leaving the players confused and upset.  Please let these athletes follow their coach's instruction and leave the coaching to the coach! 

It is the Ohio Wave’s desire that player’s parents understand the “value” of having independent coaching and playing in aggressive tournaments and national events. 

The coaches are giving their time, energy, and best efforts to teach your child the sport of fast pitch softball and the Ohio Wave Organization will not tolerate condemnation of the coaches. Understand that you will not agree or like every coaching tactic, comment, or suggestion that is made by the coaches, but this does not warrant criticism or rudeness.  This is certainly not intended to reduce spectator enthusiasm. Please continue to cheer and encourage the actions you like and ignore those you don't. Please do not interfere with your child's coach, especially during play, or do anything else that will detract from the enjoyment your child deserves to get from softball.  Parents are strictly forbidden to enter the dugout or onto the field unless instructed by one of the coaches to do so.   

Parents must ally themselves with the coach in teaching their children how to cope with the frustrations of being a member of a team. Sports provide an excellent opportunity to teach young women about the realities of highly competitive situations. They must be taught how to be a cooperative team member, how to make use of both positive feedback and constructive criticism, how to cope with adversity, how to achieve 'mental toughness', and how to be a gracious winner. 

The most effective way to establish a rapport with a coach is to display a high level of commitment to the activity. Players need to learn to display their commitment by coming early and staying late, doing extra preparation, being enthusiastic about the activity, and actively and publicly supporting their teammates. A parent who is successful in teaching these skills will never have to worry whether the coach is giving their child a fair break.  If a player has a concern with a coach, parents have the responsibility for teaching their child steps to remedy the concern.  The following steps MUST be taken if any player/parent has a concern with the coach: 

Player should discuss the concern with the coach and try to arrive at a solution.  The coach should not be considered unapproachable. He or she is willing to listen to a player's concern and try to arrive at a mutual solution.  Until the coach is made aware of the concern nothing at all can be done to alleviate it.  Do not wait until the end of the season to voice your concern.  

If, after time, the concern is not resolved the player and parents may make an appointment to meet offsite to speak with the coach.  Please do not approach a coach in the dugout or on the field to discuss a concern at practice or a tournament.  This could result in the immediate dismissal of the player.  

If there is still a problem or concern, the player, parent and/or coach can request a hearing with the Directors. The Directors' decision will be final in all cases.  

OHIO WAVE FEES 

The Ohio Wave remains a totally self-funded organization.  Funds are obtained through either player/team dues or through contributions and donations.  Individual player fees cover equipment costs, tournament registration fees, umpire fees, supplies, sanction fees, insurance and Academy costs.  The Ohio Wave maintains The Academy indoor training facility outfitted with multiple pitching stations and batting cages for use by all the players. 

All fees noted on the Player Payment Schedule are due on the 1^st of each month.  If not received by the 15^th of the month, a player/parent will receive a notice from the directors that they are late on payment. If fees are still outstanding on the 1^st of the following month, the directors will inform the coach of the situation and the player will not be allow to practice or play until all fees are current or arrangements are made for a modified payment schedule.  

The Ohio Wave budget for each year is based on the previous year’s expenses and the upcoming forecast. All paid fees are non-refundable even if a player leaves the team or chooses not to attend a tournament and/or Nationals.  .

FUNDRAISING PROGRAMS 

Players will have several opportunities to fundraise.  Fund raising ideas and leadership should come from the parents/players.  Players are not required to take part in fund-raisers; however, it is an excellent method of alleviating the cost of dues and travel and the first option for those in need of financial assistance.