Mesa American and Dobson South Little League

Conflict Resolution

It is our hope that you and your child will have a fun and positive year in Mesa American and Dobson South Little League. As preparation to help ensure this occurs, both Boards have instituted a code of conduct for all managers / coaches, as well as a code of conduct for parents and players. Occasionally however, a conflict can arise among parents, coaches, umpires or players. One of the first things to remember is that regardless of others behavior you can choose to act according to the rules of the code of conduct. Occasional as conflicts are, these situations can he quite distressing to all involved, particularly the children, and take the fun out of the game. The Mesa American and Dobson South Little League Board of Directors is committed to making sure that all conflicts be resolved quickly, objectively, and equitably with the very first consideration being given to the welfare of the children. Therefore, the Board has adopted the following Conflict Resolution Process. It is designed for, and should be followed by all adult participants in the league if a conflict arises.

1. If you do not approve of the actions or attitudes of another person (such as another parent, coach, manager or board member), bring it to their attention quickly in a courteous and positive manner. When approached promptly and in a calm manner, many problems quickly become non-issues and a higher level of cooperation and understanding is achieved. Please avoid these discussions in front of your child.

2. If the issue involves a player or play time, the Player Agent should be contacted. He/She will investigate the matter and come to a resolution. The Player Agent is responsible for all actions related to the players.

3. If you cannot achieve what seems to be the right outcome, consult with your Division Vice President who will listen objectively and impartially and take whatever action he or she feels appropriate. Division Vice Presidents are members of the Little League Board of Directors who will completely respect your privacy in this matter.

4. If you are still unsuccessful, you should consult with the League Vice President. He will investigate the matter, meet with all parties involved, and try to come up with an equitable solution.

5. If you are still not satisfied with the outcome from the Vice President, you may then bring your matter to the League's Board of Directors. The President will listen to your situation, and then at his or her discretion, appoint a committee of Board Members to try and arbitrate the matter in an objective manner. If a Division Vice President or other Board member is involved in the conflict, he or she shall not he included as an arbiter in the Conflict Resolution Process. When any matter is brought to the Board, all decisions of the Board or its appointed committee will be binding and the matter will be considered resolved.

6. If you have a problem with an umpires handling of a certain situation or his or her conduct, bring your concern to the manager or coach of your team, who will then either bring your concern to the umpire or advise the League's Chief Umpire. The Chief Umpire will then investigate the matter. The Chief Umpire, if unable to resolve the situation, will bring the matter to the Board of Directors.

Any action connected with Little League which you deem illegal, immoral, or unethical should be reported to the league Vice President or league President immediately.

To contact a member of the Mesa American and Dobson South Little League Board of Directors, you can either leave a message on the Little League Hot-Line or e-mail the board at board@mesalittleleague.com .

It must be remembered at all times that Little League is a game for our children, and not a matter of winning or losing. All managers, coaches, umpires, and board members are volunteers. They are not paid, and give freely of their time, both during the week and on weekends to teach your child the game of baseball.