Together the try-out and draft, or player selection system, are used to form teams for the player-pitch divisions (AA, AAA and Majors), in accordance with Little League International requirements. The purpose of this system is to ensure children are playing at a suitable level (based on their skill and age), and to establish an equitable distribution of player talent among the division teams. At the try-outs, managers observe every player hit, field, throw, and run; and rate their ability in each area on a 1 to 5 scale. At the end of the try-outs, each player is assigned a numerical "consensus rating". The Player Agent compiles the ratings, together with such data as age and experience. This information along with evaluations from last years spring and fall managers are used by the managers during the player draft. Managers take the draft seriously and weigh their selections carefully to assure proper placement.
Drafting is conducted from the top down; i.e., the Major League is formed first, then AAA, then AA. On draft night, players' names and ratings are posted and the managers select players from these postings. In the Majors, the team drafting order is decided by previous years ranking with the last place team choosing first. In AAA and AA the drafting order is decided by lot. Players not selected in the Majors automatically move to the minor league (AAA and AA) drafts and must be chosen there. Note: 12 year-olds will only be drafted into Majors or AAA. Little League rules prohibit a player from ever being told in what round and in what order of a round he/she was chosen. If a player refuses to play, drops out, is injured, or otherwise fails to participate on the team, the manager consults the League Commissioner and Player Agent and a replacement is "called up" (with the parents approval) from among the best available players in the next lowest league. That league then fills its resultant vacancy from the league below it, and so on.
Many children of the same age differ in physical development, motor skills, or athletic ability. For example, an 11-year old player of marginal ability may receive a lower consensus rating and may be deemed not ready for Majors Division play, keeping in mind that ALL 12yr olds must be selected to Majors. Placement in the AAA Division would be suitable for the skill level, would likely mean more playing time, and would be better for the child's self-esteem and development. In the long run, the wisest decision is for the child to play at the appropriate skill level. Little League, like most youth sports programs, can't guarantee that school or neighborhood friends will always be on the same teams together. We are obligated to distribute playing talent across the league as equitably and fairly as possible. Of course, the draft and consensus rating aren't foolproof. Occasionally, a few players who shine during evaluations play poorly and some who are lackluster at evaluations turn out to be exceptional during the season. Any unusual or special-needs circumstance regarding team or division placement will be considered on a case-by-case basis if brought to the Player Agent's attention, but teams are drafted using Little League guidelines.
Keep in mind it is sometimes more important for that player, and their development, to have a greater role on a team than to be at a higer level, just because some of their friends are there. Many kids would rather play at their level, have a good/great season, than be on a team and not contribute as much. Much of this can be deflected by the parent when they talk with their child. Explain the opportunities ahead of them more so than what level they are at.
Your child will be chosen to play in a particular division because collectively, the managers believe that he/she has the skills to do well there and thus get the most enjoyment out of the Little League experience. They believe it would be inappropriate and un-fair for an above-average player to "play down", just as it would be for a less skilled player to "play up". Before ruling out the league's recommendation, consult the Commissioner, team manager, or Player Agent first. We recognize that there may always be mitigating circumstances. The Player Agent will consider parent special requests on a case-by-case basis if made in advance of evaluaions.
Managers and coaches are parent volunteers, although there are some without children in the program who enjoy the game and teaching the kids. Managers must attend a managing clinic and receive guidance on good coaching techniques. While the League appreciates the willingness of managers and coaches to give their time and energy to the program, we realize that in rare instances, not everyone has the temperament of suitability for youth sports. If you or your child are dissatisfied with any aspect of a manager's or coach's conduct, we recommend that you (1) raise the matter directly with the manager or coach. If you do not obtain a satisfactory response, (2) raise it with your league Commissioner. If the problem persists, (3) notify the League President or a Board member. We do collect surveys at the end of the season but, if there is an issue, please don't wait until the end, seek some guidance prior to that.
The longer your child participates in youth sports programs, the greater the odds are that he/she will play with different teammates each season. Rather than this being a detriment, Little League has found that among the beneficial and enriching aspects of the program are the opportunities for both players and parents to make new friends and to help players mature socially as well as physically. At the player-pitch level, the need to equitably distribute playing abilities across the league means that no guarantees can be made that players will be on the same team as a favorite classmate, friend, or neighbor. Our obligation is form teams as evenly matched as possible overrides what might for the moment seem reasonable. We would urge you to encourage your child to give his new team a fair chance. Make sure the manager and coaches are aware of any concerns. Remember everyone out there is a volunteer.