SMBA Handbook

STRATHMORE AND DISTRICT MINOR BASEBALL (SMBA) HANDBOOK — 2025

Introduction

This handbook summarizes the policies and procedures that govern the operation of Strathmore and District Minor Baseball (SMBA). It is intended as a quick reference for parents, players, coaches, and volunteers to understand expectations and structure within our program.

Registration

a. All registration will be completed through the Strathmore Minor Ball website: www.strathmorebaseball.ca
b. Registration dates will be set annually by the Board:

• AA registration closes by January 26
• A (Community / Little League) registration closes by March 15

c. Late registration will be at the discretion of the Division Director and Registrar.
d. Registration must be paid in full prior to evaluations, unless alternate arrangements have been approved by the Registrar.

Program Overview

1. Divisions

2. AA (Competitive) Program

a. Players must be registered by the AA registration deadline to be eligible for evaluations.
b. Each age division (U11-U18) may have one or more teams, determined by enrollment and Baseball Alberta guidelines.
c. Attendance and Commitment: Players are expected to attend all team activities. Extended absences (vacations, multi-sport commitments, etc.) must be discussed with coaches prior to evaluations. SMBA prioritizes full-time player commitment.
d. Respect in Sport (RIS) Parent Course must be completed before the season begins. No player may participate until this is complete.
e. Additional Fees: While registration covers Baseball Alberta fees, insurance, and basic operations, additional team fees may be collected to cover:

• Facilities 
• Umpire fees
• Team and tournament costs
  f. Parent/Player Code of Conduct: Must be signed prior to the start of play.
  g. Practice Locations: Practices may occasionally occur outside Strathmore based on diamond availability.

3. A (Community Program - Little League Alberta)

a. All players must be registered by the Community registration deadline to be eligible for team placement.
b. SMBA Community Baseball operates under Little League Alberta rules and guidelines.

• Players are placed on teams based on age, skill level, and division alignment as defined by Little League Canada and Little League Alberta.
• Divisions may include:
• T-Ball (5-6)
• Coach Pitch / Rookie (7-8)
• Minors 10U (9-10)
• Majors 12U (11-12)
• Juniors 14U (13-14)
• Seniors 16U (15-16)

c. Teams will participate in Little League Alberta league play, with opportunities to advance to District, Provincial, and Canadian Championship tournaments.
d. Attendance and Commitment: Players are expected to attend practices and games. Extended absences must be communicated early to avoid impacting team play.
e. Respect in Sport (RIS) Parent Course must be completed before participation.
f. Additional Team Fees: While registration covers Little League costs and insurance, some teams may collect additional fees for team events.
g. Parent/Player Code of Conduct must be completed and signed before the season.
h. Practice Locations: Practices may occur outside Strathmore when diamonds are unavailable.

4. Evaluation Process & Team Selection

Refer to the SMBA Evaluation Policy for full details on evaluation format, scoring, and selection procedures.

5. Coaching Selection

Refer to the SMBA Coaching Policy for criteria, application process, and appointment procedures.

6. Board of Directors

A. President

• Facilitates meetings and coordinates overall operations
• Represents the Association publicly and with Baseball Alberta & Little League Alberta
• Provides conflict resolution support
• Acts as a signing authority
• Supports and oversees committees

B. Vice President

• Works with the President on strategic direction
• Acts in place of President when required
• Signing authority for the Association

C. Treasurer

• Manages day-to-day financials, deposits, and bill payments
• Prepares annual budget and financial reports
• Files all required annual returns and statements
• Coordinates casino application process
• Oversees financial reviews and monitors expenditures

D. Secretary

• Maintains minutes for all meetings
• Sends meeting notices and agendas
• Presents minutes for approval

E. Board Members

• Complete assigned duties and support Association initiatives
• Participate on committees and assist with programs

7. Appointed Positions

Registrar

• Maintains membership records and manages all player registrations
• Oversees communication inquiries
• Manages coaching applications and criminal record checks
• Submits rosters and registrations to Baseball Alberta and Little League Alberta, as applicable

Division Directors

• Review registration numbers and determine team counts
• Coordinate evaluations and team formation
• Assign coaches per the Coach Selection Policy
• Handle communication within their respective divisions

Coaching Director

• Leads the coaching selection process
• Organizes NCCP clinics and ensures certification compliance

Fastpitch Director

• Reports updates to SMBA Board
• Coordinates Fastpitch program and committee

Development Director

• Plans and manages Winter Camps and player development initiatives
• Coordinates facility bookings and resource planning

Diamond Scheduler

• Schedules all practices, games, and tournaments

Umpire Coordinator

• Assigns umpires for Community and AA games
• Organizes annual umpire clinics

Equipment Director

• Manages inventory and ensures all teams are properly equipped

Social Media Coordinator

• Manages all SMBA social media platforms and website updates

Uniforms & Apparel Coordinator

• Orders, distributes, and manages all uniforms, hats, and apparel

8. Uniform Policy

• SMBA supplies jerseys and hats to all players.
• Players must provide white ball pants, red belt, and red socks (unless otherwise directed by their coach).

9. Code of Conduct

All players, parents, and coaches must follow the SMBA Code of Conduct. Violations are subject to review under the Discipline Policy.

10. Discipline Policy

Refer to the SMBA Discipline Policy for procedures on complaints, investigations, and sanctions.

11. Social Media Policy

Refer to the SMBA Social Media Policy for online behavior expectations and disciplinary consequences.

Revision History