Managers and Coaches Are the Heart of Little League
Coaching isn’t easy—but doing it well creates memories that last a lifetime.
Managers and Coaches are the face of Little League and have the greatest opportunity to positively impact players. We recognize how important these volunteers are and provide required training and support resources to help ensure a great season.
We truly appreciate our Managers and Coaches and the dedication they show to all of our kids. We are here—in your corner—to support you and help make this season a great experience for you and your players.
If you have questions or need support, please email:
RWLL Coach’s Best Practices
In General
- Be great. Behave in a way that leaves every player—on your team and the opposing team—loving baseball and wanting to return next year.
- Smile often. Managers and Coaches set the tone for every practice and game.
- Winning never comes at a player’s expense. There are no exceptions.
Teaching & Leadership
- Never favor your own child. Parents notice everything, and favoritism undermines trust.
- Be a great teacher. The best coaches are patient, fair, fun, well‑spoken, and lead by example.
- Praise effort over results. Celebrate the effort of your weakest player more than the success of your strongest.
- Coach all players equally. It’s easy to coach the stars; great coaches give the same energy to every player.
- Delegate effectively. When Coaches work with players, Managers can observe, adjust, and improve plans.
Team Culture & Communication
- Managers are responsible for behavior—of players, coaches, and fans. RWLL will hold Managers accountable.
- Communicate consistently with parents. Lack of communication almost always leads to a negative experience.
- Plan fun, challenging practices. Review what works, adjust what doesn’t—and remember, pizza and popsicles build teams too.
- No negativity. From Coaches or players. Nothing breaks a team faster.
- Relentless praise for effort. You are helping create lifelong memories.
Player Development by Level
- Rookie, A, AA, AAA: Your #1 job is teaching life skills—winning, losing, teamwork, sportsmanship, handling failure and success, and staying engaged (even in the outfield).
- Coast & Majors: Continue reinforcing life skills in a competitive environment.
Game & Dugout Management
- No shouting in frustration. No cheering that incites opponents or undermines sportsmanship.
- Managers should communicate with each other at the beginning, middle, and end of the season to build respect and consistency.
- Set clear expectations for parents and fans early—and reinforce them often.
- Dugout management matters. Players should be safe, prepared, positive, and having fun. This requires active leadership.
Lead by Example
- Be the most positive teacher and enthusiastic cheerleader for all players.
- Set the bar high—and work hard to clear it every practice and every game.
- Being a great Manager or Coach is hard work. Ask for help when you need it.
And don’t forget—smile often.