Winter: Releasing a Player Before the Season Begins

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In any contemplated release of a player, the manager MUST make the board of directors aware of the situation immediately. This applies to “Major Division” teams where eligible players are retained in the following season. (Regulation III e.)

At well-run Little Leagues, the player agent first determines (in writing from manager) why the manager wants to release the player, or why the parents want the player to be released. Playing ability cannot be a factor.

The issue is then brought before the board of directors for a decision. No release is valid without the board approving it.

The player is then notified of the release in writing, in time for him/her to attend tryouts for the coming season. Keep in mind, however, that the player is not released to become a candidate in another chartered Little League. Instead, he/she remains eligible only for the league in which his/her parents reside.

A database of all of these Operations Tips can be found here: http://www.littleleague.org/leagueofficers/Tips_Successful_League

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