To have a private word with a manager about a troublesome player or a situation that needs his/her attention, use your lineup card as a means of starting the conversation.

Tell the manager you need to speak to him/her. Pull out your lineup card and quietly tell him/her what you need him/her to know. To the rest of the world, it will look like you're clearing up a problem with the lineup. You won't show up the coach and you'll get your message across.

Remember, umpires can get rule updates, interpretations, useful tips like these and much more, by signing up for the Little League Umpire Registry. Click here for more details: http://www.littleleague.org/umpires/index.asp

Also, chartered Little Leagues can order a copy of the Little League E-Rules CD, which includes videos of selected rules. Click here for more details: http://www.littleleague.org/media/rule_example.asp