Coaches
Thank you for stepping up to coach! You're making a lasting impact on young athletes in our community. Whether this is your first season or your tenth, this page has everything you need to succeed.
Interested in coaching? Contact us at [email protected] or indicate your interest during player registration.
Requirements
All coaches (head coaches and assistants) must complete the following before the season begins:
| Requirement |
How to Complete |
| Background Check |
Completed online through your Sports Connect account. Free and typically processed within a few days. Required annually. |
| Little League Volunteer Application |
Completed during registration or through your Sports Connect account. |
| Abuse Awareness Training |
Free online course through Little League University. Takes approximately 30-45 minutes. |
You will not be permitted on the field until all requirements are completed.
Coach Responsibilities
Head Coach / Manager
- Plan and lead practices (typically 1-2 per week)
- Manage the team during games
- Communicate with parents via GameChanger
- Ensure all players get equal playing time (per Little League rules)
- Track pitch counts and observe mandatory rest periods
- Submit game scores and standings
- Model good sportsmanship for players and parents
- Distribute and collect team equipment
Assistant Coach
- Support the head coach at practices and games
- Help with skill development and drills
- Fill in when the head coach is unavailable
- May serve as base coach during games
Time Commitment
| Activity |
Typical Time |
| Practices |
1-2 per week, 1-1.5 hours each |
| Games |
1-2 per week, 1.5-2 hours each |
| Communication/Admin |
1-2 hours per week |
| Total |
6-10 hours per week during season |
The season runs approximately 10 weeks (early April through early June).
GameChanger
All team communication, scheduling, and scorekeeping is managed through GameChanger.
Important: Sign in with the same email address you used to register on the Woodlawn Little League website.
What You Can Do in GameChanger:
- View and manage your team roster
- Schedule practices and notify parents
- Send messages to the whole team or individual families
- Take attendance and track RSVPs
- Score games live (parents can follow along!)
- Track player stats throughout the season
GameChanger Help Center →
Pitch Counts (Kid-Pitch Divisions)
Little League has mandatory pitch count rules to protect young arms. As a coach, you are responsible for tracking pitches and ensuring players observe required rest periods.
| League Age |
Daily Max |
| 7-8 | 50 pitches |
| 9-10 | 75 pitches |
| 11-12 | 85 pitches |
| 13-16 | 95 pitches |
Required Rest Periods
| Pitches Thrown |
Rest Required |
| 66+ | 4 calendar days |
| 51-65 | 3 calendar days |
| 36-50 | 2 calendar days |
| 21-35 | 1 calendar day |
| 1-20 | No rest required |
Note: If a player also pitches in travel ball or other leagues, please encourage parents to share that information with you so you can monitor total pitch counts.
Full Pitch Smart Guidelines →
Playing Time Rules
Little League mandates minimum playing time for all players:
- Every player must play a minimum of six (6) defensive outs and bat at least one (1) time per game
- In a six-inning game, no player should sit on the bench for more than one inning at a time
- Continuous batting order is used in most divisions (everyone bats)
Our philosophy: Every player plays. Development and fun come before winning, especially at younger ages.
Training Resources
Little League University — Coaches offers free online training on:
- Age-appropriate practice plans
- Teaching fundamentals (hitting, throwing, fielding)
- Game management
- Communicating with parents
- Creating a positive team culture
- Safety and first aid
Additional Resources
Equipment
Team equipment (bats, helmets, catcher's gear, bases, etc.) is provided by the league. You'll receive your equipment at the start of the season and return it at the end.
Players are responsible for their own gloves. Families may also choose to purchase their own bats, but all bats must meet Little League bat standards.
Coach's Checklist
Before the Season:
☐ Complete background check
☐ Complete Abuse Awareness training
☐ Download GameChanger and set up your team
☐ Review Little League rules and WLL local rules
☐ Attend coaches meeting (date TBD)
☐ Pick up team equipment
☐ Contact your team families and introduce yourself
☐ Schedule your first practice
During the Season:
☐ Communicate practice/game schedules via GameChanger
☐ Track pitch counts for every game
☐ Ensure all players get required playing time
☐ Report scores after games
☐ Keep it fun!
Questions?
Contact your division coordinator or email [email protected]. We're here to support you!