DEVELOPING BALANCED BULLDOG ATHLETES ONE TEAM AT A TIME.
Bettendorf Lil'Dawgs is an organization of players, parents, and coaches from the Bettendorf community who believe in a developmental approach to competitive girls softball. Our mission is to enhance the character and confidence of these young ladies by developing their softball skills. Our coaches are dedicated to teaching them commitment, positive attitude, hard work, and respect so the players can experience their fullest potential on and off the softball diamond.
Team Expectations
8U Level
At 8U our purpose is to begin teaching the fundamentals of the game, ie. catching, fielding, throwing, hitting, base running, and team building. This is a level where we want to instill fundamentals and work on basic game strategy. Practices and league games should be used to expose the girls to various positions. During league games, the batting order and fielding positions should vary so the girls are not in the same spot at all times. During tournaments, the goal is to be competitive but also include all players.
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9U/10U Level
At 9U/10U our purpose is to continue working on the fundamentals along with the introduction of the girls pitching. Basic game-specific situations are introduced and practiced. Practices and league games should be used to expose the girls to various positions. During league games, the batting order and fielding positions should vary so the girls are not in the same spot all the time, but tournament play is a competitive environment where playing time is earned through ability, effort, and attitude demonstrated.
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12U/14U Level
At the 12U/14U level, our purpose is to work on refining the fundamentals along with the increase in game-specific situations in order to prepare the girls for the high school softball team. Practices and league games should still be used to expose the girls to various positions. Tournament play is a competitive environment where playing time is earned through ability, effort, and attitude demonstrated.
The reasoning for exposing the girls to multiple positions during practice and league games is so they are prepared to help the team in needed positions that may vary from level to level.
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If any age group has enough for two or more teams then we will divide into an A & B (Black and Gold).
Having the most advanced players together while also having a developmental age team.
This provides the best experience & opportunity for all players.
Coach Expectations
Given the important role that coaches play in the development and leadership of youth in the Bettendorf Lil'Dawgs Softball program, much care is used in the review and selection of managers and coaches for Lil'Dawgs teams. While not all inclusive, the Organization has these base expectations for all coaches:
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Must encourage players at all times and will not damage the self-esteem of any player or parent at any time.
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Understand that becoming "physical" (grabbing, pushing, hitting, physical or verbal intimidation, etc) with any player, parent, league official, opposing coaching staff, spectator, or umpire is not acceptable at any time - - such actions are grounds for serious consequences up to immediate removal as a manager or coach.
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Have open, productive and strong relationships with the Lil'Dawgs Board , parents, and umpires at all times.
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Recognize that they are agents of the Board and will follow the Board’s direction, philosophy, and advance the agenda for the Organization as set forth by the Board.
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Recognize and accept that Bettendorf Lil'Dawgs has a zero tolerance policy for rules and regulations infractions and non-compliance with Lil'Dawgs Board directives and facility use policies.
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Lead by example in shaping acceptable behavior patterns whether the team wins or loses.
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Reflect an understanding and appreciation of the age group they supervise.
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Respect the judgment and the position of authority of the umpire.
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Be on time, if not early for practices and games. As the manager or coach, you set the example for your team.
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Communicate all important information with the Board, parents, and players.
Team Fees
8U: $400-600*
9U-14U: $600-800*
Team Fees cover league play, tournament entry fees for the Fall, Spring & Summer, fall league jersey, and uniforms.
*if needed, tournament spectator fees will be evenly split and added at the end of the teams' seasons.
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Uniforms:
The organization provides you with two new jerseys and offers uniform packages for new and returning players.
The girls are responsible for their own shoes, gloves, black helmet and bat.
A black, white or yellow bag is required.
An installment payment plan is available. Players may also earn money towards fees
by finding business sponsors (see sponsorship form)
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