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BUDDY PROGRAM: WHAT IS A BUDDY?
Miracle League Buddies are assigned a player for each game. The buddy is there to protect the player from balls, assist the player in batting and running the bases (if needed), and to be a friend on and off the field. Buddies receive a Miracle League Buddy t-shirt for their participation.
Who is Eligible to be a Buddy?
Buddies are youth (ages 12 and up) and adults who play or enjoy baseball and softball-or just like to have fun. These include family members and local youth and civic groups to mention a few. Though we call them Buddies, many people refer to the volunteers as Angels in the Outfield.
How do I become a Buddy?
Formal Buddy registration is open for the upcoming season. If you are interested or want to get more information, please register in the registration section of the web site and indicate you are interested in being a Buddy.
What's the idea behind the Buddy Program?
Being a buddy allows parents, children and volunteers to come together to help special needs individuals. The Buddy Program has great impact on all participants. Buddies and players alike learn valuable skills like patience, understanding and compassion.
What is required of a Buddy?
Buddies need to be energetic, committed and enthusiastic for each game. We encourage buddies to keep a consistent schedule. This allows for Miracle players to grow more comfortable with their new friends. Buddies are responsible for their individual player from the time of introduction until the player is back in the care of their parent/guardian. This means that no matter where their player goes the buddy must go.
Do I stay with the same player all season?
In order to encourage friendships, Buddies are assigned to the same child or team for the entire season. However, we also welcome buddies who may not have assigned players, but who cover where needed.
Is there special training involved?
Each buddy is required to complete a basic skills training course. This “sensitivity” training provides guidelines, suggestions, and directions on how to have fun and make the experience safe and enjoyable.
What is expected of me on game days?
Buddies are always expected to protect the Miracle League player . When a hard hitter is up at bat, buddies are to step in front of the Miracle League player for protection. Always allow the Miracle League player as much freedom as possible to play his/her game and position. Assist the Miracle League player according to their needs. Arrive at the field 30 minutes prior to game time. Notify the Miracle League Buddy Coordinator at least 24 hours prior to game time if they will not be able to attend the game. Be properly dressed in the Buddies t-shirt. Demonstrate high morals and integrity on and off the field.
Can I receive credit for service hours?
Students can receive credit and, if necessary, a written recommendation towards their service hour requirements for school or other organizations upon completion of a full season.
RULES FOR BEING A BUDDY
Buddy/Team Leader Rules and Guidelines
- Insure a safe playing environment.
- A Buddy Team Leader is responsible for coordinating all aspects and activities for the Buddies assigned to a team and communicating with the Buddies.
- Each team will have one or more Buddy Team Leaders assigned.
- Insure that each player has an assigned Buddy if required by the league.
- Each team will be assigned more Buddies than players to allow for schedule conflicts.
- Contact their Buddies before a game is played to determine who will be at the game to make sure players are covered.
- Buddies are there to assist the players and ensure an enjoyable experience for all the kids involved, not just their partner.
- If the umpire determines that a Buddy is in violation of the spirit of what is in the best interests of the kids, a warning will be given. If a second offense occurs, the Buddy will be removed from the game.
- Buddies are optional for the players.
- Buddies may help a player run the bases by pushing their chair.
- Buddies who are helping their players run must make every effort to avoid balls in play.
- If a Buddy intentionally interferes, it is considered a violation and will result in their player being called out, as well as a warning for first offense, or a removal if given a prior warning.
- A Buddy may not be tagged to tag their runner out.
- A Buddy may not interfere with their player being tagged.
- A Buddy may not bat for their player.
- Buddies in the field.
- A Buddy must always play behind their player, unless a “more advanced” player is at the plate. A buddy may then move beside the player for safety.
- A Buddy may not catch or throw a ball for their player unless they are physically unable to catch or throw the ball.
- A Buddy may stop a ball that is hit at a player if the player needs help fielding it.
- A Buddy may pick up and hand a stopped ball to their player if help is needed picking up the ball.
- Buddies must give every opportunity for their player to play the ball.