Little League baseball is a worldwide institution with many local affiliates. Little League rules and regulations are intended to ensure that participants stay safe and enjoy a rewarding experience playing baseball. Some Little League organizations have zero-tolerance policies in effect as a deterrent to poor behavior at the games. Zero-tolerance rules may apply to coaches, players or spectators. Specific policies may vary from league to league, but they share similar principles.
Foul Language
To keep the games kid-friendly and respectable, many Little League organizations have strict rules regarding foul language. Any foul language directed at a player, coach, umpire or spectator might result in harsh penalties. Spectators hurling bad language at players, coaches and umpires may be asked to leave the park, and their children may face suspension on second and third offenses. Players and coaches usually face suspension of a game or two that will increase with subsequent offenses and may result in a season-long ban if it doesn't stop.
Player Injury
Protecting the health of youth baseball players is a major point of Little League baseball. Injuries that occur when players are young can cause problems later if not handled properly. Any coach or other official who knowingly allows a player to play in a game despite an injury faces punishment. Suspensions of from several games up to the remainder of the season are possible.
Threatening Gestures
In order to maintain the safe haven that Little League baseball seeks to provide its players, the league deals with threatening gestures swiftly. A threatening gesture may be physical or verbal, and it may be directed at an umpire, coach, player or spectator. Suspensions may last just a few games, but continued problems could result in a season-long suspension.
Fighting
Any physical confrontation between players or coaches, or physical assaults of any nature, may result in suspensions for the remainder of the season and up to life if the offense is sufficiently serious. Some situations may require police assistance.
Alcohol and Drugs
Depending on the specific program, players or coaches found using alcohol or drugs at a game or practice can expect suspensions for several games, the remainder of the season, or up to a lifetime ban from the program.
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