SC Wave Travel Baseball Team Handbook

For Players & Families

 

Welcome to SC Wave!

SC Wave Travel Baseball is committed to developing strong athletes and even stronger young people. We focus on skill development, character, teamwork, and a positive family environment where players can grow, compete, and thrive.

This handbook outlines our mission, values, policies, and expectations so that every family understands what it means to be part of SC Wave. Please review each section carefully. A united understanding allows us to support our athletes in the best way possible.

 

Mission Statement

SC Wave is dedicated to the development of young athletes through quality instruction, competitive play, and a positive environment where focus, determination, and a commitment to growth are at the forefront of all we do.

 

Core Values

Focus

We give our full attention and effort to each practice, game, and moment of growth. Players learn to be present, stay disciplined, and commit to continuous improvement.

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Determination

We never quit. We teach young athletes to work hard, push through challenges, and believe in their ability to improve.

Mastery

We pursue excellence through repetition, effort, and an eagerness to learn. Mastery is a long-term process, and we celebrate progress at every stage.

 

Team Policies & Expectations

1. Code of Conduct

Players

• Show respect to coaches, teammates, umpires, and opponents.
   

• Hustle at all times.
   

• Demonstrate good sportsmanship—win or lose.
   

• Try your best during practice and games.
   

• Be coachable and open to feedback.
   

Parents & Families

• Support all players positively.
   

• Speak respectfully to coaches and officials.
   

• Refrain from coaching from the sidelines.
   

• Handle concerns privately and respectfully.
   

• Model behavior we want our athletes to emulate.
   

Coaches

• Provide a safe, encouraging learning environment.
   

• Model respect, patience, and professionalism.
   

• Communicate clearly with families.
   

• Prioritize player development.
   

• Uphold all policies consistently and fairly.
   

 

2. Communication Policy

• Team communication will occur through email, text groups, or a designated team app.
   

• Families should contact coaches through approved methods only.
   

• If you have a concern, please reach out respectfully via phone or in person.
   

• Coaches will respond respectfully and in a timely manner.
   

 

 

3. Playing Time & Development Philosophy

• Development is our priority.

• We are committed to helping every player learn, grow, and strengthen their skills in multiple areas of the game.

• Players will be rotated through a variety of positions during practice to broaden their skill sets and deepen their overall understanding of the game.

• We believe all positions are important and that versatile athletes become stronger, more confident contributors to their team.

• Playing time may vary based on effort, attitude, and preparedness.

• Coaches will clearly communicate development goals so families understand what players are working toward.

• While additional practice outside of scheduled team sessions is not required, we encourage families to support their players by playing catch, hitting together, and promoting healthy exercise at home.

4. Practice & Attendance Policy

• Attendance is important for team growth.
   

• Please notify coaches as soon as possible if your child will be absent.
   

• Communicating absences in a timely manner will not negatively impact playing time. We understand that every family has obligations beyond baseball and that there are circumstances beyond your control.  However, and especially in the case of a tournament, we do need to be notified at least 48 hours in advance so that we have enough time to look for another player to fill that spot.
   

• Players should arrive prepared and ready to begin on time.
   

 

5. Travel & Game Day Policy

• Families are responsible for transportation to and from events.
   

• Players must arrive in full uniform and proper equipment.
   

• Arrive at the designated warm-up time set by coaches.
   

• Parents must model sportsmanship at all games.
   

• Players stay with the team during warm-ups, team talks, and post-game meetings.
   

 

6. Safety & Emergency Policy

• Player safety is our top priority:  All coaches are CPR certified.
   

• Any injuries must be reported to coaches immediately.
   

• We follow appropriate concussion protocols.
   

• A first-aid kit will be available at all team activities.
   

• Emergency contact information must be kept up to date.
   

 

7. Photo/Video Release & Media Consent

• SC Wave may post photos and videos of players on team social media.
   

• No last names or identifying details will be included without approval.
   

• Families may opt out by notifying team leadership.
   

 

8. Anti-Bullying & Anti-Harassment Policy

• Bullying of any kind will not be tolerated.
   

• This includes verbal teasing, exclusion, intimidation, or physical aggression.
   

• Any incident will be addressed promptly and seriously.
   

• Consequences may include warnings, parent meetings, or removal from the team.
   

 

9. Fees, Payments & Refund Policy

• Once a family accepts their position on the team, a 50% deposit is due. Checks should be made payable to SC Wave.

• Fees cover tournaments, equipment, and operational needs, including player equipment, uniforms, cleats, bag, and helmet.

• A detailed spreadsheet of all fees will be provided to families at the conclusion of tryouts.

• There will be no hidden fees or additional charges once the season commences.

• Refunds are not guaranteed and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

• Late payments may impact a player's ability to participate.

• Fundraising efforts directly reduce the total cost for each family. For example, if a player raises $100 through an approved SC Wave fundraiser, SC Wave will issue a check in that amount to the family within two weeks of the fundraiser’s close.

10. Equipment & Uniform Policy

• Players must maintain their uniforms and equipment.

• Required equipment includes a glove, helmet, team-approved bat, and cleats.

• Players should bring water and all required gear to every practice and game.

• SC Wave will provide designated home and away uniforms. The required color combination for each tournament day will be communicated to families no later than 48 hours before the start of the tournament.

 

11. Discipline & Conflict Resolution Policy

 

SC Wave is committed to resolving concerns respectfully, clearly, and in partnership with our families. Our goal is always to protect the player experience while maintaining open, solution-focused communication.

If a parent has a question, concern, or issue to discuss, the following process must be followed:

1. Contact Coaches Privately

Parents must address concerns privately and directly with the coaching staff via phone or in person. Text messages, group chats, game-day conversations, and social media are not appropriate forums for discussing concerns.

2. Head Coach Availability for In-Person Conversations

To ensure clear, respectful, and solution-focused communication, the head coach will be available for in-person conversations during the following designated times:

• Fifteen minutes prior to any scheduled practice, when appropriate and when it does not interfere with practice preparation.

• Monday evening following a tournament weekend, at a time designated by the head coach.

Parents may address concerns by phone or during these scheduled in-person meeting times. To maintain professionalism and reduce miscommunication, please refrain from addressing concerns via text message, as text conversations can easily be misunderstood. SC Wave coaches are committed to modeling effective, respectful communication for all athletes and families.

3. Escalation if Needed

If an issue cannot be resolved after speaking with the head coach:

• A follow-up meeting will be scheduled that includes the head coach and an additional member of organizational leadership, which may include a board member, to ensure transparency, trust, and a balanced perspective.

• If further review is necessary, a meeting with organizational leadership will be arranged.

• All concerns will be addressed openly and respectfully.

• All decisions will prioritize player well-being, team culture, and the overall values of SC Wave.

Our Commitment to Families

We promise to:

• Listen respectfully
   

• Communicate clearly and honestly
   

• Work collaboratively toward solutions
   

• Maintain confidentiality when appropriate
   

The goal of this policy is to ensure concerns are handled constructively, privately, and in alignment with our values of respect, growth, and unity.

 

12. Player Expectations Policy

• Show up ready to learn.
   

• Give consistent effort.
   

• Respect coaches, teammates, and the game.
   

• Keep a positive attitude.
   

• Demonstrate teamwork and sportsmanship.
   

 

13. Volunteer & Team Support Policy

• Families may be asked to assist with:
   

  • Dugout support
     

  • Scorekeeping in Game Changer:  Game Changer is our official scorekeeping mechanism and will be used for all tournaments. 
     

  • Ballpark DJ:  We will use Ballpark DJ for all tournaments.
     

  • Fundraising events
     

• Volunteers must follow all team policies.
   

 

Social Media Policy

Our social media platforms are an extension of who we are as an organization. They allow us to highlight player growth, celebrate achievements, showcase birthdays, and communicate our values to the community. Because social media carries great influence, we expect all families, coaches, and supporters to uphold SC Wave’s standards of positivity, respect, and unity.

Purpose of Our Social Media

Our platforms exist to:

• Celebrate player development, effort, and accomplishments
   

• Recognize birthdays and special milestones
   

• Highlight our growth as an organization
   

• Showcase what SC Wave stands for
   

• Build pride and connection within our community
   

• Promote a positive and uplifting environment
   

This space is for encouragement and celebration—not criticism or complaint.

Expectations for Families and Supporters

To protect our athletes and maintain the integrity of our program, all families must follow the expectations below:

1. Maintain Positivity and Respect

All comments, posts, tags, and interactions should reflect respect and support for the organization. We will not tolerate:

• Negative remarks about players, coaches, or families
   

• Public criticism of coaching decisions, playing time, or game outcomes
   

• Posts that undermine team unity or organizational values
   

Negativity does not move our mission forward or support our players.

2. No Public Complaints or Concerns

Social media is not the place to express frustration, disagreement, or dissatisfaction. SC Wave values communication and will always provide appropriate private channels for families to share concerns respectfully.

3. Protect Player Privacy

For the safety of all athletes:

• Do not post photos or videos of other children without permission
   

• Do not share last names, personal details, or sensitive information
   

• Avoid tagging children in ways that compromise safety
   

SC Wave will never share personal information about players.

4. Represent SC Wave With Pride

If you mention SC Wave—whether on team pages or your personal accounts—your words and behavior should reflect:

• Sportsmanship
   

• Positivity
   

• Respect
   

• Support for all players and coaches
   

Every family is a representative of our organization.

Consequences

Failure to follow the Social Media Policy may result in:

• Removal of posts or comments
   

• Restrictions on participation in team social media groups
   

• Meetings with coaches or organizational leadership
   

SC Wave will always provide a respectful, private space for families to express concerns.

Our Commitment

In return for your partnership, SC Wave commits to:

• Using social media responsibly
   

• Celebrating players with dignity and positivity
   

• Protecting player privacy
   

• Communicating openly with families
   

• Modeling the values we expect from our community

Acknowledgment

By participating in SC Wave Travel Baseball, families agree to follow the policies and values outlined in this handbook. This includes the Code of Conduct, Communication Policy, Social Media Policy, Conflict Resolution Policy, and all other team guidelines.

Together, players, parents, and coaches create a positive, competitive, and supportive environment where young athletes can develop their skills, grow in character, and enjoy the game. Your partnership and commitment are essential to the success of our program.

We thank you for being part of SC Wave and for supporting our mission to develop not only great players but also great people.