 |
Welcome to the April 29, 2011; edition of the MYAS Update
In this Issue
Pass it on
Know anyone who might be interested in our newsletter? Click here to forward this email to up to 5 friends at once.
|
|
|
MYAS Update Info
Our newsletter is designed to provide timely youth sports information to coaches, athletes, parents and administrators. It includes notes from the Executive Director, sport program information, calendar reminders, new service announcements and special events information. Contributions from sponsors assist us in delivering high quality youth sport services and events at the lowest possible cost and partially fund this newsletter, and certain sponsors will be featured from time to time.
Dan's Notes - from Executive Director Dan Klinkhammer
ON THE CONCUSSION BANDWAGON
According to my birth records, I weighed 9 pounds and 12 ounces on the day I was born. That was the last day that I ever listed in the 100th percentile for height or weight. I spent the entire summer between my 8th grade and freshman year in high school trying to get bigger. I wanted to play high school football and nothing was going to stop me. In the immortal words of the Cowardly Lion in the Wizard of Oz, "Not nobody, not nohow!"
Father Dwyer, our St. Mary's parish priest, was a big man and he was no stranger to football and baseball fields. He was a standout athlete in high school and college, and I was certain he was going to be proud of me for going out for football. So with great pride, I announced to him that I could no longer serve the early morning weekday masses because high school football practice was starting the following week. He just stared at me and said, "That's not a good idea. You are too small and you are going to get hurt."
Needless to say, I was crushed when he made that comment. His remarks also put a tiny bit of fear in the back of my head that wasn't there before. I knew that I was small but I always thought that I was tough enough to take a pummeling or fast enough to run away from one. Either way, I was going to give it a shot and I would prove everyone wrong by surviving.
On the first day of football practice they weighed and measured all of us. I weighed in at 112 pounds and measured almost five feet two inches tall. I was pretty proud of myself because I had grown almost two inches over the summer and put on 10 pounds. I didn't really realize how small I was until I got into the locker room and stood next to some of the juniors and seniors. Those guys were huge, with hair on their chins and chests, bulging muscles and deep voices. It was a pretty intimidating moment for me but then I realized that I didn't have to play against those guys. I'd be playing with the other freshmen and sophomores who were a little closer to my size.
On the fourth day of full-pads practice the varsity coach, Mr. Kressin, came over to the JV side of the practice field and asked for a volunteer to serve on the varsity kickoff practice squad. So, without really thinking it through, I shot my hand up as high as I could get it. Coach Kressin looked at me and then turned his attention to the sophomores in our group. "Is there anybody else?" Nobody else raised their hand so with great reluctance, the coach grabbed me by the facemask and said, "Just don't get hurt!"
They lined me up on the kickoff team, way on the end of the line near the sideline, and the coaches told me to just run down the sideline and keep the play contained to the inside portion of the field. However, they apparently forgot to tell the return man that he was supposed to stay in the middle of the field. We kicked the ball off and I went tearing down the sideline as fast as I could, just as I was told. As the two sides came together in crushing fashion, I noticed that Jim Knapp had the ball and was headed my way. Jim was a senior and he was the varsity's star running back. He was 200 pounds of pure mean muscle and I had seen a lot of varsity players shy away from making an honest effort to tackle him. He was a punishing back who loved to initiate contact. As he got closer to me, my Napoleon Complex (little man's disease) got the better of me and all I could think was, "I'm
gonna show everybody that I came to play!" Just before the collision, I lowered my head and tossed my 112-pound frame at his knees.
When I came to, all I could see was a wavy, green and yellow checkered pattern in the sky. I could also make out the fuzzy faces of a couple of coaches and I could hear Coach Kressin saying, "I told you not to get hurt. Are you okay? Are you okay?" As my vision cleared a little, all I could think to say was, "I got him, didn't I?" It was then that they informed me that Jim had run the kickoff all the way back for a touchdown. So much for my debut on the varsity squad. I also vaguely remember the assistant coach walking off with Coach Kressin and saying, "Well, he isn't very smart but he sure is a tough little kid." I went back to practice with the JV team.
The headaches started almost immediately and they were severe, but I didn't tell anybody. For the next few days, those green and yellow checkered patterns came and went with no warning. The collision happened on a Thursday afternoon and my headaches didn't subside until the following Monday. I managed to make it through both practices on Friday and Saturday but I was pretty much a waste of human flesh on Sunday. I made it to church and then slept the rest of the entire day. I am convinced that I had a concussion, but nobody diagnosed it or treated it as such. They just sent me back out onto the field.
To the best of my knowledge, I only suffered one more concussion during my playing days but that one went undiagnosed and untreated as well, much like most of the concussions suffered before this new millennium. As most of you know, concussions have become a front page story over the past few years and the world of modern medicine has finally announced that these concussions need our immediate attention and treatment or the consequences can be lifelong and devastating.
Think about it - of all the body's organs, science and medicine know the least about the brain. So my message today is pretty simple: DON'T TAKE CHANCES! When it comes to head injuries, you have to err on the side of caution. Since I'm not a doctor or brain surgeon, I won't attempt to tell you how to diagnose or treat a concussion, but I will point you in the right direction.
Every coach and parent should go to the Mayo Clinic's website (www.mayoclinic.org) and click on "Health Information" at the top of the page, then type in "concussions" in the search box. Several articles that address concussions and youth sports will be cited. Mayo also has a YouTube library of video presentations, including five or six on concussions and youth sports.
Parents, please realize that your kid can get a concussion just as easily in your backyard, falling off a swing set, as they can playing football, basketball, hockey or soccer. So this message is applicable to everyone. Please take the time to learn more about the symptoms and treatment of concussions. You won't regret it!
Back to 1970:
Nearly four years after "the collision" I was standing in the reception line, shaking hands at my high school graduation. As my relatives, friends and neighbors came through the line, I noticed that Father Dwyer was headed my way and I couldn't wait for him to shake my hand so I could tell him, "See? I told you so." After all, my high school athletic experience had been very rewarding. I was a two-time first team All-Conference defensive back and I was very proud to be selected as an honorable mention member of the All-State team. I really wanted to let Father Dwyer know that he had been wrong about me, so as he grabbed my hand I asked him if he remembered what he had said to me about being too small to play football. Before I could get in my "I told you so," he squeezed my hand very tightly, smiled and said, "Don't press your luck. I hope you aren't
planning on playing any college ball."
Additional Links for Concussion Info
Laura Henn of the Institute for Athletic Medicine recommends two websites for additional information on concussions (below). She also contributed this month's Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care article entitled "Concussions" (see the Sports Medicine Tip later in this issue).
The National Federation of High Schools has a great online course that is free to the public: http://nfhslearn.com/electiveDetail.aspx?courseID=15000
The Centers for Disease Control has a great informational site: http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/youth.html
Upcoming MYAS Event Registration Deadlines
Gopher State Spring Basketball Championships (Girls 5th-12th Grade)
Event Date(s): May 14-15
Deadline: Monday, May 2
Gopher State Spring Basketball Championships (Boys 5th-6th Grade)
Event Date(s): May 14-15
Deadline: Monday, May 2
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitationals (Girls 3rd-4th Grade; Boys 3rd-4th & 7th-12th Grade)
Event Date(s): May 14-15
Deadline: Monday, May 2
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitationals (Girls/Boys 3rd-12th Grade)
Event Date(s): May 21-22
Deadline: Monday, May 9
Gopher State Spring Basketball Super Savers (Girls/Boys 3rd-12th Grade)
Event Date(s): May 28
Deadline: Monday, May 16
Gopher State Baseball League 16u & 17-19u Team Enrollment
Event Date(s): June-July
Deadline: Monday, May 16
Gopher State Baseball Mid-Summer Classic (15AA)
Event Date(s): June 3-5
Deadline: Friday, May 20
Gopher State Spring Basketball Championships (Boys 7th-12th Grade)
Event Date(s): June 4-5
Deadline: Monday, May 23
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitationals (Girls 3rd-12th Grade; Boys 3rd-6th Grade)
Event Date(s): June 4-5
Deadline: Monday, May 23
Gopher State Baseball Mid-Summer Classic (12/14 AAA; 10-13 AA; 13A)
Event Date(s): June 17-19
Deadline: Friday, May 27
Gopher State Baseball Mid-Summer Classic (10/11/13/15 AAA; 14AA; 14-15A; 16U & 17-19U Open)
Event Date(s): June 24-26
Deadline: Friday, May 27
Gopher State Spring Basketball Super Savers (Girls/Boys 3rd-12th Grade)
Event Date(s): June 11
Deadline: Monday, May 30
Minnesota Twins Tickets Available!
The MYAS has secured a block of tickets to two different Twins games at Target Field this year! The first is Wednesday, June 29 at 12:10pm versus the Los Angeles Dodgers. The second is on Friday, August 5 at 7:10pm against the Chicago White Sox; that game also features a Kent Hrbek/Ron Gant 1991 World Series bobblehead giveaway.
Three dollars of each ticket is donated back to the MYAS by the Twins and goes to support our baseball programs.
The entire Twins season is nearly sold out, so this is a great opportunity to help the MYAS and go see a game at beautiful Target Field. Get your tickets now before we're sold out too!
Click here to access links to ticket order forms. For more information contact Dan Craighead at 763-746-1727 or dc@myas.org.
MYAS Launches New-Look Website
The Minnesota Youth Athletic Services is pleased to announce the release of our newly upgraded website, www.myas.org. Our home page has been redesigned with a fresh new look and has been updated with information about our latest programs and services.
Additionally, our new site provides information to answer our participants' most common questions and it provides enhanced education tools.
The new MYAS home page features a Resource Center that includes:
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- MYAS and Partner Services
- Free Educational Resources
- Speakers Bureau
- Coaches' Recruitment Center
- And much more!
We invite you to explore some of the new features in detail and write us to let us know what you think!
Visit the MYAS on Facebook!
We are excited about our new social media opportunity - Facebook! Check it out and "Like" our page to gain access to pictures, program updates and other exciting news.
You must have a Facebook profile to connect with our page. To get started, go to www.facebook.com and sign up for a free account. If you already have an account, simply log in and search for the "MYAS" page.
As our fan base grows, discussion topics can also be added. We look forward to connecting with our participants and families in this new venture! If you have questions about the MYAS Facebook page, please contact Jessica Christopherson at 763-746-1733 or jessica@myas.org.
Borton's Bench Notes
Even though we live in an age of instant communication, it is more important than ever to teach our kids effective communication skills. I am sure you have experienced a change in this generation - that kids are more comfortable talking through Facebook or by texting.
Effective communication creates and strengthens relationships, prevents misunderstandings and builds self-confidence. Having that confidence to hold an intelligent, face-to-face conversation is becoming a lost art. The shortcut version of texting conversations can weaken the actual message.
Is it any wonder why there are so many communication issues within families and friendships, between teammates and coaches? To build relationships and become better communicators we need to actually talk to someone and have a conversation. We need to impress upon our kids how this will strengthen their relationships with others; they will become more confident in holding conversations with people and it will help down the road when they are interviewing and trying to get a job.
I'm sure we are all guilty of this instant cyber communication ourselves. However, if we recognize the pitfalls and work on these skills, our kids will follow our lead. Down the road they will find themselves in situations, jobs and relationships that are healthy and rewarding...because they will be truly communicating.
Sports Medicine Tip
Concussions
What is a Concussion?
In medical terms, a concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). It occurs from either a direct blow to the head or elsewhere on the body that results in an impulsive force transmitted to the head (indirect blow). A TBI can cause a disturbance in brain function and information processing. Brain functions that control one's coordination, learning, memory and emotions are most commonly affected by a concussion injury.
Signs and Symptoms
A concussion can present with a wide array of symptoms that may or may not include:
- Altered mental status including confusion, inappropriate emotions, agitation or abrupt change in personality
- Blurred vision/double vision/seeing stars or black spots
- Dizziness, poor balance or unsteadiness
- Excessive or persistent headache
- Excessive fatigue/feel slowed down
- Feel "in a fog"
- Loss of consciousness
- Amnesia/memory problems
- Loss of orientation
- Vomiting
- Poor balance/coordination
- Ringing in ears
- Excessive sensitivity to light or loud noise
- Vacant stare/glassy eyed
Concussion - So What?
It is true that most concussions heal without issues or complications if handled properly. However, like any other injury, a brain injury should be given time to heal. Time to heal includes both physical and mental rest (free from mental straining and visual stimuli like video gaming and texting).
One of the most severe complications of brain trauma is intracranial bleeding or the development of a hematoma. The skull has no ability to expand to allow for brain swelling. If bleeding or swelling of the brain occurs, pressure in the skull rises and can cause brain injury. Hematomas develop immediately after an injury or hours later, so monitoring symptoms is critical. Bleeding from a brain injury can be life threatening.
Why do a baseline computer test (ImPACT)?
Neurocognitive tests, such as ImPACT, are helpful in providing objective information about how the brain is responding to injury. ImPACT has two components: a pre- and a post-concussion test. The pre-test is very valuable as the scoring represents one's baseline (normal) brain function. The ImPACT test is then repeated post-concussion. Results of the pre- and post-concussion tests are compared and care plans are then developed. If a pre-test was not completed prior to a concussion, an ImPACT post-concussion test is still a reliable tool in the assessment of brain function. In addition, it is recommended that the ImPACT test be completed on an annual basis due to natural maturing of the brain which can lead to scoring changes over time.
What can I expect from Fairview's Concussion Program?
Athletic trainers & Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care physicians will:
- facilitate completion of baseline tests
- manage concussion symptoms and make recommendations for return to previous activity level
- facilitate post-concussion testing
- refer to other healthcare providers as needed, including neuropsychologists, neurologists and therapists who specialize in concussion management
When am I safe to return to activity?
A concussion patient should be free of symptoms and have returned to their normal sleeping and eating patterns as well as typical concentration levels at school and work before resuming high levels of activity. Once normal activities have resumed and there are no symptoms at rest, he/she is ready to try more demanding activities that increase his/her heart rate. Over time, activities will be increased as long as symptoms do not return. Progressive or graded return to participation allows the opportunity to assess brain healing and is the current recommended standard of care for concussion management.
Under no circumstances should anyone return to activity while experiencing concussion signs or symptoms. There should be no return to activity on the same day concussion symptoms are noted or a formal diagnosis of a concussion is made.
For More Information:
Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care's concussion hotline: 952-460-4440
Appointment scheduling for Fairview Sports and Orthopedic Care: 612-672-7100
Cost of Computer Testing (ImPACT):
Pre-testing: $5
Post-testing Option 1: $20 includes all post-testing; Option 2: Included in FSOC physician visit
Then and Now - by Larry Gallagher
RUNNING LANE INTERFERENCE
When we begin to look at the term "interference," we can come up with a number of ways that a baseball player and even a number of other people and items can interfere with the play that takes place in a baseball game. We will limit this discourse to only Running Lane Interference even though there are other forms such as runner, umpire, fan and coach interference.
The National Federation of High Schools rule book (2-21-1a, b & c) defines Offensive Interference as "an act (physical or verbal) by the team at bat: a) which interferes with, obstructs, impedes, hinders or confuses any fielder attempting to make a play; or b) when a runner creates malicious contact with any fielder, with or without the ball, in or out of the baseline; or c) a coach physically assists a runner during playing action." Again, we will be discussing only Running Lane Interference in this treatise.
The Federation rule 8-4-1g states, "The batter-runner is out when he runs outside the three-foot running lane (last half of the distance from home plate to first base), while the ball is being fielded or thrown to first base; or 1) This infraction is ignored if it is to avoid a fielder who is attempting to field the batted ball or if the act does not interfere with a fielder or a throw. 2) The batter-runner is considered outside the running lane if either foot is outside either line."
Historically this rule came into being in 1882. The rules required a line to be drawn from a point half-way between home plate and first base parallel to the foul line three feet away. The only difference in that layout and today's is that the foul line connected the point of home plate with the center of first base; therefore, part of the runner's lane encompassed part of the base. Technically speaking, today's runner's lane rims adjacent to and bypasses first base.
Umpires were instructed to call out the batter-runner from home who ran "in fair territory." Common sense generally prevailed and the rule was not invoked unless the ball was being fielded to first base when the infraction occurred. In 1891, this philosophy actually was placed in the rule and it specified that the ball had to be fielded to first for it to apply.
Basically the rule serves two purposes: 1) It prevents a runner from leaving the base path and intentionally crashing into the player covering first base (safety), and 2) It prevents a runner from illegally screening the player taking the throw at first.
Early in the 1900's, more common sense dominated. This rule was re-worded to allow the umpire to use his judgment in determining when and if a runner's position out of the runner's lane actually interfered with a fielder taking a throw at first base. From the beginning in 1882, an exception was made for a runner who found it necessary to leave the runner's lane to avoid a fielder attempting to field a batted ball. Such runner could not be called out for a lane violation.
Let's look at a few plays that might help us better understand the rule.
Play #1: The batter is called out on strike three. The pitch gets away from the catcher and rolls toward the first base dugout. The batter-runner (BR) takes off for first and is running in fair territory when the catcher's throw to first hits him. He has advanced about two-thirds of the way to first when he is struck by the ball. Is he out? Ruling: In this case, the catcher made an errant throw. Although the BR was not in his runner's lane, his position when hit did not interfere with the play. The play stands and the ball remains alive.
Play #2: The batter bunts the ball down the first baseline. He takes off for first as the catcher moves into the infield to field the ball. The catcher picks up the bunted ball and fires to first. The ball strikes the BR who is running in fair territory about 30 feet before reaching first. Is the BR out or not? Ruling: In this one, the BR is out for not being in the runner's lane when hit by the thrown ball.
Play #3: The batter bunts the ball down the first baseline. The catcher pounces on the bunted ball and fires to first. The catcher's throw strikes the BR about 30' from home plate (before the runner's lane begins). Is the BR guilty of interference? Ruling: The BR is not guilty of interference because he has not yet reached the runner's lane or the halfway point. The ball remains alive and in play. However, if the BR does anything intentionally to interfere such as waving his arms, he would be interfering and called out and the ball would become dead.
Play #4: There is a runner on second with no outs. The batter tops a pitch and it bounces down the first baseline. The BR is running in fair territory as the catcher fields the fair ball and starts to throw to first. He sees the BR halfway to first in fair territory (out of the runner's lane). He cocks his arm to fire...then decides not to throw as he would likely hit the runner. He thinks that the BR will be declared out for being out of the runner's lane en route to first. Is he right? Ruling: For a batter-runner to be declared out, a throw must be made. The catcher is wrong and the BR is safe.
I believe these four plays will give you an idea of when to invoke the batter-runner lane interference rule and when you should not use it. This rule is supposed to be used on plays that are coming from the plate area and not from the third baseman, shortstop or pitcher (from the mound). If the ball is fielded by the third baseman, pitcher, catcher or first baseman like on a bunt or a slow roller, then there is the chance that if the BR is out of his lane and is hit by the throw or causes a problem with the fielder taking the throw at first base, the plate umpire should make the call of interference.
Next month we will look at a few other forms of interference, especially batter interference near the plate.
Midwest Regional Swim Meet
The 2011 Midwest Regional Swim Meet was a huge success! We'd like to thank our athletes, coaches, spectators and, of course, the numerous volunteers and staff who made this event possible.
Special congratulations go out to the Omaha YMCA who won our Team Spirit Award and to the swimmers listed below who set new meet records!
Boys 8U * 100 IM * Zachary Bann, Quad Cities Aquatics * 1:16.52
Boys 8U * 200 IM * Zachary Bann, Quad Cities Aquatics * 2:46.60
Boys 9-10U * 100 Butterfly * Jackson Allmon, Council Bluffs Swim Club * 1:07.56
Boys 9-10U * 200 IM * Jackson Allmon, Council Bluffs Swim Club * 2:31.61
Boys 11-12U * 50 Butterfly * Michael Andrew, Aberdeen Aquaholics * 26.17
Boys 11-12U * 50 Freestyle * Michael Andrew, Aberdeen Aquaholics * 23.61
Boys 11-12U * 100 Freestyle * Michael Andrew, Aberdeen Aquaholics * 52.98
Boys 11-12U * 50 Breaststroke * Michael Andrew, Aberdeen Aquaholics * 29.49
Boys 11-12U * 100 Breaststroke * Michael Andrew, Aberdeen Aquaholics * 1:05.14
Boys 11-12U * 100 Backstroke * Michael Andrew, Aberdeen Aquaholics * 59.91
Boys 13-14U * 200 Breaststroke * Justin Winnett, Des Moines Walnut Creek * 2:15.95
Boys 15-18U * 50 Freestyle * Ryan Miksch, Columbus Y Swim Club * 21.61
Boys 15-18U * 100 Freestyle * Ryan Miksch, Columbus Y Swim Club * 47.45
Boys 15-18U * 100 Backstroke * Brian Hershey, Des Moines Walnut Creek * 55.45
Boys 18U * 200 Freestyle Relay * Des Moines Walnut Creek * 1:30.99
Girls 9-10U * 500 Freestyle * Presley Busch, Green Bay Swim Club * 5:55.29
Girls 10U * 200 Freestyle Relay * Waukee Rays * 1:56.95
Girls 10U * 200 Medley Relay * Waukee Rays * 2:14.60
Girls 13-14U * 200 Butterfly * Catherine Sell, Black Hawk County * 2:28.39
Girls 13-14U * 400 IM * Brittany Moffatt, Black Hawk County * 5:00.57
Girls 13-14U * 50 Freestyle * Solveig Viren, Itasca Swim Club * 24.59
Girls 13-14U * 100 Freestyle * Solveig Viren, Itasca Swim Club * 53.98
Girls 13-14U * 500 Freestyle * Jenny Brown, Waukee Rays * 5:25.34
Girls 13-14U * 200 Backstroke * Jenny Brown, Waukee Rays * 2:11.64
Girls 14U * 200 Freestyle Relay * Ankeny Aquahawks * 1:44.40
We are looking forward to many exciting changes for the 2012 meet. For complete results of this year's meet and other information, please visit the Midwest Regional Swim Meet web page or contact Jessica Christopherson at jessica@myas.org.
MYAS Basketball Tournament Scheduling Services
The MYAS wants to help your basketball organization. Our Tournament Scheduling Service package was developed to make coordinating your event much easier. Our educated and trained staff has experienced the ins and outs of event planning. Let our expertise help you!
For just $3.00 per team, the MYAS will complete your tournament schedules and post them online and will provide you with a copy of the schedules, brackets to post at your site(s), score sheets for every game and many other valuable services. We are also working on the possibility of providing tournament directors with remote website access so they can update scores/schedules during their tournament.
If you would like more information about the MYAS Basketball Tournament Scheduling Services, please click here or contact Jeremy Innes at 763-746-1720 or jeremy@myas.org.
Gopher State Spring Basketball
Wow - what a beginning to the 2011 spring basketball season! The April 16-17 weekend saw 440 boys' and girls' teams participate, 218 teams played in the Saturday Super Saver over the Easter weekend and we have 472 teams competing on the April 30-May 1 weekend. We sincerely thank you for your participation in MYAS tournaments.
The 2011 Gopher State "Quest for the Rings" Spring Basketball Championships are right around the corner. The girls' and boys' 3rd-4th grade teams will play May 7-8 during the MYAS Team Appreciation Weekend. The Championships continue May 14-15 with the boys' 5th-6th and the girls' 5th-12th grade competitions and culminate on June 4-5 with the boys' 7th-12th grade tournaments. All teams will be playing for their chance at winning championship rings from Jostens.
It has been great watching all the teams playing spring basketball this year. There are so many talented teams and players at all age levels that Minnesota should continue being a hotbed for college recruiters for years to come. Speaking of recruiting...this weekend coaches will be receiving forms to nominate their top players to participate in the 2011 Gopher State "All-Star" Weekend.
Girls' All-Star Weekend * July 22-24, 2011 * Spring Lake Park HS
Boys' All-Star Weekend * July 29-31, 2011 * East Ridge HS
Coaches: You are encouraged to nominate all of your top players (your entire team can be nominated) as well as top players from your opponents' teams. We are searching for the top 40 players in grades 7-11 to participate in the second annual Gopher State All-Star Weekend celebration. New for 2011: We are currently recruiting four out of state teams in each grade level to come play against our Minnesota All-Star teams!
We sincerely thank you for your participation in MYAS tournaments this spring and we wish you all good luck in your upcoming tournaments. Don't forget to sign up for the Spring Championships. Remember to have fun, play fair and take it hard to the rack! We look forward to seeing you in the gym.
Notes on Scheduling Spring Basketball Tournaments
One of the difficulties we face each spring is determining where teams end up playing. At the beginning of the spring, we place teams into their various divisions of play based on the rankings that the coaches provide. Unfortunately, many teams sign up in the wrong division and we see games that are not competitive.
Remember: Division I is the highest division of play and Division III is the lowest. You must also realize that these are not "A", "B" and "C" divisions similar to the winter season. As you move throughout the remainder of the spring basketball season, you will see teams moving up and down divisions of play and also movement within each division of play.
To accomplish our goal of having competitive games, we delay scheduling our tournaments so we can monitor games being played two weeks prior to each future tournament weekend. For example, on Monday, April 18, we entered in all the results from the April 16-17 weekend. On Tuesday, after the deadline for the April 30-May 1 weekend had passed, we began moving teams up and down divisions and separating the teams into their divisions of play for the April 30-May 1 weekend. By doing so and by utilizing our USSSA Power Rankings system, we hope to deliver competitive balance in your tournaments.
Let's delve deeper into the scheduling of spring basketball tournaments. In addition to looking for competitive match-ups, we must also attempt to accommodate as many as 30 situations where one person is coaching two and sometimes three different teams. In those situations, we attempt to place all of their teams at the same location and then schedule the tournament so the teams don't play at the same time - a daunting task that sometimes cannot be accommodated.
Scheduling requests come in every week and we attempt to accommodate every situation. Church and confirmation; baseball tryouts and games; soccer in the morning, volleyball in the afternoon; ACT and SAT exams; prom! We try to make the schedules as "friendly" as possible. For example, you may have seen several divisions this spring where all games have been played on Saturday or on Sunday. This has been done to accommodate the numerous scheduling requests and also to help our outstate teams so they don't have to get hotel rooms every weekend that they come to play.
"Why can't I choose my playing location?" That's a question we hear quite often. Several years ago, we allowed teams to pick their preference of playing location. It sounds great in theory, but the reality was that we had more phone calls with complaints than not. Teams often didn't get placed at any of their preferences. What occurred was that certain "prime" locations would have 200 teams wanting to play there on one weekend. Let's use Wayzata High School as an example. If 200 teams listed their location preference as Wayzata, then right away 135-140 teams wouldn't get their wish because we can only squeeze 60-65 teams into that location.
Our goal, as it has always been, is to provide quality opportunities for kids to play basketball. How we are doing things now seems to be working - even though it sometimes is not necessarily ideal. If anyone has a better solution we'd like to hear it.
Remember to have fun and that the improvement of all your players' skills is what spring basketball should be about.
Gopher State Basketball Summer Prep Series
New for 2011 is our Gopher State Summer Prep Series. Designed specifically for boys' and girls' high school varsity, junior varsity and 9th grade teams, the Prep Series consists of four weekends of Saturday and Sunday one-day tournaments beginning June 11 and culminating with the 10th Annual Gopher State Prep Showcase on July 16-17 at Lakeville South High School.
Simplicity is what the Summer Prep Series offers. USSSA membership is not required, rosters will be open so coaches can "shuffle" players between teams, and a volume discount applies so teams can save money on entry fees.
The Prep Showcase offers an open division for summer teams to participate as well as separate junior varsity, small school (A and AA) and large school (AAA and AAAA) championship brackets. Come compete this summer in the air conditioning at Lakeville South High School in front of college coaches and recruiters.
Summer Prep Series information will be mailed to every high school in Minnesota. It is also available to download from the MYAS website by clicking here. If you are interested in further information, please contact Rich Penick at 763-746-1724 or rich@myas.org.
Basketball Rules of the Month
In our ongoing education mission, we would like to highlight three basic high school basketball rules. The answers appear later in the newsletter (see "In this Issue" for the link).
1. The administering official has reached a five-second throw-in count on Team A after placing the ball on the floor when Team A was not ready to resume play following a time-out. What happens next?
2. Placing at Disposal: Player A1 is awarded two free throws. After the players have had sufficient opportunity and time to take their positions for the first throw, the administering official bounces the ball to the free thrower. Did the official follow proper procedure?
3. Player B1 fouls Player A1 during an unsuccessful try for goal. The calling official has properly reported the foul and is in position for the free throws. The administering official has given all instructions and signals. Team B is properly occupying the required spaces, but three teammates of A1 are huddling inside the lane. What is the ruling?
Gopher State Baseball Tournament of Champions
GSTC Qualifier Season to Get Underway this Weekend!
The qualifying tournaments for the Gopher State Tournament of Champions will kick off this weekend, April 30-May 1, with the 13AAA and 13AA Gopher State Spring Invitationals. You can keep track of the GSTC standings throughout the spring/summer tournament season on the GSTC portion of the MYAS website.
Also, if your team is still looking for tournaments to help you qualify for the 2011 GSTC, you can see up-to-date tournament listings on our Youth Baseball Tournaments page by clicking here.
If you have questions about the GSTC or Gopher State Spring Invitationals, please contact Tony Groff at 763-746-1728 or tony@myas.org. We wish you all the best of luck this season!
Gopher State Umpire Training Clinics
Any and all umpires are encouraged to attend an MYAS/Gopher State Umpire Training Clinic. Our clinics are designed to allow umpires of all abilities an opportunity to enhance their skills and/or become educated in the finer points of umpiring. Clinicians this year include former professional and top collegiate umpires in the region.
The MYAS is excited to announce Bill Peterson as the keynote speaker for all 2011 Training Clinics. Peterson's legacy in St. Paul is defined by his coaching accomplishments, 30+ years of membership in local, regional and national umpiring circles and countless hours dedicated to baseball and softball. He has helped shape thousands of youth in St. Paul through the two sports. Peterson's most famous pupils include National Baseball Hall of Famers Dave Winfield and Paul Molitor, as well as 2009 MVP and two-time Batting Champion, Joe Mauer.
All breakout session instructors, including Larry Gallagher, who celebrates 50 years of high school umpiring in 2011, are dedicated to teaching and are excited to share their knowledge with the umpiring community. Hands-on training will be provided at this year's clinics with opportunities to be part of live action drills, mechanics and demonstrations. Don't miss out on this excellent training opportunity!
Attending a Gopher State Umpire Training Clinic will definitely enhance your chance to work more baseball games. Assignors want well-trained, competent umpires on their staff.
Please click here to access 2011 clinic dates, times and locations.
Gopher State Baseball League
The 12th annual Gopher State Baseball League (GSBL) is now underway. The MYAS baseball staff would like to thank the coaches for volunteering their time this season. We're very proud of the league's strong reputation it has earned over the past 12 years. We know that all participants will be satisfied with the league and take pride in being part of the GSBL, which is a culmination of the MYAS's best ideas.
The reach of the 2011 GSBL stretches 170 miles east to west and 120 miles north to south, encompassing 57 youth baseball associations. Our teams make up the largest representation of communities in a traveling baseball league in the Upper Midwest.
We'd like to extend a hearty welcome to all first-year coaches as you begin your traveling youth baseball tenure, and we can't forget the grizzled veterans who have been the backbone of the GSBL for the past few years. We at the MYAS feel the experiences and opportunities available to GSBL participants provide a lifetime of memories.
We wish all teams and participants the very best as you embark on the 2011 GSBL. If you have any questions throughout the season, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
If you'd like to catch a game at a field near you this summer, click here to access the league schedules. Welcome to the "GSBL Nation!"
Gopher State Baseball League All-Star Series
The GSBL All-Star Series will showcase the top players from each team that participates in this season's 14AAA, 14AA, 15AAA and 15AA leagues. Each GSBL head coach at the 14u and 15u levels will have the opportunity to nominate two players and one alternate from their respective team by July 8. The All-Star Series will take place on August 5-7, 2011.
The MYAS baseball staff and the GSBL Board of Advisors will place individuals on 4-6 teams (based on the overall number of teams at a specific age/level). The nominated individuals will be placed on teams based upon their position preferences.
The coaching staff of each All-Star team will be selected based upon the FINAL Gopher State Baseball League regular season standings in each division of play. Division-winning 14u and 15u coaches will be given the opportunity to coach an All-Star team. Coaching staffs will be determined no later than July 15, 2011.
Individuals will be contacted on or before July 22, 2011, and All-Star rosters will be available to the designated Head Coaches and on the MYAS website no later than July 22. Each All-Star team may have two practices during the week of August 1-4.
Opening Ceremonies and the Midwest Youth Showcase and Skills Contest will also be featured. All-Star Series information will continue to be updated on the MYAS website. If you have questions, please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
USSSA/Gopher State Baseball Mid-Summer Classic
The USSSA/Gopher State Mid-Summer Classic will take place at multiple venues on weekends in June of 2011. These tournaments allow all participating teams to take advantage of the benefits involved with USSSA baseball.
These events are an excellent way for 10u-19u AAA & AA and 13A-14/15A teams to advance to a World Series / National Tournament and earn points through USSSA. Last year, 175 teams competed for an opportunity to earn a berth to a USSSA World Series or National Tournament.
The Mid-Summer Classic has also been designated a "double points" tournament toward the Gopher State Tournament of Champions in July.
The tournaments are starting to fill up, so be sure to get your team signed up today! Applications are available on the Minnesota USSSA/Gopher State Mid-Summer Classic web page.
Please contact Eric Rathke at 763-746-1730 or eric@myas.org if you have questions or would like more information.
MYAS Rec State Baseball Championships
The 2011 Rec State Baseball Championships will be held on July 29-31 and will feature six divisions and a three-game guarantee. More detailed information, including entry materials, are available on the Rec State web page.
Last year we saw 124 metro area teams in seven different age divisions have a blast competing for a state championship title. Reserve your local in-house/recreational teams a spot in the 2011 Championships! The brochure is available by clicking here. Each tournament is limited to the first 32 teams.
We are proud to announce that Dick's Sporting Goods will be the sponsor of the Rec State Baseball Championships. We are very excited about our partnership!
We are gearing up for another year of fun and competition in the Rec State Championships. Please contact Eric Rathke at 763-746-1730 or eric@myas.org for more details on this great event.
Gopher State Baseball August Competitive League
NEW FOR 2011! The Gopher State August Competitive League will be offered on August 14, 21 and 28, 2011. This league is open to all 10-15 year old AAA and AA traveling teams and any 16u and 17-19u team. Teams will be able to play in competitive match-ups even after the spring/summer season is over.
This league will bridge the gap between the spring/summer season and the Gopher State Fall Baseball League. It features a six-game guarantee, with teams playing doubleheaders each Sunday.
More information will be available on the August Competitive League portion of the MYAS website. In the meantime, if you would like more information about this new league please contact Dawson Blanck at 763-746-1719 or dawson@myas.org.
MYAS Latest News (as of 4/28/11)
Baseball News
Basketball News
MYAS Calendar (as of 4/28/11)
Saturday-Sunday, April 30-May 1, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitationals; various grades/divisions/sites
Saturday-Sunday, April 30-May 1, 2011
Gopher State Baseball Spring Invitationals; 13AAA & 13AA; Andover & Mahtomedi
Sunday, May 1, 2011
North Star Baseball League play begins
Sunday, May 1, 2011
MYAS/Gopher State Level I & II Umpire Training Clinics; Miller Park, Eden Prairie
Monday, May 2, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Championship entry deadline (May 14-15 event)
Monday, May 2, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitational entry deadline (May 14-15 event)
Monday, May 2, 2011
Gopher State Baseball League 14u-15u Coaches' Meeting; 7:00pm; Crowne Plaza, Brooklyn Center
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Gopher State Baseball League 14u play begins
Saturday-Sunday, May 7-8, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Championships; various grades/divisions/sites
Saturday-Sunday, May 7-8, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitationals; various grades/divisions/sites
Monday, May 9, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitational entry deadline (May 21-22 event)
Saturday-Sunday, May 14-15, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Championships; various grades/divisions/sites
Saturday-Sunday, May 14-15, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitationals; various grades/divisions/sites
Monday, May 16, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Super Saver entry deadline (May 28 event)
Monday, May 16, 2011
Gopher State Baseball League 16u & 17-19u Open entry deadline
Monday, May 16, 2011
Gopher State Baseball League 15u play begins
Monday, May 16, 2011
MYAS/Gopher State Level II Umpire Training Video Clinic; Murzyn Hall, Columbia Heights
Friday, May 20, 2011
Gopher State Baseball Mid-Summer Classic 15AA entry deadline (June 3-5 event)
Saturday, May 21, 2011
MYAS/Gopher State Level I Umpire Training Clinic; Fridley Little League Fields
Saturday-Sunday, May 21-22, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitationals; various grades/divisions/sites
Saturday-Sunday, May 21-22, 2011
Gopher State Baseball Spring Invitationals; various ages/divisions/sites
Monday, May 23, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Championship entry deadline (June 4-5 event)
Monday, May 23, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Invitational entry deadline (June 4-5 event)
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Gopher State Baseball League 16u & 17-19u Scheduling Session; 6:00pm; Crowne Plaza, Brooklyn Center
Friday, May 27, 2011
Gopher State Baseball Mid-Summer Challenge entry deadline; various ages/divisions (June 17-19 event)
Friday, May 27, 2011
Gopher State Baseball Mid-Summer Challenge entry deadline; various ages/divisions (June 24-26 event)
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Super Savers; various grades/divisions/sites
Monday, May 30, 2011
Gopher State Spring Basketball Super Saver entry deadline (June 11 event)
Answers to Basketball Rules of the Month
The answers below are derived from the most recent edition of the National Federation of State High School Associations Basketball Rules Book, Basketball Case Book and/or Rules by Topic publication.
1. The violation is administered and the ball is made available to Team B for a throw-in at the same spot. If a Team B player is not in position, the same procedure is followed. If both teams have violated, a technical foul will be assessed for any further delay by either team. Team A must now have a thrower available, plus all other players on the court and Team B must be on the court ready to play also. If either or both teams are not in compliance immediately, a technical foul shall be charged. COMMENT:
Each different time a team has delayed returning to the court after a time-out or between quarters, the resumption-of-play procedure should be used. However, if a team refuses to play after technical fouls have been assessed, the game may be forfeited (Case Book 7.5.1 Situation A, pages 58-59; Rule Book 4-38, page 36 and 5-4-1, page 41).
2. Yes. On free throws, the word "disposal" is interpreted to mean that the official shall bounce the ball to the free thrower, but if the free thrower refuses to accept it the official may place the ball on the floor at the free-throw line and begin the count. This procedure constitutes putting the ball at the free thrower's disposal. However, in this situation, the ball becomes live when it is caught by the free thrower (Case Book 8.1.1 Situation A, page 63; Rule Book 4-4-7b, page 26).
3. Team A is warned for delay, the scorer records it and it is reported to the head coach. If Team A commits any delay thereafter in the game, a team technical shall be charged. COMMENT: Since this situation is not a throw-in or following a time-out or intermission, the resumption-of-play procedure shall not be used. If the free thrower is not in the semicircle when the administering official is ready, a technical foul is charged to the free thrower. If the free thrower is in the semicircle but does not accept the ball, it shall be placed on the floor and the count started (Case Book 8.1.1 Situation B, page 63; Rule Book 10-1-5d, pages 58-59 and 10-3-5c, pages 59-60).
If you have questions about these or other basketball playing rules, please contact Buddy Hemric at 763-746-1717 or buddy@myas.org.
Important Association Services That Work!
The Minnesota Youth Athletic Services offers three important services:
1. Association and Player Sports Accident Insurance Coverage
Association liability and player accident insurance are always concerns for youth sports organizations in our increasingly litigious society. Some associations spend a lot of money and others go into denial and “run naked” without even minimal liability coverage for their members. Yet if insurance is not obtained, the personal assets of the individuals running the association may be at risk. Many sports facility managers, especially municipalities and schools, will not permit the use of their property or facilities unless it can be demonstrated that youth sports associations are covered under an insurance policy. Without insurance, the opportunity for young athletes to compete in organized sports programs may be substantially limited.
The MYAS has partnered with J.A. Price Agency, an insurance company which has access to dozens of other insurance companies and can handle any type of business or personal insurance needs that your association/board of directors may require. The insurance provides options for all types of needs within your association/community. This coverage is an advantage no amateur sports organization should be without!
Examples of coverage include but are not limited to:
- General Liability
- Sexual Misconduct
- Participant Accident
- Directors & Officers Liability
- Crime/Embezzlement
- Automobile
- Umbrella
- Workers' Compensation
General insurance questions should be directed to Bob Blomster at 952-253-4311 or bob.blomster@japrice.com.
2. Criminal Background Checks
How do we protect our children? Reports of sexual predators and child abuse involving the clergy, day care workers and youth volunteers are all too familiar. Unfortunately, this includes a disturbing number of youth sport coaches who have a history of incidents of sexual misconduct and/or violence. This is a complex issue and many youth sports organizations are unclear about what to do or how to approach this threat, yet they must take proactive steps to prevent their children from becoming innocent victims. Don’t put your children at risk!
In addition, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that $50 billion is lost annually due to employee theft and fraud. Youth sports associations must protect themselves from this threat as well. Don’t put your association at risk!
Fortunately, youth sports associations now have a simple and inexpensive tool to avoid some of society’s worst fears. The MYAS, with its partner Trusted Employees, has designed a criminal background check system that offers three affordable options to youth sports associations. Trusted Employees, a local Twin Cities company, incorporates a “user-friendly” process combined with flexible information delivery to make this system easy and inexpensive for your organization. For more information, please contact Mike DeWane at 763-746-1716 or mike@myas.org.
3. Coaching Education Program
The MYAS has partnered with the American Sport Education Program (ASEP) to offer youth sport associations and their coaches the Coaching Youth Sport education program designed specifically for youth coaches. It provides coaches with a solid foundation in coaching principles, sport first aid and sport-specific techniques and tactics. These courses are available for baseball, basketball, football, soccer, softball, tennis, volleyball and wrestling and can be delivered in the classroom or online. For more information, please contact Mike DeWane at 763-746-1716 or mike@myas.org.
MYAS Sponsors
MYAS Membership Meetings
MYAS membership meetings are held at our offices (4111 Central Avenue NE; Columbia Heights, MN 55421) on the last Tuesday of each month at 9:00am (unless notified otherwise). All MYAS members are welcome to attend.
|
|
