March 1, 2008

Dear "W-Ball" Parent:

We're glad your family will be joining us for another great W-ball season! Opening Day will be Saturday, April 19th from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on the fields behind the Kindergarten classes at the Woodside Elementary School. We typically have 6 teams of 6-8 players with two coaches per team.

We will start each 60-minute session with 25 minutes of "instruction" and skill practice. Coaches will get all the kids together to review a skill for the day, and then we'll break into teams to practice the skill. After this short practice session, the kids will have a chance to play a practice game (no scoring) with another team. Our suggested playing rules are modeled after Little League's T-Ball rules, with a couple of minor modifications to reflect our players' younger age. For example "out" players can continue to run the bases, and all players hit each inning regardless of the number of "outs." A copy of "W-Ball" play guidelines is attached.

Coaches will be supervising skills practice for their teams, creating a batting order (going by number on back of shirt is the best), helping the players decide where to play in the field, and "coaching" where practical. A parent or caretaker must stay with their child through each session. Parents should keep their own child in the field if necessary, and ensure the good sportsmanship of their child.

We will bring water to the games. If desired, each team should organize your own post-game snack assignments. If your team decides to assign post-game snacks, you need to bring snacks only for the kids on your child's team.

If you haven't paid your child's fee yet, please send a $55 check (made payable to the Woodside Recreation Committee) to Deb Barnds at 45 Tripp Court, Woodside, CA 94062. The fee will be used to cover T-shirts, hats and equipment, insurance through the Recreation Committee, the school field use fee and an end of the season party.

Players must bring mitts to the first game. You can find children's mitts at any sporting good store or Target. We will provide all other equipment including helmets.

See you on Saturday, April 19th!

Deb Barnds