Player Commitment Policy
General Information
Competitive Fastpitch Softball can be challenging, demanding, and enjoyable. Jersey Shore Vortex Fastpitch (JSVF) aims to build a competitive program while providing a safe and supportive environment for players to develop their skills, knowledge, and teamwork. We encourage our players to excel on the field, in school, and within their community.
Financial Obligation
JSVF Club will assess a participation fee based on the cost of operating the team, divided by the number of players. Fees cover tournaments, practice facilities, conditioning programs, training equipment, team activities, uniforms, insurance, and other expenses. All fees must be paid on time to maintain operational efficiency. If a player leaves the team after accepting a position, no refunds will be given, as budgets are set based on the initial number of players.
Practices
Players are expected to attend all practices and be on time, arriving 15 minutes early to warm up. Please communicate quickly with coaches if you can't attend. Players should wear JSVF practice uniforms and ensure their hair is up. No jewelry is allowed. Players must give 100% effort and attention during practices and are responsible for setting up and transporting equipment, hustling between stations, and keeping the practice area clean. Cell phones are not permitted during training.
Attendance
Attendance at all planned practices, scrimmages, scheduled games and tournaments, and special events is mandatory. Excused absences include school-related functions, religious obligations, doctor appointments, planned vacations, and family emergencies. After five unexcused absences, players will not be allowed to play in the next tournament but must be present in the dugout. Players must attend the last practice before a game or tournament to be in the starting lineup. If a player misses a game, they will not start in the following game, if they miss a tournament day for any reason they will need to sit a game before competing.
Equipment/Uniforms
Players must have the necessary equipment, including but not limited to gloves, bats, cleats, sliders, and batting gloves. The team will provide a customized softball bag, helmet, protective fielding mask, practice shirt, hooded sweatshirt, and full uniform. Players must transport their equipment and team gear to and from the field and ensure its cleanliness and care. Report any damaged equipment to a coach.
Dugout Policy
The dugout is defined as the area in which the players are gathering to participate in the game. Only rostered coaches and players are allowed in the dugout. Players must stay in the dugout during games and keep it clean.
Cell Phone Policy
Cell phones are prohibited during practices and games unless for emergencies with a coach's permission. Parents can text the coaches during the game if something is urgent. If a player is discovered to be using their mobile device during practices and games, it will impact their playing time.
Positions and Playing Time
Playing time is earned through ability, effort, attitude, discipline, and attendance. Coaches will involve players as much as possible, but playing time is not guaranteed. Players may be moved to different positions as needed. Concerns about playing time should be addressed to the coaches by the player.
Softball Lessons
Private lessons and small group instruction are available outside of scheduled team practices. Members of the Vortex program get significant discounts for private lessons and the coaches come to you. Pitchers and catchers are required to have personal coaches, with Vortex coaches attending sessions as necessary to reinforce training during practices and games.
24-hour Rule
Concerns should be discussed with coaches 24 hours after the incident to allow for a cool-down period. Schedule a private meeting with coaches to discuss concerns, not during practices or games. Parents are encouraged to support their children positively and respect the coaching staff's decisions.
Guest Playing
JSVF does not discourage any member from guest playing to continue developing their skills. Inform us of any guest playing opportunities so we are aware. On occasion, JSVF will have guest players participate in our games or tournaments for various reasons. If guest players are required due to a shortage of players for any reason, the guest players will receive priority playing time.
Conduct
Players and parents/guardians are expected to show sportsmanship and professional behavior at all times. Negative behavior, including arguing with umpires, coaches, or other players, is not tolerated. The team has a zero-tolerance policy for bullying, gossiping, or harassment. Parents and players agree to reflect positively on JSVF.