Due to concerns surrounding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and in accordance with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and other health authorities, BABE RUTH LEAGUE, INC. is implementing health and safety procedures as part of a proactive approach to preventing the spread of germs.
 
Babe Ruth League, Inc. is still planning the tournament trail for all divisions later this summer and will work with all leagues to ensure the leagues will have whatever might be required for players to be eligible to participate when the time comes.  We expect to provide ongoing updates as we deal with these unprecedented circumstances. 
 
We are suggesting these new measures be effective immediately. We cannot stress enough how vital it is that all Babe Ruth League participants acknowledge these guidelines.
 
Suspension/Postponement of Regular Season
Babe Ruth League suggests postponement or suspension of your local league’s season in accordance with your state’s public health department recommendations (click here for a listing of state public health departments), and other county and/or local authorities including area school districts and government agencies.
 
“No-Contact/No-Handshake” Policy
 Babe Ruth League is recommending a precautionary “no-contact, no-handshake policy” to be observed at every level of the organization until further notice. This includes all physical contact and extends to customary game-related activities, such as pre-game coaches’ handshakes, umpire-coach introductions, and post-game handshakes between members of opposing teams. Instead, staff, players and coaches should use verbal queues, such as tipping of the cap or saying, “good game” without shaking hands, high-fiving or fist-bumping.
 
 Maintain Good Hygiene Practices
All Babe Ruth League participants should be aware of the coronavirus risk and take the necessary precautions to avoid exposure to germs. This includes maintaining good hygiene practices. We strongly recommend the following:

• Wash your hands often, using soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol; this is suggested after any physical contact with another person or with a shared surface
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• Cover your mouth and nose – with a tissue, if possible – when coughing or sneezing, then properly discard the tissue in the trash
• Avoid close contact with anyone else who is coughing or sneezing or who is otherwise sick
• Clean or disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

In addition, cleaning and sanitizing hard surfaces and shared equipment that your league utilizes; making sure all players have their own water/drink bottles and are not sharing; stocking bathrooms and concession stand areas with soap and hand sanitizer
 
If you or your child are ill, have a fever, cough, or a respiratory condition, we encourage you or your child to refrain from Babe Ruth League-related activities until cleared by your healthcare provider
 
We will provide updates related to these new measures or let you know about any additional precautions to take if and when they become necessary. We appreciate your cooperation in following these new procedures as we work together to maintain the highest health and safety standards as an organization.
 
If you plan on adjusting your league's season, please contact your Babe Ruth League State Commissioner and  .