MIRACLE LEAGUE OF NORTHERN INDIANA, INC.
CODE OF CONDUCT

The following is expected to be understood and followed by all participants, volunteers, and guests at Pfeil Miracle Field:

Kindness, consideration, and courteous behavior are appreciated and expected. ​Treat every guest, volunteer, and staff member with respect. Respect facility property and the property of others.

​The following examples of disrespect to guests, volunteers and staff members and will not be tolerated:

• Verbal abuse

• Profanity or threats

• Offensive or vulgar clothing

• Bullying

• Harassment

• Unsportsmanlike or Disorderly Conduct

• Solicitation

• Interruptions

• Violation of Law

• Threatening or jeopardizing the health, safety or well-being of others

Miracle League of Northern Indiana, Inc. Emergency Action Plan

This Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been developed for the Miracle League of Northern Indiana, Inc. (MNIN) program. The intent is to provide concise guidance for coaches, players, parents, and others affiliated with baseball activities to properly respond following an emergency or medical incident. Following the guidance of this EAP is crucial to ensure the safety of all participants, coaches, and spectators. An effective EAP outlines how to handle medical emergencies, natural disasters, or any unexpected incidents that could occur during practices, games, and other baseball related activities.

MLNIN cannot guarantee response times in all areas of baseball activities, therefore all teams have the responsibility to support and facilitate timely response. 

1) Purpose of the Plan

The purpose of this Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is to establish procedures to follow in the event of an emergency at youth baseball league activities. This plan aims to protect the health and safety of players, coaches, and spectators by outlining the steps to be taken in the event of injuries, medical emergencies, fires, natural disasters, or acts of violence.

When the immediate emergency has been addressed, the head coach of the team is responsible to communicate the status of players, coaches, and others involved to immediate family members and/or emergency contacts. Each coach must be able to communicate to key contacts, parents, and guardians of all players, typically through telephone call, text message, or team communication apps such as Game Changer. 

Coaches must communicate significant incidents that occur during baseball activities to the MLNIN Board. Significant incidents include players that require transportation to a hospital or medical facility, altercations or acts of violence that require law enforcement, or other events that put players, coaches, or fans in dangerous situations. Coaches should contact their age commissioner via email, phone call, or text to report these incidents within 24 hours of the event. 

• Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Contact Information:

  • EMS Phone Number: 911

  • Nearest Hospital: St. Joseph Medical Center 5215 Holy Cross Pkwy. Mishawaka, IN 46545

• Emergency Procedures for Each Field or Venue

• The tournament director identified for each baseball event is responsible to establish venues that meet essential safety & health requirements and define acceptable playing conditions, such as severe weather protocols.  

• It is an expectation that any playing venue attended by MLNIN teams have essential emergency response capabilities, including 911. 

• All MLNIN coaches are responsible to have familiarity with the location and have a mental game plan for how to keep the team safe in the event of an emergency.

• Primary Emergency Contact for Team (Head Coach/Manager to communicate with team)

• MLNIN Age-Commissioners and Advisory Board Members (contacts found in "About" on this website)

3) Emergency Medical Procedures

MLNIN is committed to the safety and health of all those involved in baseball activities. Coaches and parents are responsible to use sound judgement to evaluate injuries and medical emergencies. Never hesitate to call emergency services by dialing 911 when there is doubt about the severity or extent of the injury or illness.

Injury Response

• Step 1: Assess the severity of the injury.

• Step 2: If the injury is minor, provide basic first aid (e.g., ice, bandage).

• Step 3: For moderate to severe injuries (such as concussions, broken bones, or head injuries), do not attempt to move the individual. Call emergency services (911) immediately.

• Step 4: If an injury requires immediate attention, assign someone to contact EMS while another person remains with the injured individual.

Concussion:

• If a player is hit in the head or face with a baseball, bat, or extreme collision on the field, call an immediate time out!

• If the person is unconscious, immediately call 911! Do not hesitate!

• If the person is conscious, and able to communicate, lie or sit comfortably. Make them feel safe and calm, and evaluate for concussion symptoms which include the following:

  • Headache or feeling of pressure inside the head

  • Appears dazed or stunned

  • Can’t recall events before or after hit or fall

  • Nausea with or without memory dysfunction

  • Vomiting

Any of these symptoms indicate a possible concussion, and the player, coach, or spectator must be encouraged to seek immediate medical care.

Heat-Related Illness Protocol:

• If a player is having trouble participating or is obviously ill, take them to a cool, shaded area and evaluate for heat stroke.  

• If a player is showing signs of heat stroke, immediately call 911! Do not hesitate!  

• Symptoms of heat stroke include:

  • Throbbing headache

  • Sweating stops

  • Temperature over 103 degrees (F)

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Rapid, strong pulse

  • Loss of consciousness

• Cool the individual immediately while waiting for assistance following methods outlined for heat exhaustion.

• Monitor the person for heat exhaustion which include:

  • Faint or dizzy

  • Excessive sweating

  • Cool, pale, clammy palms

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Rapid, weak pulse

  • Muscle cramps.

• Treatment options for heat exhaustion include:

  • Get to a cooler, air conditioned area (such as a running vehicle)

  • Drink water if fully conscious

  • Take a cool shower

  • Use a cool compress, especially on wrists, neck, and armpits.

• Coaches and parents must constantly monitor players to ensure they are hydrating and eating healthy snacks during hot summer days. If temperatures are high, take extra precautions. Ensure that players drink water regularly. Recommend one electrolyte drink to every three servings of water of the same size.

Cardiac arrest requiring Automated External Defibrillator (AED):

• If you suspect cardiac arrest, immediately call 911. Do not hesitate!

• Symptoms of cardiac arrest include:

  • Immediate loss of consciousness

  • Clutching the chest

  • Complaining of weakness, sharp, pain, or shooting pains on the left side of the body

  • Lips and skin turning blue

  • Person is suddenly unable to communicate

• Yell for a by-stander to get an AED. Direct the command to another adult or person in charge saying, “You (NAME), go get an AED!” Common places AED are available include concession stands, public facilities, and/or emergency vehicles in the area. 

• AED will be located on-site.Make sure at least one person on the coaching staff is trained on how to use it and that it is easily accessible.  NOTE: Good Samaritan Laws in the US will legally protect anyone from attempting to provide life-saving care within their level of training.

• Follow instructions for how to operate the AED while following protocol for chest compressions until emergency responders arrive.  

Basic First Aid Kit:

• Ensure a well-stocked first aid kit is available at all games and practices. MLNIN will provide an essential first aid kit to each team annually. Items should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, athletic tape, ice packs, disposable gloves, and more.

Player Medical Information:

• Ensure all players’ emergency medical forms are up to date, including allergies, pre-existing conditions, and primary care physician contact information.

• Head Coach will carry a folder with medical forms for all players and have it on hand during all practices and games. 

4) Severe Weather Preparedness and Response

MLNIN aligns with the USSSA guideline on severe weather to suspend play when lightning is visible or thunder is heard, and to wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning strike before resuming play. 

• Coaches and team staff are responsible to evaluate potential weather concerns forecasted to impact any baseball related activities. MLNIN coaches must never endanger players when severe weather threatens. A weather app is recommended that shows the frequency and distance of lightning strikes in the area.  

• Evaluate shelters and refuge areas at all practice fields, game venues, and tournament facilities. Oftentimes the safest place to shelter in severe weather is inside personal vehicles. Communicate with parents if there is a weather concern during baseball activities to ensure all players have a safe shelter when necessary.  

• All teams must follow weather advisories as issued by the National Weather Service, Linn-Mar schools, tournament directors, and other reputable sources.

5) Field Safety and Emergency Evacuation Procedures

Unforeseen events can occur that put players, coaches, and others in harm’s way. MLNIN provides general guidance here to ensure all personnel can get to safety while coaches, staff, and volunteers account for the participants. Always contact emergency responders by calling 911 when assistance is needed to manage a crisis.

• Acts of Violence:

• Always call 911 when it is safe to do so. Remove players from all situations where violence may occur. Direct players to a safe location away from large crowds.

• In the event of an active shooter, follow three simple guidelines:

• Evacuate: If there is a safe escape route, leave the area immediately. Have an escape plan in mind, leave your belongings behind, and keep your hands visible

• Hide: If evacuation is not possible, find a place to hide where the shooter is less likely 

• Take Action: As a last resort, and only if your life is in imminent danger, attempt to incapacitate the shooter. Act aggressively, use improvised weapons, and commit to 911 when it is safe to do so.

Evacuation Routes:

• When team activities are indoors, the facility should have clearly marked exits that are clear of obstructions or hazards. 

• When exits and evacuation routes are not clear at any venues, the coach must communicate evacuation routes to players, coaches, parents, and fans.

• Ensure all staff and volunteers are familiar with these routes.

6) Roles and Responsibilities

Coaches and Managers:

• Lead emergency response efforts.

• Assess injuries and contact emergency medical services when necessary.

• Ensure proper documentation of the incident (medical reports, incident reports).

• Complete training as assigned and/or recommended by MLNIN.

• Notify the player’s family of any incidents requiring medical attention.

Athletic Trainers or Medical Staff (if applicable):

• Assess injuries and provide immediate care.

• Work with EMS if further medical attention is required.

Parents and Guardians:

• Ensure contact information is up to date and provide any relevant medical information for their child.

• Be aware of the league’s emergency procedures and understand how to communicate during emergencies.

• Support coaches and first responders to maintain a safe and supportive environment before, during, and after emergencies. 

Volunteers, Spectators, Fans, and Supporters of MLNIN:

• Be familiar with first aid basics and emergency procedures.

• Assist with crowd control, securing the area, and directing emergency personnel if necessary.

7) Incident Communication and Follow-Up

Incident Reporting:

• Coaches must provide parents with details of all injuries and illnesses that are observable during baseball activities. Consult with parents on all treatment, limitations, and on-going concerns with players.

• Any incident involving injury or health concerns should be documented thoroughly.

• Coaches are advised to thoroughly document an electronic summary of significant injuries, incidents, or other events that occur during MLNIN activities. Documentation must be shared via email with age commissioners and include player/parent contact information, nature of the incident, response taken, and outcomes.

Post-Incident Follow-Up:

• After any significant incident, follow up with the affected individual and their family.

• Review the response to the emergency to determine if any adjustments are necessary for future planning.

8) Training, Plan Distribution and Review

Annual Staff Training:

• Coaches, volunteers, and key league members are encouraged to participate in initial and recurrent emergency response training provided in the community or through sanctioned MLNIN events.

• Recommended training includes, but is not limited to basic first aid, concussion recognition/response, injury management, abuse prevention, responding to acts of violence (active shooter), and weather-related emergencies. Coaches are encouraged to have one or more volunteers on the coaching staff for each team trained and certified in basic first aid, CPR and AED use.

Distribution:

• This Emergency Action Plan is made available to all coaches, volunteers, and parents via the MLNIN website. 

• Coaches must have access to the plan at all league events and ensure that everyone knows how to access it.

Review and Updates:

• This EAP will be reviewed and updated annually or whenever there are significant changes (new field locations, new personnel, etc.).

• Incorporate feedback from past incidents to improve the plan’s effectiveness.

Emergency Action Plan 5-5-26

MIRACLE LEAGUE OF NORTHERN INDIANA

ATHLETE LIABILITY WAIVER

I understand and appreciate the risks associated with the sport of baseball and related activities. I am fully aware of the risk of injury involved in participating in activities at Pfeil Miracle Field and the Miracle League of Northern Indiana.

I understand that it is the intent of Miracle League of Northern Indiana to provide for the safety and protection of each and every participant. In consideration for allowing his or her participation, I hereby release and hold harmless the Miracle League of Northern Indiana, board members, staff and volunteers from all liability for any damages and injuries suffered by the participant, while under the instruction, supervision, or control of the Miracle League of Northern Indiana.

I hereby give my consent to the Miracle League of Northern Indiana to provide emergency care and to give authority to any hospital, or doctor to render immediate aid as required for health and safety.

I agree to provide my child's specific medical information to the Miracle League of Northern Indiana so that appropriate precautions and care can be provided to my child during sanctioned games and activities. I agree to be present at all games and activities so that together we can manage our child's specific needs.

I agree to the following: 

1. Ability to Participate. I am physically able to take part in Miracle League of Northern Indiana activities. 

2. Likeness Release. I give permission to Miracle League of Northern Indiana games/local organizing committees, partners and sponsors to use my likeness, photo, video, name, voice, words, and biographical information to promote Miracle League of Northern Indiana, raise funds for Miracle League of Northern Indiana, and acknowledge partners’ and sponsors’ support for the Miracle League of Northern Indiana.

3. Risk of Concussion and Other Injury. I know there is a risk of injury. I understand the risk of continuing to participate with or after a concussion or other injury. I may have to get medical care if I have a suspected concussion or other injury. I also may have to wait 7 days or more and get permission from a doctor before I start playing sports again. I understand that while the Miracle League of Northern Indiana has implemented measures to reduce the risk of injury from activities, The Miracle League of Northern Indiana cannot guarantee that I will not be injured during my participation in the activities and that engaging in the activities may increase my risk of injury, death, or other impact. NOTWITHSTANDING THESE RISKS, I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT I AM VOLUNTARILY PARTICIPATING IN THE ACTIVITIES WITH KNOWLEDGE OF THE DANGERS INVOLVED. I HEREBY AGREE TO ACCEPT AND ASSUME ALL RISKS OF ILLNESS, PERSONAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY, PAIN, SUFFERING, TEMPORARY OR PERMANENT DISABILITY, DEATH, PROPERTY DAMAGE, AND/OR FINANCIAL LOSS ARISING THEREFROM, WHETHER CAUSED BY THE ORDINARY NEGLIGENCE OF THE MIRACLE LEAGUE OF NORTHERN INDIANA OR OTHERWISE. 

4. Emergency Care. If I am unable, or my guardian is unavailable, to consent or make medical decisions in an emergency, I authorize the Miracle League of Northern Indiana to seek medical care on my behalf. 

5. Personal Information. I understand that the Miracle League of Northern Indiana will be collecting my Personal Information as part of my participation, including my name, image, address, telephone number, health information, and other personally identifying information• 

   1. I agree and consent to the Miracle League of Northern Indiana: to using my Personal Information in order to: review eligibility and safe participation and run trainings and events •

   2. I have the right to ask to see my Personal Information or to be informed about the Personal Information that is processed about me. I have the right to ask to correct and delete my Personal Information, and to restrict the processing of my Personal Information if it is inconsistent with this consent.

6. Waiver and Liability Release. I understand the risks involved with participation in the Miracle League of Northern Indiana activities. I fully accept and assume all risks and all responsibility for losses, costs, and damages I may incur as a result of my participation. I release and agree not to sue the Miracle League of Northern Indiana and their affiliates and each of their respective directors, officers, members, managers, agents, volunteers, employees, and successors and assigns and other participants (“Releasees”) related to any liabilities, claims, or losses on my account caused or alleged to be caused by my participating in the Activities, whether arising out of the ordinary negligence of the Releasees or otherwise. I further agree that if, despite this release, I, or anyone on my behalf, makes a claim against any of the Releasees, including any claim related to my own negligence or the ordinary negligence of the Company, I will indemnify and hold harmless each of the Releasees from any such liabilities, claims, or losses as the result of such claim. I agree that if any part of this form is held to be invalid, the other parts shall continue in full force and effect. This release constitutes the sole and entire agreement of the Miracle League of Northern Indiana and me with respect to the subject matter contained herein and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous understandings, agreements, representations, and warranties, both written and oral, with respect to such subject matter. I agree that if any part of this form, including this release, is held to be invalid, the other parts shall continue in full force and effect. This release is binding on and shall inure to the benefit of the Miracle League of Northern Indiana and me and our respective heirs, successors, and assigns. All matters arising out of or relating to this release shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of Indiana without giving effect to any choice or conflict of law provision or rule (whether of the State of Indiana or any other jurisdiction). Any claim or cause of action arising under this release may be brought only in the federal and state courts located in the State of Indiana and I hereby consent to the exclusive jurisdiction of such courts. 

7. Confidential Information. In the course of volunteering for the Miracle League of Northern Indiana, I may be provided certain confidential, non-public, or proprietary information and I agree to keep such information in the strictest confidence. 

8. At Will. I understand that the relationship between the Miracle League of Northern Indiana and me is an “at will” arrangement and that such a relationship can be terminated at any time without cause by either myself or the Miracle League of Northern Indiana. 

I acknowledge that I have read and understand this Volunteer Waiver and I am voluntarily giving up substantial legal rights, including the right to sue the Miracle League of Northern Indiana. I also confirm that I am either an adult participant or a parent/guardian of a minor participant, and I have read and explained the contents of this form and Volunteer Waiver to the participant as appropriate. I agree to this form and Volunteer Waiver on my own behalf and, if applicable, on behalf of the minor participant.