BSML awardees to be discussed after Fall meeting

While tomorrow’s 2008 SML Fall League organizational meeting will generally talk about the 25-and-under competition, coordinator Tony Rogolifoi is also requesting coaches and managers of the current 2008 Budweiser Saipan Major League to drop by after the tete-a-tete.

The NMASA Hall of Famer explained that after the SML Fall League meeting is finished, he will convene coaches and managers of the 2008 BSML to decide who will be this season’s Rookie of the Year, Best Catcher, Best Pitcher, Coach of the Year, Manager of the Year, Sportsmanship Awardee, and most valuable player.

The SML Fall League organizational meeting will be held this Monday, Aug. 4, 12pm at the Gilbert C. Ada Gymnasium conference room.

Rogolifoi earlier said the details of the meeting will include kick-off date, ground rules, uniforms, and other matters.

The SML Fall League is tentatively scheduled to open in late August or early September of this year.

A developmental program, the 2008 SML Fall League will again play host to players ages 25 and under. This year marks the ninth season the program has been in existence since it was first inaugurated in 1999.

As in previous years, the SML requires players to submit proof of eligibility documents such as birth certificates, passports, and driver’s license. In addition, copies of insurance policy or card must accompany these documents.

Rogolifoi said this is important because it ensures players are fully covered by their individual health and life insurance in case of injury during league play.

Returning players are not required to provide eligibility documents since they are on record. However, all players, including returnees, must have some type of insurance coverage in order to play. Players without insurance coverage are asked to contact the SML to make arrangements.

The league’s entry fee, in the amount of $800, should be made payable to Saipan Major League and is due on Aug. 22, 2008. A 25-man team roster is due prior to opening of the league. Teams are encouraged to start securing sponsors that would provide for the teams’ necessities such as the entry fee and uniforms.

Waiver forms will be provided to all teams on Monday. Managers and coaches and other interested teams are asked to bring all pertinent documents to the aforementioned meeting.

For more information about the 2008 SML Fall League, contact league Rogolifoi at 288-3515.