3. Starting and Ending the Game

3.1 Start Times

• Weeknight game start times are set by the VP of House League.
• Standard start times are 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm, unless otherwise communicated.

3.2 Grace Period

• A 10‑minute grace period applies at the start of all games in all divisions to avoid defaults.
• Game duration is still measured from the original scheduled start time, not the end of the grace period.

3.3 Game Time Limits

• For 9U through High School, the hard‑curfew end times are:
  • 7:50 pm for 6:00 pm games
  • 9:50 pm for 8:00 pm games

3.4 Lightning Policy

• If thunder roars, go indoors.
• If an umpire observes thunder or lightning, the game is stopped immediately and all players, coaches, and spectators must seek shelter.
• A 30‑minute delay begins once thunder/lightning is observed.
• If thunder/lightning occurs during the delay, the 30‑minute clock resets.
• The game may not resume until 30 consecutive minutes pass with no observed thunder or lightning.

3.4.1 Incomplete Inning

• If the game is stopped mid‑inning, the score reverts to the last completed inning.

3.4.2 Official Game

A game becomes official after:

• All divisions:
  • 3½ innings if the home team is ahead
  • 4 innings if the visiting team is ahead

If the game is not official, KTBA will attempt to reschedule if the schedule allows.

3.5 Rain Outs

• Rain outs may be declared by:
  • The City of Kingston, or
  • A KTBA Executive member.
• KTBA will make every effort to notify members as early as possible.
  • Updates will be posted on the KTBA website and social media.
• Coaches may not postpone games before first pitch or during the game.
• Once the game begins, only the umpire or a KTBA Executive may delay or call the game.

3.6 Post‑Game Sportsmanship

3.6(a) Handshakes

• At the end of every game, all players and coaches must line up and shake hands.
• Failure to participate may result in suspension.

3.6(b) Leaving the Field Early

• A coach who removes their team from the field before the game is complete will:
  • Be subject to suspension, and
  • Forfeit the game.