VBBA New Member Club Program
The VBBA has been supporting vintage base ball clubs across the US since 1996. The VBBA New Member Program provides resources, direction, advice and equipment to those clubs interested in joining the VBBA.
To participate in the VBBA New Member Program:
- The club must have at least nine (9) members.
- The club must agree to support the purpose of the VBBA.
- The club must present itself on the field of play in period appropriate attire.
- Once approved, the club must submit the second year’s VBBA dues, (an additional $50 by check or PayPal)
- The club must schedule a minimum of six (6) matches in each of the first two seasons and the results of the matches should be reported to the VBBA Secretary via the Games Results Report form.
Benefits
- Support and Mentoring
Historical accuracy is an important goal for the members of the VBBA. The Association is fortunate to have knowledgeable historians and in some areas, experts on the various aspects of 19th century base ball.Depending on location, a personal visit, contacts via email and phone are provided. The duration of immediate mentoring will be determined by the progress and enthusiasm shown during communications. Continuing education regarding 19th century base ball will not cease, even after a club has begun to attain its goals.
- Equipment Rebate
The new member club will purchase period equipment, and the VBBA will provide the club with a maximum of $200 ($100 annually) rebate to cover some of the cost of the products. A list of approved VBBA vendors will be provided. These vendors offer historically accurate bats, balls, bases and uniforms for matches ranging from 1859 – 1900.
- Rules and Guides
The VBBA will provide the following items to New Member Clubs:
- A pocket-sized 1860 Beadle’s Dime Base Ball Player Book
- An umpire’s guide book
Links to the following are provided on the VBBA website:
- 1845 Knickerbocker Rules
- 1860 Rules with Interpretations and 1864 Rules with Interpretations by the Rules and Customs Committee
- Rules from the year the new club will be playing (if other than 1860)
- Documented terms and the equivalent late 1850’s – 1860’s period substitutes
