Ability, rather than age, can be used to determine the division/league in which a child may play.  For example, although Bambino (Cal Ripken Major) level is designed for 11 and 12-year old players, an experienced 10-year old may be permitted to play at higher age level, if approved by league officials.  The policy applies to all other divisions/leagues, meaning parents may request that younger players be permitted to “play up.”  League officials will evaluate such requests on a case by case basis, based upon experience and skill level, with the primary focus being player safety.  This policy may be used to permit siblings of different ages to play together on the same team, provided all safety concerns are met. 

Moreover, though such situations rarely occur, older children who have never played previously can be permitted to “play down” so that those children can learn baseball skills in a safe environment.   Once again, league officials will evaluate such requests on a case by case basis, based upon experience and skill level, with the primary focus being player safety.