Commissioner
The Western Mass Relics Senior Softball League (“The Relics”)
Term Length: 2 Years
Purpose
The Commissioner is the chief executive officer of The Relics and provides overall leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for the league. This individual ensures that the league operates smoothly, fairly, and in full alignment with its mission, by-laws, and community values. While the role carries broad authority, the Commissioner should exemplify service, teamwork, and willingness to step into any task — whether setting high-level policy or lining foul lines before a game. The Commissioner is ultimately responsible for guiding the league’s long-term success, maintaining its reputation, and ensuring a positive experience for all members.
Key Responsibilities
Executive Leadership & Governance
- Serve as the primary executive officer and leader of The Relics, responsible for overall direction, decision-making, and strategic priorities.
- Preside over all Board and league meetings and prepare agendas in collaboration with other officers.
- Ensure all league operations adhere to The Relics’ by-laws and approved policies.
- Provide leadership in interpreting, enforcing, and updating league rules as necessary.
- Facilitate fair and consistent governance across both the Gold and Silver divisions.
League Operations & Administration
- Oversee administrative functions including scheduling, registration cycles, roster management, field usage coordination, and event planning.
- Coordinate closely with all other Board Members to ensure seasonal operations run smoothly.
- Approve or delegate approvals for equipment purchases, field maintenance needs, and operational expenses.
- Ensure the league is compliant with any local, state, or federal laws relevant to The Relics.
Budget & Financial Oversight
- Work alongside the Treasurer to ensure the league operates within its approved annual budget.
- Participate in key financial decisions, including vendor selections, sponsorship allocation, and major league expenditures.
- Support fundraising initiatives, including the Banner Sponsor Program, and encourage revenue-generating opportunities that reduce player costs and strengthen league stability.
Community, Media & Partner Relations
- Serve as one of the primary ambassadors of The Relics to the community, sponsors, media, and partner organizations.
- Maintain positive, professional relationships with the entities that provide or manage the field, facilities, and permits used by the league.
- Represent the league at public events, community meetings, or regional senior-softball gatherings as needed.
- Support and collaborate with the Public Relations Chairman in promoting the league’s reputation, stories, and accomplishments.
Member Relations & Conduct Oversight
- Uphold and model the league’s Code of Conduct, ensuring a positive, respectful environment for all players.
- Address player or team concerns, disputes, disciplinary issues, and rule-related questions promptly and fairly.
- Ensure issues escalated from Division Chairs or Committee Chairs are resolved efficiently and transparently.
League Culture & Growth
- Champion the mission, sportsmanship, and spirit of The Relics — ensuring the league remains inclusive, competitive, and community-focused.
- Lead efforts to grow the league through recruitment, partnerships, and promotional initiatives.
- Encourage volunteer participation, committee involvement, and collaboration among Board members.
- Promote opportunities to enhance the member experience, such as special events, tournaments, or recognition programs.
Hands-On Leadership
- Demonstrate willingness to help with all tasks, big or small.
- Lead by example in work ethic, service, and commitment to league operations.
- Foster a culture where Board members share responsibilities and act as stewards of the league.
Desired Skills & Qualifications
- Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
- A collaborative mindset and ability to work well with Board members, volunteers, players, sponsors, and community partners.
- Comfortable managing both high-level policy and hands-on tasks.
- Experience leading committees, teams, or community organizations preferred.
- Ability to resolve conflicts, maintain composure, and apply rules consistently and fairly.
- Solid organizational skills and the ability to juggle multiple priorities throughout the season.
- Familiarity with senior softball rules, local field conditions, and The Relics’ history is helpful.
Time Commitment
- Attend and preside over all Board meetings.
- Attend league events, Opening Day, playoff games, and major committee activities.
- Active involvement during preseason (registration, tryouts, drafts).
- Timely in-season engagement to support operations, address issues, and interact with members.
- Year-round communication with town officials, sponsors, and external organizations.
Reporting & Accountability
- Reports to the membership of The Relics, who elect the Commissioner.
- Works collaboratively with all officers and ensures proper delegation of responsibilities.
- Provides seasonal updates and end-of-year summaries to the Board and membership.
- Ensures all committees, Division Chairs, and officers are performing their expected duties effectively and in alignment with league policy.
Why This Role Matters
The Commissioner serves as the cornerstone of The Relics’ organizational health and culture. By blending leadership with humility and strategic oversight with hands-on service, the Commissioner ensures the league remains fun, fair, organized, and community-minded. A strong Commissioner builds trust, supports volunteers, stabilizes league operations, and helps guarantee that The Relics continue thriving for years to come.