DIBS
What Are DIBS?
DIBS are volunteer opportunities that help support our youth program. These volunteer efforts help keep our program running smoothly while allowing us to provide a positive, affordable sports experience for all athletes.
Youth sports programs depend on volunteers. DIBS help share the work among participating families so that no small group of coaches, board members, or volunteers has to do everything.
Your time helps us:
- Provide well-organized games and events
- Maintain and prepare playing facilities
- Keep participation costs manageable
- Support coaches and program staff
- Create a welcoming experience for players and families
How DIBS Work
Before each season, families can view available DIBS opportunities and choose shifts that work with their schedules.
- Browse available shifts – Find volunteer opportunities, dates, times, and locations. More instructions on this below in the section "How to Sign Up for DIBS"!
- Sign up – Select the DIBS shift(s) you would like to complete.
- Show up and help – Arrive on time and complete the assigned responsibilities.
- Receive credit – Your completed shift will be recorded toward your family's volunteer commitment.
Families are responsible for 3 hours of DIBS, per player.
1 player = 3 DIBS hours
2 players = 6 DIBS hours
3 players = 9 DIBS hours
Note: board positions are a GREAT way to fulfill DIBS hours for families with multiple players! Board positions have the highest single-role DIBS credit.
What Kind of DIBS Are Available?
DIBS opportunities may vary by season, but can include:
- Team management
- Coaching
- Special event support, such as the Spring Fling and LAX and Lanes.
- Game-day field setup and cleanup
- Scorekeeping and clock operation
- Board positions
- Coordinator roles (DIBS, marketing, social media, etc.)
- Shed
- End of season party planning for the team
The list goes on!
If you have an idea for a DIBS but don't see it on the list, talk with a director!
DIBS Expectations
When you sign up for a DIBS shift, please treat it as a commitment. Volunteers should:
- Arrive on time and ready to help.
- Stay for the full scheduled shift.
- Follow instructions from the event or site coordinator.
- Complete the assigned responsibilities.
- Notify the appropriate coordinator as soon as possible if an emergency prevents you from attending.
If you need to cancel or transfer a shift, please reach out to the DIBS Coordinator.
If you do not work your chosen DIBS, you will not be credited with hours and will be responsible for finding other DIBS to fulfill your hours or you will be subject to buying out your DIBS.
How to Sign Up for DIBS
- Sign in to your account on the MLA website.
- In the Menu dropdown (three bars) select "Account".
- Click the "Volunteer" section on the left side of the screen.
- If viewing on your phone or a smaller screen, the section may be collapsed. Click the black circle with the white down arrow next to "Participants" and select "Volunteer".
On the Volunteer page, the top section displays a summary of your family's DIBS hours and the positions you've claimed. Scroll down to shop all available DIBS opportunities. Click on the "More Information" buttons to view descriptions of each role and to claim a role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs to complete DIBS?
All families, 8U-14U, registered for the summer season will need to complete 3 DIBS hours, per player.
1 player = 3 DIBS hours
2 players = 6 DIBS hours
3 players = 9 DIBS hours
If you are unable to fulfill your hours, your family will be charged $400 per player having unfulfilled DIBS.
Example:
- Family needs 6 hours and only fulfill 3 hours, they will only be charged $400, not $800.
Families with an outstanding DIBS balance will be charged around the end of October.
Families also have the option to "buy out" their DIBS for $400 per player at registration.
Can someone else complete my DIBS?
Another responsible adult may complete a shift on your behalf, with prior notification. Please notify the DIBS Coordinator or a Youth Director to coordinate.
What happens if I miss a DIBS shift?
If an unexpected situation prevents you from attending, contact the DIBS Coordinator or a Youth Director as soon as possible.
Can I choose which shifts I work?
Yes! Available shifts are offered on a first-come, first-served basis so families can select opportunities that fit their schedules.
What if I can't find a shift that works for me?
Contact the DIBS Coordinator or a Youth Director. Additional opportunities may become available as the season progresses.
Thank You for Volunteering!
Every DIBS shift makes a difference. By volunteering your time, you're helping create opportunities for young athletes to learn, compete
