While marriage and youth baseball may seem to have little in common, the idea behind teamwork and shared responsibility is at the heart of both. And as with a marriage, having a common understanding and a game plan can lead to a more stable, healthy family relationship – both on and off the field.

As you may know, community property can be an important issue for couples who are planning for or who have recently married. A community property agreement (alluded to in the above graphic) allows couples to specify how their shared and separate property will be handled in the event of a divorce.

Denville Baseball is developing the fundamental skills and the core values of sportsmanship, teamwork, discipline and a sense of community of all Denville Baseball and Softball players. Denville Baseball is a recreation program focused on the skill development of all children, with an emphasis on teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect for all. To that end, the article will apply the values of this mission, as stated by Denville Baseball, to the benefits of a community property agreement.

Connection #1 – Teamwork Baseball, as with marriage, requires teamwork. Just as all of the team members are working toward a common goal, married couples should also be working toward a common vision of a life together. Accordingly, each spouse can interpret the idea of community property differently, which is why it is important to create the understanding of what “shared” and “separate” means to you and your spouse. A community property agreement can do this.

Connection #2 – Family members Having a community property agreement in place can prevent unnecessary conflict, not only between couples, but with extended family members like parents, siblings, and in-laws. The agreement takes the pressure off your Denville Baseball team by preventing arguments, because you’ve already agreed and understood how you are going to deal with specific property or debt. You know what’s going to happen, without having to fight about it.

Connection #3 – Different positions Each player on a baseball team has a different position. Some play first base, others catch, pitch, field and score. And each team member must adapt to the game and fulfill specific duties in order to make the game a success – and a lot more enjoyable. In a similar sense, with a community property agreement, each spouse takes on a unique position that reflects how you and your spouse view property. When a “thrown ball” comes your way, for example, you know what your position is within the family agreement and what you need to do to accomplish the goal of a successful transition.

Connection #4 – Ownership Although the money you make, the things you have and the debts you owe are considered joint property, with a community property agreement, each spouse can divide what is truly theirs. Just like winning your Denville Baseball World Series trophy or applauding a great catch by your teammate that saved the game, having a community property agreement doesn’t take away from your individual accomplishments or possessions, and allows each spouse to celebrate their own victories – both in and out of the home.

Connection #5 – Understanding While there are many parallels between Denville Baseball and a community property agreement, the bottom line is that both require communication, an understanding of the end game, and the ability to accept differences. With a community property agreement, you, unlike most teams, are able to make your pre-nup personal to you and your spouse. It reflects your family values and is not a “me-too” approach to your marriage. That is unique. It is playing your own game.

For more information on community property agreements, you can visit Wikipedia.

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