Coach not attending pregame conference

[goody14]

Rules are very clear that a head coach that does not attend the pregame conference is restricted to the dugout.

Since he is not ejected, he is still the person that we communicate with and more importantly who communicates with us during the game, right? 

I have seen some folks apply this logic "well, the head coach is restricted so the only one who can discuss a call with us is the one that attended the conference". I don't see rulebook support for this.

Am I thinking about this right?

[maven]

49 minutes ago, goody14 said:

Am I thinking about this right?

Yes.

[Senor Azul]

2016 NFHS Baseball Rules Interpretations

SITUATION 7: What is a head coach who is restricted to the bench allowed to do? RULING: Even though the head coach is restricted to the bench and may not occupy a coaching box, he is still the head coach. He still represents the team in communications with umpires and may address and coach base runners, the batter, defensive players and other coaches. He may hold team conferences at the dugout or bench area. He may leave the bench/dugout area to attend to a player who becomes ill or injured and may request to talk to an umpire concerning a rule or rule enforcement. However, he shall be ejected for any further misconduct. (3-2-1, 3-3-1f Penalty)

[goody14]

Nice pull @Senor Azul

Thanks gentlemen for the quick responses.

[Forest Ump]

Remember also That the rule says...The head coach must attend the pregame conference, if available.

That means if he's at the field and could have attended the conference. If he's taking care of business elsewhere , i.e. had to leave, still in class, late, whatever.  Then this rule is not enforced.