Are you an all star or a bench warmer? Take the quiz to find out.

Board Member Baseball

Are you an all star or a bench warmer? Take the quiz to find out. 

Being on a board is a lot like stepping up to bat. You’re swinging for the fences, hoping to score big for your team. But let’s be real, not every board member is knocking it out of the park. 

Now’s your chance to find out where you land in the lineup. Are you the clutch hitter everyone counts on or the benchwarmer people keep forgetting is even on the roster?

Answer the questions below, tally your points, and check the scoreboard to discover your true board member persona.

Always – 3 points

Sometimes – 2 points 

Rarely – 1 point

Never – 0 points

Governance & Duty of Care – Your Defensive Game

  1. I prep for board meetings by reviewing the agenda and materials in advance.

  2. I can clearly explain the organization’s mission and game plan (strategy).

  3. I ask smart questions that drive accountability without over-managing.

  4. I call out or avoid conflicts of interest like a pro.

  5. I understand the board’s legal and fiduciary “rules of the game.”

Engagement & Participation – Time at Bat

  1. I show up to board meetings consistently, on time and “ready to play.”

  2. I step up to the plate during discussions and decision-making.

  3. I serve on committees or take on extra assignments when the team needs me.

  4. I respond quickly to board communications without idling in the dugout.
  1. I’ve scouted and referred potential new board members or partners.

Fundraising & Advocacy – Driving in Runs

  1. I complete my give-get to the organization.

  2. I help score runs through fundraising, events, or introductions.

  3. I champion the organization in my personal and professional networks.

  4. I can talk about the impact of our work like a sportscaster on game day.

  5. I’ve brought in resources beyond myself: time, talent, or treasure.

Leadership & Culture – Team Spirit

  1. I follow through on every commitment I make to the board.

  2. I help foster an inclusive, respectful “clubhouse” culture.

  3. I take coaching well and am open to feedback and growth.

  4. I support the Executive Director without trying to steal the manager’s job.

  5. I hold myself and my fellow board members accountable as a team.

Scoreboard: How Did You Play the Game?

50–60 Points – Hall of Famer
 You’re an all-star, mission-aligned, and always stepping up to the plate. Your board is lucky to have a player like you!

35–49 Points – Reliable Starter
 You’re a solid part of the team! Focus on 2-3 areas to improve your stats and keep swinging.  You’re doing well! 

20–34 Points – Bench Warmer
 You’re spending too much time in the locker room. What’s holding you back? Time to step up or request a trade. 

0–19 Points – Bat Boy
 Ouch. You might not be covering your bases. Consider if this board is the right team for you, or how you can rejoin the game with purpose.