Georgetown Youth Girls Softball Association

These code of conducts will apply to all volunteers (Coaches, Board members, etc.), players, parents, and spectators. We have a strict NO Tolerance Policy for any violations mentioned in this document. Issues will be addressed immediately and enforcement enacted based on the violation(s).

Coaches

•  Openly disputes or disputes any decision by an official.
•  Uses obscene or vulgar language in a boisterous manner to ANYONE at any time.
•  Visually displays any action(s)/sign(s) of dissatisfaction with an official's decision with the intent of inciting the officials, players or spectators. Any time that a coach persists in any of these actions, they shall be   assessed a game misconduct penalty.
•  Displays unsportsmanlike behavior toward any players, this includes both verbal and physical violence.

Players

•     Openly disputes or argues any decision by an official.
•     Uses obscene or vulgar language and/or gestures at ANY time, including swearing…even if it is not directed at a particular person.
•     Visually demonstrates any action(s)/sign(s) of dissatisfaction with an official's decision. Any time that a player persists in any of these actions, they shall be assessed a misconduct penalty. A game misconduct shall         result if the player continues such action.
•     Displays unsportsmanlike behavior toward any players this includes both verbal and physical violence.

Parents/Spectators

The game will be stopped by game officials or League administrators when parents/spectators displaying inappropriate and disruptive behavior interfering with other spectators or the game. The game officials or League administrators will identify violators to the coaches for the purpose of removing parents/spectators from the spectator's viewing and game area. Once removed, game play will resume. Lost time will not be replaced and violators may be subject to further disciplinary action by the Board of Directors.

Inappropriate behavior(s) include:

•  The use of obscene or vulgar language and or gestures in a boisterous manner to ANYONE at ANY time.
•  Taunting of players, coaches, officials or other spectators by means of inciting, ridiculing, threat of physical violence, or actual physical violence.
•  Throwing of any object from the spectator's viewing area or towards the player's bench in any manner as to create a safety hazard or injury (intentional or unintentional).

In addition to above, the following behaviors for coaches, parents and spectators should be practiced and adhered to....

Parents:

• •     Children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment. Make it fun for them.
  •     Encourage your child to play by the rules. Remember, children learn best by example, so applaud the good plays of both teams.
  •     Do not embarrass any your child by yelling at players, coaches or officials. By showing a positive attitude toward the game and all of its participants, your child will benefit.
  •     Emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit your young athlete. Deemphasize games and competition in the younger age levels.
  •     Know and study the rules of softball and support the officials on and off the field. This approach will help in the development and support of the game. Any criticism of the officials only hurts the game.
  •     Applaud a good effort in both victory and defeat and enforce the positive points of the game.
  •     Never yell or physically abuse your child after a game or practice. It is destructive. Work toward removing physical and verbal abuse in youth sports.
  •     Recognize the importance of volunteer coaches. They are important to the development of your child and the sport. Communicate with them and support them.
  •     If you enjoy the game, learn all you can and dedicate time as a volunteer!

Spectators:

• •              Display good sportsmanship. Always respect players, coaches and officials.
  •              Act appropriately; do not taunt or disturb other fans. Enjoy the game together.
  •              Cheer good plays of all participants, avoid booing opponents.
  •              Cheer in a positive manner and encourage fair play; profanity and objectionable cheers or gestures are offensive.
  •              Help provide a safe and fun environment; throwing objects on the field can cause injury to players and officials
  •              Support the umpires and coaches by trusting their judgment and integrity.
  •              Be responsible for your own safety and remain alert to help prevent accidents.
  •              Respect dugouts as private areas for players, coaches, and officials.
  •              Be supportive after the game….win or lose. Recognize good efforts, teamwork, and sportsmanship.