Tri-State Girls Softball League Code of Conduct

The purpose of this code is to establish guidelines and expectations for all who are involved in our league. This code extends beyond the players, to the coaches, parents, and guests who attend practices, games, and official functions. 

We're passionate about our mission of providing the finest facility for organized girls softball and  promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, safety and instruction of superior quality and value. Core to this mission is  ensuring the coaches and parents are held to the same standards of courtesy, fairness, respect, and responsibility  thrall we require of the players. We must lead by example if we are to expect the players to represent themselves,  their families, their team, and the league in ways in which we can all be proud. 

CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PLAYERS

·         I will represent myself, my family, my team, and the league with dignity, honesty, and integrity always. 

·         I will play with pride and intensity no matter the circumstances of the game and will always encourage my  teammates to do the same. 

·         I will support my teammates and always maintain a positive attitude. 

·         I will be courteous and respectful to my teammates, coaches, and game officials.

·         I will not argue with game officials for any reason. 

·         I will refrain from outbursts of anger, temper, and poor sportsmanship. 

·         I will never direct negative or critical cheers or comments toward anyone. 

·         I will not use vulgar or offensive language or gestures, regardless of the circumstances. 

·         I will not become hostile, nor will I resort to violence towards anyone. 

·         I will not use physical or verbal intimidation towards anyone. 

·         I will be properly and appropriately attired for participation on the field. 

·         I will be responsible for my own equipment as well as team equipment. 

·         I will do no harm to any facilities or fields, and I will not intentionally damage team equipment.

·         I will not post inappropriate or negative comments on ANY social media outlet about my teammates, coaches, or opponents. 

·         No alcohol, drugs, or weapons of any kind. 

·         No significant others permitted in dugouts. 

 CODE FOR COACHES AND BOARD MEMBERS

·        I will treat all players, game officials, parents and spectators with respect, fairness, and in a positive manner. 

·         I will always promote a sense of fair play and good sportsmanship.

·         I will not try to win at the expense of the health of my players. 

·         I will provide training, instruction, and motivation to all players so that they will perform at their maximum  skill levels. 

·         I will set a consistent example of self-discipline, appearance, and professionalism. 

·         I will maintain and encourage an environment of open communications with my players. 

·         I will not engage in any behavior or action that would endanger the health and well-being of any player. 

·         I will not engage in profane, insulting, harassing or abusive language or behavior

·         If I have any concerns or problems that must be addressed with parents, I will discuss in a civil  manner, outside of the presence of the players.

·         I will not become hostile, nor will I ever resort to violence towards anyone. 

·         I will have at least one coach or team parent in the dugout to enforce proper behavior and watch  for any signs of inappropriate behavior including, but not limited to, bullying, harassment or disrespect. 

CODE FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS

·         I will conduct myself responsibly at all practices, games, and events. 

·         I will be responsible for the actions of my guests. 

·         I will remember that the game is about the players, and only the players. 

·         I will refrain from coaching my child during practices or games unless I am asked to do so by the  coaching staff. 

·         I will be always a positive role model and promote good sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy  to players, coaches, game officials, and other spectators. 

·         I will not engage in profane, insulting, harassing, or abusive language or behavior towards anyone.

·         I will not become hostile, nor will I resort to violence towards anyone. 

·         I will not engage in any behavior or action that could endanger the health and well-being of any player. 

·         I will not argue with game officials or other spectators for any reason. 

·         If I have concerns or problems with coaching methods or decisions, I will discuss them in a civil manner  with the head coach, outside the presence of players.

·         I will abide by the mandatory 24-hour cool-down  period before discussing my issue. 

·         If I am asked to leave the premises by game officials or Board Members, I will do so immediately. 

THE CONSEQUENCES

·         All players, coaches, and parents are expected to always behave in a sporting manner. Any player, coach, or  parent/fans whose conduct is unbecoming or abusive will at a minimum be warned and may be removed from  the playing field or stands at the discretion of the Tournament Officials or the Umpires.

·         Foul or abusive  language will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This includes a team forfeiting or being removed from  the tournament if necessary.

·         Failure to abide by the code of conduct may subject a player, coach,  parent/guardian, or guest to one or more of the following disciplinary actions by the officers and directors of the  league. Depending on severity and impact of the occurrence, additional disciplinary action outlined below may be taken. 

o   An immediate warning from the facility by the Board Member on Duty

o   A one suspension during which you may not participate or be present as a player, coach, or spectator. 

o   A suspension for the remainder of the season in which you may not participate, or be present, as a player,  coach, or spectator. 

o   A permanent suspension from any future participation or involvement in the league softball program. 

All disciplinary actions and decisions will be made by the officers and directors of the league. There  will be NO refunds of registration fees, or any other fees or portions thereof, when disciplinary action is  taken. All decisions are final. 

Signed and accepted by:

X _____________________________________       X __________________________________

Player Print                                                                 Parent Print

X _____________________________________       X __________________________________

Player Signature                                                          Parent Signature