Parent Code of Conduct
Athletes and coaches will not be able to perform at their best if parents do not have a clear understanding of the philosophies of the youth athletic program. The following is a guideline for parents. Please sign and return to your coach.
Don’t be a coach, be a parent. As a parent your job is to offer encouragement and positive reinforcement. A sure way to dampen your child’s enthusiasm is with constant criticism. Understand the daily pressures a child faces. Youth athletics should be an outlet and place for a player to have fun. Encourage your child and allow him or her to have a good time.
Support your coaches. Parents should support the coaches, as long as they follow proper coaching guidelines. Parents should understand that most coaches are volunteers. It is inappropriate for a parent to coach a player who is on the field or contradict a coach’s instructions. Not only does it devalue the coach, it also confuses the player.
Be a good sport. Remember that your child learns more from your actions than your words. Practice good sportsmanship by being respectful to players, parents, officials and coaches on both teams. Parents should not embarrass their child by calling attention to themselves through loud or rude behavior. Remember that everything you do or say can be heard by up to 100 seven, eight and nine year old children. Let’s not teach them that it is acceptable to publicly yell, disparage and argue with other adults. Game & League Officials have the authority to ask unruly spectators to leave the fields.
Be on time. Players that are late or absent to practices may lose playing time in games. Parents should help their children realize that belonging to a team requires commitment. Regular attendance and being prepared are necessary for the team to function smoothly. Practices begin promptly at 6:30 pm; players should arrive by 6:20 pm with all of their equipment on. Weigh-in at each game begins promptly at 9:00 am. Players should arrive by 8:45 am. Players that are late for weigh in may not be allowed to play in the game.
Fundraising. Registration fees do not cover all of the costs of running a Sports Program. In order to keep the fees reasonable, each child is asked to participate in fundraising activities. Please help the team by turning in all fundraising collections by the specified time.
Volunteer. Parents should volunteer their services whenever possible. This shows the participants the value of being a team player. There are many volunteer opportunities beyond coaching and Team Parenting. Ask one of the Team Moms what is needed.
Parents/Spectators
-
I will encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, game officials, and administrators at all times.
-
I will place the emotional and physical well being of all players ahead of any personal desire to win.
-
I will support the coaches, officials, and administrators working with my child, in order to encourage a positive and enjoyable experience for all.
-
I will remember that the game is for the players, not for the adults.
-
I will ask my child to treat other players, coaches, game officials, administrators, and fans with respect.
-
I will always be positive.
-
I will always allow the coach to be the only coach.
-
I will not get into arguments with the opposing team’s parents, players, or coaches.
-
I will not come onto the field for any reason during the game.
-
I will not criticize game officials.
-
Alcohol, illegal drugs and unauthorized prescription drugs shall not be possessed, consumed or distributed before, during or after any game or at any other time at the field and/or game complex.
Failure to comply may result in the suspension of your privilege to participate in WCAA sanctioned events, as determined by the Board of Directors. Examples of possible suspensions are as follows:
1st offense suspension minimum thirty (30) days to a maximum of five (5) years
2nd offense suspension for a minimum of one (1) year to a maximum of Ten (10) years
3rd offense suspension for a minimum of five (5) years to a maximum of fifty (50) years.