Coaches Code of Conduct

I will:

• Remember that I am a youth sports coach, and that the game is for children and not adults.
• Lead by example in demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship to all my players.
• Be knowledgeable in the rules of each sport that I coach, and I will teach these rules to my players.
• Not challenge judgment calls by the umpire. It is acceptable to question the interpretation of a rule, but only in a courteous non-confrontational manner.
• Not refuse to abide by league's official(s) or umpire's decision.
• Understand that the safety of the children is first and foremost.
• Never be guilty of verbal or physical attack upon any player, umpire, or spectator.

With my players, I will:

• Treat them with dignity and respect regardless of their athletic ability.
• Reward their efforts, more than their skills.
• Encourage and motivate them with patient and positive talk.
• Be a good role model. Do not let your players get down on themselves.
• Check equipment and facilities that they use. They should meet safety standards and be appropriate for the age and ability of my players.
• Be reasonable in my demands on the player’s time, energy, enthusiasm and their performance on the baseball field.
• Impress on them that they must abide by the rules of the game at all times.
• Remind them at all times to be respectful of their teammates and their opponents.

With the parents of my players, I will:

• Enlist their support in my efforts to instill the proper attitudes and values in the players.
• Remind them that their child is the one playing baseball, not them.
• Remind them that coaches and umpires are usually parents just like them and they are there to help make their child’s youth baseball experiences a positive one. They need our support too. That means refraining from coaching or umpiring from the sidelines.

Finally, I understand that I am accountable for the actions of both my players and their parents both at games and practices.