Parent/Player/Spectator Code of Conduct

 
We, the Lincoln Girls Softball League, have implemented the following
Parent/Player/Spectator Code of Conduct to provide the proper guidance regarding the
proper role of parents/spectators in supporting their child in sports. Parents must read,
understand and sign this form prior to their children participating in our league. Any parent,
family member or guest guilty of improper conduct at any game or practice will be asked to
leave the sports facility and be suspended from the following game. Repeat violations may
cause a multiple game suspension, or the season forfeiture of the privilege of attending all
games.

Preamble
The essential elements of character-building and ethics in sports are embodied in the concept
of sportsmanship and six core principles: • Trustworthiness, • Respect, • Responsibility, •
Fairness, • Caring and • Good Citizenship. The highest potential of sports is achieved when
competition reflects these “six pillars of character.” I therefore agree:

1. I will not force my child to participate in sports.
2. I will remember that children participate to have fun and that the game is for youth, not adults.
3. I will inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my child
or the safety of others.
4. I will learn the rules of the game and the policies of the league.
5. I (and my family and my guests) will be a positive role model for my child and encourage
sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all
players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice or other sporting event.
6. I (and my family and my guests) will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with
any official, coach, player, or parent such as booing and taunting; refusing to shake hands; or
using profane language or gestures.
7. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and wellbeing
of the athletes.
8. I will teach my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or
violence.
9. I will demand that my child treat other players, coaches, officials and spectators with respect
regardless of race, creed, color, sex or ability.
10.I will teach my child that doing one’s best is more important than winning, so that my child will
never feel defeated by the outcome of a game or his/her performance.
11. I will praise my child for competing fairly and trying hard, and make my child feel like a winner
every time.
12.I will never ridicule or yell at my child or other participants for making a mistake or losing a
competition.
13.I will emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit my child over winning. I
will also de-emphasize games and competition in the lower age groups.
14.I will promote the emotional and physical wellbeing of the athletes ahead of any personal
desire I may have for my child to win.
15.I will respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss, or
confront coaches at the game field, and will take time to speak with coaches at an agreed
upon time and place.
16.I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol
and I will refrain from their use at all sports events.
17.I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices, unless I am
one of the official coaches of the team.
18.The "social media" posting of negative, demeaning, or derogatory comments will not be
tolerated. Those affiliated with the LGSA who use technology in ways that are contrary to the
mission statement of the League can face disciplinary action up to and including
suspension/dismissal.

Parent / Guardian Signature: ________________________________________________________
Player Name and Division: __________________________________________________________