MASSACHUSETTS BAY YOUTH LACROSSE LEAGUE (MBYLL)
CODE OF CONDUCT

MBYLL Rules of Conduct and Disciplinary Action
For those involved in the MBYLL program as an official, parent, coach, or player, a code of conduct will be outlined. The MBYLL will encourage good sportsmanship and fair play. Each MBYLL coach or site supervisor will be totally responsible for the conduct of himself, his players and his respective spectators. Absolutely no abusive or vulgar language will be tolerated and could result in team penalties. Un-sportsman-like conduct or disrespect for the referees will not be tolerated as well. Both players and coaches will refrain at all times, from abusive and unwarranted disruptions.

Conduct of Respect
It is essential that the players show respect to their coaches and that the league officials show decency and consideration for their players.

Parent Conduct
It is imperative that parents, at all times, conduct themselves in a proper manner. No swearing or harassment will be permitted. In the event conduct is not acceptable, the Board of Directors may take disciplinary action which may include suspension from the program.

No coach or spectator shall at any time use signs, gestures, degrading personal comments, or act any way, which will reflect unfavorably upon opposing coaches, players, or spectators.

MBYLL encourages and requires good sportsmanship and respect from all its participants. The MBYLL will enforce this policy to the maximum.

Coaches Code of Conduct

Ø      Enthusiastically support and practice “Everyone Plays” and extends positive philosophies of the MBYLL.

Ø      Be reasonable in your demands on the young players’ time, energy, enthusiasm and their performance on the field.

Ø      Impress on your players that they must abide by the rules of the game at all times.

Ø      Develop team respect for the abilities of your opponents, and for the judgement of the referees and opposing coaches.

Ø      Ensure that your players’ experience is one of fun and enjoyment (wining is only part of it).  Players should never be yelled at or ridiculed for making a mistake or losing a game.

Ø      Set a good example and be generous with your praise when it is deserved.  Children need a coach they can respect.

Ø      Keep informed about sound principles of coaching, growth and development principles relating to children.

Ø      Enlist the support of your team’s parents in your efforts to develop proper attitudes and values in the players.

Referees Code of Conduct

Ø      Always remember the game is for the players.  Player safety and fair play come first.

Ø      Study and learn the rules of the game and understand the “spirit” of the rules.  Help fellow referees to do the same.

Ø      Respect the other referees decisions, and do not publicly criticize another official.

Ø      Wear the proper uniform and keep it in good condition.

Ø      Maintain good physical condition so that you can keep up with the action.

Ø      Honor accepted game assignments.  In an emergency, find a replacement.

Ø      Support good sportsmanship with kind words to the players, coaches and parents of both teams when deserved.

Ø      Always be fair and impartial, avoiding conflicts of interest.  Decisions based on personal bias are dishonest and unacceptable.

Parents Code of Conduct

Ø      Do not force an unwilling child to participate in sports.

Ø      Remember the child is involved in sports for their enjoyment, not yours.

Ø      Teach your child that work and honest effort are more important than a victory.

Ø      Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game.  Your child will then be a winner, even in defeat.

Ø      Do not ridicule your child for making a mistake or losing a game.

Ø      Applaud good plays by your team and by members of the opposing team.

Ø      Do not publicly question referee judgment.

Ø      Recognize the value and importance of volunteer coaches, referees, and officials and give them their due respect.  Without them there would be no MBYLL.

Ø      Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from sporting activities.

Players Code of Conduct

Ø      Play for the fun of it, not just to please your parents.

Ø      Play by the rules

Ø      Never argue with or complain about the referee calls or decisions.

Ø      Control your temper and most of all, resist the temptation to retaliate when you feel you have been wronged.

Ø      Concentrate on playing lacrosse and effecting the outcome of the game with your best effort. 

Ø      Be a good sport by cheering all good plays, whether it is your team’s or your opponent’s.

Ø      Remember the goal of the game is to have fun, improve skills and feel good.  Don’t be a “show off”.

Ø      Cooperate with your coaches, teammates, opponents, and referees.