Denville PAL Girls' Softball

Coaches' Code of Conduct - Recreation League

 

  1. Actions and behavior of coaches shall always be guided by the highest level of sportsmanship, professionalism, and integrity.
  2. Coaches are responsible for knowing, understanding, and following all rules as established by the Denville PAL Girls Softball Board.
  3. Dissatisfaction with the rules and by-laws and/or their implementation should only be addressed through the Denville PAL Girls Softball Board. Coaches should avoid expressing dissatisfaction through parents, players, or other coaches.
  4. Both the letter and the spirit of all rules must be adhered to by the coaches.
  5. It is the coach's responsibility to make sure that all players understand the rules and their spirit. The letter and spirit of all rules must be adhered to by all participants.
  6. Umpires - like coaches and players - are major participants in the game. The coach shall neither exhibit nor tolerate any behavior from others - verbal or otherwise - that might reflect poorly on Denville Softball. This includes, but is not limited to, arguing a judgment call. Coaches are expected to express any dissatisfaction with an umpire's call calmly and quietly with the umpire. Public displays of displeasure - before, during, or after a game - are not acceptable behavior.
  7. Coaches are expected to maintain appropriate levels of behavior as an example to the players. Coaches are accountable for their behavior while engaged in any activity involving the players. Unacceptable behavior includes, but is not limited to, smoking on the field, drinking alcohol in the players' presence, swearing, uncontrolled temper, inappropriate contact with the players, and rude or disrespectful treatment of the players, coaches, parents, or umpires.
  8. Coaches should never teach their players tactics or skills designed to circumvent the intent of the rules. The rules exist to protect the players and provide a common standard by which final results will be determined. Coaches should not attempt to "beat the rules" or take any unfair advantage over an opponent.
  9. Whenever players exhibit unsportsmanlike behavior on their own, it is the responsibility of the coach to address that behavior and put an end to it. Coaches are responsible for the conduct of their players.
  10. Coaches are responsible for the safety of all players on their team. Coaches must not allow reckless behavior in the dugout, warm-up areas, or on the playing field. Coaches should remain at an activity site until all players are picked up by their parents or guardians. Coaches should not provide a ride for a player unless another adult or their own child is present.
  11. Coaches should fully support and attend appropriate Denville Softball activities including the opening day parade, certification classes, clinics, and the end of year pizza party.
  12. Coaches shall not practice or play on fields that are indicated as closed by the Denville Recreation Department.
  13. Coaches should not treat or allow players, spectators, or other coaches to treat equipment in an abusive manner. All equipment should be cleaned and returned on the designated equipment return date.
  14. Players are expected to arrive on time and have good attendance at practices and games. Coaches are expected to set a good example for the players in these areas.