Dear Massachusetts Bay Lacrosse League Associates,

Our goal is to set and maintain high standards of sportsmanship, ethics and integrity throughout the MBYLL program. It is our responsibility to provide the discretion and constant vigilance under which good sportsmanship can prosper and have a positive impact on our children: the leaders of tomorrow.

The value of the lessons learned by exhibiting good sportsmanship will last a lifetime. The positive actions of a coach, athlete or spectator at an event can influence how the MBYLL is perceived in the community.

We are asking for your support in this effort by emphasizing to your son or daughter what is expected of them at an event as a competitor or spectator. We urge you to ask your children to demonstrate self-control and self discipline and at the same time, enjoy the game.

Finally, we ask you to set a good example when in the stands at a game or practice. It is through these efforts that we can clearly communicate what is acceptable behavior. We hope that your positive example will help set the tone for those around you.

When you attend the game, you are given the privilege to watch the game and voice your support of our teams. We want that support to be positive.

Thank you in advance for your positive influence and enjoy the sport. 

The Board of Directors

MASSACHUSETTS BAY YOUTH LACROSSE LEAGUE 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. Unsportsmanlike 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 players show respect to their coaches and that 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 any act, 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.

GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP/ CODES OF CONDUCT

Coach’s code:

- Enthusiastically supports and practices "Everyone plays" and extends positive coaching philosophies of the MBYLL

- Be reasonable in your demands on the young players' time, energy, enthusiasm and their performance on the field

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

- Develop team respect for the ability of opponents, and for the judgment of referees and opposing coaches

-Ensure that your players' experience is one fun and enjoyment (winning is only part of it). Players should never be yelled at or ridiculed for making mistakes or losing a game.

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

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

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

Referee's Code:

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

-Study and learn the rules of the game and understand the "spirit" of the rules. Help fellow referees to do the same.

- Respect other referees and their decisions, and do not publicly criticize another official.

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

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

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

- Support good sportsmanship with a kind word to the players, coaches and parents of both teams when deserved.

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

Parent’s Code:

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

- Remember that children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment, not yours.

- Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than a victory.

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

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

- Set a good example. Children learn best by good examples.

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

- Do not publicly question referee judgment.

- Recognize the value and importance of volunteer coaches, referees, and officials and give them their due respect. Without them, there would not be the MBYLL.

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

Player's Code:

- Play for the fun of it, not just to please your parents or coach.

- Play by the rules.

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

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

- Concentrate on playing lacrosse and on affecting the outcome of the game with your best effort.

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

- Remember that the goals of the game are to have fun, improve skills and feel good. Don't be a "showoff".

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