Our goal is for all players, volunteers and parents to have an enjoyable, positive experience with us. To that end, we have developed this Coaches Code of Conduct that we expect every coach and manager to abide by. In this document, the word “coach” also includes managers and any other volunteers.
The coach understands that he or she has a tremendous influence, for either good or ill, on each of his or her players and, thus, shall never place the value of winning above the value of instilling the highest ideals of character.
The coach shall strive to set an example of the highest ethical and moral conduct.
The coach shall avoid the use of tobacco products when in contact with players.
The coach shall respect and support all umpires and contest officials. Furthermore, if any parent or spectator associated with our organization is not acting appropriately, the manager should, using his or her best judgment under the circumstances, politely ask such person to alter their behavior or leave the event. Managers and coaches should promptly report any inappropriate behavior to the Board of Trustees.
The coach will refrain from openly demonstrating negative mannerisms and disappointment with players when they make mistakes (i.e. frustration with errors, etc.).
The coach shall make playing time and position decisions based on demonstrated ability in practice and games, attendance of the full practices, and demonstrating a positive attitude on the field during practice and games. Coaches’ daughters shall not be given playing time or positions that are not earned in this way.
The coach should respect the feelings of his players. He or she should provide constructive criticism while working directly with a player, not in front other players or parents. Conversations with more than one player should cover general team feedback.
Safety: Nothing is more important to us as an organization than the safety of all of our participants.
Player Safety
Weather During Practices: If conditions are too hot, cold or stormy (where lightning strikes are a risk), adjust. Players must be brought to a safe shelter such as the little league indoor facility (NOT a dugout) for a period of not less than thirty (30) minutes after the last time anyone hears thunder or sees lightning. This rule is not open to interpretation. Cancel practice or move it indoors. In extreme heat, conduct lighter workouts and avoid extreme exertion.
Weather During Games: If any coach observes unsafe weather conditions that are not noticed by the umpire, the coach shall bring such conditions to the attention of the umpire. If the umpire allows play to continue during unsafe conditions, the coach shall pull his or her team off the field anyway. The Witches will not imperil the safety of any player for the sake of completing any game.
Hydration: Make sure players are hydrated, especially in extreme heat and humidity. Players or their parents should provide water or sports drinks, but it is still the coach’s responsibility to build into practices time for sufficient water breaks.
Medical Emergencies. Keep your phone readily available at all times for any necessary 911 calls and do not hesitate to call 911. Seconds can count in an emergency and we should allow medical professionals to make medical judgment calls, not coaches. Concussions: If there is any suspicion of a concussion or other head injury, remove the player from play until a doctor clears her return.
Personal Safety:
Background Checks: All coaches and trainers must submit to a background check of the method chosen by the Board of Trustees.
Two-Deep Leadership: No practice or other team function may be conducted unless there are two adults present at all times (the 2nd adult can be a parent) and at least one of the two adults has passed a background check. Do not put yourself in a position where even an allegation of improper conduct can be made.
Inappropriate Conduct: If a coach becomes aware of any criminal activity, particularly criminal activity of a sexual nature, the coach should report the incident immediately to the local police and, unless requested otherwise by the local police, to the Board of Trustees.
Player Pickup: At least two coaches must stay at the location of any practice or game until the last player has been picked up. It is PROHIBITED for any manager or coach to be left alone with any player other than his or her own daughter unless that coach has the permission of the parent of any player that is not his or her own daughter. Such permission may be given in advance.
Violation of any of the terms set forth herein shall subject a coach to actions by the Board of Trustees that may include, but is not limited to, removal as a coach in the program.
