COACH’S CODE OF CONDUCT

The Board of Directors of South Cherokee Softball Association seeks to ensure that all South Cherokee softball games and activities are fair, positive, and enjoyable experiences for all of the children and adults involved. Participation in South Cherokee Softball should be friendly and unifying -- a spirited social and instructional athletic occasion for players, coaches, umpires, and spectators.  

As such, we jointly expect all league coaches to adhere to the South Cherokee code of ethics and conform to the following code of conduct:

CODE OF ETHICS

Commitment to the Players  

• Coaches shall put the welfare of their athletes above all else while maintaining professional relationships with them. 
• Coaches shall always encourage the athlete to exhibit sportsmanship . 
• Coaches will familiarize themselves with the ASA Rule book and will comply with all South Cherokee rules. 
• Coaches need to understand that they are role models for their young players. They must project a proper role model image. 
• Coach's commitment to the player and the player's commitment to the coach is an equal partnership. 

Commitment to the Organization 

• Coaches shall behave in such a way that they shall bring credit to the organization and to themselves. 
• Coaches need to have and show professional behavior. 
• Coaches shall act in full accordance with South Cherokee, ASA, and National ASA rules. 

CODE OF CONDUCT

During Practice

• Treat everyone fairly within the context of the activity, regardless of gender, ethnic background, color, sexual orientation, religion, political belief, or economic status.  
• Direct comments at the performance, rather than the person.  
• Provide a safe playing situation for the players by ensuring that the activity being undertaken is suitable for the age, experience, ability and fitness level of the players, and by educating players as to their responsibilities in contributing to a safe environment. 
• Review and practice the basic first-aid principles needed to treat player injuries.
• Hold, but do not exceed, the number of practices required for the age division. 
• Do your best to organize practices that are instructional, fun and challenging for all players. 
• Be knowledgeable in the rules of the game and teach these rules to the players.

During the Game

• Lead by example in demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship to all players.
• Place the emotional and physical well being of the players ahead of a personal desire to win.
• Refrain from public criticism of fellow coaches.
• Exchange friendly greetings with opposing coaches prior to the start of each game and immediately upon its conclusion.
• Accept responsibility for the sportsmanship and conduct of your players and their parents.  Hold a meeting in the preseason to explain and discuss your expectations.
• Abstain from the use of alcohol, drugs and tobacco in conjunction with the sport.
• Refrain from the use of profane, insulting, harassing or otherwise offensive language while coaching.

With Umpires

• Demonstrate respect and support for all umpires, and encourage your players, parents and spectators to do the same.
• Recognize that at some levels of play, umpires are sometimes young and inexperienced, requiring even more of your patience and support.
• Treat umpires in a courteous manner at all times, and be sure that you and your players thank the umpire after the game.
• Address all comments and concerns about league umpires to the South Cherokee Commissioner.  Present your comments/concerns in a calm, objective and rational manner.

Off the Field

• Take advantage of any opportunities to develop and enhance your coaching ability and skills.
• Attend and fully participate in league/division meetings and activities involving coaches. 
• Communicate clearly and consistently with players, player parents, team staff members, and league representatives.
• It is highly recommended that South Cherokee coaches become certified by and follow the principles of the Positive Coaching Alliance.  For more information about this go to www.positivecoach.org.
• Coaches who do not follow the expectations as outlined above will be disciplined or removed.