Sportsmanship Tip of the Month, February 2005

Basketball Parent Code of Conduct

The essential elements of character-building and ethics in sports are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship. The highest potential of sport is achieved when competition reflects good citizenship.

As a parent I agree to:

1. Remember that children participate to have fun and that the game is for the youth and not the adults.
2. Inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may effect the safety of my child or others.
3. Learn the rules of the game.
4. Be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game.
5. Not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player or parent such as booing, taunting; refusing to shake hands or use of profane language or gestures.
6. Not encourage behavior or practices that will endanger the health and well-being of the athletes.
7. Teach my child to play the rules and resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.
8. Teach my child to treat other players, coaches and officials with respect.
9. Praise my child for competing fairly and trying hard no matter what the outcome of the game.
10. Never yell or ridicule my child or other participant for making a mistake or losing a competition.
11. Emphasize skill development, practices and how they benefit my child�s development.
12. Promote the emotional and physical well being and development of the students ahead of any personal desire I may have for my child to win.
13. Respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss, or confront coaches at the game. I will take the time to speak with coaches at an agreed upon time and place.

Thank you for your help teaching our young players about true sportsmanship.

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Parent/Guardian Signature

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