2008
Sponsorship
Information
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| Behavior - Setting An Example | |
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Inappropriate
behavior has many consequences that include offending umpires,
offending other parents or family members in the stands, creating a
"mob mentality," and of course, if left unchecked, creating a culture
that changes from a family atmosphere to one of hostility. But the one consequence that is probably worse than the others is the example that is set. How can we tell our kids what is inappropriate behavior if we are not willing to set the example ourselves?  The overwhelming majority of Hoover Tyler fans have come to realize
that everyone working in Little League is a volunteer. The
volunteer umpires try their best and when the fan doesn't agree with
the umpire's call, we "grin and bear it" because we know the volunteer
umpires are not professionals and they are not intentionally trying to
cheat for one side versus the other side.If you are a parent who is frustrated by a coach, your course of action should be to first have a one-on-one conversation with that coach. If you remain dissatisfied, you have the option of talking to a board member for clarification and guidance. But you should never take out your displeasure in front of everyone, especially the kids. Every year we have new parents come into the league. Every year we have one or more parents who need to be reminded that this a GAME, played for FUN. Remember the fact that you are one of the owners of this Little League. We are the only league in the District fortunate enough to own all of our own property. This allows us to pretty much do what we want with our facilities without having to go to Stockton Park & Recreation or the School Board. But there are some things that you cannot buy. There are some things you cannot physically build. There are things that have to come from within. No doubt this league has great character. But every year poses a new challenge. A new set of parents/fans to get through to. Most of us are very passionate about keeping our league's character in check. We believe we are the best in the district, no doubt. But we need for each and every one of you to be vigilant when it comes to negative conduct such as yelling at your kids in a negative manner, yelling at the coach because you don't like what he/she is going, or making a scene when the umpires make a call that you do not agree with. We simply do not do that here. We are smart enough to realize that all of these folks are volunteers that do not get paid….and are trying their best. If you see someone creating a scene or booing an umpire, tell him or her we do not do that here. And if they ask you why it’s that way, tell them that you are one of the owners of this Little League and you simply don’t allow that type of behavior because it’s a game played by our children, for fun. YOU CREATE THE CULTURE.
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The Little League Parent/Volunteer Pledge I will teach all children to play fair and do their best. I will positively support all managers, coaches and players. I will respect the decisions of the umpires. I will praise a good effort despite the outcome of the game.
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 Youth Sports Parent Code of Conduct PreambleThe essential elements of character building and ethics in sports are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship and six core principles: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship. The highest potential of sports is achieved when competition reflects these “six pillars of character.” I therefore agree: I will not force my child to participate in sports. I will remember that children participate to have fun and that the game is for youth, not adults. I will inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my child or the safety of others. I will learn the rules of the game and the policies of the league. I (and my guests) will be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice or sporting event. I (and my guests) will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player, or parent such as booing and taunting, refusing to shake hands, or using profane language or gestures. I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and well-being of the athletes. I will teach my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence. I will demand that my child treat other players, coaches, officials and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, color, sex or ability. I will teach my child that doing one's best is more important than winning, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of a game or his/her performance. I will praise my child for competing fairly and trying hard, and make my child feel like a winner every time. I will never ridicule or yell at my child or other participants for making a mistake or losing a competition. I will emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit my child over winning. I will also de-emphasize games and competition in the lower age groups. I will promote the emotional and physical well-being of the athletes ahead of any personal desire I may have for my child to win. I will respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss, or confront coaches at the game field, and will take time to speak with coaches at an agreed upon time and place. I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, and I will refrain from their use at all sports events. I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices, unless I am one of the official coaches of the team. |
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