Wellington Wolfpack Youth Lacrosse Program Code of Conduct

At Wellington Wolfpack Youth Lacrosse, we hold all players, coaches, officials, parents, spectators, and fans to the highest standards of sportsmanship and respect. Participation in our program is a privilege, and we expect everyone involved to "Honor the Game" by demonstrating respect toward one another. The following Code of Conduct outlines the expectations and responsibilities for all members of the Wellington Wolfpack community. Violations of this code may result in consequences as determined by the Wellington Wolfpack Youth Lacrosse Board.

By joining the Wellington Wolfpack community, individuals agree to uphold the principles of HONESTY and INTEGRITY, which are the foundation of this Code of Conduct.

Coaches’ Code of Conduct:

• I will prioritize the emotional and physical well-being of my players above any desire to win.
• I will demonstrate positive behaviors and provide reinforcement to players, parents, officials, and spectators.
• I will treat each player as an individual and set expectations based on their age and skill level.
• I will ensure equal playing time for all players, in accordance with league rules.
• I will create a safe playing environment for all players.
• I will lead by example, demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship on and off the field.
• I will educate players on the importance of respecting referees and their decisions.
• I will always remember that I am coaching youth sports, and the game is for the children, not the adults.
• I will possess and demonstrate a solid knowledge of the rules of lacrosse and adhere to them in both letter and spirit.
• I will encourage and educate players and spectators about the rules of the game and will not manipulate rules for an unfair advantage.
• After practices or games, I will assist in cleaning up the field.

Players’ Code of Conduct:

• I will play within the rules and respect the decisions of referees and coaches.
• I will never intentionally hurt another player.
• I will not engage in any form of physical or verbal abuse, on or off the field.
• I will not use profanity, racial or ethnic slurs, or any other offensive language.
• I will exhibit good sportsmanship before, during, and after each practice and game.
• I will not taunt, criticize, or jeer at opponents or officials.
• I will demonstrate positive behavior and respect toward teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, parents, and spectators.
• I will communicate any grievances or misunderstandings through the proper channels, not on the field.
• I will not use or possess alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances during team activities.
• I will arrive on time for all team activities and be properly equipped.
• After practices or games, I will help clean up the field.

Spectators’ Code of Conduct:

• I will not criticize, taunt, or disrespect officials, players, or coaches from either team.
• I will offer only positive words of encouragement to all players.
• I will not instruct players or coaches during games or practices.
• I will respect others' enjoyment of the game by maintaining appropriate behavior.
• I will not use profanity, racial or ethnic slurs, or any other offensive language.
• I will stand on the opposite sideline from the team bench.
• I will address grievances through the proper channels, not in view of the field.
• I will not permit others to criticize, badger, harass, or threaten officials, coaches, players, or opponents.
• After the game, I will assist in cleaning up the field.

Violations and Penalties:

Failure to abide by the Wellington Wolfpack Youth Lacrosse Code of Conduct, or engaging in actions detrimental to the program, may result in the following penalties:

1st Offense:

• A meeting with coaches and parents to discuss the incident.
• A verbal and written warning.

2nd Offense:

• A meeting with coaches, the Wellington Wolfpack Board, and parents to discuss the incident.
• Suspension from participation in any Wellington Wolfpack events, with additional disciplinary action determined by the Board.

3rd Offense:

• A meeting with coaches, the Wellington Wolfpack Board, and parents to discuss the incident.
• Expulsion from the program without refund.

In cases involving fighting, showing dissatisfaction with an official’s decision, or other severe misconduct, immediate suspension or expulsion may occur, depending on the severity of the incident.

As a participant, spectator, coach, or volunteer, I pledge to:

• Refrain from using profanity or inappropriate language at any Wellington Wolfpack event.
• Avoid criticizing or heckling coaches, players, spectators, or officials.
• Never touch an opposing player, coach, or official in a threatening manner.
• Encourage sportsmanship and respect, never promoting physical harm to opponents.

To participate in the Wellington Wolfpack Youth Lacrosse Program, all players, coaches, officials, and parents must agree to this Code of Conduct. By participating, I agree to be available to discuss any disciplinary actions involving my player and ensure that my player adheres to these guidelines. I understand that violating this code will result in penalties as stated.