Code of Conduct

Walkertown Girls Softball Association (WGSA)

Coaches Code of Conduct

Effective Date: September 11, 2015

Our Commitment

The Walkertown Girls Softball Association (WGSA) is committed to developing good sportsmanship, leadership, and citizenship in our youth. Our players learn best by the example set by responsible parents, coaches, volunteers, and spectators.

All coaches are expected to uphold the standards outlined in this Code of Conduct and encourage family members, friends, and spectators to do the same. The WGSA Board of Directors reserves the right to enforce this policy and issue disciplinary action when necessary.

League Policies

Smoking & Tobacco Policy

• Coaches may not smoke or use tobacco products during any WGSA game, practice, event, or activity.
• Parents and spectators may only smoke in the designated parking lot area, away from players and spectators.
• Violations will be treated as unsportsmanlike conduct under this Code of Conduct.

Alcohol Policy

The possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited:

• On Forsyth County Park property
• During any WGSA event or activity

Violations

• First Offense: Warning and immediate compliance to cease the activity.
• Second Offense: May result in dismissal from the league.

WGSA reserves the right to contact the Forsyth County Sheriff's Office to assist with the removal of an offender when necessary.

Depending on the circumstances, dismissal may also affect the offender's player(s).

All violations may be resolved immediately by the WGSA President, Vice President, and/or the Board of Directors without the need for a hearing or formal meeting.

Coach Eligibility

The WGSA Board of Directors reserves the right to deny any coaching application for any reason, including previous violations of the WGSA Code of Conduct or failure to comply with Board-directed corrective actions.

Code of Conduct

All WGSA members are expected to uphold the standards established by USA Softball (formerly ASA Softball) and WGSA.

This Code applies to:

• Coaches
• Assistant Coaches
• Players
• Parents/Guardians
• Volunteers
• Board Members
• Spectators
• Anyone affiliated with WGSA

Violations may result in disciplinary action determined by the WGSA Board of Directors.

If a Board member is involved in an incident, they will be excluded from all discussions and decisions regarding that matter.

Unsportsmanlike Conduct

The following behaviors are prohibited:

• Using obscene language, profanity, or inappropriate gestures.
• Making derogatory chants or comments toward another team, player, coach, umpire, parent, or spectator before, during, or after any WGSA event.
• Verbally attacking or threatening a player, parent, coach, assistant coach, volunteer, umpire ("Blue"), USA Softball official, or Board member.
• Harassment.
• Bullying.
• Using artificial noise makers during games, practices, or events.
• Engaging in conduct that reflects negatively on WGSA, including inappropriate behavior on social media such as:
• Derogatory comments
• Foul language
• Unsportsmanlike conduct

Disciplinary Actions for Unsportsmanlike Conduct

First Offense

• Official warning
• Warning remains in effect for the remainder of the current season

Second Offense

• Immediate ejection from the game
• Two-game suspension
• Twelve (12) months probation

Third Offense

• Immediate removal from WGSA

Additional Responsibilities

• If an assistant coach, player, or parent/guardian receives a warning during a game, the Head Coach also receives a warning.
• Head Coaches are responsible for reporting violations committed by assistant coaches, players, or parents/guardians attending their games.

Personal Conduct Policy

The following actions are grounds for immediate disciplinary action:

• Use or possession of alcohol or illegal drugs.
• Destruction of property.
• Abusive behavior.
• Violations of state or federal law.
• Coaching under an assumed name.
• Falsifying any official USA Softball or WGSA document.
• Physical assault or attack against:
• Players
• Parents
• Coaches
• Assistant Coaches
• Volunteers
• Board Members
• Umpires ("Blue")
• USA Softball officials

Disciplinary Actions for Personal Conduct Violations

Any first offense involving the Personal Conduct Policy will result in:

• Immediate removal from WGSA.
• Placement on the WGSA Expelled Players/Coaches List.
• Permanent ineligibility to register as a player or coach with WGSA.

If the violation also constitutes a violation of North Carolina or federal law, WGSA will immediately notify local law enforcement.

Board Authority

Violation of any portion of this Code of Conduct may result in suspension or dismissal from the league.

The WGSA Board of Directors has the authority to review incidents and determine appropriate disciplinary action consistent with these policies.

Acknowledgement

By participating as a coach, assistant coach, volunteer, player, or parent/guardian with WGSA, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to comply with this Code of Conduct.

Remember Why We're Here

Our goal is to provide a safe, positive, and encouraging environment where every child can learn, compete, and enjoy the game of softball.

Thank you for helping make Walkertown Girls Softball Association a place where sportsmanship, respect, and teamwork come first.