Player & Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct

Adopted in part from Massachusetts Youth Lacrosse Code of Conduct 

PLAYER CODE OF CONDUCT
This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for both players and parents/guardians and must be signed by each player and their parent or guardian before participating in SYLC activities.

As a player, I agree to:

1. Respect the Game

   • Follow the rules of lacrosse and the spirit of fair play.

   • Treat everyone involved in the game with courtesy and fairness, regardless of skill level, background, or position. Listen to coaches and officials without argument, avoid negative comments or gestures toward others, and support teammates through positive communication and encouragement. Demonstrate respect by showing self-control, accepting calls and decisions gracefully, and representing your team and the League with integrity both on and off the field. Accept the decisions of officials without argument or unsportsmanlike behavior.

2. Exhibit Good Sportsmanship

   • Compete with effort, positivity, and respect.

   • Refrain from taunting, trash talk, or using inappropriate language or gestures.  Show good sportsmanship by treating others with dignity and kindness at all times. Do not engage in teasing, name-calling, or behavior meant to embarrass, insult, or intimidate another player, coach, or official. Avoid negative talk on the field, online, or in team settings. Offensive language, gestures, or actions that disrespect others or create an uncomfortable environment are unacceptable and will result in disciplinary action.  Congratulate opponents and thank officials and volunteers after games.

3. Prioritize Safety

   • Use equipment properly and follow all safety instructions.

   • Avoid dangerous play and report injuries or unsafe conditions immediately.

   • Never engage in or encourage fighting, physical retaliation, or reckless conduct.  Maintain self-control, even in competitive or emotional moments. Physical aggression, retaliation, or intentionally dangerous play has no place in lacrosse and will not be tolerated. Players are expected to walk away from conflicts, seek help from coaches or officials when situations escalate, and make safety their top priority. Reckless actions that endanger yourself or others, whether during play, practice, or on the sidelines, violate the spirit of the game and the League’s commitment to respect and safety.

   • Arrive on time and ready to play.

   • Communicate with coaches about absences when possible.

   • Represent my team and SYLC respectfully both on and off the field, including on social media.

4.  Prohibited Conduct

   • MYL & SYLC strictly prohibit bullying, harassment, discrimination, and any form of abuse.  Every participant in MYL & SYLC has the right to feel safe, respected, and included. Bullying, whether physical, verbal, social, or digital will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This includes teasing, spreading rumors, exclusion, or intimidation on the field, or online. Harassment or discrimination based on race, color, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, or any other personal characteristic is strictly forbidden.
     Players must also never engage in, support, or ignore any form of emotional, verbal, or physical abuse toward another person. All players are encouraged to speak up or report concerns to a coach, SYLC Board Member, or trusted adult if they witness or experience such behavior.

   • The use or possession of alcohol, tobacco, vaping devices, or drugs is forbidden at all SYLC events.

PARENT/GUARDIAN CODE OF CONDUCT

As a parent or guardian, I agree to:

1. Support a Positive Environment

   • Encourage good sportsmanship by demonstrating respect for all players, coaches, officials, and spectators.  Parents and guardians play an essential role in shaping the attitudes and behavior of young athletes. By modeling composure, fairness, and respect, parents help create a positive environment for every participant. Cheer enthusiastically for all players, not just your own child, and recognize effort, teamwork, and improvement rather than only the score. Avoid negative comments, criticism of officials, or sideline coaching during practices or games, such actions can distract players and undermine coaches’ instruction.  Treat coaches, officials, and opposing teams with courtesy, even when you disagree with a call or outcome. Demonstrating calm and respectful behavior teaches players how to handle competition, adversity, and success with integrity. Parents are expected to lead by example so that every game reflects the values of sportsmanship, respect, and community that Massachusetts Youth Lacrosse stands for.

   • Refrain from negative comments, criticism of officials, or disruptive sideline behavior.

   • Let coaches coach, officials officiate, and players play.

2. Model Respect and Integrity

   • Parents and guardians set the tone for how young athletes behave both on and off the field. Demonstrate honesty, fairness, and self-control in all interactions related to the game. Speak positively about coaches, players, and officials, even in moments of disagreement. If you have a concern about coaching decisions, playing time, officiating, or conduct, address it calmly and privately with the appropriate coach or League representative at a time away from games and practices, never in the presence of players or during competition.  Avoid gossip, heated arguments, or confrontational behavior in the stands, on the sidelines, or online. Children learn from how adults respond to challenges; by showing composure and respect, you help them understand that true character is revealed through how we handle adversity. Parents and guardians are expected to be role models of integrity, ensuring that SYLC remains a safe, inclusive, and respectful community for all participants. Communicate calmly and constructively with coaches or officials about concerns, never during games or practices.

   • Recognize that youth sports are for the benefit of the players’ development and enjoyment.

3. Ensure Safety and Responsibility

   • Make sure my player attends practices and games on time and with proper equipment.

   • Support safe play and sportsmanship above winning.

   • Report any concerns about safety or misconduct to the League promptly.

4. Abide by SYLC Policies

   • Understand that violations of this Code by myself or my child may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from SYLC activities.

   • As a parent or guardian, I recognize that my words, behavior, and actions reflect not only on myself but also on my child, their team, and the Scarborough Youth Lacrosse community. I understand that if I fail to follow this Code of Conduct, through disrespectful, disruptive, or inappropriate behavior, disciplinary measures may be taken by the League. These actions may include verbal or written warnings, temporary suspension from games or practices, or removal from League events.

   • I further acknowledge that my behavior, whether in person or online, may also affect my child’s standing within the League. Inappropriate conduct by a parent or guardian may result in consequences for both the adult and the player, including possible suspension or removal from participation. I agree to uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship and respect so that all players, families, and officials can enjoy a safe and positive lacrosse experience.

   • Respect the decisions of coaches and League officials as final in matters of conduct and discipline.