BAA Standards of Conduct

The following standards apply to all participants in BAA programs -- coaches, players, and their parents.

Coaches' Standards of Conduct

All BAA coaches and assistant coaches are required to sign a statement indicating they will adhere to the following coaching standards. This documents underscores a coach's responsibility to instill confidence and self-esteem in all players, regardless of ability or experience.


1. Coaches should strive to play all children a fair amount of time in each game.
2. Starting line-ups should be rotated to accomodate all children on an equal basis, regardless of ability.
3. As part of a child's development, all children should be rotated to multiple positions on the field/court.
4. Coaches should try to build self-esteem and confidence through the use of positive encouragement and support.
5. Coaches should offer encouragement, instruction, and teaching, not criticism.
6. Coaches are responsible for the proper behavior of players and parents.
7. Coaches are responsible for managing the score if teams do not appear competitive.
8. Coaches are responsible for communicating scheduling and roster information in a timely manner to all team participants, especially in the case of changes due to weather or field locations.
9. Coaches should treat all officials with respect and accept controversial calls.
10. Coaches are not allowed to purchase trophies; this is done by league officials only.
11. The standards identified above will be monitored throughout the course of the season. Any complaints or grievances will be addressed in accordance to the procedures and policies outlines by the BAA.


Players' Standards of Conduct
1. Learn the rules of the game and play by them.
2. Never argue with the officials' decisions.
Let your captain or coach ask any necessary questions if your sport allows.
3. Control your temper.
Verbal or physical abuse of officials or other players is not acceptable.
4. Work hard to improve your skills. Work equally hard for yourself and your team. Your team's performance will benefit as well as your own.
5. Be gracious when you win; be gracious when you lose.
6. Be on time for practices and games. If you are not able to attend, give your coach as much advance notice as possible so that they may plan for your absence.
7. Respect your coach, your teammates, your parents, opponents and officials.
8. Play for fun.


Parents' Standards of Conduct
1.

Do not force your children to participate in sports, but support their desires to play their chosen sport. Children play sports for their enjoyment. Help make it fun for them.

2.

Encourage your child to play by the rules. Remember that children learn best by example. Applaud the good plays of both teams.

3. Do not embarrass your child by yelling at players, coaches, or officials. Show a positive attitude toward the game & all of its participants & your child will benefit.
4. Know the rules of the game and support the officials.
5. Recognize the value and importance of volunteer coaches. They give their time and resources to provide recreational activities to your child. Make sure you drop off/pick up your child on time for practices and games. If your child is not able to attend a practice or game, make sure you or your child notify the coach so that s/he can plan for your child's absence.
6. Do not shout instructions to your child. This may cause confusion and may result in erroneous play on your child's part. The coach has instructed your child on how to play. If you shout instructions, your child will probably try to please you and the coach at the same time. In trying to do two things at once, the child may fail at both.
7. Turn defeat into victory by helping your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship. Never ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or losing a competition.
8. If you have a concern, take time to talk with the coach in an appropriate manner, including an appropriate time and place. Be sure to follow the designated chain of command.