Orland Park Sparks Softball

Sparks Softball of WI

Philosophy and Code of Ethic

In developing an organizational structure for the Sparks Softball of WI Program, the administration believes it is important to spell out some matters in regard to philosophy, code of ethics and an opportunity for an objective disciplinary hearing including parents, coaches; when major conflicts arise (conflicts include incidents of extreme serious nature and don’t relate to playing time).

Sparks Philosophy includes but is not limited to;

1.  The development of female softball players in regard to physical skills, softball strategy, knowledge of the

rules and game through training and competition

2.  The development of intangible attributes of competing on a “team,” including unity, sportsmanship, loyalty and dedication.

3.  Promotion of the players, parents, and program through attitudes, response to training, and behavior on and off the field.

4.  Attaining a high level of success, particularly in regard to seeing rewards for hard work and developing a foundation for the future of the Sparks program.

5.  Promoting older Sparks players to college through honest assessment of a player’s work ethic, attitude, maturity, and skills.

To further promote the above philosophies, the Sparks program has developed a Code of Ethics and Guidelines for players, parents, and coaches.

Players

1.  Should treat coaches, umpires, fans, and opposing players with respect at all times.

2.  Be punctual in arriving for games and practices.

3.  Respect coaches’ decisions for lineups and playing time. Coaches welcome players concerns on these issues, but they should be addressed in private conversations and never at a time when practice or game preparation is interrupted.

4.  I will be responsible for my own equipment as well as team equipment. I will do not harm to any facilities or fields.

5.  May never use alcohol, tobacco, weapons, drugs or profanity.

6.  Comply with coaches’ judgements in regard to warm-up procedures, curfews, and treatment of injuries.

7.  I will refrain from inappropriate web blogging, face-booking, texting or twittering about teammates, coaches or Sparks Softball WI. Additionally, I will not take inappropriate photos of Sparks apparel, including uniforms and spirit wear.

8.  I will notify/discuss with my Coach if I am asked to play for another team, either within the Sparks organization or teams outside our organization, including tryouts for the following year.

Parents

1.  Should support the team in a positive manner on and off the field.

2.  Should treat fans, umpires, and opposing team personal with respect when representing the Sparks.

3.  Should encourage players to function within the team concept and treat others with respect.

4.  Allow Players to discuss concerns with the team and coaching decisions FIRST.

5.  May not approach a coach with a concern over lineups or playing time during scheduled practice time, before or during games, or until 24- hour “cooling period has elapsed after the conclusion of a game or weekend tournament. (win or lose coaches have several responsibilities regarding the entire team and its’ schedule arrangements immediately before and after games)

6.  Please support the organization in all fund raisers and as workers for program functions.

7.  I will not approach the bench before, during or after game(s).

8.  I will responsible for the actions of my guests.

9.  If I am asked to leave the premises by game officials or coaches, I will do so immediately.

10.  I acknowledge that excessive tardiness or unexcused absences are not acceptable.

11.  I understand excessive late payment is not acceptable.

Coaches

1.  Should treat all players equally in regard to training

2.  Should develop a schedule that will be challenging to the team and players.

3.  Should make an effort to fairly distribute playing time in regular games and non-ASA advancement tournament

4.  Should strive for success in ASA advancement tournaments while keeping in mind the potential for contributions from all players.

5.  Should keep in mind the reputation of the program at all times in all dealings with players, parents, umpires, fans, and opposing team personal.

6.  Should respect the concerns of players and parents.

7.  On older levels should promote players to college, while not overselling under qualified players, and hence, potentially exposing families to an embarrassing experience and damaging the reputation of the organization.

DISCIPLINARY BOARD PROCEDURES

1.  The player of any parent violating the 24-hour “cooling-off” period rule will be subject to an automatic minimal 2-game suspension

·  Any physical attack by a parent will result in immediate removal of the player from the team.

·  Unless the team is at an out-of-town tournament the 2-game suspension will be implemented after a hearing. (The decision of a Head Coach will be respected when the team is playing out of town.)

·  A player must be dressed and present at games while serving out a suspension.

2.  Board members will hear discussion from both parents and coaches regarding issues.

3.  Board members will determine consequences for issues involved ALWAYS keeping the players’ best interests first and foremost.

4.  Board decisions, may not be overturned by members of coaching staffs.

THESE GUIDELINES WERE DEVELOPED TO KEEP THE PLAYERS’ BEST INTERESTS AS THE TOP PRIORITY.

There will be no refunds of fees.

THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR COOPERATION

I, ______, being a Player on the 2014/15 Sparks Softball WI, have read and understand the above Philosophy and Code of Ethics, and agree to be bound by it.

Sign______Dated______

I,______, being a Parent on the 2014/15 Sparks Softball WI, have read and understand the above Philosophy and Code of Ethics and agree to be bound by it.

Sign______Dated______