Parent Code of Conduct

Parents play an important role in the success of the student-athlete and also in the success of the team.

• Parents are expected to support and encourage their child’s efforts. Attending games and cheering the team on is a show of support; however, parents are always reminded to act in a responsible manner and show good Christian sportsmanship.
• Parents should make no attempt to instruct or direct the play of a student-athlete during practices or games. They should not criticize the playing efforts of any student-athlete or of the team.
• Parents should be a model for putting losses in perspective and moving on. Questioning, criticizing, or berating the coach, the referees, or any other official is inappropriate behavior.
• Parents should realize that they will be asked to leave a game if they are not able to maintain a standard of acceptable behavior.
• Parents will be expected to contribute their time and service in support of the team and the athletic program. A volunteer program, especially, is dependent upon everyone’s help and support to maintain a high level of quality and success. Parents will be asked to sell refreshments, to collect gate money, to monitor crowd control, or to help with set-up and cleanup.
• Attendance at a mandatory pre-season meeting is required.

Communication is a very important tool. If you have a question or concern, parents should first communicate directly with the head coach. However, parents should do so at appropriate times. Parents should not approach any coach with a matter of concern immediately before, during or after a game. Just as parents are not allowed to approach a teacher to discuss problems or complaints without an appointment, the Athletic Commission requires the same courtesy and consideration for all our coaches. We trust that you can appreciate the fact that it is not fair to confront a coach in a gym or hallway in the presence of the children and other adults. Emotional confrontations of the moment usually resolve nothing and contradict the spirit of our school and parish. When contacting a coach by telephone, only leave your name and phone number for a return call. Leaving a lengthy message on a telephone answering machine or explaining your concern to a coach’s spouse or child is inappropriate.

• Questions or concerns regarding your child, contact the coach.
• Questions or concerns regarding the coach, contact the Athletic Director.
• Questions or concerns regarding the athletic program, contact the Athletic Director.

Student-athletes are expected to attend all practices and games. If a student-athlete is unable to attend a practice or a game, a phone call to the coach must be made by the student-athlete or parent prior to the practice or game. The Athletic Commission believes that attendance at every practice and every game is very important. In fact, it is absolutely essential for the success of each student-athlete and the team. Every student-athlete is an integral part of the team. Poor attendance at practices and games hurts and frustrates everyone-players, coaches, parents, program-and have a negative effect on player development. Attendance records will be reviewed monthly by the Athletic Director to verify that the student-athlete’s commitment to the team is being fulfilled. Poor attendance records will be reviewed and addressed by the Athletic Commission. Excessive absenteeism and tardiness from practices or games will limit your child’s playing time during games. In order to provide the best opportunities for all children in the Athletic Program, your commitment to our athletic program is absolutely essential.

1. I pledge to be on time or early when dropping off my child for a practice or game. I understand that it is embarrassing for my child to be late to a game or practice and that I am putting him/her at physical risk by not providing adequate time for warm up. I understand the importance of picking up my child on time for all games and practices. This shows respect for the coach, who has other time commitments, and it tells my child that he or she is my top priority.
2. I understand that three reasons children play sports are to have fun, make new friends and learn new skills. I understand that the game is for the children, and that I will encourage my child to have fun and keep sport in its proper perspective. I understand that athletes do their best when they are emotionally healthy, so I will be positive and supportive.
3. I will redefine what it is to be a “Winner” in my conversations with my child. A Winner is someone who makes maximum effort, continues to learn and improve, and does not let mistakes, or fear of making mistakes, stop them. I understand that mistakes are an inevitable part of any game and that people learn from their mistakes. I understand that all children are born with different abilities and that the true measure is not how my child compares to others but how he/she is doing in comparison to his/her best self.
4. I will “Honor the Game.” I understand the importance of setting a good example of sportsmanship to my child. No matter what others may do, I will show respect for all involved in the game including coaches, players, opponents, opposing fans, and referees. I understand that officials, coaches, and players make mistakes. If the referee makes a “questionable” call, I will continue to respect the individual and be silent!
5. I understand that games can be exciting times for my child who is trying to deal with the fast-paced action of the game, respond to opponents, referees, teammates and listen to coaches. I will not add confusion by yelling out instructions. During the game, I will limit my comments to encouraging my child and other players for both teams.
6. I will not make negative comments about the game, coaches, referees or teammates in my child’s presence. I understand that this plants a seed, which can negatively influence my child’s motivation and overall experience.

I authorize my child(ren) to participate in the SS. Cyril and Methodius Athletic Program. I understand that my child(ren) will be required to regularly attend scheduled practices and games. I understand that this program is instructional for Grades 4, 5 and 6 athletes and a minimum play time rule is in effect. However, I also understand and accept the policy that excessive absenteeism and tardiness will result in decreased playing time (from the general policy) for my child. I understand that for Grades 7 and 8 athletes, the program is competitive (no minimum playing time rules). I agree to volunteer with admissions/concessions and other duties that may be required of parents of the athletes.

I will be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game and practice.