Parent Code of Conduct

Our Partnership

At 3s League, we believe that creating a positive youth sports experience requires a partnership between parents, players, and our league staff. This Parent Code of Conduct outlines our shared commitment to fostering an environment where every child can learn, grow, and enjoy basketball.

1. Positive Sideline Behavior

Encouraging Support

• Cheer positively for all players, not just your child
• Focus on effort, improvement, and good sportsmanship
• Use encouraging language that builds confidence
• Celebrate good plays by both teams
• Remember that these are kids learning and having fun

What to Avoid

• Yelling at or criticizing players (including your own child)
• Questioning or arguing with referees
• Coaching from the sidelines during games
• Making negative comments about other players, teams, or families
• Using inappropriate language or gestures

2. Supporting Your Child

Before Games

• Help your child arrive on time and prepared
• Ensure they have appropriate equipment and attire
• Encourage them to do their best and have fun
• Remind them about good sportsmanship and teamwork
• Keep pre-game conversations positive and relaxed

During Games

• Let your child play without instruction from the sidelines
• Trust the league staff to guide and teach
• Enjoy watching your child's development
• Support the team as a whole, not just individual players
• Model the behavior you want to see from your child

After Games

• Focus on effort and fun rather than just results
• Ask about what they enjoyed most about the game
• Avoid immediately critiquing their performance
• Praise good sportsmanship and teamwork
• Save technical discussions for later, if appropriate

3. Respect for Others

League Staff and Referees

• Treat all league staff and referees with respect
• Understand that referees are human and will make mistakes
• Direct any concerns to league administrators, not officials
• Support the authority of league staff in managing games
• Appreciate the time and effort volunteers put into the league

Other Families

• Be welcoming and inclusive to all families
• Avoid gossiping or making negative comments about other families
• Respect different parenting styles and approaches
• Help create a supportive community environment
• Address conflicts directly and respectfully

All Players

• Encourage all players, not just your own child
• Never criticize or coach other people's children
• Respect different skill levels and developmental stages
• Help create an environment where every child feels valued

4. Communication Guidelines

With League Staff

• Communicate concerns respectfully and constructively
• Use appropriate channels (email, scheduled meetings)
• Avoid approaching staff during games unless it's an emergency
• Be open to feedback and different perspectives
• Work collaboratively to solve problems

With Your Child

• Listen to your child's experiences and feelings
• Help them process both positive and challenging moments
• Teach them how to handle disappointment and setbacks
• Emphasize the importance of effort over outcomes
• Support their love of the game

With Other Parents

• Build positive relationships within the league community
• Share in celebrating all children's successes
• Offer support during challenging times
• Resolve conflicts privately and maturely

5. League Policies and Procedures

Administrative Responsibilities

• Complete all registration forms accurately and on time
• Pay fees promptly as required
• Provide current emergency contact information
• Notify league staff of any relevant medical conditions
• Follow all facility rules and policies

Safety and Health

• Ensure your child is healthy enough to participate
• Keep your child home if they are sick or injured
• Provide any necessary medical documentation
• Report safety concerns immediately to league staff
• Support league safety protocols and procedures

Attendance and Commitment

• Make league games a priority in your family schedule
• Notify league staff if your child will miss games
• Understand that consistent attendance helps all players
• Support your child's commitment to their team

6. Prohibited Behaviors

Behaviors That May Result in Warnings

• Excessive criticism of players, referees, or staff
• Disruptive sideline behavior
• Failure to follow league policies
• Coaching from the sidelines
• Creating negative team or family dynamics

7. Consequences

Progressive Approach

We believe in working together to address concerns:

1. Discussion: Conversation with league staff about concerns
2. Warning: Formal warning and improvement expectations
3. Probation: Conditional continued participation
4. Suspension: Temporary removal from league activities
5. Expulsion: Permanent removal from the league

Impact on Families

We understand that consequences affect entire families. Our goal is always to find solutions that allow children to continue participating while addressing behavioral concerns.

8. Creating a Positive Environment

What You Can Do

• Model positive sportsmanship for all children
• Volunteer to help with league activities when possible
• Build friendships within the league community
• Share positive feedback about the league experience
• Help new families feel welcome and included

Remember Our Goals

• Every child should have fun and feel valued
• Skills and character development matter more than winning
• Positive relationships build stronger communities
• Your behavior influences your child's experience

9. Reporting and Resolution

If You Have Concerns

• Speak directly with league administrators
• Email your concerns for documentation
• Focus on specific behaviors rather than personalities
• Be open to hearing different perspectives
• Work together to find solutions

If Others Have Concerns About You

• Listen with an open mind
• Take responsibility for your actions
• Work with league staff to improve
• Focus on what's best for all children
• Use it as an opportunity for growth

10. Parent Commitment

Questions or Concerns?

We're here to support you and your family throughout your 3s League experience. If you have questions about this Code of Conduct or need assistance with anything, please reach out: