Player and Parent Code of Conduct (Strathroy Minor Lacrosse)

The Strathroy Minor Lacrosse Association (SMLA) is committed to fostering a safe, positive, and respectful environment for all participants. This Code of Conduct outlines expectations for behavior and the disciplinary actions for violations. By signing this document, all parents and players agree to abide by the principles of sportsmanship, respect, and integrity.

1. Player Expectations:

I, as a player, agree to:

• Show respect to teammates, coaches, officials, and opponents at all times.

• Refrain from the use of abusive, offensive, or profane language.

• Play fairly, adhere to the rules of lacrosse, and always demonstrate good sportsmanship.

• Attend all practices and games on time and notify my coach if I am unable to attend.

• Take care of my equipment and respect the facilities provided for use.

• Avoid violence, bullying, or harassment of any kind.

• Follow all team and association policies.

2. Parent/Guardian Expectations:

I, as a parent/guardian, agree to:

• Encourage my child and their team positively and refrain from negative criticism.

• Show respect to all players, coaches, officials, and spectators.

• Refrain from yelling at, criticizing, or confronting referees, coaches, or players during games.

• Communicate any concerns privately and respectfully with the coach or board members.

• Ensure my child arrives at practices and games on time and is picked up promptly.

• Support my child’s commitment to teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

• Abide by all SMLA policies and decisions.

3. Acknowledgment of SMLA Policies:

Parents and players are required to review and understand the following policies available on the SMLA website:

• Playing Time Policy – Guidelines outlining fair play expectations and coach discretion.

• 24-Hour Rule – A policy ensuring respectful and constructive communication between parents and coaching staff.

• Harassment & Bullying Policy – Standards for maintaining a safe and inclusive environment within SMLA.

By signing this document, I acknowledge that I have reviewed these policies and will adhere to them throughout the season.

4. Disciplinary Process:

Violations of this Code of Conduct will be addressed in accordance with the following disciplinary levels:

Level 1 – Verbal Warning:

• A first-time minor offense will result in a verbal warning from the coach or association official.

Level 2 – Written Warning:

• Repeated or more serious offenses will result in a written warning and a meeting with the player/parent and an SMLA board representative.

Level 3 – Suspension:

• Continued violations or severe misconduct (e.g., violence, bullying, abuse of officials) may result in suspension from games and/or practices, as determined by the SMLA disciplinary committee.

Level 4 – Expulsion:

• Extreme or repeated violations may result in removal from the team or SMLA activities for the remainder of the season or permanently.

Decisions regarding discipline will be made at the discretion of the SMLA board and may involve consultation with Zone 7 and Ontario Lacrosse Association officials where applicable.