Strathroy Minor Lacrosse Association (SMLA) - Parent Code of Conduct
As a parent or guardian of a player in the Strathroy Minor Lacrosse Association (SMLA), you play a vital role in supporting your child's lacrosse experience. By abiding by this Code of Conduct, you help ensure a positive, respectful, and safe environment for all participants.
Parent Responsibilities:
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Support and Sportsmanship
Ensure that your child adheres to the rules of lacrosse, the policies of SMLA, and principles of good sportsmanship. Your support helps make their lacrosse experience enjoyable, rewarding, and positive.
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Respect for All Participants
Ensure your child shows respect toward teammates, coaches, referees, opponents, and all other participants in SMLA games, practices, and association activities. Mutual respect fosters a welcoming and safe environment for everyone.
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Safe and Respectful Behavior
Ensure that your child conducts themselves in a manner that minimizes the risk of physical or psychological injury to themselves and others. This includes refraining from making derogatory comments or engaging in any behavior that targets another individual’s race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.
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Constructive Criticism
Refrain from publicly criticizing SMLA volunteers, coaches, team officials, referees, teammates, or opponents. If you believe criticism is necessary, please address it respectfully through proper channels, away from the lacrosse floor and in a constructive manner.
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Respectful Communication
Refrain from making insulting, intimidating, humiliating, hurtful, or malicious comments toward anyone involved in SMLA games or activities. If criticism is warranted, it must be delivered respectfully and through the appropriate channels.
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Support for Teammates and Coaches
Avoid discussing the weaknesses or shortcomings of players or coaching staff with your child. Such discussions undermine team morale and negatively impact the overall environment.
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Familiarity with SMLA Policies
Take time to familiarize yourself with, and comply with, all policies and procedures established by SMLA. This ensures that both you and your child are aligned with the organization’s expectations.
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Abide by the 24-Hour Rule
Familiarize yourself with and abide by our 24-Hour Rule, which encourages a 24-hour waiting period before addressing concerns related to lacrosse activities with coaches, officials, or staff. This allows time for emotions to settle and for a more productive discussion.
Disciplinary Action for Violations:
Parents or guardians who fail to abide by the Parent Code of Conduct may face disciplinary action. The severity of the action will be based on the nature of the violation and may include:
- Verbal Warning: For first-time, minor infractions, the parent/guardian will be issued a verbal warning.
- Written Warning: For repeated or more serious violations, a written warning will be issued.
- Temporary Suspension: In cases of continued non-compliance or more serious infractions, the parent/guardian may be temporarily suspended from attending games or practices.
- Permanent Release: If a parent/guardian fails to comply with the Code of Conduct despite warnings or their behavior severely impacts the team, their child may be suspended or permanently released from the association. A refund will be issued according to SMLA’s Refund Policy.
Commitment to a Positive Environment
By adhering to the Parent Code of Conduct, you contribute to maintaining a positive, respectful, and safe environment for all involved in the SMLA. We thank you for your commitment to these values and your support of youth lacrosse.