Parents play a crucial role in the success and enjoyment of the players and are absolutely vital to the development of young athletes. Whether sitting in the stands or helping out as volunteers, parents must always set a positive example. Parents and adults involved in youth sports should be models of good sportsmanship and lead by example both on and off the playing field.
The quality and integrity of Westside Baseball/Softball does not solely rely upon any one single participant, coach, player, or spectator. Therefore, it is important that everyone understands the goals and boundaries that have been established and set forth by WBRBS. Having a “contract” helps us communicate these goals and boundaries to everyone involved in our organization. We aim to provide an environment of positive Sportsmanship for our players, visiting opponents, and families.
The following guidelines have been set forth to establish how we will act together as "The Westside Baseball/Softball Family”:
- Children have enough to worry about and baseball/softball is a place to have a great time while promoting teamwork, commitment, good sportsmanship, hard work, and discipline. Therefore, together we will aim to make this both a positive and fun experience for your child!
- Actions speak louder than words. Your child is watching you and listening to you.
- Always be respectful and courteous to all players, other parents and coaches. If there is a problem that needs to be resolved, please calmly approach and discuss it with the coach.
- Do not only congratulate and encourage your own player and team, but also the opponent. It goes a long way in teaching your child good sportsmanship.
- Remember that mistakes happen often in youth sports. Accept the decisions of officials on the field as being fair and called to their best ability. Do not “beg” or “suggest” calls to them. Criticizing the officials, coaches, opponents, or other fans will NOT be tolerated.
- Only players, coaches, and dugout parents are allowed in the dugouts and on the fields. No exceptions! Parents must stay off the field and remain under control in order to set a good example for players and other spectators.
- Leave the coaching to the coaches. Support your coach and refrain from excessive “coaching” from the stands. Please refrain from making suggestions to players or coaches during games or practices. If you would like to coach next season, please volunteer.
- Show your support for the coaches, players and officials and help teach your child the value of commitment to the teams, sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and fair play.
- Please refrain from rude and/or inappropriate behavior. Abusive language or cursing will NOT be tolerated. Keep all comments positive. Inappropriate behavior is cause for immediate ejection from the stands. Repeat offenses will result in being barred from future games and league sponsored activities. Parents will NOT encourage their child or any other person to engage in unsportsmanlike conduct with any coach, parent, player, participant, official, or any other attendee. We have set procedures in place to deal with all incidents.
- Give constructive criticism to your child during a private moment- never in front of other parents, players, officials, spectators, etc.
- Your child needs to learn that he is part of a team. That includes being at the practices and games a little bit early and making sure they are prepared mentally, physically, emotionally and dressed and ready to go with their full equipment.
- Whenever it is possible, help out with your child’s team. It can be another way to get close to your child and they love it! When they see you involved, they will really know that you care and are there to support them.
- No alcoholic beverages on or near any fields or parking areas.
- You are responsible for any and all family members and/or friends attending practices and/or games to watch your child. Please make them aware of how “we” as a “Westside Baseball/Softball Family” behave.
- Report any violations of these guidelines to any Head Coach or WBRBS board member. Get involved!
- Individuals will be given one warning for inappropriate activity/ behavior.
- Individuals that continue will be asked to leave the fields and the player will be removed from the game or practice until the spectator has left.
- Other sanctions deemed necessary by the WBRBS board or coaching staff may be enforced, including a lifelong permanent ban from any participation.