NAYB Coaches Code Of Conduct

Revised: January 2023 RG

NAYB is concerned about the conduct of all coaches, officials, players and fans during practices and games at all levels. NAYB wants to ensure that games are fair, positive and an enjoyable experience for all children and adults involved. The games should be friendly and unifying – a spirited social and athletic occasion for players, coaches, officials, and spectators.

NAYB expects all coaches to conform to this code of conduct. Coaches are to adhere to this code at all times when coaches are with their players such as games, practices or field trips.

1. First and foremost, as coach it is your responsibility to ensure that you create a positive environment of learning, fun and reinforcement.
2. The coach will treat all his/her Players fairly, and with respect at all times.
3. The coach will communicate his/her expectations to the players and their parents as clearly, consistently, and as early as possible.
4. The coach is expected to advise parents and/or guardians of the players on his/her team to be timely and responsible in dropping off and picking up their children for all practices and games. NAYB wants to ensure the safety of all children in the program at all times.
5. The coach is to be an example of dignity, patience, and positive spirit before, during and after the Game.
6. Before the game, introduce yourself to the opposing coaches and to the umpires.
7. The coach is responsible for the sportsmanship of the players during the game. If one of your players is disrespectful, irresponsible, or overly aggressive, take the player out of the game at least long enough for him/her to calm down.
8. The coach is also responsible for the conduct of the parents of his/her players during the game. It is imperative to explain acceptable player and parent behavior in a preseason meeting. Encourage parents to applaud and cheer good plays by either team. Clearly, forcefully, and directly discourage them from being derisive toward officials or opposing players.
9. The coach is responsible for the conduct of spectators rooting for his/her team during the game.
10. During the game, the coach will not address the official(s) of the game inappropriately. If there is an issue or dispute, discuss it with the official calmly and patiently. If the complaint is unresolved, or if the coach thinks the official was unfair, biased, unfit or incompetent, the coach should report his/her opinion in writing to the league commissioner. The coach’s reactions will be considered seriously if they are presented objectively.
11. After the game, thank the umpires, opposing players, and coaches. Ask your players to do the same.
12. Coaches are required to familiarize themselves with NAYB by-laws pertinent to their responsibilities and to adhere to the requirements of those by-laws and to conduct all practices and games in strict conformance with the NAYB published playing requirements and related guidelines.

The example of a coach is powerful. If you insist on fair play, support the officials, and focus on the Players’ enjoyment of the game and their overall long-term development, your players and their parents will notice.

Coaches who do not follow the expectations described above will be disciplined or removed in accordance with NAYB by-laws.

Link to Printable Document HERE