Introduction

Coaching a youth sport program such as Gap Church League Softball is a privilege that is not to be taken for granted. As a Coach, appointed by the GCL Board of Directors, you have an important role in the development of the young children in our community. We strive to teach each child the positive values of trust, good sportsmanship, good citizenship, responsibility, respect, fair play and teamwork – values they can use throughout their lives. Softball embodies the discipline of teamwork. They challenge players towards perfection of physical skills and bring into play the excitement of tactics and strategy. The very nature of softball also teaches that while every player eventually strikes out or is on a losing team, there is always another chance for success in the next at-bat or game. With this in mind, GCL expects each Coach to adhere to the following Code of Conduct:

Sportsmanship

1. I will promote good sportsmanship, teach good softball skills, and have fun in the process.
2. I realize, accept and will practice the principle that a team’s reputation is built not only on its playing ability, but also on its sportsmanship, courtesy and manners.
3. I understand that physical or verbal abuse of an official, coach, player, or spectator, including obscene gestures, will not be tolerated and that the offender may be removed from the fields at the discretion of an umpire or GCL board member.
4. I understand all discussions will be held in conversational tones. Under no circumstances will a coach, fan, or player yell at an umpire, coach, fan, or player. The lone exception to this rule is when a coach or player shouts to another coach or teammate during the course of a play as part of that play.
5. I understand profanity, tobacco, vapor products, alcoholic beverages and the use of illicit drugs are prohibited at all games and GCL events.

Rules and Policies

1. I will know and understand the rules and guidelines and abide by them. I will instruct my team members in the rules and coach my team in such a way as to motivate each player to compete according to the rules at all times.
2. I will fully comply with the Player/Parents Code of Conduct.

The Umpires and Other Resources

1. I recognize softball is a game of interpretations, and as a result, disputes will occur from time to time. However, it is important that players learn respect. All disputes that are taken up with the umpire will be handled in a civil manner. I understand only managers may initiate such discussions with an umpire. The managers/coaches will conduct themselves with decorum and once the umpire has made his/her final ruling, the managers will make no further field protest. Off-field protests may be lodged with the GCL.
2. I understand most of the umpires are “in training” as are the players. I recognize that all umpires will make mistakes occasionally, and as manager/coach, I will give the umpires the respect their position within the game deserves.
3. I will be responsible in caring for equipment, for keys delegated for my use, for care of fields prior to games and for cleaning up fields, dugouts and stands after games. I will make sure that all league- provided equipment is clean and accounted for when returned after the season.

The Parents and the League

1. I will maintain an open line of communication with players and their parents. I will be approachable. When approached by a parent to discuss any issue, I will interact and respond in a courteous manner.
2. I will understand and explain the philosophies, goals and objectives, and Codes of Conduct of the GCL (i.e. GCL is organized as a recreational league, meant for the enjoyment of all the players).
3. I will ensure that fans of the team conduct themselves with sportsmanship and maturity at all times while in attendance at game sites and will assist the officials in maintaining control of spectators during games. I will make sure that coaches and players are the only persons allowed in the dugout during a game.

The Team

1. I will conduct practices in an organized manner, with a planned agenda that focuses on specific skill development appropriate for the skill level of the players.
2. I will focus on providing instruction commensurate with players abilities so all players have the opportunity to advance their skills towards their full potential, gain confidence and develop self-esteem, as well as establish a solid foundation for further softball competition.
3. I will teach each player, especially through personal example, to be humble and generous in victory and proud and courteous in defeat.
4. I understand that managers/coaches are appointed by the league to be responsible for the team’s actions on the field and to represent the team in communications with the umpires, opposing teams and league. If a manager/coach leaves the field, he shall designate a coach as a substitute who will then be responsible and held accountable for the manager’s duties.

Non-Game Duties of Coaches

Each coach has considerable duties outside of coordinating practices and managing the games. Accordingly, if I am a coach, I will adhere to the following as well:

1. I will attend all required coaches meetings unless I am out of town or have a significant previously made commitment. If I cannot attend, I will ensure that one of my assistant coaches attends on my behalf.
2. I understand that I am the point of contact between my team and other teams and the GCL Board Of Directors. I will take my obligation seriously.
3. I will complete, obtain, and submit to the GCL all required paperwork.