Coach's Code
The Arlington Softball Baseball League Coach’s Code enumerates basic requirements, organized under four principles. They are: Setting a good example; keeping players safe; ensuring that all participants in Arlington Softball Baseball League have a positive experience; and relating to game umpires in an exemplary manner and encouraging players to do the same.
1. Setting a good example
The coach’s example is powerful. If a coach insists on fair play, concentrates on players' enjoyment of the game and their overall, long-term development, and supports the umpire, players and parents will notice. If a coach discourages (or allows) players to play outside the rules, are overly concerned about the results, and/or criticize the umpire or opposing coach, players and parents will also notice. Above all, children deserve a coach they can respect.
- Coaches, in all contact with Arlington Softball Baseball League players, parents, officials and coaches, should strive to set an example of the highest ethical and moral conduct. Before, during, and after the game, they should be an example of dignity, patience and positive spirit.
- Before games, opposing coaches should meet and exchange greetings to set the proper tone for the game. After games, the teams and coaches should meet and congratulate each other in a sportsmanlike manner.
- Coaches should ensure that their players’ baseball experience is one of fun and enjoyment, and improvement in skill (winning is only part of it). Players should never be yelled at, lectured or ridiculed for making mistakes or losing a game. Coaches should be generous with praise when it is deserved.
- Coaches should avoid any conduct which could be construed as physically or verbally abusive.
- Coaches should completely refrain from verbal dissent during a game with an opposing coach.
- Coaches should honor all professional relationships with colleagues, associations, umpires, and the public. Conflicts of interest and exploitation of these relationships must be avoided.
2. Keeping players safe
Coaches should have the safety of the players in their charge as their first priority at all times. Coaches should be familiar with the facility(ies) and fields on which their teams practice and play. Coaches should be mindful of the levels of fitness and skill of each one of their players. Coaches should also be familiar with the Rules of the Game, current with principles of age-appropriate coaching, aware of applicable existing rules and regulations, and informed of the affairs of Arlington softball Baseball League.
- Coaches should check players’ equipment and playing facilities frequently. They should meet safety standards and be appropriate for the age and ability of players.
- Coaches should follow the advice of a physician when determining when an injured player is ready to play again. During a game, and in an absence of medical advice, coaches should err on the side of caution in permitting an injured player to return to play.
3. Creating a positive experience
Arlington Softball Baseball League wishes to ensure that games are fair, positive and enjoyable experiences for the children and adults involved. A game should be friendly and unifying - a spirited social and athletic occasion for players, coaches, umpires, and spectators.
- Coaches should require all players and spectators to adhere to the highest level of sportsmanship at all times. During the game, the coach is responsible for the sportsmanship of the players. If a player is disrespectful, irresponsible or overly aggressive, the coach should remove the player from the game at least long enough for him/her to calm down. Coaches should explain acceptable behavior to players and parents at a preseason meeting. Encourage parents to make positive comments about good play by either team. Prohibit them from yelling at players and the umpire.
4. Relating to officials
Coaches should demonstrate respect for the umpire and his/her role. Coaches can help umpires improve by letting them concentrate on the game, accepting their inevitable, occasional mistakes, and offering constructive post- game comments.
- Before a game, coaches should introduce themselves to the umpire. During the game, they should address the umpire only as needed to continue play. After the game, they should thank the umpire and ask players to do the same.
- A small disagreement should be discussed with the umpire calmly after the game. For major complaints, or if the umpire appeared to be unfair, biased, unfit, or incompetent, report opinions to the ASBL Board.