NASA MARS LEAGUE CODE OF CONDUCT
The purpose of the MARS for softball club is to provide a safe, fun, and competitive environment for all participants. This Code of Conduct applies to all players, coaches, and spectators and is in effect for all league activities, including games, practices, and events. By participating, you agree to abide by the following standards of behavior.
- General Sportsmanship
- Respect for all participants: All individuals must treat players, coaches, umpires, league officials, and spectators with respect at all times.
- Positive attitude: Maintain a positive attitude, whether winning or losing. Respectfully handle victories and accept defeats with grace.
- Acknowledge opponents: Shake hands or tap gloves with the opposing team after each game as a sign of mutual respect.
- Positive environment: Work together to foster a positive and inclusive environment, free from discrimination of any kind.
- Player and Coach Expectations
- Abide by the rules: Know and follow all league rules and regulations, including standard USA Softball rules and any specific league modifications.
- Accept official decisions: Umpires and league staff are in charge of the game. All decisions must be accepted without argument or sarcastic comments. Only team managers should discuss an official’s decision, and only in a respectful manner.
- Safety first: Refrain from any actions that could endanger the safety of other players, umpires, or spectators, such as unnecessary rough tactics or intentionally throwing equipment.
- No illegal substances: The use of illegal drugs or products is strictly prohibited on or near the field of play.
- Timeliness: Arrive on time for all games and notify your coach in advance if you cannot attend.
- Prohibited Conduct
The following actions will not be tolerated and are subject to disciplinary action by the league:
Verbal abuse: Any use of abusive, vulgar, or profane language directed at players, coaches, officials, or spectators.
- Harassment: Harassment or bullying of any kind, whether in-person, through social media, or other forms of communication.
- Physical violence: Pushing, shoving, striking, or threatening any individual is grounds for immediate and serious penalties.
- Unsportsmanlike conduct: Includes taunting, baiting, or ridiculing opponents and disrespectful gestures or actions.
- Cheating: Deliberately breaking the rules, falsifying rosters, or using illegal equipment.
- Intoxication: Appearing on league property in an intoxicated state.
- Vandalism: Intentional damage to any park or league property.
- Spectator Expectations
- Positive support: Spectators must act as positive role models and support their team, without demeaning or criticizing opponents.
- Respect officials: Accept the decisions of umpires and league staff without verbal abuse or dissent.
- Accountability: Teams are responsible for the conduct of their associated spectators. Improper spectator behavior may result in penalties for the affiliated team.
- Disciplinary Actions
Violations of this Code of Conduct will be handled by the league’s disciplinary committee and may result in:
- Warnings: A verbal or written warning may be issued for minor infractions.
- Ejection: Players, coaches, or spectators may be ejected from a game or facility. Ejection may lead to an automatic suspension from subsequent games.
- Suspension: Individuals may be suspended from one or more games, or for the remainder of the season, depending on the severity of the offense.
- Expulsion: Repeated or severe violations may result in permanent removal from the league.
- Appeals: The league may outline an appeals process for disciplinary actions, though the league director’s decision is typically final.