At Islip Youth Lacrosse, we believe that parental support is essential to the development, enjoyment, and success of our players and teams. To foster a positive, respectful, and enjoyable environment for everyone involved in our program, we kindly ask all parents to follow this Code of Conduct at games, practices, and other team events.

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1. Model Respectful Behavior‍

• Cheer positively for all players, coaches, and referees. Support all efforts to encourage good sportsmanship.

• Avoid any negative comments about players, coaches, or referees, whether on your own team or the opposing team.

• Show respect for the decisions of coaches and referees, and do not interfere with or question their judgment during or after games.

2. Support All Players and Teams

• Applaud effort, teamwork, and good sportsmanship in addition to skill and performance.

• Encourage all players, including those on opposing teams, to play hard and fair.

• Avoid directing any negative language or attitudes toward players, coaches, or spectators on the other team.

3. Promote a Safe and Positive Environment

• Refrain from any form of bullying, shouting, or aggressive behavior, whether directed at players, coaches, referees, or other parents.

• Never use foul language or gestures, and avoid overly emotional or disruptive reactions.

• Do not approach the field or sideline during games or practices unless asked to do so by a coach or referee.

4. Communicate Appropriately with Coaches and Staff

• Trust and respect the coaches’ expertise. If you have concerns or questions, discuss them privately with the coach at a scheduled time rather than during or immediately after a game or practice.

• Avoid coaching from the sidelines. Allow the coaching staff to manage the players and strategies.

• Respect any feedback or guidance offered by the coaches, and support them in helping players develop skills and sportsmanship.

5. Celebrate the Game and Its Lessons

• Remember that youth sports are about learning, personal development, and fun. Winning is secondary to fostering teamwork, resilience, and discipline.

• Reinforce that mistakes are a natural part of learning and that all players should be encouraged to try their best without fear of criticism.

• Celebrate both individual and team improvements, emphasizing personal effort and growth over scores or rankings.

6. Handle Conflict Constructively

• If any disputes or issues arise, address them through the appropriate channels within the organization and outside of the game environment.

• Maintain a respectful demeanor in any communication with other parents, coaches, referees, or staff.

7. Consequences for Violating the Code of Conduct

• Violations of this Code of Conduct may lead to warnings, discussions with coaches or league staff, or potential removal from the field or sidelines if behaviors do not align with our values.

• Repeated violations may result in further disciplinary actions, including suspension from attending games or other events.

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Commitment

By attending Islip Youth Lacrosse events, parents acknowledge and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct to support a positive experience for everyone involved in our community.

Thank you for your commitment to making Islip Youth Lacrosse a supportive, enjoyable, and respectful environment for all!

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