SMBA Athlete Code Of Conduct Policy

Purpose

1. The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to ensure a safe and positive environment (within SMBA programs, activities, and events) by making all individuals aware that there is an expectation, at all times, of appropriate behaviour.
2. Sackville Minor Basketball Association (SMBA) is committed to providing an environment in which all individuals are treated with respect. Individuals are expected to conduct themselves at all times in a manner that shows integrity, respect and fairness to all. Disrespect toward anyone will not be  tolerated.
3. Conduct that violates this Code of Conduct may be subject to sanctions from the SMBA, Basketball Nova Scotia, or Canada Basketball.

Application of this Code

1. This Code of Conduct applies to conduct that may arise during the course of SMBA business, activities, and events, including but not limited to: competitions, practices, training camps, tryouts, travel, and any meetings of the SMBA.
2. This Code of Conduct also applies to the conduct of individuals that may occur outside of the SMBA’s business, activities, events, and meetings when such conduct adversely affects relationships within the SMBA and is detrimental to the image and reputation of the SMBA.

As an athlete with SMBA, I understand that I will be representing my family as well as the SMBA and will abide by the following SMBA Athlete Code of Conduct:

1. I will play by the MBANS league rules and abide by my own team’s rules.
2. I will participate for my own enjoyment and benefit, not just to please my parents and coaches.
3. I will learn the value of commitment by participating in as many practices and games as I can. I am expected to show up to practices with my team and not just games.
4. I will work equally hard for myself and my team. My team’s performances will benefit and so will I.
5. I will be a good sport and show respect at all times to other athletes, coaches, officials, opponents, and parents at every game and practice, no matter win or lose.
6. I will never argue with an official. If I need clarification, I will wait for my coach to approach the official during a break.
7. I will make every effort to acknowledge my opponents and officials. (e.g. shake hands before or after the game, say “thanks for the game”, etc.)
8. I will not engage in harassment towards teammates, coaches, members of opposing teams or officials. Harassment is any action that has the purpose or effect of violating an individual’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for that person. The test for harassment is whether the person knew or should have known that the comments or conduct were unwelcome to the other person (i.e. someone may make it clear through their conduct or body language that the behaviour is unwelcome, in which case the behaviour should stop immediately).  Examples include (but are not limited to):
   1. Written or verbal abuse, threats, or outbursts, gossiping, spreading malicious rumors
   2. Repeated unwelcome remarks, jokes, comments, innuendo, or taunts
   3. Leering or other suggestive or obscene gestures
   4. Condescending or patronizing behaviour which is intended to undermine self-esteem, diminish performance or adversely affect working/playing conditions
   5. Practical jokes which endanger a person’s safety, or may negatively affect performance
   6. Deliberately excluding or ignoring someone, including persistent exclusion of a particular person from team related social gatherings
   7. Hazing
   8. Unwanted physical contact including, but not limited to, touching, pinching, or kissing
   9. Persistent sexual flirtations, advances, requests, or invitations
   10. Physical or sexual assault
   11. Bullying
   12. Displaying or circulating offensive pictures, photographs or materials in printed or electronic form
   13. Behaviours such as those described above that are not directed towards a specific person or group but have the same effect of creating a negative or hostile environment
   14. Retaliation or threats of retaliation against a person who reports harassment
9. I will play fair by not deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent. (including no “trash talking”, making inappropriate gestures or inappropriate non-game contact, etc.)
10. I will respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background or religion.

I will commit to this SMBA Athlete Code of Conduct. I understand that players not following this SMBA Athlete Code of Conduct are subject to various remediation processes which may include but is not limited to the following:

• Issuance of a verbal warning for first minor offenses
• Written warning for second minor offense
• Single or multi-event suspensions for ongoing offenses or more serious violations
• Season and/or league suspensions for grave and detrimental violations

Any of these actions must be first discussed with the player, parent and an SMBA Executive Member.

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