Code of Conduct

STRATHMORE AND DISTRICT MINOR BASEBALL (SMBA)

CODE OF CONDUCT - 2025

Purpose

This Code of Conduct applies to everyone involved with Strathmore and District Minor Baseball — including players, parents, coaches, officials, volunteers, and board members.
Our goal is to provide a safe, respectful, and positive baseball environment for all participants.

Sections

1. SMBA Etiquette

2. Code of Conduct - Organization

3. Code of Conduct - Board Members

4. Code of Conduct - Players

5. Code of Conduct - Coaches

6. Code of Conduct - Parents

1. SMBA Etiquette

SMBA exists to promote the love of baseball while teaching sportsmanship, teamwork, commitment, and competition.
Our goal is to build confident athletes and strong community leaders — both on and off the field.

We believe baseball helps develop character, discipline, and respect. Through guidance and leadership, SMBA helps youth grow into responsible, respectful, and resilient individuals.

2. Code of Conduct - Organization

SMBA is committed to an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect.
We expect all members to act in a way that reflects SMBA’s values and spirit of sportsmanship.

Members may face discipline for any of the following:

• Ignoring SMBA rules, policies, or Baseball Alberta guidelines

• Disrespecting players, coaches, officials, spectators, or sponsors

• Using foul language, obscene gestures, or showing poor sportsmanship

• Damaging property, equipment, or facilities

• Using alcohol, tobacco, or vaping at youth events

• Using or possessing illegal drugs

• Any behavior that discredits SMBA or the sport of baseball

SMBA’s Discipline Policy applies to all incidents and takes precedence where necessary.

3. Code of Conduct - Board Members

As an SMBA Board Member, I agree to:

• Respect the opinions of fellow board members

• Keep internal discussions confidential

• Support board decisions once made

• Participate actively and stay informed

• Represent the interests of all members, not just individual groups

• Declare conflicts of interest when appropriate

• Conduct myself professionally and ethically at all times

• Avoid speaking publicly on behalf of SMBA unless authorized

• Protect and promote SMBA’s reputation, programs, and financial health

4. Code of Conduct - Players

As a player representing SMBA, I agree to:

1. Respect coaches and team staff.
   They volunteer their time — I’ll listen, learn, and follow direction.

2. Respect teammates, opponents, and officials.
   No insults, bullying, or negative comments.

3. Never use physical aggression or threats.
   Zero tolerance for violence or intimidation.

4. Play with good sportsmanship.
   Compete hard, play fair, and represent SMBA with pride.

5. Give my best effort and have fun.
   I’ll contribute positively to my team and enjoy the game.

5. Code of Conduct - Coaches

Coaches shape athletes’ confidence and character. SMBA coaches are expected to lead by example and promote a safe, positive, and inclusive environment.

As an SMBA coach, I agree to:

• Schedule practices and games reasonably, recognizing family and school priorities

• Teach respect for the rules, teammates, opponents, and officials

• Give all players fair instruction, encouragement, and appropriate playing time

• Focus on skill development and confidence, not just winning

• Use positive reinforcement — never ridicule or yell at players for mistakes

• Ensure facilities and equipment are safe and suitable

• Continue learning and improving my coaching skills

• Model respect and good sportsmanship at all times

6. Code of Conduct - Parents

Parents are key partners in making SMBA a positive experience for all players.

As an SMBA parent/guardian, I agree to:

• Not force my child to participate — baseball should be fun and voluntary

• Inform the coach of any physical disability, injury, or medical condition that may affect safety

• Encourage my child to play for fun and personal growth — not pressure to win

• Be a positive role model through respect, courtesy, and good sportsmanship

• Never use profanity, insults, or unsportsmanlike behavior toward anyone

• Communicate respectfully with coaches — never during a game or in anger

• Respect officials’ authority and accept their decisions

• Refrain from sideline coaching unless I am an official coach

• Promote a drug-, tobacco-, and alcohol-free environment at youth events

• Praise effort, teamwork, and fair play

• Support a safe and encouraging atmosphere for all athletes

Failure to Comply

If a parent, guardian, or family member fails to follow the above expectations, SMBA may take action under the Discipline Policy, including:

• Verbal or written warnings

• Temporary game suspension

• Season suspension or removal from SMBA events

Acknowledgment

I have read and agree to follow the Strathmore and District Minor Baseball Code of Conduct.

Name: _________________________________________
Signature: ______________________________________
Date: ___________________________

Revision History