Discipline Policy


STRATHMORE AND DISTRICT MINOR BASEBALL (SMBA)

DISCIPLINE POLICY - 2025 UPDATE

Note

This policy applies to all members and participants of Strathmore and District Minor Baseball (SMBA) — including athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, directors, officers, team managers, captains, administrators, and the Executive Council.


PREAMBLE

  1. Strathmore and District Minor Baseball (SMBA) is committed to promoting the growth of amateur baseball in Strathmore and surrounding areas while fostering a positive, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants.

  2. Membership with SMBA brings both privileges and responsibilities. All members must comply with SMBA’s Code of Conduct, policies, and the regulations of Baseball Alberta.

  3. The SMBA Code of Conduct outlines the expected standard of behavior. Failure to meet these expectations may result in disciplinary action under this policy.


APPLICATION

  1. This policy applies to all SMBA members and participants, including athletes, coaches, officials, umpires, volunteers, and administrators.

  2. Incidents involving umpires will be addressed in cooperation with the relevant umpire organization and the Supervisor of Provincial Umpires, where applicable.

  3. This policy covers disciplinary matters occurring during all SMBA-related activities, including league games, tournaments, camps, practices, and official events.


DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

Minor Infractions

  1. Examples of minor infractions are listed in Appendix B. These situations will be handled by the person with direct authority (e.g., coach, manager, coordinator, or SMBA executive).

  2. Minor issues will be addressed informally, ensuring the individual understands the concern and has a chance to explain their side.

  3. Possible sanctions for minor infractions include:

    • Verbal or written reprimand

    • Verbal or written apology

    • Temporary removal from a game or practice

    • Team or volunteer service

    • Other reasonable actions deemed appropriate

  4. All minor infractions and resolutions should be recorded using the Incident Report Form in Appendix C, especially for repeat issues.


Major Infractions

  1. Examples of major infractions are listed in Appendix B. Any SMBA member may submit an Incident Report Formto the Executive Committee or Division Director (contact info available on the SMBA website).

  2. The Executive Committee will review the report and determine if the issue qualifies as a major infraction or can be addressed as a minor one.

  3. If deemed a minor infraction, it will be handled as outlined above.

  4. If deemed a major infraction, the alleged offender will be notified within three (3) days and informed of the next steps in the disciplinary process.

  5. Major incidents that occur during games or tournaments may be addressed immediately by an SMBA representative in authority. Temporary sanctions may be applied for the duration of the event, with a full review to follow.


Discipline Panel & Meeting

  1. Within three (3) days of receiving an incident report, the Executive Council will appoint a three-person Discipline Panel, ideally including one peer representative.

  2. The panel will hold a hearing within ten (10) days of receiving the report.

  3. Procedures:

  • The individual will receive written notice of the date, time, and location (or virtual link) of the meeting.

  • The individual will receive a copy of the report.

  • The meeting may be in-person or virtual.

  • The individual may bring a representative.

  • The meeting will be private.

  • Witnesses may attend or provide written statements.

  • All three panel members must be present; decisions are made by majority vote.

  1. The panel will issue a written decision within two (2) days of the meeting and share it with all relevant parties and the Executive Council.

  2. The panel may adjust timelines or procedures as needed for fairness and practicality.

  3. If the individual admits fault, a formal meeting may be waived and sanctions determined directly by the panel.

  4. If the individual declines to participate, the meeting will proceed in their absence.


SANCTIONS

  1. For major infractions, the Discipline Panel may impose one or more of the following sanctions:

  • Written reprimand

  • Formal apology

  • Game forfeiture

  • Suspension from specific events or activities

  • Financial penalty (amount determined by the panel)

  • Temporary or full suspension from SMBA activities

  • Permanent expulsion from SMBA

  • Other appropriate actions deemed necessary

  1. Sanctions may be combined or adjusted in line with other SMBA policies (e.g., harassment or substance use policies).

  2. Unless otherwise stated, sanctions take effect immediately.

  3. When determining sanctions, the panel may consider:

  • Severity of the incident

  • Past disciplinary history

  • Acknowledgment of responsibility and remorse

  • Age, maturity, and intent

  • Potential for behavioral improvement

  1. Any member convicted of a criminal offense involving sexual misconduct will be automatically suspended from SMBA for the duration of their court-imposed sentence and may face further disciplinary action under this policy.


REVISION HISTORY

RevisionDateSummary of Changes
1 Nov 12, 2023 Initial Document
2 Nov 15, 2023 Formatting Update (Payton)
3 Nov 11, 2025 Simplified and Updated for 2025 Readability

APPENDIX A - SMBA CODE OF CONDUCT SUMMARY

SMBA members are expected to:

  • Act respectfully toward all participants and officials.

  • Refrain from harassment, discrimination, or abuse.

  • Follow SMBA and Baseball Alberta rules.

  • Avoid unsportsmanlike behavior and misuse of alcohol or substances.

  • Conduct themselves in a way that upholds SMBA’s reputation both on and off the field.

Violations of these expectations are subject to disciplinary action under this policy.


APPENDIX B - INFRACTION EXAMPLES

Minor Infractions

  • One-time disrespectful or offensive comments

  • Unsportsmanlike conduct (e.g., arguing, angry outburst)

  • Being late or missing required events

  • Minor rule violations

Major Infractions

  • Repeated disrespectful or abusive behavior

  • Playing under false identity or falsifying records

  • Repeated unsportsmanlike behavior

  • Use of drugs, banned substances, or alcohol by minors

  • Actions endangering safety of others

  • Serious violations of Baseball Alberta or SMBA regulations


APPENDIX C - INCIDENT REPORT FORM

Date & Time of Incident:
Location:
Submitted By: (Name & Role)
Infraction Type: ? Minor ? Major

Individuals Involved:


Description of Incident:


Witnesses (if applicable):


Action Taken:


Signature: _____________________ Date: ___________

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