Northampton Girls Suburban Basketball (NGSB) and the Pioneer Valley Girls Suburban Basketball League abide by a strict Code of Conduct governing all coaches, players, officials and parents. The purpose of the Code is to ensure that all of those people associated with girls basketball in Northampton and in Western MA treat each other with dignity and respect.

The Code of Conduct is a condition of membership for all players, parents, coaches and officials. All members of NGSB agree to abide by the Code of Conduct and to be subjected to the consequences of violating the Code. It is understood that by enrolling into the NGSB program that players, parents and coaches are all bound by this Code of Conduct and its validity is hereby a matter of record and is not dependent upon physical signature.

All enforcement decisions made by the officials of NGSB are final and are not subject to review. No refunds will be granted to those players dismissed from the club for violating the Code of Conduct.

NGSB CODE OF CONDUCT

Parents

1. Teach and practice good sportsmanship at all games and practices. You are role models!

2. Know the rules of the game of basketball.

3. Respect the game of basketball. Respect the officials. Respect the coaches, who are volunteers.

4. Do not coach your child. Let players play and coaches coach, and support both positively.

5. Do not EVER criticize other players regardless of the circumstance.

6. Follow the "24 Hour Rule"; if you have a complaint resulting from a game (or practice) situation, speak with the coach on the following day.

7. If there is a serious problem, notify a member of the Board of Directors of NGSB.

8. Emphasize EFFORT and ATTITUDE  with your player. 

Players

1. Respect your teammates, coaches, referees and opponents at all times.

2. Give 100% effort at each practice and game.

3. Know the rules of the game of basketball and abide by them.

4. Support and encourage your teammates. Set a positive example.

5. Display good sportsmanship at all times on and off the court.

6. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; that's part of learning.

7. Learn from your coaches; practice hard; play smart; 

8. Be modest in victory and gracious in defeat.

9. Understand that you are teammates on and off the court.

Coaches

1. A coach is a role model, who must act with the highest moral character possible.

2. Coaches must reinforce the self-image of each player. A coach must be positive and constructive.

3. Respect the game of basketball. Respect the officials. Only the Head Coach Speaks with the Officials. The Head Coach is encouraged to “Huddle up” both officials & the head coach from the opposing team to establish rapport & good in game sportsmanship.

4. Teach the rules of basketball. Abide by those rules in practices and games.

5. Establish objectives for the team and players and inform them of team and individual goals.

6. Teach and practice good sportsmanship at all games and practices.

7. Be modest in victory and gracious in defeat.

All

1. Any conduct, including abusive language and/ or gestures, racially insensitive remarks, damage to property or belongings, or any other conduct that reflects poorly on yourself or NGSB is deemed to be unacceptable and will not be tolerated. This rule applies to all coaches, players, parents, siblings and guests at all times when in or around games or practices as a member of NGSB.

2. During a tournament or game when you are away, you represent the Town of Northampton and NGSB. Any conduct such as shoplifting, destruction of property, consumption of drugs or alcohol, or any other activity will not be tolerated. This rule applies for the entire time one is away for a game or tournament.

3. The Board of Directors of NGSB will deal with unacceptable conduct at its sole discretion, imposing warnings, suspension or expulsion, as it deems appropriate. ANY SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION BASED ON VIOLATIONS OF THE CODE OF CONDUCT WILL NOT BE ACCOMPANIED BY A TUITION REFUND. 

4. Team Commitment: We expect and encourage all of our athletes to play other sports during the rest of the year, as it both increases athletic development and, more importantly, adds to players’ enthusiasm for all of the sports they play.  But we do ask that during our relatively short season that where there are conflicts, you choose basketball over other sporting events. If you are not prepared to make basketball your priority you may be unintentionally preventing another young player from participating during the season. With limited roster spots for our developing program it is not fair to a player that is left off the roster because of current roster size limitation.

5. Communication: In order to encourage players to develop as young women, players should communicate directly with their coaches in-person regarding playing time, positions, team placement and suggestions for improvement/feedback.  An exception is for health issues such as allergies, asthma, ADD/ADHD, diabetes, etc., which parents should communicate directly with coaches if they feel the need.  All health issues will be kept strictly confidential.  If parents have issues with a coach, they should discuss those with the NGSB Board President or Vice President, after observing the 24-hour waiting period.  Please remember that all of our coaches are volunteers. Please respect their time and dedication to creating a fun, learning experience for all of our players.