Sportsmanship: Good sportsmanship is the core of any successful youth sport and the lesson of good sportsmanship is one of the most important skills our youth learn through participation. Just as the many physical skills of any sport must be learned, developed and practiced, and also must the skill of sportsmanship. Your help in instituting and abiding good sportsmanship is greatly appreciated.

Players or Parents/Spectators practicing any conduct, physical or verbal, which infringes upon the enjoyment of the game by another either on the opposing team or a team member will be subject to immediate game suspension. If further disciplinary action is needed, the HYC Board Members will discuss and decide on disciplinary action that will be enforced. There will be no warnings and no appeals.

There should be a team/individual handshake at the end of every game and any unsportsmanlike comments or actions will result in suspensions.

The Role of the Parent/Guardian

As a parent, it is important to note that your reactions following a game will have a lot to do with the way in which your child enjoys the activity. The following are some guidelines on being an effective youth sports parent:

1. Support your child regardless of their success

2. Encourage your child to learn

3. Attend your child’s game whenever possible

4. Keep in mind the goals/objectives of the program

5. Don’t undermine the coach

6. Lend support to the team and coach

7. Have patience with your child and their teammates

8. Have your child properly dressed, ready for play and on time for all activities

Responsibilities as a Spectator

The following are the do’s and don’ts of the parent/guardian/etc. as a spectator:

The Do’s:

1. Do cheer for your team

2. Do show interest, enthusiasm and support for your child

3. Do be in control of your emotions

4. Do help when asked by parent volunteer or officials when possible

The Don’t s:

1. Don’t enter playing areas during games unless advised

2. Don’t advise the volunteer coach on what to do (suggestions can be made in private after the game)

3. Don’t try to “coach” your child during the game

4. Don’t make derogatory comments to players, parents, volunteers or officials

5. Don’t drink alcohol at games or come to watch games intoxicated

Additional Information