The Code of Conduct is a condition of participation for all players, coaches and parents. All member organizations of PCLA
agree to abide by the Code of Conduct and to be subjected to the consequences of violating the Code. By
participating in a sanctioned PCLA program, players, coaches parents are all bound by this Code of
Conduct.

All enforcement decisions made by the Directors of PCLA are final and are not subject to review. No
refunds will be granted to those players dismissed from any team for violating the Code of Conduct.
The Piedmont Community Lacrosse Association (PCLA) abides by a strict Code of Conduct governing all
players, coaches and parents. Players, parents, and spectators are to conduct themselves in a manner that 'Honors the
Game" and demonstrates respect to other players, coaches, officials, parents and spectators. In becoming
a member of the lacrosse community an individual assumes certain obligations and responsibilities to the game
of lacrosse and its participants.

The essential elements in this Code of Conduct are HONESTY and INTEGRITY. Those who conduct
themselves in a manner that reflects these elements will bring credit to the sport of lacrosse, themselves, their
team, and their organization. The safety and welfare of the players are of primary importance.
All game and practice facilities, including parking lots, are alcohol, drug and weapon free zones. The
Directors of PCLA will deal with unacceptable conduct at its sole discretion, imposing warnings, suspension,
or expulsion, as it deems appropriate.

• I will coach with the goal of creating a positive learning experience for all athletes. Winning games is secondary to building a positive youth sports experience for my players, parents of my players, and opposing teams.

• I will follow all safety protocols of the league.

• I will under no circumstances engage in an argument with a referee or official. Any discussions or conversations with officials or referees will be in a respectful tone.

• I will treat opposing coaches and athletes with respect.

• I will report any violations of the code of conduct by parents, athletes, or other coaches to the league or PCLA Directors.

Parents-

1. Teach and practice good sportsmanship at all games and practices. You are role models!
2. Know the rules of the game of lacrosse.
3. Respect the game of lacrosse. 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.
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 either the Director of your program or a PCLA Director.
8. Emphasize the FUN of the game and the team, putting forth effort at all times, not wins and losses.

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 lacrosse and abide by them.
4. Support and encourage your teammates. Set a positive example.
5. Wear the required equipment at all games and practices, and keep your equipment well maintained.
6. Display good sportsmanship at all times on and off the field.
7. Don't be afraid to make mistakes; that's part of learning.
8. Learn from your coaches; practice hard; play smart; Have Fun!
9. Be modest in victory and gracious in defeat.

All-

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 the PCLA is deemed to be unacceptable and will not be tolerated. This rule applies to all players, parents, siblings and guests at all times when in or around games or practices as a member of the PCLA.

During a tournament or game when you are away, you represent your team and PCLA. Any conduct such as destruction of property or any other activity will not be tolerated. This rule applies for the entire time one is away for a game or tournament.

All game and practice facilities, including parking lots, are alcohol and drug free zones.

The Directors of PCLA will deal with unacceptable conduct at its sole discretion, imposing warnings, suspension or expulsion, as it deems appropriate. 

“Honoring the Game” is a Positive Coaching Alliance principle about sportsmanship encouraging leaders, coaches, parents and athletes to respect all aspects of their sport. The ROOTS of Honoring the Game is an acronym which stands for better respecting: Rules, Opponents, Officials, Teammates and Self.

Rules
The rules of a sport have been developed and modified for a reason. Rules keep the game fair, and they also keep athletes safe. Don’t try to work against the rules or bend them; respect the role they play in your sport.

Opponents
As you want respect, give respect to your opponents. As Jim Thompson suggests in his book, “fierce and friendly” opponents are what we should strive to be and have in competition.

Officials
Officials are doing the best they can to enforce the rules and maintain a safe environment for play. They are people too, doing the best they can, and there is never an excuse for disrespecting officials.

Teammates
Make your teammates proud by doing the best you can (on and off the field) and by supporting them in all their efforts.

Self
Finally, and most importantly, you have to respect yourself in order to uphold an honorable approach to sports. Set high standards and live up to them.