Coaches Code of Conduct

Updated 8/9/2024

As a coach, you play a crucial role in shaping the athletic experience and overall development of young athletes. Your actions and behavior set the standard for players, parents, and the broader community. This Code of Conduct is designed to ensure that coaches promote a positive, safe, and respectful environment where players can thrive both on and off the field. By adhering to these guidelines, you help foster a love for the game, build character, and create lasting, positive memories for all involved.

1. Player Development
• Prioritize the development of players' skills, character, and sportsmanship over winning games.
• Focus on building self-esteem and confidence in each player, encouraging them to reach their full potential.

2. Respect and Integrity
• Treat all players, parents, officials, and opposing teams with respect and dignity.
• Refrain from using abusive, offensive, or profane language.
• Serve as a positive role model, demonstrating fairness, honesty, and integrity in all interactions.

3. Safety First
• Ensure a safe environment for all players by following proper safety guidelines for practice and games.
• Be attentive to the physical and emotional well-being of players and address any concerns immediately.

4. Teamwork, Sportsmanship, and Respect
• Foster a sense of teamwork and collaboration among players.
• Teach and model good sportsmanship, emphasizing respect for the game, opponents, and fans.
• Encourage players to support each other, celebrating successes and learning from mistakes together.
• Show respect for umpires and league officials, accepting their decisions without argument and modeling this behavior for the players. Address any concerns with umpires in a calm and respectful manner.

5. Communication
• Maintain open and respectful communication with players, parents, and league officials.
• Address any concerns or conflicts promptly and professionally.
• Provide clear instructions and constructive feedback to help players improve.

6. Commitment and Responsibility
• Be punctual and prepared for all practices, games, and meetings.
• Set clear expectations for players regarding attendance, effort, and behavior.
• Take responsibility for the team’s conduct on and off the field.

7. Fair Play
• Ensure that all players receive equitable playing time, consistent with their development and team goals.
• Avoid favoritism or bias in all decisions and interactions with players.
• Adhere to the rules and spirit of the game, avoiding any actions that could be considered cheating or unsportsmanlike.

8. No Alcohol, Tobacco, or Drug Use
• Abstain from the use of alcohol, tobacco, vaping and illegal drugs during practices and games.
• Set a positive example for players by promoting a healthy and drug-free lifestyle.
• Understand that the use of these substances can result in immediate disciplinary action, including suspension or removal from coaching duties.

9. Parental Engagement
• Encourage positive and supportive involvement from parents.
• Communicate team goals, schedules, and expectations clearly to parents.
• Handle any parental concerns with respect and in accordance with league policies or refer to Commissioner, VP, President or Board Member for assistance.

10. Compliance with League Rules
• Follow all rules and regulations set forth by the league and governing bodies.
• Participate in required trainings, certifications, and meetings.
• Report any incidents of misconduct, abuse, or violations of the code of conduct to the appropriate authorities.


PCAA also asks all players, parents and coaches to demonstrate good sportsmanship and maintain a positive attitude while participating in our programs.

We believe mutual respect between players, coaches, parents and umpires forms the foundation of a fun environment for learning and friendly competition.

Swearing or foul language is prohibited during PCAA games and practices.

Umpires should NOT be spoken to beyond “small talk” unless within an official coaching or score keeping capacity.

Parents and players are prohibited from addressing the umpire in an unsportsmanlike or disrespectful manner. Failure to follow this rule will result in parents or players being ejected and removed from the sports facility.

Coaches are allowed to calmly discuss a call with an umpire who is willing to have that conversation but when possible this should happen in between innings.

Any dugout chanting or chatter should only be directed at teammates and be in the utmost positive light. Failure to follow this rule will result in that team’s forfeit and immediate cancellation of the game.

If there is an injury on the field all players should be instructed to “take a knee” until play is resumed.