Player's Code of Conduct

	Play for FUN!
	Work hard to improve your skills.
	Be a team player - get along with your teammates.
	Learn teamwork, sportsmanship and discipline.
	Be on time for practices and games.
	Learn the rules, and play by them. Always be a good sport.
	Respect your coach, your teammates, your parents, opponents and officials.
	Never argue with the official's decision.

	Do not force your children to participate in sports, but support their desires to play their chosen sport. Children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment. Make it fun.
	Encourage your child to play by the rules. Remember, children learn best by example, so applaud the good plays of both teams.
	Do not embarrass your child by yelling at players, coaches, or officials. By showing a positive attitude toward the game and all of its participants, your child will benefit.
	Emphasize skill development and practices and how they benefit your young athlete. De-emphasize games and competition in the lower age groups.
	Know and study the rules of the game, and support the officials on and off the court. This approach will help in the development and support of the game. Any criticism of the officials only hurts the game.
	Applaud a good effort in victory and in defeat and enforce the positive points of the game. Never yell or physically abuse your child after a game or practice - it is destructive. Work toward removing the physical and verbal abuse in youth sports.
	Recognize the importance of volunteer coaches. They are very important to the development of your child and the sport. Communicate with them and support them.
	If you enjoy the game, learn all you can about the game, and volunteer!

	Winning is a consideration, but not the only one, nor the most important one. Care more about the child than the winning of the game. Remember players are involved in basketball for fun and enjoyment.
	Be a positive role model to your players, display emotional maturity and be alert to the physical safety of players.
	Be generous with your praise when it is deserved; be consistent, honest; be fair and just; do not criticize players publicly; learn to be a more effective communicator and coach, don't yell at players.
	Adjust to personal needs and problems of players, be a good listener, never verbally or physically abuse a player or official; give all players the opportunity to improve their skills, gain confidence and develop self-esteem; teach them the basics.
	Organize practices that are fun and challenging for your players. Familiarize yourself with the rules, techniques and strategies of Basketball; encourage all your players to be team players.
	Maintain an open line of communication with your players' parents. Explain the goals and objectives of your association.
	Be concerned with the overall development of your players. Stress good health habits and clean living.
	To play the game is great, to love the game is greater.

"Sportsmanship is the essence of Citizenship.  We are to Teach sportsmanship more than fitness, more than skills, more than strategies, more than discipline, more than sacrifice and more than hard work".  
Jack Roberts - Executive Director, Michigan High School Athletic Association