Sackville Minor Basketball follows the Fair and Safe Play Program policies and procedures accredited by the Nova Scotia Sport and Recreation Commission. The principals of fair play in sport combine integrity, fairness, and respect.
These principals include:
Respect the rules
Respect the officials and their decisions
Respect your opponent
Always maintain your self-control
All players will play in a game. Playing time will depend on the team’s rules and goals
As a Parent:
I will remember that children play sport for their enjoyment. They are not playing to entertain me
I will not have unrealistic expectations. I will remember that child athletes are not miniature professionals and cannot be judged by professional standards
I will respect the officials’ decisions and I will encourage participants to do the same
I will never ridicule an athlete for making a mistake during a competition. I will give positive comments that motivate and encourage continued effort
I will condemn the use of violence in any form and will express my disapproval in an appropriate manner to coaches and league officials
I will show respect for my team’s opponents, because without them there would be no game
I will not use bad language, nor will I harass athletes, coaches, officials or other spectators
As a Player:
Play by the rules
Never argue with an official. If you need clarification, have your captain, or coach approach the official during a break
Work equally hard for yourself and your team. Your team’s performances will benefit-so will you
Be a good sport. Show support to your team and to other players
Show respect to and acknowledge opponents and officials (e.g. shake hands, say thanks for the game etc.)
Cooperate with your coach, teammates, and opponents. Without them, there would be no competition
Participate for your own enjoyment and benefit, not just to please parents and coaches
Play Fair - no verbal abuse of officials, or deliberately distracting or provoking an opponent
Respect the rights, dignity and worth of all participants regardless of their gender, ability, cultural background, or religion
Players not following the Associations or Team rules could be suspended from play. This action must be discussed with the player, parent and an SMBA Executive Member
As a Coach:
You want every child’s experience in sport to be a positive one. Although you would like to win, emphasis should be placed in the importance of skill development and fun. You believe in the fair play program and that it should be taught to your athletes
Fair Play Code for Coaches:
I will remember when scheduling games and practices, that young athletes have other interests and obligations
I will teach my athletes to play fairly and to respect the rules, officials, and opponents
I will ensure that all athletes are provided with equal instruction and support
I will not ridicule or yell at my athletes for making mistakes or performing poorly
I will remember that children play to have fun and must be encouraged to help boost their confidence levels
I will make sure that equipment and facilities are safe and match the athletes’ ages and abilities
I will remember that children need a coach they can respect. I will be generous with praise and set a positive example
I will obtain proper training and continue to upgrade my coaching skills and abilities
Parents Responsibilities:
Ensuring players attend practices and games - on time
Support team rules and regulations
Support the team and the coach’s decisions
Be a positive spectator and encourage and congratulate players for their effort and skill
Have positive discussions with children about their play, and the teams play