BYSBA Code of Conduct
Promoting Sportsmanship, Safety & Respect in Youth Baseball and Softball
At Burnet Youth Baseball and Softball Association (BYSBA), we are committed to fostering a positive, respectful, and encouraging environment for all players, coaches, families, and fans—throughout the entire season and across all league activities. This Code of Conduct applies to everyone involved: players, coaches, umpires, parents, siblings, and spectators.
Your cooperation helps ensure that BYSBA events remain safe, fair, and enjoyable for all participants—on and off the field.
1. Sportsmanship is Non-Negotiable
All participants must show respect and good sportsmanship at all times.
Unacceptable behaviors include:
Taunting, bullying, or harassment
Chanting against opponents or provoking others
Physical confrontations, hazing, or intimidation
These actions will not be tolerated. The BYSBA Board reserves the right to investigate any reports of misconduct and take disciplinary action, including removal from league events or referral to local authorities for serious incidents.
2. Respect for Umpires
Umpires’ decisions are final. Arguing balls, strikes, or judgment calls is not permitted.
Disrespect toward umpires, such as:
Verbal abuse or complaints from players, coaches, or spectators
Aggressive gestures, equipment throwing, or undermining authority
…is subject to the following disciplinary process:
First offense: Verbal warning
Second offense: Immediate ejection and removal from the facility
Mandatory one-game suspension for any ejected participant
Repeat violations may result in removal from the season or future participation
3. Reporting Inappropriate Behavior
All abusive or inappropriate behavior should be reported to a BYSBA Board Member immediately. BYSBA reserves the right to remove any participant or spectator—without warning—if their behavior threatens the safety, integrity, or enjoyment of the event.
Consequences may also apply to teams associated with individuals who violate this Code.
4. Coach Responsibilities
Coaches are expected to set the tone for sportsmanship and ensure that all players, assistants, and fans follow this Code of Conduct.
Violations by a team member or supporter may result in disciplinary action against the head coach.
5. Coach Misconduct & Consequences
Coaches engaging in misconduct (e.g., berating players, using profanity, challenging officials, or encouraging poor sportsmanship) will be subject to disciplinary review.
Potential consequences include:
6. Serious Violations & Further Consequences
Any participant—player, coach, or spectator—who flagrantly or repeatedly violates this Code of Conduct may face:
7. Social Media Conduct
Players, parents, coaches, and spectators are expected to uphold the same standards of respect and sportsmanship on social media as they would in person.
The following are strictly prohibited on any public or private social media platform:
Negative or disrespectful posts targeting players, coaches, umpires, BYSBA staff, or opposing teams
Public complaints about game results, umpire decisions, or league operations
Sharing misleading or harmful information that could damage reputations or the league’s image
Violations of this policy are subject to disciplinary action by the BYSBA Board, which may include:
8. Disciplinary Action Process
BYSBA is committed to fairness and transparency when handling violations of this Code of Conduct. While serious or dangerous behavior may result in immediate action, most cases will follow a progressive disciplinary process as outlined below:
Step 1: Verbal or Written Warning
The individual will be informed of the violation and reminded of the expectations outlined in the Code of Conduct.
Warnings may be issued by a BYSBA Board Member, coach, or official.
Step 2: Board Meeting with Player and/or Parent
The individual (and their parent or guardian, if applicable) will meet with the BYSBA Board to discuss the issue.
A written action plan will be developed, outlining expectations and any follow-up required.
Continued participation will be contingent on the individual’s willingness to follow the plan.
Step 3: Removal from the League for the Season
If misconduct continues or the action plan is not followed, the individual may be removed from the league for the remainder of the season.
All removals are decided by a vote of the BYSBA Board.
Note: In cases of severe misconduct, safety threats, or physical altercations, BYSBA reserves the right to bypass the warning or meeting steps and proceed directly to removal when warranted
Player Code of Conduct
All BYSBA players are expected to:
Show sportsmanship, respect, and effort in every game and practice
Be supportive teammates and avoid negative behavior of any kind
Respect coaches, umpires, and opponents
Avoid profanity, bullying, taunting, or throwing equipment
Notify their coach in advance if they cannot attend an event
Take care of their equipment and shared spaces
Represent their team and BYSBA with integrity—on and off the field
Play hard, have fun, and honor the game
Parent & Spectator Code of Conduct
Parents, guardians, and fans play a crucial role in the youth sports experience. We ask all supporters to:
Prioritize sportsmanship, encouragement, and respect
Refrain from shouting at or criticizing umpires or coaches
Never coach from the sidelines
Help players arrive prepared and on time
Use only positive language and behavior
Refrain from using drugs, alcohol, or inappropriate gestures
Accept that violations of this Code may result in removal from the facility or future games
Let’s Build a Culture We Can All Be Proud Of
By participating in BYSBA, you agree to uphold this Code of Conduct.
Whether it's the first practice or the championship game, BYSBA is about more than just baseball and softball—it's about learning, growing, and having fun in a respectful and inclusive environment.
Thank you for helping us make this season a safe, fair, and memorable one for every player and family involved.